Excelsior Palace Hotel

This hotel is celebrated for its unparalleled seafront location, offering breathtaking views of the Ligurian coast and the Portofino promontory. Its signature feature is the direct access to the sea and its stunning infinity pools that appear to merge with the ocean. Guests consistently praise the highly attentive and professional staff who contribute significantly to a luxurious experience. The hotel exudes an old-world charm with its historic architecture and elegant interiors, appealing to those who appreciate classic grandeur. While many rooms are noted for their cleanliness and comfort, some guests find the decor a bit dated. This destination is ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape, families looking for a relaxing yet engaging stay with excellent pool facilities, and luxury travelers desiring impeccable service and scenic beauty. To maximize your experience, consider requesting a room with a sea view and take full advantage of the heated outdoor pool and jacuzzis, even during cooler months.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of impressive facilities designed to enhance the guest experience. A standout feature is the heated outdoor pool and infinity pool, often described as spectacular, providing stunning views of the coastline. Guests also enjoy relaxing in the jacuzzis overlooking the sea. The private beach club offers direct access to the water and ample sun loungers, though some note it can get crowded. For wellness, there is a well-equipped fitness center with modern equipment, and a spa offering various treatments, though some guests were disappointed to find the indoor pool and certain spa areas closed due to past storm damage. Convenient parking is available, including an underground car park, and Wi-Fi is provided. While the facilities are generally appreciated, a few guests mentioned that some areas, particularly the beach club and older parts of the spa, could benefit from modernization.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness is overwhelmingly positive, with rooms consistently described as spotless and well-maintained by the housekeeping staff. Many guests appreciate the spacious rooms and the comfort of the beds, ensuring a restful stay. Rooms often feature a balcony or terrace that provides stunning sea views, enhancing the overall experience. However, there is mixed sentiment regarding the room condition and decor. While some find the classic, antique style charming, a notable number of reviews indicate that rooms, including the bathrooms, appear dated and are in need of renovation, with some mentioning inadequate showers or worn fixtures. Noise levels can also be an issue for some, with reports of sound from the road or adjacent rooms affecting sleep due to poor soundproofing. Basic amenities are provided, though some guests were surprised by the use of paper cups in a five-star setting.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experiences receive varied feedback from guests. The breakfast buffet, served in a panoramic room with sea views, is frequently praised for its variety and quality, offering a wide selection of sweet and savory items, fresh fruit, and excellent coffee. Many guests describe it as "excellent" and "luxurious," with made-to-order options. However, some found the breakfast to be basic, with limited choices, or occasionally disorganized during peak times. The hotel's restaurants, including Lord Byron and Eden Roc, generally receive positive comments for their high food quality, particularly seafood, and attentive service, with some calling the meals "superb." The bar is also highlighted for its professional bartenders and delicious cocktails, often accompanied by complimentary snacks. Conversely, a few guests felt that dinner options were limited, expensive, or did not meet the expected five-star standard, with some specific dishes being disappointing.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location, offering stunning panoramic views and convenient access to the surrounding areas. It is situated within walking distance of Rapallo's town center, allowing guests to easily explore local shops and restaurants. The hotel also serves as a great base for visiting popular destinations like Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and the Cinque Terre, with public transportation options like the train station and bus stops readily accessible nearby. While the location is highly praised for its beauty and convenience, some guests noted the steep drive or stairs leading up to the hotel entrance, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues or luggage. Parking is widely available, including both outdoor spaces and an underground garage, with efficient valet service frequently mentioned. Some reviews also indicate that road noise can be noticeable from certain rooms due to the hotel's proximity to the main road.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel receive widespread acclaim, with many guests highlighting their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. From the moment of arrival, guests are often greeted warmly, and the check-in process is described as quick and efficient. The valet service is consistently praised for its professionalism and courtesy. Housekeeping staff are noted for their meticulous attention to cleanliness and daily turndown service. In the restaurants and bars, the staff are generally lauded for their professionalism and ability to make guests feel pampered. The concierge team is also commended for providing useful advice on local attractions and transportation. While the majority of feedback is highly positive, a few guests reported instances of less welcoming or "cold" reception staff, or some restaurant personnel being perceived as less engaged, creating a slight inconsistency in an otherwise exemplary service experience. The hotel also offers pet-friendly service, treating animal companions with great care.

Additional Information
Beyond the standard amenities, the hotel offers several notable aspects that contribute to the guest experience. Its identity as a historic building is evident throughout, with many guests appreciating the classic decor, antique furnishings, and extensive art collection that evoke an "old-world" atmosphere. This historical charm is a significant draw for those seeking a unique and elegant ambiance. However, this also leads to a recurring theme in reviews regarding the hotel's age; while well-maintained, some areas are described as dated or in need of modernization, particularly in comparison to contemporary luxury standards. A distinctive feature is the hotel's pet-friendly policy, with many guests praising the exceptional care and attention given to their animal companions, including special treats and even a dedicated pet menu. This thoughtful approach makes it an ideal choice for travelers wishing to bring their pets along.