I found Appartamento Nella on booking.com and it turned out to be a real gem albeit the strange instructions.
Cash only, call when you arrive, and leave the money in an envelope.
Appartamento Nella is an apartment rental similar to something you would find on airbnb. The instructions from the booking.com reviews are helpful and are to be taken seriously if you ever want to find this place and have things go smoothly. Be a good tenant!
If you have never been to Cinque Terre, it can be a bit confusing. When you get to Manarola, call the owner Frederica and she or her husband will meet you right outside the tunnel from the train station. Pick a restaurant to stand in front of as a meeting point. Frederica and her husband speak minimal English but enough to welcome you and get you situated. If you want to find the apartment yourself, make a right on Via Antonio Diavolo, an immediate sharp right on Via Belvedere and then walk up the hill a good 10 minutes (7 minutes if you walk fast and 3 minutes to catch your breath and pause to take in the gorgeous views). Regardless, you will have to call the owner to notify her you have arrived.
The apartment is spacious with a queen sized bed and flat screen tv. There is a fully equipped kitchen with pots and pans and utensils. There is a grocery store on the main street if you prefer to cook your own meals. The bathroom is decent and well kept. Not much soap or shampoo available so bring your own toiletries. Towels are provided. The apartment has more than enough room for two people to feel comfortable. It was like a home away from home. Note that there are no screens in the windows or air conditioning. Open for fresh air but close when you leave and when the mosquitos get unbearable.
Had a fabulous time at Appartamento Nella and after seeing the other towns, Manarola is definitely my favorite and first choice. Plus, the location can't be beat. The apartment is steps away from Porta Rossa and Trattoria dal Billy! read more