Name: La Riserva di Castel d'Appio
Address: Localita Peidaigo 71, Ventimiglia, 18039, IT

8/10

Excellent

20 Jul 2026

Martin

Typical family run Italian hotel in a beautiful position, serving excellent food. The hotel is tired but part of the charm

Friends_and_family Friends

10/10

Exceptional

21 Jun 2026

D

Friendly staff, bilingual but also helped us learn som Italian. Nice hotel away from the busy flow of Ventimiglia, but closer enough to be accessible. As many have noted, the hotel sits atop a mountain-- spectacular views-- so the drive up (we used taxis or the bus) is \"fun\"! We enjoyed the pool, breakfasts on the terrace, and the turtles. A nice spot to get away and perhaps better with ones own car--next time.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

09 Jun 2026

richard

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Partner

10/10

Exceptional

19 May 2026

Steve

Breathtaking views, breakfast is delicious and the staff is friendly and welcoming.

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

10 May 2026

Cecile

We had an amazing time at La Riserva. It looks s located in a beautiful house on top of a mountain (so access is not as easy) but when you get there the view is absolutely amazing and spectacular! The staff was very welcoming and diner and breakfast on the patio with swimming pool were wonderful! We loved it and highly recommend it!

Partner

8/10

Excellent

04 May 2026

Imran

Nice location, however expedia should diaplay a warning..risk of death or serious injury during the drive up to the hotel. It is very dated and not well kept. Our balcony door was jammed and would not open.we drove at night and its literally on topof the mountain with no guard rails. No restuarnts are walking distance and we didnt feel safe driving down from the mountain to grab a bite. Hotel restaurant closed at 930pm, luckily we were able to order food delivery. Food was from Ali restaurant, I ordered margarita pizza and they delievered a cold cheese pizza which was disgusting and rubbery.

Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

20 Oct 2025

Santiago

good

Family

10/10

Exceptional

07 Sep 2025

tamara

The hotel is like a page from the history books! So unique and rich with character. The woman at the front desk was so friendly and incredibly helpful in pointing us in the direction of so many interesting and beautiful sites. It’s out of the main town area but easily accessible by taxi and the view is spectacular and worth the drive. staff were gracious and welcoming.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

06 Jul 2025

Julie

Beautiful panoramas. A true Italian feel. Very kind staff.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

16 Jun 2025

Sarah

This hotel has the most amazing views. We had the family suite which was spacious and great for our family. The restaurant was good for dinner. I would contact the hotel before you arrive to find the best way up the hill. Our navigation took us up the steepest, narrowest way and it was a bit harrowing.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

26 May 2025

Lucy

Old World Charm

I can’t say enough about the kind, accommodating and wonderful people that keep this place in excellent condition. The food is delicious, but make a reservation for a spectacular view. It’s an old world charm kinda vibe.. If you are looking for a place to chill & relax - I highly recommend this lil dive..!

Self

8/10

Excellent

20 Aug 2024

Sonia

Molto bella la vista anche se la struttura è un po' datata. Staff gentile e ottima cena al ristorante dell'hotel.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

03 Jul 2024

christoper

Charming hotel

Charming hotel with an excellent restaurant, wonderful views, great pool and very friendly staff.

Friends_and_family Family

6/10

Pleasant

29 Jun 2024

David

4 night stay

Service was good, be mindful this hotel is at the top of what is essentially a mountain. The drive up and down is actually scary to the point of wanting to avoid coming and going from the hotel. However There are no shops or restaurants within walking distance of the hotel therefore it can feel a bit isolating. Taxis are £25 euro each way into the local town. The food and drinks at the hotel is expensive and you will be charged 5 euro for a bottle of water which seems crazy and roughly 8/9 euros for a class of wine. The breakfast was lovely, lots of options and service was very good. The main attraction to this hotel is the view which is stunning. The pool area is also very nice and clean. It is overall pretty expensive but you are paying for the view. It is a family run establishment and the staff are always friendly and accommodating. We read the previous comments about the drive up to the hotel before booking but really could not appreciate just how unpleasant this was until we had to do it ourselves and how restrictive it made our stay. Overall nice hotel if you can stomach the drive. Pretty expensive. The mattress was also pretty hard and uncomfortable but got used to it after a few nights.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

09 Jun 2024

marion

Unbelievable beauty, and wonderful cuisine. On a hilltop
Pool looked great but weather was too cool. Welcoming staff. Photos online
Do not convey the uniqueness.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

07 Apr 2024

Thorwald

A bit off the beaten path but the views were stunning, the room was spacious, the service was outstanding, and breakfast was solid too. Yes this is an older property that could use a refresh, but for the money it can’t be beat.
Note the map on Apple didn’t take us all the way to the property but there are signs along the way so keep driving - gated entry to parking right off the street near the top of the hill - can’t miss it.

