Built in the 19th century, the three-story hotel is located in a villa and former home of painter Richard West. Stained glass window panes, green shutters, and front facing balconies give the house a romantic feel. Inside, the sitting room includes a marble fireplace and faux antique ceiling. Couches and armchairs are on the worn side. There's a pretty outdoor patio for dining or admiring views of the sea.

Hotel Beau Rivage is located at the end of Alassio -- a popular spot with Italian families for a beach holiday -- where noise and traffic aren't an issue. The sandy beach and Mediterranean Sea are just across a quiet street and promenade from the hotel, though expect to pay a private business to use their chairs and changing rooms. The hotel charges for garage parking during the busy season. Alassio has more upscale shops and restaurants than comparable small beach towns in the area.

Rooms at the Hotel Beau Rivage are basic and cozy. There are some nice touches including towel warmers, free Wi-Fi, small flat-screen TVs, and minibars, but the bedding, plaid curtains, and green slipcovers on the furniture could use an update. Rooms are clean; some have furnished balconies and views of the Mediterranean (book a front room for the best sea views). Air-conditioning isn't available in all rooms, though there are fans. White bathrooms have single stall showers with sliding doors and single sinks.

Like most boutiques, Hotel Beau Rivage doesn't have loads of features. There is a quality on-site restaurant that serves three meals a day (a la carte or package dining) with an emphasis on Ligurian cooking (known for pesto) and Italian wine. Beach access doesn't get much better, though there's a fee to use the facilities, which is quite common in Italy. Small pets are welcome and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.