Check-in: Belmond Splendido, Portofino’s Most Glamorous Perch
In July, I finally made it to one of Italy’s most iconic addresses — Belmond Hotel Splendido in Portofino. The name alone conjures up images of cinematic Riviera glamour, but this year, the hotel is shining brighter than ever thanks to a stunning recent renovation.
Perched high above the harbor, Splendido commands the best view of Portofino, that picture-perfect curve of pastel buildings hugging the Ligurian coastline and yachts dotting the harbor. Whether you’re there for a long weekend or a mid-summer escape, this is a stay where every detail feels deliciously indulgent.
The New Splendor
The refresh is elegant without losing that old-world charm. Polished marble, fresh pops of color, and a breezy sense of luxury invite you to linger. One of my favorite discoveries? The Dior Spa. After a few hours in the Ligurian sun, there’s nothing quite like a custom facial or a massage under the shade of olive trees. Yes, there are outdoor massage tables — bliss with a sea breeze.
Welcome to Belmond Splendido
Dining with a View
You could easily spend an entire day rotating between the pool and the terrace. Lunch at The Terrace is a Portofino rite of passage — the perfect plate of pasta, a chilled glass of Vermentino, and that view. By night, The Grill brings a more relaxed, candlelit charm.
A Lobby Bar to Linger In
I’ll admit it, I’m a sucker for a chic lobby bar, and Splendido’s is pure Italian dolce vita. Think artful lighting, glossy wood, and the kind of polished-yet-cozy atmosphere where you could sip an Aperol spritz all afternoon and watch the Riviera set glide by. It’s a gathering place for hotel guests, stylish locals, and the occasional famous face, making it as much a scene as a spot for a quiet drink.
For the Active (and the Glamorous)
If you can tear yourself away from your sun lounger, Splendido’s tennis court might be the most scenic in Italy. Or charter a yacht for the day and cruise along the Ligurian coast, stopping for swims in hidden coves. A short stroll from the hotel, you’ll find beach clubs as stylish as the clientele — think Dolce & Gabbana and Dior styled umbrellas fluttering in the breeze.
Why Go Now
Summer in Portofino is magic, but post-renovation, Splendido is truly having a moment. It’s the kind of place where you might spot a movie star at breakfast, yet still feel utterly at home. Chic, timeless, and entirely unforgettable — this is Ligurian luxury at its finest.
The Insider Advantage
Here’s where booking with a travel advisor can turn an incredible stay into an unforgettable one. Through my connections, you’ll enjoy perks like:
Daily breakfast for two
A resort credit to spend on spa treatments or dining
Possible room upgrades upon arrival
Early check-in or late check-out, when available
And at Splendido, I have a trusted friend right on property to personally welcome you and ensure your trip runs seamlessly from arranging the perfect table for sunset to securing last-minute yacht charters or exclusive beach club spots. It’s like having your own local host with the keys to Portofino’s most coveted experiences.