Leisure Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

09 Jul 2023

James

Great views of the coast from the hotel.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

26 May 2023

James

Incredible place. The view is breathtaking. The room with the ocean view and deck is beyond words.
Would definitely stay there again.

Leisure

10/10

Exceptional

30 Apr 2023

Kathy

Extremely helpful and friendly staff
Beautiful views
Would definitely go back and recommend

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Apr 2023

dorothy

This family owned property was one of the finest experiences we have had on our trip. The views were spectacular, the restaurant was the level of service was extraordinary. I highly recommend a stay here. It is well worth the journey.

Leisure Partner

6/10

Pleasant

19 Oct 2022

Christophe

the property offers stunning views of the coastline. the access road is down right dangerous and narrow. the staff was extremely nice, in season, this hotel outdoor dining must be amazing, food was good, breakfast buffet was great. The hotel could use a fresh coat of paint and some renovations, it looks a little rundown in places (grounds)and some areas of the hotel seem to be condemned.
overall, we enjoyed the view and calmness of the place, the graciousness of the staff and the amazing views.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

02 Oct 2022

Samantha

The only negative for us was the drive up to the hotel. The road was windy, steep and slim. This made the hotel a bit further from town than we would have liked, but nothing that was a huge deal for us (Just a note if you planned to venture into town). The hotel & staff make up for that minor inconvenience.

Leisure Pet

6/10

Pleasant

30 Aug 2022

Maksim

Overall just ok stay. Our was very old and dated, almost felt like sleeping in my clothes. Pool area run down and need remodeling. Service very friendly and fast. There is no other place to eat but their restaurant and food was not bad. Worst part is to get there….you need to be very skillful driver to climb that mountain all the way up.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

25 May 2022

Phillip

What a view! You get a unique vantage point from this hotel that you typically don't see. They're also very friendly, have excellent food and the building and property and gorgeous! Highly recommend!!

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

02 Aug 2021

Agnieszka

Outdated but the views make up for it.

It is quite an adventure to get to that hotel. Tiny, curvy and steep road takes you to a top of the hill where the hotel is. Once you get there, the view is absolutely spectacular. This is a family run hotel and you can tell that in 70s-80s it was on top of it's game. Now it is bit outdated but still extremely charming. The food is great, service is nice and the views are amazing.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

08 Aug 2019

Martha I

Fantastic place

Amazing place hosted by Antonello and his Mother Tosca- great restaurant with fantastic waiters Emilio and Ilario, also Mahmoud- enjoyed their pets specially Eva- great views of Monaco from the terrace

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

26 Jul 2019

Edward

Incredible views - very charming

Charming spot with incredible views! Very good breakfast and dining options

Friends

10/10

Exceptional

27 Jun 2019

Galen

Wonderful stay

Beautiful location, fantastic staff, and a large room. We recommend this place to anyone.

Family

8/10

Excellent

31 May 2019

Boris

Clean hotel with excellent views and free parking. The restaurant at the hotel serves great food, but way overpriced.
The location is not the best, because it's on the top of the mountain with steep 15 minutes drive one way up and down

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

30 Apr 2019

Verified traveler

Great view but deception

The hotel stays in old style which was fine with us. Two deceptions: hot water comes very slowly in the bathroom; we had to let run water for 5 minutes to have hot water at correct temperature. The dinner and the breakfast could be improved. Compared to previous 4 places we stayed, this hotel was too expensive for what it is.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

05 Oct 2018

Verified traveler

A wounderful place to stay if you are visiting Monaco. Great facility with fantastic staff. Highly recommended!

10/10

Exceptional

20 Jul 2018

Couple

Lovely hotel with fantastic views

This is a family run hotel. Staff are very pleasant and helpful. Have been before and it still doesn’t disappoint.
Our sea view room was actually a suite, spotlessly clean with balcony and fantastic views stretching as far as Monaco.
Breakfast is buffet style with plenty of variety.
Dinner is silver service with excellent food.
Outside pool in lovely setting.
Outside pool table and table tennis, both free.

