Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino

The splendido has always been known as a hideaway for the glamorous set (it was a favorite of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton), but above all, this showstopper celebrates its distinct sense of place. Liguria is one of Italy’s most picturesque regions, and the hotel’s enchanting grounds and vistas over the coastline will stop you in your tracks, whether it is your first or fifth stay. The 61 rooms and suites are spread across several buildings, which are currently being renovated in a multiphase project by designer Martin Brudnizki (the first phase is scheduled to be complete in June 2023). There are also two restaurants, a heated saltwater pool, an impressive fitness center, tennis courts and a spa—but the overall vibe is that of a simpler era. Outside, birds flutter among the palm trees and wisteria, and the coast’s splendor is allowed to steal the show. A fine balance of soul and prestige (after all, this is the Italian Riviera) is what best defines the Splendido—and while here, guests should indulge in both.

The Standout: La Dolce Vita Villa, which sits on a hillside with its own furnished garden—ideal for a family or small group

Don’t Miss: Exploring the Gulf of Tigullio on the Chris-Craft Corsair 36 motorboat and sailing to San Fruttuoso, a medieval abbey that can be reached only by boat or by foot

• The spa experience in collaboration with Dior
• The staff, most of whom have been with the resort for decades
• Exclusive access to La Portofinese, an eco-farm and vineyard where guests can taste local delicacies with one-of-a-kind sea views

Perched on a cliffside overlooking Portofino and the Tyrrhenian sea beyond, Hotel Splendido is Italy’s model of elegance and charm. The property’s classically glamorous ambience is perfectly balanced by its fresh style, warm service and ample facilities and amenities. Arriving at Hotel Splendido is like unearthing a hidden sanctuary. The property and surrounding landscape is luxurious—filled with colorful flora and the sounds of thousands of chirping birds that are native to the area. With sweeping vistas over the Ligurian coastline, a fabulous restaurant and a heated salt water pool that juts out over the harbor, Hotel Splendido maintains a distinct character and sense of place.

The hotel’s décor is well-suited to Portofino’s environs, featuring stark black and white marble with a variety of delicate and well-selected color schemes that blend seamlessly with Portofino’s vibrant scenery. The property is made up of three buildings: the main building, an annexed building that offers less-desirable garden or entry-way views and a third, small building that houses a few sea-facing suites. While some will prefer the updated rooms with a modern feel, these can feel a bit sparse. For those who appreciate a sense of place, opt for the classic rooms featuring a more traditional Italian style. Many of the accommodations also have small balconies overlooking the water (including the entire fifth floor of the hotel).

The property has lovely landscaped grounds including a heated salt-water pool that overlooks the Mediterranean against palm trees and lush vegetation. There is an impressive fitness center featuring a glass wall with sea views, a hillside tennis court, a full-service spa and a sauna that is nestled outside in the shade of the garden.

Guests can enjoy dining at La Terrazza, the hotel’s fabulous Italian restaurant serving seafood, pasta and regional specialties on the outdoor terrace overlooking the bay or in the restaurant’s more formal dining room. Throughout the day, a more casual menu is offered at the Pool Restaurant, and at night, the Cocktail Bar, with its hand-painted watercolor walls and black-and-white marble floors, makes for an elegant spot to nurse a nightcap while the pianist provides soft background music. The service at the hotel is buttoned-up, yet friendly.

One of the best features of the hotel is its family-friendly nature. Complete with kids' amenities, menus and activities, Hotel Splendido meets the expectations of the sophisticated traveler without neglecting the little ones. The hotel’s Smile Club offers a variety of kid-friendly activities from mosaic making to scavenger hunts.

Located just above the port, the property sits a lovely 20-minute walk or short five-minute drive up from the harbor. (There is a shuttle service to bring guests back and forth as needed.)

Couples looking for a fun getaway, friends in search of a glamorous seaside vacation and families looking for an Italian resort with local flair, a sense of place and the opportunity for activities and day trips will be happy here.