using rewards points to secure hotel in Cinque Terre

Most (actually probably all) accommodations in the CT area are mom and pop hotels and B&B. No chain hotels are present there. I doubt you can redeem big chain or Amex points in the area.

As roberto mentioned, highly unlikely that any hotel in the area accepts reward points. Along the same vein, if you do find a hotel that does verify it's location on a map. There may be hotels in La Spezia or Sestri Levante that associate themselves with the Cinque Terre but are located some distance away.

Finding an accommodation that accepts an AMEX card in Cinque Terre is sometimes challenging...
Finding a room using AMEX points in Cinque Terre... PRICELESS!

Thanks, Ron, for my morning giggle!

Love Ron-in-Rome! Best travel website ever!

I've had almost no luck getting any hotel room in any of the large cities in Rome, Florence, Venice using points. The Hiltons, Marriotts, etc, are either at the airport, or far out, making taxis or public transportation necessary which is time consuming and sometimes expensive. AmEx is not accepted at most places because of the high percentage they charge the hotels.

If you're lucky enough to find a hotel that will take your points, and it's conveniently located, go for it! You're a better researcher than I! I use my points for the airline tickets.

Thanks everyone. No luck with the Amex...no surprise. I did book with Hotel Villa Steno per Robert's recommendation. Looks like great reviews and even better views!

Steve,
You will love Villa Steno. Very spacious rooms with awesome views, great breakfast, very friendly helpful owners and staff. When I think of the 5T towns, I think hamlet rather than town so finding accom. with points isn't an option. Be sure to visit the other towns in the early evening to join in the passegiata. We especially enjoyed sitting outside a bar on Vernazza's harbour drinking CT wine, the sunset and finding the snacks inside the bar which we were encouraged to eat. Have a great trip.