6/10

Pleasant

24 Jun 2018

Jess

The view from this hotel is incredible, however it is a long way from town and extremely high up on a hill - you cannot walk anywhere from here. The pool looked amazing and breakfast was lovely overlooking the view. The room however was damp - everything was damp, the sheets, the towels, the whole room had a damp smell and feel. I think this is because there is no sunlight. I was really pleased we were only staying for one night. The hotel restaurant although lovely food was extremely expensive and you have no other choice as it is so isolated where it is.

8/10

Excellent

06 Jun 2018

Verified traveler

This was a family trip with 3 kids and an adventure. We would return but we would hope for some improvement in the standard of the room (we had 2 family suites.) The views are amazing but the rooms and beds are dated and in need of a revamp. The factors which offset the shortcomings were the quality of the food and the hospitality of the \"Boss\" Mario. He truly made the trip (5 nights) memorable and very enjoyable. The pool is fantastic and the kids loved it! The set menu changes daily and is versatile and surprising. If the rooms and beds were improved, it would be a must visit.

Family

6/10

Pleasant

02 Oct 2017

Robert

Fabulous views but a very tired grand dame of a hotel with an expensive menu for ohum cuisine. Definitely need a car to get up and down the about 5K road to Ventimiglia. Pool was of a good size but unheated and the gym equipment needs a serious upgrade. We have all heard of galley kitchens but be prepared for same size for the bathroom. Staff are nice and the owner very affable and helpful with suggestions. Not much to do unless you enjoy walking/hiking which location is perfect for,

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

20 Sep 2017

Nadiya

True Italian Riviera experience

Love the hotel and its castle vintage charm outside but very nice and clean rooms inside. The view from the rooms are breathtaking you get a true feeling that you are in Italy. The breakfast is most of the food is homemade and really yummy.
Would definitely stay here again.

8/10

Excellent

23 Aug 2017

Barry

Too far from town

This hotel is fine if you plan to stay there, eat in their restaurant, and relax by their pool. There were beautiful views of the Mediterranean from the hotel grounds. But it is not within walking distance of any restaurants in Ventimiglia, and requires driving or taking an expensive taxi ride up and down the hill in order to explore the town. Also, the hotel probably used to be much nicer, but now appears somewhat run down, despite renovations that were done, as the renovations appear to be relatively cheap.

6/10

Pleasant

21 Aug 2017

Bruce

Quaint and quirky

Harrowing drive up a mountain road but the staff makes up for it. Hotel has seen better days. Small room but clean and comfortable.Restaurant is first rate.

10/10

Exceptional

13 Aug 2017

Ronald

Italy at its best

There are not enough words to say how wonderful the hotel was. The views where breathtaking, ambiance, food and staff superb. Can't wait to return.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

25 Jul 2017

Scott

Best views in Northern Italy

The two bedroom suites are great for families. The view from the balcony is simply stunning. I would definitely stay here again. Road to the top is a little tight but the views and peacefulness is unmatched.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

05 Jul 2017

Cristino

Beautiful place.

Ventimiglia is gorgeous but rustic. If you are expecting a Hilton or Marriott and are used to that type of hotel, look elsewhere. However, you will not find views like this without spending a small fortune in such places as Monaco or Cap Ferat, which are just a few trains stops away and an easy day trip. The owner is a true gentleman who will go through great lengths to make your stay as pleasant as possible. Will do it again in a hearbeat. You really must have a car to get around and given that the hotel is at the top of a mountain, the road to the hotel is tight and narrow. Not for the feint of heart driver, but very do-able and the local drivers are very forgiving.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

04 Jul 2017

Trabeler

Quaint and Unique Experience

The staff is very accommodating and are very much trying to please.
Rooms are pretty and clean and great views whether you get ocean or garden views.
I loved my stay there. They have this huge dog that possibly lives at the hotel and she makes it her duty to greet everyone and say goodbye. Lol.
The restaurant was great and they have a beautiful pool.
Once we got there. We decided not to leave for the day and evening. Relaxed by the pool and enjoyed the unique experiences of a mountain top hotel.
Again, staff was amazing.

10/10

Exceptional

24 May 2017

Nanette

Great stay! Very friendly staff! Amazing view!

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

16 Apr 2017

Ron

Sweet hotel perched high on top of the mountain

Sweet hotel on top of the mountain- make sure you get there during daylight hours, the drive-up the mountain is interesting to say the least!

Hotel staff were very courteous and very helpful, always service with a smile. Our family room was spacious, seperate rooms for the kids and ourselves. Room was clean but a bit musty, hotel surroundings are looking a little tired but nothing beats the view. The view over Ventimiglia is spectacular. My son was looking forward to using the pool table and ping pong table but they were a little worse for wear- not as they appear in the photos.

