The Hotel Nella is an average hotel in the area but I beefed up my rating by one because they've got a such a nice staff, the price is very good compared to other places in the area, and they were very welcoming to my dog. Eighty euros got me a standard bedroom with space for a small desk, a loveseat and a bathroom. For one person and a dog it was plenty of space. The bed was typical european: firm but comfortable. There was storage built in around the bed which would be great for people staying more than a day or two. The bathroom was a good size with all the necessities and clean. The floor throughout was tile which got cold at night, but the Hotel Nella thoughtfully provided guests with slippers. Breakfast was included in the room price and was an extensive European breakfast. No complaints there. Parking was easy and free.
The staff was great throughout my short stay. The gentlemen who checked me in was welcoming and pleasant and also provided me assistance with the area. The woman who checked me out was just as pleasant and was very nice when I booked. Even the cleaning staff was very helpful.
One note--there isn't a lot immediately surrounding the hotel. It has a good access to hiking paths and is just a short drive from La Spezia and Riomaggiore, but there didn't seem to be much within easy walking distance. There is a pizzeria directly across the street and a cafe-bar and an osteria (which smelled incredible when I walked by) just around the corner. It is definitely not a bustling metropolis--which I saw as an advantage.
Bottom line, I wasn't looking for an extravagant hotel so Hotel Nella was perfect for me and my budget on this getaway. I will stay here again, but next time will probably request one of the rooms with a balcony.

We didn't realize that Nella was up in the hills over looking La Spezia. It got late and dark and we couldn't find the hotel. There is no illuminated signage as you come to the crossroads going up the hill. Staff didn't seem particularly keen to see us particularly when we commented on our difficulties in finding the property. The rooms were adequate but we couldn't get the AC remote control to function properly in one of the rooms and were told that's the way it is. We used the other one to program the AC) The breakfast was fine and the instructions on how to access the parking and the train to Cinque Terre were quite helpful.. Probably not a great idea for a one night stay. On the other hand the room was adequate although the shower was a bit awkward, and it was good value for the money.

Hotel Nella was the best surprise we had during our visit to Italy. Mind you, it takes a little persistance to get to the hotel....but it is well worth the effort. Our room was large (by European standards), spotless, very comfortable, and quiet. The peaceful surroundings were a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the other cities we had visited. We enjoyed our dinner in the restaurant and the breakfasts we very nice. There is a restaurant across the street where we enjoyed a dinner as well. It was a beautiful setting and we enjoyed sitting on our balcony and enjoying the cool evening air each night. This was the perfect place for us to stay while revelling in the wonders of Cinque Terre!

The bus (La Foca) leaves from below the train station and takes about 10 - 15 minutes to arrive at the hotel - the last bus runs at 8:00 pm - so you cannot stay out late! But after hiking all day in Cinque Terre - it was actually nice to have an excuse to go back to the hotel and relax (you cannot walk the distance as it is a very steep winding road - and you could never carry anything, like luggage, up this grade). The bus will take you down to La Spezia each morning and you can easily catch the train to Cinque Terre!

Fantastic family run hotel that offers a taste of country Italy and friendly Italian hospitality. Well priced large room that included free WIFI and Foxtel TV. Free secure parking is available directly across the street. Drive into town takes approx. 5-10 minutes. The hotel offers well priced and very tasty meals as does the restaurant directly opposite the hotel. We thoroughly recommend this hotel for those who are looking for the "real" Italian country feel. Be aware that there are quite a few steps to walk to get to the rooms(no lifts) but the hotel staff are happy to assist with luggage.