The plain, antique exterior of this converted Ligurian house belies the modern interior, a cut above similarly sized bed-and-breakfasts in Vernazza thanks to its renovated, light-filled hallways painted stark white and decorated with black-and-white photos of Cinque Terre. The hotel is popular with couples (an adjoining room option works well for families, too), though all visitors should note that there are lots of stairs inside and outside the house, so getting around can be difficult for visitors with mobility issues.

La Mala’s owner greets guests either at the railway station or at Vernazza’s square -- both within a five-minute walk -- to help with luggage and lead the way to the bed-and-breakfast’s location on Via San Giovanni Battista, in the westward part of town. The town’s iconic watchtower, Castello Doria, is just two minutes walking. La Mala is also a convenient home base for guests wanting to walk the famous footpaths to Cinque Terre’s other small towns -- the road starts a three-minute walk from the hotel, northwest to Monterrosso al Mare or southeast to Corniglia.

La Mala’s four rooms are each decorated simply and all in white, except for the light-wood floors. Each includes a comfortable bed, air-conditioning, flat-screen satellite TV, a safe, mini-fridge, and coffee and tea making facilities, plus a reliable (and free) Wi-Fi connection. Modern bathrooms include bidets and marble showers with rainfall showerheads that come stocked with Prija bath products and hairdryers. Rooms 31 and 26 overlook the sea; Room 19 the village and the harbor; while Room 20 provides views of the ancient watchtower at the town’s center.

La Mala’s stunning location on the ocean is the main draw, and it's best enjoyed from the hotel’s beautiful terrace. A simple daily breakfast delivered to the room is included in the room rate as well.