Family

6/10

Pleasant

15 Sep 2016

Arlin

Quiet place

The place is beautiful but far from the main city. When I booked it I didn't realize how far it was. If I ever need a place to getaway, this will be it. Service was great. Quiet. Beautiful.

10/10

Exceptional

12 Aug 2016

David

holiday base

The hotel was in a great location, although it was a bit of a crazy drive to get their. The staff were amazing and very helpful, and the rooms were very comfortable. Although we used the hotel as a base to visit France, it would make the prefect location to spend a week relaxing in the sun.

Family

8/10

Excellent

10 Jul 2016

Verified traveler

Views for ever,.

This is he second time we have stayed here. The drive up is narrow and challenging when navigating past cars coming in the opposite direction but it is well worth it. Only 40 minutes from Nice airport.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

30 Apr 2016

PKB

Rooms with a VIEW

This well appointed hotel sits on the top of a mountain, overlooking the sea. The views are breathtaking. The staff was extremely welcoming and helpful. The room was clean, bright and lacking nothing.

8/10

Excellent

16 Apr 2016

WILLIAM

Wonderful time

The hotel is a rustic charming hotel with a spectacular view of the Riviera. The staff was very attentive and the furnishings were very cozy and comfortable. From the hotel it is a 10 minute ride to the restaurants on the water of Ventimiglia, 20 minute ride to the French border and the charming town of Menton, and a 20 minute ride to the amazing medieval town of Dolceacqua. The one drawback is the road going up the mountain is very narrow and some of the locals go way to fast on it.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

10 Apr 2016

Juha

Six stars hotel stay

La Riserva di Castel d'Appio hotel is best in all categories. True hidden gem. I really mean it. The location is more than perfect - view is stunning! Kindness of the staff is very welcoming, helping, kind... The hotel interior makes you feel like a King. We all felt 110% comfortable during our 4 nights stay. This hotel and personnel is worth 6 stars. I'm so pleased about our stay over there. Best ever experience!

Family

6/10

Pleasant

05 Oct 2015

Verified traveler

In the middle of nowhere, steep single track road to access, but worth the effort. Excellent views over the sea towards Monaco.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

02 Oct 2015

Sherwin

A beautiful view of Italian and French Riviera

We we a little nervous about our arrival, but there were many signs to guide us up a narrow and winding road. Once we arrived, Emilio (who is a wonderful man, working there for 40+ years) greeted us with such hospitality.

We had requested a view of the sea, but by some mixup were given a garden view the first day (and all was full).However, the following day, we were given a sea view room.

Breakfasts were amazing; their dinners were also very good and reasonably priced.

The staff was the best and most accommodating during our 2-week journey of 5 hotels. They were kind and gracious throughout our stay.

We would definitely visit La Riserva again!

Partner

8/10

Excellent

29 Sep 2015

Verified traveler

Fabulous view

Lovely old fashioned, stylish hotel with a fabulous view. The room we were in could have done with an update. Difficult journey up a bumpy, narrow and hair-pin-bendy road but worth it for the view. Dinner expensive at €35 per person Table d'hote.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

27 Sep 2015

ALEXANDER

Road to Paradise?

Marvellous views over the Med as promised. The staff member used the word 'paradise' and he was not far wrong.Mattress rather thin. Spotlessly clean. Breakfast substantial. The road to the hotel is really interesting- especially when you meet a truck coming the other way- but you will find we are cooperative respectful species.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

22 Sep 2015

Sheila

A mountain hotel, superb views and hospitality

A superb family run hotel with all staff from all quarters of the hotel giving of their utmost to provide all visitors excellent value for money. The catering facilities were first class with a superb breakfast and dinner. The views from this hotel at 300 metres high are fantastic. Mama and her son, Antonio, run the hotel with the help of Emilio and Marco in the dining areas. We enjoyed the walks to the left of the front gates which took us onto Italian mountain villages and farms. Guests really need to walk these roads. A superb swimming pool -crystal clean and lengthy. This hotel stay for four days was the highlight of 14 days we spent on holiday. We will return to take Eva, the 5.5 year old, loving hotel Alsatian dog to accompany us on our walks. We have travelled much overseas but this hotel will be forever engraved in our minds. Thank you Mama, Antonio, Emilio and Marco and all your staff for your kindness and genuine concern for your clients.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

21 Sep 2015

Verified traveler

Great place to stay, however the climb up the hotel is a tough one. Lots of tight turns with extremely limited vision. Hotel was nice, staff were great, but we decided not to go into town at night due to the treacherous road.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Sep 2015

BlackcountryA.I

What views, what hospitality great food.

