We enjoyed our stay at this house. I imagined that I was staying at my Italian grandmother's house, if I were Italian! The furnishings are mostly antique and have an old world feel to it. Pictures of the family are everywhere. So, if you like that aesthetic, this is definitely for you! The location is wonderful with a view of the sea and ease of walking into town and to the port. A few things could use freshening, including the salt water pool. A lot of the tiles were missing and there was debris at the bottom. The children used it once, but we spent most of our time on nearby beaches and beach clubs instead (Eco del Mare in Lerici and the one right in front of the house were lovely - different vibes and ends of the spectrum, but both recommended). It's wonderful having the option of the pool though since not many houses in the area had one. The owner was absolutely lovely. There was an odd sewage smell on our first day throughout the house that apparently happens during certain weather with the pipes (old towns/old houses, it happens), but she immediately sent over a housekeeper to remedy the situation. We didn't have a problem after that. She was also very helpful with recommending a car service, restaurants, galleries, and boat services. We felt like locals walking the streets and passing by the merchant that sold us our Portovenere made sandals and the restaurateurs we dined with nights before. We didn't use the kitchen at all, so I can't attest to its functions. We woke up every morning and walked over to the Moon cafe for breakfast and cappuccinos. I can cook when I'm not in Italy and don't have a wonderful restaurant like Il Timone just down the street to wander over to for dinner. I would definitely recommend a stay here. The town of Portovenere is terribly charming and relaxed. A nice respite from the beautiful, but chaotic towns of Cinque Terre.