My husband and I stayed here for two nights in May 2011 and can't imagine that anywhere in Portovenere could be better. The rooms are spotlessly clean, the bathroom and kitchen areas look brand new and (best of all) the view from our (large) balcony was stunning! The residence is a 5-10 minute uphill walk from the centre of the village so possibly not suitable for everyone. However, it's situation makes it perfect for looking over the village and the bay in which it is located. It's truely beautiful!
The owner doesn't speak any english but is very sweet and friendly (she gave us a bottle of wine when we left).
So, to sum up, this is one of the nicest places I have ever stayed - and all for a very reasonable price.

Portovenere is just stunning, picture postcard Italy.
Residence Gabbiani is very nice and well located an easy 10 minute walk to the centre with small children in tow. The views from the appartment were fantastic and the parking a great bonus.
The beds were comfy and the appartement very clean. Excellent shower, plenty of hot water.
My only complaint is that you could not stay here and self cater which we hoped to do more of.the kitchen area is very poorly equipped - we even had to ask for mugs and were only given two for four of us! You would not be able to rustle up a meal, we just about managed breakfast with teaspoons for cereal!
That aside, we loved our stay and would recommend the place as somewhere to rest your heads, good friendly hosts, great location and reasonable price for the area.

We found this self contained apartment after our original booking was cancelled by the hotelier!

Driving away from the village centre Residence I GABBIANI accommodation looks out to the bay of Portovenere and sits on the side of a hill looks down toward the village (it is about 2/3 kilometers away from the centre. We could watch the stunning sunset or just sit and look at the boats and activity on the bay. The lovely owner, Maria, was a friendly person and was very kind to us. The apartments are new and good quality. We paid E100 per night. There is a car park under the building, it was very quiet.

Although it was a little hard to find, just keep following the signs for "Portovenere". Once you arrive at the apartments on the coast, find the intercom and call as instructed to get your keys. If you have a car, this place has a private garage - a major plus as parking can be hard to come by during the busy summer season! Nicely furnished with a kitchenette for cooking. A bottle of vino was provided for each night's stay as well - a very nice touch!