For my wife and I perfect.
Food, staff, overall comfort superb.

8/10

Excellent

17 Sep 2015

Verified traveler

Best views are always the hardest to get to!

Lovely view from the hotel, old building but very modern. The room has just about everything. The steepest hill my car has ever been on to get to anywhere. Once you're up you won't regret it as much although I didn't go back down for the rest of the day.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

03 Sep 2015

Neil

A little gem of a hotel

Super location, lovely staff, great food, fun drive up. Great place to stay

Family

10/10

Exceptional

24 Aug 2015

Susan

Charming hotel

We only stayed one night during a mini tour of Europe. Lovely hotel with lovely people. Well worth paying 10 euros extra for the sea view. Word of warning, look at a map before driving to this hotel. Our satnav took us the long way via a very narrow road (more like a footpath).

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

04 Aug 2015

Verified traveler

Excellent Hotel

Brilliant holiday in a wonderful hotel - but be aware that this is located half-way up a demanding hill and a toughish drive. But for us the best hotel in the area and a very inviting swimming pool

10/10

Exceptional

28 Jul 2015

Lesley

Amazing!

This is an amazing hotel with kind, friendly staff. A little cut off from the town if you don't have a car so be prepared but otherwise it is perfect! Perfect mountain views!

Family

8/10

Excellent

14 Jul 2015

Verified traveler

Great location, able to see Sanremo and Monaco, cant beat it. Hotel is older but lovely, great pool with slides for kids. Very hard to find, two roads lead to Hotel North side road is 5km, south road is only 2.5km, tiny roads are for good/great drivers only....
Food was great ( bit pricy), stuff very friendly - family owned property....
If you looking for getaway for couple I would say perfect / for family, well outside pool there is nothing you can't do with hyper children...

Family

10/10

Exceptional

10 Jun 2015

john

What a find

An overnight stay as I travelled for business. I prefer finding interesting places rather than the normal chains. This was a wonderful find. Friendly staff, amazing views over the coast. Excellent restaurant. Only reason I have slightly downgraded the neighbourhood id the very narrow and twisty road to access it. Might deter some drivers - but not me !

10/10

Exceptional

05 Jun 2015

Ruth

Welcoming Hotel in beautiful location

Attractive location for friendly hotel. Top quality attached restaurant. Went to some trouble on our behalf. Gave us lift into town as we had no car

Family

10/10

Exceptional

27 May 2015

Neil

Our first visit to La Reserva

We decided to stay in Ventimiglia so that we could experience the Monaco Grand Prix. We were not disappointed the Hotel and Staff were first class and made us feel at home. The family run Hotel is a real credit if you want to feel special. Even the Hotel dog Eva took us for walks every day a real home from home.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

26 May 2015

Verified traveler

Monaco Weekend 2015

Wonderful views , staff couldn't do enough to help and the main hotel rooms are nice and appear newly refurbished. The main lobby and dining room is more rustic but is a nice difference to other repetitive modern hotel chains.

We ate at the hotel restaurant and all the staff were attentive and helpful though unless you drive to town there are no other local choices without a drive/taxi.35 Euro HB and a nice bottle of wine was 20 Euro

There is a swimming pool and fitness room but we didn't use it

The hotel is 300m above sea level and there are 2 roads to the hotel...both are an experience but in truth if you are OK with heights then the locals go up and down numerous times each day so four tyres and a steering wheel that works should be sufficient !!

Great views to Monaco, and the train from nearby Ventimiglia take you along the French coast on the TGV quickly and cheaply. A taxi back to the hotel was 17 euros...

All in all an enjoyable stat and lovely staff

10/10

Exceptional

08 May 2015

Brian

Great friendly hotel with character

Booked this at the last minute - turned out to be great.
The Hotel owner even came to collect us at the train station as there were no taxis around. The food was excellent - great quality service - and the room was beautiful - loved the layout and views - just as good as the photos on their website.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

26 Apr 2015

konstantinos

Fantastico

Excellent location amazing views but most important the staff were extremely helpful and make you feel welcomed

10/10

Exceptional

31 Aug 2014

Verified traveler

great hotel. remote location

Great hotel with amazing atmosphere and wonderful staff. Run by a family of charming individuals. Very recommended. Only down side is that it's a bit hard to get to by car. Road narrow and twisty.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

