Bellavista di Monterosso is a very elegant farmhouse that overlooks the bay of Monterosso, in the heart of the Cinque Terre. Perched on a hillside about 2½ miles above the town of Monterosso al Mare, this secluded farmhouse dates back as far as the year 1200, and was originally a hermitage for Benedictine monks. It was later turned into a parsonage, and has a small consecrated chapel that is attached to the farmhouse so the property can be used for weddings. The incredible views from this unique location take in the sea, the rooftops of Monterosso al Mare (the largest of the Cinque Terre towns), olive trees, and the hillsides filled with terraced vineyards that hold the walking trails for which the area is famous.

The property is an excellent choice for those who wish to tour the towns and natural areas of the Cinque Terre, as well as to enjoy the tranquillity that Bellavista di Monterosso offers. The farmhouse has not only been carefully and very tastefully furnished with marble bathrooms, rare antique pieces, and interesting fabrics, but the views from almost every room in the house are spectacular.

The farmhouse sleeps up to 12 people, and is divided into two separate wings that are united by an internal courtyard that once was the convent's cloister and now serves as one of the outdoor eating areas. Just off the courtyard there is a full bathroom with a shower.

Guests enter the main wing of the house from the courtyard into a large and fully equipped country kitchen, complete with a table for eating and excellent modern appliances. There is a small sitting room with a fireplace that has a satellite TV. Also on this floor is the master bedroom suite, with a king-size bed and a bathroom with a marble sink and a bathtub/shower attachment.

The downstairs area of this wing has a very large living room where everyone may comfortably gather. It is equipped with a stereo sound system and has many windows facing the sea view and doors to the garden. Next to the living room is a dining room that seats up to 12 people. There are also two newly constructed bedrooms and two bathrooms. One is a queen size bedroom and the other can be either a double or a twin.

The second wing of the farmhouse is on the other side of the courtyard. On the first floor is a double bedroom with an ensuite bathroom that has a shower. A small staircase to the second floor leads to the other bedrooms. There are two double bedrooms that share a marble bathroom with a shower. There is also is a small sitting area with a TV.

Bellavista di Monterosso is surrounded by a beautiful garden that is equipped with high quality garden furniture and lovely plantings. The lawn behind the house leads to an infinity swimming pool (50x18 feet) that has been placed to enjoy an incredible view.

The farmhouse is equipped with satellite TV, telephone, microwave oven, large refrigerator/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, stereo sound system, and screens on all bedroom windows. Maid service for three times a week is included in the price. There is a per person final cleaning charge.

Monterosso al Mare is only a five-minute drive down the hill from the farmhouse. For those who do not want to drive, the bus stop is only about 700 yards away, just in front of one of the nearby local restaurants. Upon request, dinners at home prepared by a local chef can be arranged for the weekly rental guests.