La Dolce Vita Could Get No Sweeter!

Basking in the picturesqueness of sun-kissed Portifino, the Belmond Hotel Splendido stands resplendently on a hillside overlooking the Gulf of Tigullio; while its sister hotel, the Belmond Splendido Mare reposes on the charming main piazzetta right on the harbour.

- Natalie Pedder-Bajaj

Using modern Italian and French craftsmanship, the suite evokes a sense of homely comfort, with exquisite details such as textile screens, unique carpets, authentic mirrors from Murano and one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture and artwork from France.

While he has retained the parquet flooring, old tiles from Lebanon and the pastel painted walls done in authentic Portofino style, he has introduced veined Vatican white marble in the bathrooms and mosaic-framed mirrors and motifs, speaking in the same design language as the rest of the spaces.

The Wisteria, Bougainvillea Presidential Suites and the Ginepro Executive Junior Suite feature spacious balconies and lavish black and white marble bathrooms. Each suite has hand painted murals on the walls, a continuation of the originals found through the hotel, while the antique chandeliers and inlaid floors have been inspired by the grand villas of the 1800s found along the Ligurian coastline. Bay windows open onto large areas overlooking the water, while dividers can be removed to turn the space into a single 60-metrelong terrace!

Down by the water, on the celebrated Piazzetta is the intimate Belmond Splendido Mare with just 16 rooms and suites with magical views of the harbour. Guest can gaze as yachts cruise in, fishermen unload their catch and locals and visitors stroll by, all while eating Ligurian specialities at the famous Chuflay Restaurant and Bar.

Unfettered luxury, fresh local cuisine, unparalleled views, amazing service and exclusive tailor-made experiences (like an al fresco spa treatment, fishing aboard a traditional boat or your own private cycle tour) is what makes the Belmond Hotels in Portofino icons in this Italian paradise.