28 Aug 2014

Sean

Amazing service and incredible views

We stayed, as a family of 4, at the hotel for 2 nights and had an incredibly relaxing stay. The service and friendliness of staff is truly outstanding. There is a lovely swimming pool, the food is great and the views are incredible. As other reviews have pointed out the only concern is the drive up to the hotel. However, we knew that before we went and were ready for it. Ultimately ,it was a small price to pay for a wonderful stay and we have already recommended the hotel to friends and family.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

14 Aug 2014

Sears

Outstanding location and a hidden gem

The hotel overlooks the Italian and French Rivera. The views are stunning. The hotel is owned and run by a friendly italian family, the service is extremely good. We had a standard room and although the room was very clean the bathroom was disappointingly small. But for the time we spent in our room it was only a minor issue.. the best rooms to book are the suites for their size and bathroom size too. The hotel is on top of a very high hill which is a 10 minute drive from the town centre. There are 2 roads to the hotel and both are narrow with sharp bends etc so be aware the access is slightly unusual but I must say once you get used to the drive it really is OK and not a problem. There's a shuttle bus each day going down at 9.30 and back again at 4.30. There are good train services from the town to Monte Carlo / Nice and Grass and also the other way in to Italy. The hotel staff are very friendly, very good at their job, approachable and they really want to make sure you have a good stay. I recommend the food, really fresh home-made italian cooking and the menu has some nice dishes. Italian food at its best and overall the hotel was perfect for a nice break and you do feel like you've really got away from it all. Theres a nice outdoor pool - well maintained and heated. We had a great time. It's a lovely location, relaxing, nice atmosphere. (if you don't mind narrow bendy roads) I recommend this hotel for a family break.

4/10

Poor

14 Jul 2014

maria

Nice view but

Hotel located on the highest mountain in the area very hard even to drive up to this point when I saw room with sea view I was expecting to be close to beach mis advertised
Also too wxpensive 360 euro for one night we went to Novotel next day much cheaper and better acess

10/10

Exceptional

11 Jul 2014

Verified traveler

Excellent stay!

Hard to find so you have to arm yourself with a lot of patience as you need to climb up the hill with no guardrails but, once you get there, you are just in heaven, on top of the world, with an amazing view, silence, excellent food, super friendly staff.

8/10

Excellent

08 Jul 2014

Verified traveler

Fabulous views and old world charm

The hotel was quaint and charming, and the staff a perfect mixture of friendly and accommodating. The views of the surroundings were magnificent and the restaurant was very good. The place is not fancy or modern but worth the effort to get there.

10/10

Exceptional

31 May 2014

Tiffany V

A modern castle with a family feel

Our stay at La Riserva was fantastic. The staff is highly attentive & treats you as if you are a visiting relative staying in their vast mansion. Very welcoming & comfortable with beautiful old-world service, furniture,& dining that make you feel like royalty. The food is wonderful & we both felt we gained 10 pounds-& would almost gladly gain 10 more. The staff is so lovely that you want to hug them as you leave & let them know that you'll be back. The shuttle to and from the hotel to the train station is 9am & 4:30pm. Do your best to plan around it, otherwise it's 15-20 Euros every time you want to take a taxi. The hotel is at the top of a mountain & makes the travel to & from a bit difficult, hence the importance of scheduling around the shuttle. The wi-fi did not work in the rooms, but the place is so comfortable that we went downstairs to the lobby every night to use it. The rooms were very clean & comfortable & had international channels on the tv. There was a pool & fitness center, which I admit that I did not visit. The pool was very beautiful & sits outside the room where breakfast is served. We were unsure of where to go for touristy-type things & they were very helpful in showing us the interesting things to go visit, which we did & were happy we did so. One of the best hotel experiences that I have had, especially internationally when not speaking the language.

8/10

Excellent

08 Oct 2013

Simon

Nice Hotel, great views, good food

Decent hotel, well priced, a good place to stay in the region, fantastic for a romantic get away in easy distance of nice / menton / monaco. Well definately return.

8/10

Excellent

05 Oct 2013

Maggie

Nice rustic hotel...hard to get to

The hotel itself was charming and rustic and very comfortable. We stayed one night and had dinner and breakfast and the food was great. If you stay here keep in mind that the hotel is on a hill top via a one lane road that is very windy. We found it difficult to navigate. But the hotel itself was great and has great views!

