Hotel Shelley e delle Palme, BW Signature Collection

This hotel is highly regarded for its stunning sea views and prime waterfront location, offering breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Poets and the castle. Its unique charm, often described as "dated but full of character," appeals to guests seeking a memorable stay. The hotel is particularly well-suited for couples looking for a romantic getaway, sightseers and explorers due to its central position near key attractions and transport links, and even pet owners as it maintains a welcoming policy for furry companions. Many guests highlight the benefit of securing a room with a sea view, ideally on a higher floor, to fully appreciate the picturesque surroundings. Additionally, visitors should be mindful of the local parking situation, which can be challenging.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though some are noted to be undergoing renovation or have mixed feedback. A spa is available, with some guests praising the professional treatments, while others found the facilities minimal or unavailable. A modern and attractive terrace with sunbeds is a popular feature, providing a pleasant spot to relax by the sea, though sunbeds may require pre-booking or incur an additional cost. Wi-Fi is provided, but its strength can vary. The elevator has been described by some as old or noisy, prompting calls for maintenance. While air conditioning is present in rooms, some guests reported it was not functioning or not yet activated during their stay. Minibars are available in rooms, though some guests found them empty or not working, and water was not consistently provided. Renovated rooms often include modern conveniences like USB charging ports.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness is generally positive, with many noting the rooms are well-maintained. However, some isolated comments mentioned issues like a dirty balcony table or mold. The beds receive mixed reviews; many guests found them comfortable and spacious, while some described them as too hard or noted noise from the bed frame. Room condition varies significantly, with some guests enjoying newly renovated rooms that are modern and appealing, boasting beautiful views. Conversely, other rooms are described as dated, small, or dark, with signs of wear such as scratched walls or broken blinds. Bathrooms also vary, with some being functional and clean, featuring marble, while others are noted as very small, lacking space for toiletries, or having older fixtures. Noise levels are a concern for some, with reports of street noise, generator sounds, or disturbances from hotel events.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast service garners varied opinions. Many guests appreciate the good variety and abundance, particularly highlighting the homemade cakes and warm focaccia. The coffee, often from a machine, is generally well-received. However, some found the breakfast to be standard, with limited options, especially for savory items like cold scrambled eggs, bacon, and sausages. Concerns were raised about the quality of some products, described as industrial, and the use of canned fruit salad or stale bread. Some guests noted a lack of options for specific dietary needs, such as lactose or gluten-free. The hotel’s restaurant is mentioned as offering good quality dishes, though its availability can be limited, sometimes only opening for events or when there are many guests.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently praised as a major highlight. Situated directly on the waterfront, it offers immediate access to the promenade and is within easy walking distance of Lerici's charming town center, the castle, and various restaurants and shops. Its proximity to bus stops also provides convenient access to other areas, including ferries to Cinque Terre. However, parking is a significant challenge for many guests. While the hotel offers a garage or public parking options with vouchers, these spots are often distant (ranging from 250 meters to 1.5 kilometers), can be expensive, and are difficult to secure, especially during peak times. Guests are advised to consider the limited traffic zone (ZTL) when planning their arrival.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff receives mixed but generally positive feedback. Many guests commend the staff's friendliness, courtesy, and professionalism, highlighting their helpfulness with local advice, parking, and general inquiries. Specific teams, such as the spa staff and housekeeping, are frequently praised for their attentive and high-quality service. However, some guests reported negative experiences with the front desk, describing certain interactions as unfriendly or unhelpful, particularly concerning check-in processes or issues with gift vouchers. While some problems were promptly addressed, others, such as air conditioning or shower drain issues, were not always resolved to the guests' satisfaction.

Additional Information
A recurring point of feedback concerns the events held on the hotel's terrace, which can feature loud music extending late into the night, causing significant disturbance for guests trying to rest. This is a notable aspect that potential visitors should be aware of. The hotel is also recognized for its pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests traveling with their animals. Furthermore, many reviews highlight issues related to gift box or voucher bookings, with some guests feeling they received a less desirable room or experienced difficulties with payment and service compared to direct bookings. The hotel is undergoing renovations gradually, meaning some rooms are modern and updated, while others retain a more traditional, dated aesthetic.