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Experience Unrivaled Grandeur: Splendido's Dolce Vita Reimagined

A Century of Splendor: The Enduring Legacy of Splendido, A Belmond Hotel

Perched on a hillside overlooking the stunning Portofino bay, Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, has embodied the essence of Italian charm for over a hundred years. What began as a 16th-century Benedictine monastery transformed into an iconic haven, drawing in royalty and Hollywood stars throughout the mid-20th century. The hotel proudly continues its traditions, serving its famous spaghetti and tomato sauce—a nod to past celebrity guests—while evolving its offerings under the esteemed Belmond brand, part of the LVMH portfolio.

Modern Renaissance: Martin Brudnizki's Visionary Transformation

Since 2023, Splendido has been undergoing a significant transformation under the guidance of acclaimed designer Martin Brudnizki. The initial phases saw the infinity pool updated with vibrant red-orange umbrellas, alongside a refreshed Splendido Grill and the luxurious Baronessa Suite. The main lobby and a majority of the guest rooms were also upgraded in 2024, with some rooms being reconfigured into more spacious suites. This year, the hotel unveiled Baratta Sedici, a new cocktail lounge, and the first permanent Dior Spa in Italy, further enhancing its luxury offerings. Additionally, Villa Beatrice, a sprawling five-bedroom private estate, was added to the property's exclusive accommodations.

Exclusive Retreat: The Unparalleled Luxury of Villa Beatrice

For guests seeking ultimate privacy and bespoke service, Villa Beatrice offers an exceptional experience. Situated just a short distance from the main hotel, this independent villa boasts five bedrooms, private beach access, landscaped gardens, a plunge pool, and a fully equipped gym. Guests of Villa Beatrice enjoy the dedicated services of a personal butler and chef, along with full access to Splendido's amenities, including tennis courts and boutique shops. The villa's design, inspired by early 20th-century Art Nouveau, features stunning ceiling frescoes, terracotta floors, and intricate woodwork. It is perfectly suited for entertaining, with capacity for up to 30 guests for private events. Special perks for villa residents include complimentary culinary and mixology workshops, yoga and painting classes, and guided farm tours, all complemented by airport transfers and chauffeured service to nearby attractions.

Arrival and Welcome: A Seamless Entry into Italian Elegance

From the moment of arrival, guests are enveloped in Splendido's attentive service. Upon transfer from the Rapallo train station, the hotel staff provides a personalized check-in experience. While a welcome drink was not offered at reception, a chilled bottle of Veuve Clicquot, along with local delicacies like hazelnut cake and artisanal sweets from Romanengo, awaited in the suite, setting a tone of refined hospitality.

Beyond the Ordinary: Distinctive Amenities and Exclusive Services

Splendido distinguishes itself with unique amenities not commonly found in Italian luxury hotels, such as its well-maintained tennis courts. The heated, saltwater infinity pool remains a highlight, offering breathtaking views and an atmosphere of refined leisure. The hotel's boutique features a carefully selected array of high-end fashion and accessories, including premium leather goods from Badura. While most guests enjoy exceptional service, those residing in Villa Beatrice benefit from a dedicated 24/7 butler, capable of arranging exclusive experiences from private shopping excursions to reserving coveted spots at the Dior-managed Bagni Fiore beach club.

Comfort and Luxury: Indulgent Touches in Every Detail

The hotel prioritizes guest comfort with its luxurious accommodations. Sheets, custom-made in Italy from 100 percent cotton for Belmond, offer a soft and opulent feel. Although bathrooms do not feature heated floors, the temperate Mediterranean climate makes it unnecessary. Instead, guests can enjoy high-end amenities such as Comfort Zone sunscreen and Dyson hairdryers. Full-sized ceramic bottles of Acqua di Parma bath products, specially crafted for Splendido with a Mediterranean orange scent, add an exclusive and fragrant touch to the bathing experience.

Iconic Indulgence: Embracing the Riviera Lifestyle

While private pools are not a central feature, the hotel's infinity pool serves as a vibrant social hub with captivating views of Portofino. For moments of solitude, secluded terraces provide private lounging spots. A quintessential activity is a boat excursion along the coast aboard a traditional gozzo. Depending on sea conditions, guests can visit the serene Abbey of San Fruttuoso or explore the charming town of Santa Margherita Ligure, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the Riviera.

Culinary Excellence: A Gastronomic Journey at Splendido

Splendido's two exceptional restaurants promise a culinary adventure reflecting the rich flavors of the Italian Riviera. La Terrazza, the more formal dining venue, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with spectacular views. Its breakfast buffet features an exquisite selection of homemade pastries, local cheeses, and cured meats, complemented by made-to-order eggs, including the signature Portofino-style scrambled eggs. In the evening, La Terrazza transforms into a romantic setting, serving gourmet dishes like blue Mediterranean lobster pizzata and classic favorites, including the legendary 'Homage to Elizabeth Taylor' spaghetti. Dessert becomes an event, with a dedicated room offering freshly baked cakes and made-to-order cannoli. For a more relaxed experience, Splendido Grill specializes in fresh grilled seafood and meats, showcasing the day's catch and regional specialties such as grilled octopus and agnolotti del Ponente, a pasta dish unique to Liguria.

Beyond the Menu: Bespoke Dining Experiences

While caviar is not explicitly listed on the room service menu, guests can enjoy Beluga and Royal Calvisius varieties from The Grill, which staff are happy to deliver to their rooms. A true highlight of the room service offering is La Terrazza's trofie with pesto, prepared with DOP basil from Pra, a prized local variety known as “green gold,” providing an authentic taste of Ligurian heritage.

An Evening of Elegance: The Allure of Baratta Sedici

The newly introduced Baratta Sedici cocktail bar is an irresistible destination for an evening out. Offering seating on an outdoor terrace adjacent to La Terrazza and impeccably chic interiors, the bar features a softly glowing white onyx counter. Bartenders craft both classic cocktails and innovative original creations, such as the Conte Baratta, a refreshing blend of gin, Ligurian orange liqueur, almond syrup, lemon juice, and egg whites, making it an ideal spot for a sophisticated tête-à-tête.

A Testament to Timeless Luxury: The Verdict on Splendido

With a perfect score of 10, Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, emerges as an undisputed icon of Italian luxury. Its recent renovations have masterfully enhanced its subtle and sophisticated charm, solidifying its status as the premier destination in Portofino. The hotel seamlessly combines a storied heritage, breathtaking location, exquisite design, exceptional dining, and warm Italian hospitality, creating an unparalleled experience that truly embodies the Dolce Vita. It is not merely a hotel, but a dream destination that beckons guests to extend their stay indefinitely.