Portofino’s Belmond Splendido Mare Reopened

Set against the cinematic backdrop of the Italian Riviera, Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel, reopened in May 2021, following a complete renovation.

Each of the 14 rooms and suites of the charming guest house have been carefully crafted to tell the story of the nautical heritage of the harbor town. The traditional Ligurian colors of the harbor buildings – a palette of amber, terracotta and sea green – are used to accent the archways and ceilings. The design of the wooden floor was inspired by the church of San Giorgio in Portofino. The complete renovation mirrors the surrounding natural beauty of the Ligurian Coast and the timeless glamour of La Dolce Vita.

Throughout the hotel, guests will find detailed references to nautical heritage blended with the glamour of the 1950s and mid-century modern references. The art collection features 100 pieces of individually works curated by ARTIQ, with specially commissioned items by Italian artist, Gabriele Cappelli.

The new restaurant, DaV Mare, in partnership with Da Vittorio Group, brings a new level of gastronomic excellence to the Ligurian Coast and is set to become the beating heart of the Piazzetta.

Sailing the gentle sea

Departing from the harbor, guests can set sail aboard a traditional Ligurian fishing boat, Gozzo, for a slow and gentle cruise along the beautiful coastline to San Fruttuoso Bay choosing to stop for a swim to the submerged statue of Christ the Abyss, or a dive into the crystal-clear waters of Punta Chiappa. A picnic lunch can be prepared by the hotel’s restaurant, DaV Mare or guests can opt to stop for fresh seafood caught by local fishermen.

In the footsteps of Romance

Treks take the route along the footpath, named after a fabled Italian romance, the ‘Path of the Kiss’ where two young lovers who were separated by their families took their last embrace. The exhilarating 8-mile stretch from San Rocco, passing through Camogli and onto San Fruttuoso features steep paths and sharp drops with unbelievable views. Half day excursions to Monte di Portofino are also available and can be accompanied by a botanist guide to reveal the benefits of the mountain herbs for health and beauty.