The hotel was located just across the Piazza Acquaverde from the Genova Piazza Principe station, on the rather less salubrious margins of the Old Town, particularly at dark. Access to the Piazza Ferrari and other attractions in the historical centre was along the magnificent Via Balbi, some 15 minutes’ walk from Via Garibaldi. The hotel was elegantly furnished inside, with oak panelling and period furniture everywhere, especially the splendid lounge and bar where it was perfect to relax and unwind. The restaurant/dinner room was on the ground floor to the right of the reception. The check-in was very pro-active. There was a terrace on the top, 7th floor, with a couple of Jacuzzi tubs and a rooftop bar with a magnificent views over the city. There was a spa, pool, sauna, steam room and heated seating in the basement. However it could do with a bit of supervision or even rationing as our quiet stay was interrupted by a very loud bunch of teenagers snapping photos and jumping around in the shallow pool. Our bedroom, an Executive Room on the 4th floor, offered great views from two balconies over the piazza. It was tastefully decorated with plenty of seating and a well-polished parquet floor. The sliding shutters could be operated by the buttons beside the windows they kept both the light and outside noise well at bay. Wardrobe space was rather limited. Included was quite an original safety box in the form of a drawer. There were tea and coffee facilities, also a minibar with an assortment of snacks. The good-sized bathroom had a huge bath and an easy-to-operate showers. Both bathrobes and slippers were provided. Breakfast offered a very good selection, including fruit with additional hot beverages ordered via the waitress. Very civilised opening hours, last orders at 11 am. Dinner was typically Italian, that is mono-flavoured and rather bland. It would be good if hotels of this class offered more international and refined cuisine rather than just copying the offerings
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