Margherita is an excellent communicator and met us as promised a few steps from the station. Steps are a feature of this property and as with any aerial panoramic view you have to climb to get the best vantage point. This property has 120 steps up to the front door but it's more than worth it and Margherita carried one of our heavy cases to the front door which certainly helped. As the days passed the steps did become easier although you'd still need a reasonable level of fitness and sureness of foot to be safe and comfortable. The apartment photos do not do it justice as it doesn't appear that spacious in pics but is very comfortably proportioned and can easily accomodate 4 adults in stylish surroundings. While it's not air conditioned the rooms have quiet ceiling fans that make it a pleasant temp and the lapping of the water down below on the beach lulls you to sleep. Monterosso has the best beach facilities of the Cinque Terra and this apartment has a stunning view of the beach and water from almost every room. Margherita has thought of everything in furnishing and stocking the apartment. It is immaculately presented and we'd like Margherita's cleaners ( probably does it herself) to do the same for us at our place. Every surface appeared brand new and spotless. The bathroom was state of the art and the bedding excellent. Access to the train and ferry is at your doorstep ( well the ferry is probably 400 m) and I'd recommend the 5 Terre all day ferry trip to Portovenere which was a highlight and you can easily spend a couple of hours there and then check out each village on the way back as it's hop on hop off all day. The Pie de Ma cafe in Riomaggiore is a favourite spot overlooking the water near the start of the coastal path to Manarola. In Manarola there is a lovely bar/cafe overlooking the harbour just below the convent.

All of the Cinque Terra is easily accessible from this apartment and the old town area of Monterosso is only a stroll away. I wouldn't hesitate to book this apartment again as it a sanctuary in paradise.