Lerici lies on the south side of the Golfo dei Poeti, with Portovenere on the other side. The city is dominated by a castle dating from the 13th and 14th century, but nevertheless still in good 'condition'. Inside you can find the Geo-Paleontologic museum.
(Lerici, with a telelens, from Portovenere)

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Beautiful 'old' Ligurian villa nearby Lerici. From the garden, there is a great view on the castle of Lerici and the Gulf of the Poets.
Swimming pool in the garden and a small beach, Baia Blu, within walking distance.
Frequent bus services to La Spezia from the main road. With the train from La Spezia it's only a few minutes to the Cinque Terre.