8/10

Excellent

05 Aug 2013

E. B.

Incredible view!- not convenient for 1 night :(

Staff v. kind & friendly. Communication good, speak English well and email promptly. An incredible location w/breathtaking views of coastline. Arrived by train at 7 so couldn't use the hotel shuttle, 2x day at 9:30 & 16:30. Cab cost 15 €. It wound up a v. steep narrow, and hair-raising road for 10 mins. Stayed in family rm essentially 2 adjoining rms w/tile floors & 2 bathrooms. Adequate, fairly clean, but not v. cosy. Admired the view & had dinner at the restaurant. Sat outside adjacent to the spa, but were eaten up by mosquitos, 14+ bites. Was it the sitting water, or just bad luck? It needed cleaning too, ring around the edge, not pleasant to look at. The inside of the restaurant lavishly decorated & in hindsight wish we'd sat inside. Didn't use the pool because was late & were a little put off by the shabbiness/cleanliness of the facilities. Meal was tasty & the waiters v. nice, but 120€ total (no wine, 2 starters, 4 mains, 3 desserts). In the morning left too early to enjoy the breakfast or the free shuttle. B-fast looked good though, & giant Nutella jar very funny. We had to pay 20 € to get back to the station (order a cab & it is more). Great hotel for a family but not for a 1-night stay. If you can save $ by using the shuttle & can stay to enjoy the location then worth it. Facilities in need of spring cleaning but pretty accurate to the photos, & staff all very pleasant. For us, our mistake because we spent $400 + for the night and we were there only for 12 hs. Duh!

10/10

Exceptional

28 Jul 2013

Verified traveler

Peace and quiet

A very peaceful location ideal for de-stressing and just chilling out; staff were all very friendly and efficient. The room was located in an annex and was really a suite of two rooms, one without air conditioning, a bathroom and balcony; it was lovely. The service from all staff was excellant. The swimming pool was lovely. Visitors should be directly informed of free facilities such as wi fi bycycles, gym etc. The shuttle bus is restricted, however there is a local bus located nearby which is very useful and can be used to explore the area; timetables should be made available. Overall a very enjoyable stay and we will return.

10/10

Exceptional

06 Jul 2013

Nic

Lovely hotel

Lovely, friendly hotel with gorgeous views of the coast, both from our balcony and from the lovely terrace that breakfast was served on. Emilio the head waiter has worked there for 50 years and really looked after us. For breakfast, if you're expecting a full English you might be disappointed - but you're in Italy so go straight for the gorgeous cappuccino, fresh breads and homemade jams. We ate in the restaurant one evening - the homemade tortellini were amazing and like nothing you'd ever buy in a supermarket. Our room was on the small side, but spotlessly clean and with a lovely shower. This hotel was in a great location to explore both the Italian and French sides of the Riviera. The drive up the very steep, winding road is not for the faint hearted, but something you get used to and you just need to beep before you get to a corner...We will happily stay here whenever we revisit the area.

10/10

Exceptional

18 Jun 2013

Heather

Unbeatable View!

The view was unbelievable - having breakfast on the terrace looking up and down the coast was a high point of our holiday. Out suite was delightful, 2 balconies with wonderful views. When eating in the hotel try the demi-pensione rather than a la carte - it is really good and works out much better value. Definitely going back there!

8/10

Excellent

04 Jun 2013

The Zelly's

Lovely personal service

A lovely hotel set up high on a hillside. Difficult to get to if you don't have a car, although you can (sometimes) get a taxi from the town. The management and staff were very efficient and keen to please, with a special mention going to Emilio for his personal attention.
The quality of the dinners in the restaurant was superb, although we did feel that it was a little over priced. The buffet breakfast could have been better, and was probably typical of a basic Italian hotel rather than one of this level. Beautiful views from the restaurant, terrace and our bedroom, overlooking the bays of Monaco and even Nice off in the distance.
With only a handful of bedrooms, this is a hotel where you will be personally known and looked after.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

01 Jun 2013

Al

Beautiful views

Hotel and grounds not in pristine condition but family hotel with a lot of character. Charming staff. Access up a mountain lane gives enjoyable driving. Stayed in one of the suites which had excellent views of the sea and Monaco. Peaceful location about 10 minutes drive from the town.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

02 Nov 2012

Dirk

Fantastic place on top of the world

Fantastic views, quiet surroundings, charming hotel, excellent service, delicious breakfast, will return!

6/10

Pleasant

10 Oct 2012

Jim and Meg,

Very nice hotel for couples -pity about the access

The hotel was too far out of town and it was not feasable to walk into Ventimiglia or back as the road leading up to the hotel was poor and a nightmare to drive on. Access to the hotel was by far its biggest drawback.

