Hotel Snapshot
Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino, a former 16th-century Benedictine monastery turned stately holiday haven (open seasonally from early June through early November), has long been a favorite of A-listers, royals, and the European glitterati. The prestigious Italian Riviera hideaway, known for its good looks, glam history, and gorgeous views of the Ligurian coast, just got a resplendent revamp from legendary designer Martin Brudnizki.
Design & Character
Walking up the flower-framed stairs to Splendido, it’s easy to imagine what it must have been like to see Grace Kelly traipsing along the cobblestone pathways. The hotel is an emblem of enduring style and elegance. The lobby presents period details, jueujed up with gilded chandeliers and pistachio trim. The hallways leading to the guest quarters also reflect an inherent dedication to tradition. Everything feels elegant in a way that's effortless and never contrived. Strolling around, it seems like "Abbronzatissima" might start playing at any moment. It’s one of those rare properties where the fantasy of it all actually lives up to the reality.
The Rooms
A more subdued style than Brudnizki typically conjures, the revamped rooms reflect an unwavering attention to detail and an understanding of both the legacy of Splendido and Liguria’s brand of ease. Spaces show off hand-painted walls in hues of pale blue, light green, and yellow, upholstered headboards, hand-crafted ceramic bedside lamps, airy lace curtains, and private balconies to behold the natural beauty.
A favorite of silver-screen legends and other high-profile holiday goers who want a bit more discretion, the grand Dolce Vita Suite is swathed in pastels and flaunts a spacious garden seating area. For the Splendido experience without the chance of running into other guests’ privacy seekers should consider Villa Beatrice, a splashy private palazzo with a plunge pool, gym, gardens, chef and butler service, and a private beach just a five-minute walk from the hotel.
Food & Drink
La Terrezza— the signature restaurant where Elizabeth Taylor was known to enjoy plates of tomato spaghetti—serves elevated Ligurian gastronomic delights and regional fine wines on a romantic, wisteria-covered balcony overlooking the Bay of Portofino. Baratta Sedici, the newly opened bar, evokes timeless glamour with its chandeliers, craft cocktails, and flavorful dishes like Ligurian octopus and buffalo mozzarella with fresh tomatoes. Splendido Grill is prime for a long, leisurely lunch of pizza, grilled fish, and white wine. And, of course, guests can have food and drinks delivered poolside.
Amenities
Perhaps the most recognizable spot at the hotel is the heated saltwater infinity pool with sun loungers and jaw-dropping views. When not swimming, spa-ing, and traipsing through the gardens, guests can partake in exclusive experiences such as romantic sunset cruises aboard the hotel’s private boat, olive oil tastings, eco farm tours, and sunbeds at Bagni Fiore.
Spa & Wellness Scoop
It stands to reason that a beacon of luxury like Spendido would partner with another prestige icon to upgrade its pampering. The hotel recently debuted the first permanent Dior Spa in Italy. Self-care seekers choose to indulge in illuminating facials and constellation massages in the spa suites or in the Toile de Jouy-draped treatment gazebos set in the lush, fragrant gardens.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
Splendid is perched atop a hill, which provides both privacy and sweeping views. Take advantage of the complimentary shuttle to La Piazzetta, Portofino's iconic main square. Browse the luxury designer boutiques—among them Brunello Cucinelli, Louis Vuitton, and Missoni—and sit down for lunch at either Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino or one of the restaurants around the marina.
Fast Facts
Location: Portofino, Italy
Vibe: Timeless Portofino glamour framed by manicured gardens and cinematic views.
Rating: Five-star
Room Count: 70 rooms and suites, plus one private villa
Pricing: From $1,376 per night
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: Sipping a spritz on one of the terraces overlooking the Bay of Portofino is peak Italian Riviera holiday.
Dining: La Terrazza is an iconic destination to dig into housemade pasta, sip from the extensive wine list, and soak in the spellbinding panoramas. Enjoy espresso or a cocktail at the atmospheric new bar. There’s also Splendido Grill for more casual fare and a poolside bar.
Amenities: Heated saltwater infinity pool, Dior spa, wellness center, fitness center, tennis court, two restaurants, two bars, private boat, complimentary shuttle to La Piazzetta, exclusive access to Bagni Fiore.
Nearby Attractions: Castello Brown, Area Marina Protetta di Portofino, Piazza Martiri Dell'Olivetta, designer shopping, and Marina di Portofino.
Airport: Genoa Airport (GOA)
