For a glittering stay by the sea in a gem on the Italian Riviera that is at once charming and glamorous, look no further than Belmond Splendido Mare, a 14-room luxury guesthouse reopening on April 16th.

Oh, Portofino… We love this tiny jewel on the Italian Riviera with its international allure and its firm rooting in the area’s rich history. You can picture Jackie O. walking through its Piazzetta, the gentle atmosphere of a Ligurian fishing village still remaining after all this time, despite the fact that its harbor gleams with sleek yachts.

Set right in the heart of Portofino, on the iconic Piazzetta, is Belmond Splendido Mare, a 14-room boutique luxury hotel that began as a guesthouse for fishermen and weary travelers. After having undergone a big renovation, the hotel is reopening on April 16th, and we could not be more excited.

When you arrive, you’ll find yourself charmed by winding corridors, multi-level spaces, and hidden terraces. It is truly a retreat that captures the spirit of the harbor, with even its décor embracing the nautical heritage and artisanal detail by featuring understated fabrics and iconic vintage furniture for a feel of timeless sophistication.

Guests of Belmond Splendido Mare also receive access to all facilities at Belmond Splendido, the hotel’s larger sister hotel, which is set on the hillside overlooking the bay. A complimentary shuttle will be waiting to take you back and forth between the two hotels as often as you’d like.

Choosing Your Accommodations

The fourteen rooms and suites at Belmond Splendido Mare have been recently reimagined and have been named to reflect the hotel’s connection with Hollywood icons, local wonders, and nautical adventures. As you make your way through the whimsical corridors, you won’t be able to resist stopping to stare at the glittering ocean before you step into your decadent private space.

Perhaps you’ll choose a Double Room, with views of the vibrant houses of Portofino, some even featuring their own balconies. These rooms can also be connected with the next room category, a Junior Suite, most of which boast incredible views out over the harbor, some with private terraces from which you can enjoy your morning coffee with a side of people-watching. Perhaps you’d rather upgrade to a Suite, featuring spellbinding vistas overlooking the harbor. The Suites are a timeless homage to Portofino’s most authentic spirit, which you won’t be able to avoid taking in from your private balcony or terrace.

Finally, there is the Ava Gardner Suite, which stretches the entire length of the hotel’s top floor and includes a terrace measuring 35 square meters with its own gigantic lemon tree. Unsurprisingly, given its location at the top of the hotel, this luxe suite features incomparable views of the harbor, both from the terrace and from the sitting room’s wall-to-wall glass window, which you can open to create an indoor/outdoor space.

It’s worth noting that we can offer upgraded “Poe Perks” for clients who book the Ava Gardner Suite. All the details on our Poe Perks are listed below.

Savor the Ligurian Fare

Since the hotel has recently undergone a renovation, it makes sense that they will also be opening up their new Splendido Mare Restaurant, right in the heart of the Piazzetta, which offers an authentic Ligurian experience and features traditional dishes and seasonal delicacies skillfully prepared by Executive Chef Roberto Villa. Of course, your menu will also be paired with only the most excellent local and regional wines. Chef Roberto will teach you the secret of his recipes, even making his signature pesto right in front of you with his grandmother’s pestle and mortar, as you settle into the cozy yet glamorous atmosphere only Portofino can offer.

And, to indulge your sweet tooth, head to Gelateria San Giorgio, which might only take up a small slice of the Piazzetta but offers legendary dessert delights. From a classic ice cream cone to a decadent local gelato, press pause on your sun-splashed afternoon for a quick stop, or even order a “paciugo” (tub) and savor it as you sit on one of the charming tables by the harbor. Little ones are also invited to indulge in some flavorful fun at tailored ice cream tasting sessions.

Whiling Away Your Time on the Riviera

There’s plenty to do in Portofino, both at the hotel and elsewhere. As we mentioned, guests at Splendido Mare have full access to all the facilities at Belmond Hotel Splendido, including the pool, wellness center, tennis courts, restaurant, and more, all accessible through an easy and complimentary shuttle service.

The shuttle service can also take you to Paraggi Beach, just a few minutes from the Piazzetta, because any stay in Portofino calls for at least a bit of beach lounging. You’ll be met at the beach with your own private lounger, and you can enjoy a light seafood lunch right by the water.

As a guest at Splendido Mare, you’ll also be treated to a must-do complimentary excursion (upon availability), in which you will board the hotel’s gorgeous wooden gozzo, a traditional fishing boat which epitomizes Portofino’s golden-era charm. You’ll drift dreamily along the Italian Riviera, exploring the coves and bays that dot the coast on your two-hour journey, savoring the slow pleasures of local life.

For those who love being in the kitchen, you won’t want to pass up the opportunity to discover the secrets of a timeless Genoese specialty: pesto. After your hands-on lesson, you will toss pasta in the sauce you’ve prepared, add fresh basil, pine nuts, parmesan, olive oil, and garlic, and feast on your creation.

To venture outside of the hotel, rent a Vespa and head out with a private guide to some of Portofino’s most scenic spots, perfect for a fabulous photoshoot on the go.

Alternatively, head to the Mount of Portofino for a walk or electric bicycle ride along the Nature Park’s trails. Explore the eco farm at La Portofinesse and learn about olive oil production. In a beautiful secret garden framed by the sea, you’ll taste delicacies such as homemade farinata (chickpea bread), local honey, and the famous Taggiasca olives.

Exclusive-Use Option

Splendido Mare’s small size also makes it a fabulous option for a group or large family who want to take the entire hotel for themselves, so we’re pleased to say that they have an exclusive-use option as well.

If you take Belmond Splendido Mare on an exclusive-use basis, your stay will include:

The charming guesthouse at your complete disposal with the vibrant life of the Piazzetta right on your doorstep
Fourteen rooms and suites abounding in character
A traditional gozzo boat in which you can uncover the wonders and secluded bays along the Italian Riviera

Poe Perks

It’s no secret that we are big fans of Belmond, and we are so proud to be included in their exclusive Bellini Club of travel agents, meaning we can offer you special “Poe Perks” at their properties.

For Belmond Splendido Mare, Poe Perks include:

$90 USD per room per stay flexible hotel credit (this is upgraded to $200 USD per room per stay if you book the Ava Gardner Suite)
VIP welcome treats with a local taste
A-la-carte breakfast for two guests per room daily
Complimentary room upgrade at the time of check-in (subject to availability)
Complimentary Wi-Fi access

If you would like to get away to Belmond Splendido Mare (or anywhere else in the world), simply contact us, and we will set you on your way.

A Sparkling Reopening in Portofino: Belmond Splendido Mare