10/10

Exceptional

02 Oct 2012

Greg

Fantastic and Unexpected

We toured Europe for 5 weeks and stayed here just the 1 night. We wished we had have stayed several nights as it was so peaceful, relaxing, fantastic views and great value for money. The whole hotel sits on top of a Ridge which is spectacular from all directions. The pool area is awesome and welcoming. The drive from the bottom is a bit of a challenge but well worth it. We walked downtown at night around 45 minutes each way. It will be a major challenge unless you are fit. I'm sure we will return some day.

8/10

Excellent

24 Jun 2012

Verified traveler

Amazing views

This hotel is located some 10 mins away from downtown Ventimiglia and is up a steep winding road on top of the hill so is somewhat difficult to get to. But the views are very much worth it. The staff are very friendly, and very helpful. I would recommend this hotel if you are needing to spend a few days to get away from it all.

10/10

Exceptional

16 May 2012

Patti & Jim

Truly a \"get away from it all\" experience

What a beautiful and gracious place! The staff could not be nicer or more accommodating and the views are spectacular. However the location and the \"challenging\" road to the hotel make it difficult to easily reach the town whether driving or afoot. Plan to have your meals (especially dinner) at the hotel - not a problem, since the food is wonderful! We thoroughly enjoyed our brief visit and hope to return soon.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

07 Mar 2012

Christiane

La Riserva di Castel d'Appio

Lovely staff and very comfortable room. We'll go again.

8/10

Excellent

17 Sep 2011

Tom

For stop over only.

Comfortable enough, decent breakfast, handy location if on way to Venice as we were.

Family

8/10

Excellent

17 Aug 2011

Verified traveler

Stunning views

Nice staff and stunning views. Pleasant garden area to sit in and very nice pool. Bedroom had balcony with sunshade which kept the room tolerably cool. Pleasant restaurant, always with nice service but really quite expensive for what was on offer. Biggest drawback was the drive to and from the town which is a very narrow switchback road which just becomes tiresome.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

09 May 2010

Carole

La Riserva is a superb find

We would return to this hotel every time we travel through Ventimiglia but unfortunately for us, they are not open year round.

It is an exquisite find, high up a hillside on a narrow winding road but worth every minute of the drive up. Fantastic views, lovely surroundings within the compound, hotel decorated with great taste, gourmet restaurant, run by charming owners who have lived there 40+ years.

10/10

Exceptional

25 Jul 2026

ulrika

Underbart hotell högt uppe på berget strax utanför Ventimiglia. Vackra rum, väldigt fin frukost, god mat. En utsikt att dö för! Vänlig och hjälpsam personal! Det var svårt dock att ta taxi från tågstationen, med bara fem taxibilar i hela staden. Bra att boka först, eller arrangera skjuts med hotellet (vilket vi fick hjälp med av personalen på vägen ned).

10/10

Exceptional

28 Jun 2026

Florent

Vue mer extraordinaire. Calme paisible, bon accueil

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

26 Jun 2026

toledano

Great place. Attentive service

10/10

Exceptional

24 Jun 2026

Viki

Loved the view, and the kids loved the kids pool 😍

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

14 May 2026

Eric

Montée en voiture jusqu’à l’hôtel un peu compliqué mais une fois arrivé, on est au calme et la vue est magnifique. Services (restaurant, petit déjeuner, personnels) aussi très bons.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Apr 2026

Hans-Peter

Das Hotel liegt an einem herrlichen Aussichtspunkt. Ist man angekommen, gibt es keinen Grund, für das Abendessen nochmals nach Ventimiglia zu fahren, denn die Küche des Hauses ist exzellent. Auch das Frühstück ist sehr gut und reichhaltig und kann bei gutem Wetter draussen genossen werden. Mit Blick auf Meer und Berge. Die Bedienung in diesem Familienbetrieb ist auffällig freundlich.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

15 Apr 2026

JEAN CHRISTIAN

Très beau lieu, vue magnifique sur la mer et montagne, possible petit déjeuner sur la terrasse, du rêve.
Accueil chaleureux, repas bon, service aux petits soins, petit déjeuner excellent, chambre séparée avec enfants un appartement très spacieux, pas avare sur le nombre de serviettes à notre disposition, c'est la perfection.
parc agréable.
En sus au comptoir une jeune femme (entreprise familiale) avec en permanence avec un sourire éclatant, sympathique, agréable à écouter, idem du papa.
Quoi dire de plus pour nous nous avons passé un agréable séjour,
Bref nous vous recommandons vivement cet établissement.

Friends_and_family Family