Belmond Hotel Splendido renovation 2023: Portofino paradise set to reopen
It’s one of the world’s most iconic hotels. The Belmond Hotel Splendido in Portofino. After a careful renovation, Splendido is set to reopen. Here’s a look inside.
Luke Hopewell is a journeyman travel writer. From wine-tasting in France to exploring the Arctic Circle and everywhere in-between, Luke has been there.
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Splendido Hotel pool renovation
The Hotel Splendido pool in Portofino is an island oasis in the Ligurian Sea.
Set against the rich backdrop of Portofino, the pool is an icon by its own merit.
The pool has been meticulously redesigned by the talented Italian landscape designer Marco Bay.
Bay brings a fresh new look that captures the deep green-blue hues of the sea below. The sun terrace surrounding the pool has also been updated. You can now take in contrasting hues of pink, red, and white stone, embedded with mosaic sea creatures.
Come nightfall, the terrace is transformed into a magical setting. Vibrant striped Murano glass pendant lights illuminate the space.
Take a seat on one of the Bonacina chairs, dressed with piped cushions in coral and green tones, and enjoy a sumptuous meal at a table adorned with custom-designed fine bone china inspired by the local flora and fauna.
Splendido Grill
The way to a seasoned traveller’s heart is still through their stomach. The updated Splendido Grill will leave you wanting for nothing.
Adjacent to the swimming pool terrace, the Splendido Grill restaurant beckons. With its traditional hand-painted green and white tile frontages inspired by Albissola ceramics.
The restaurant’s lush green surroundings blend seamlessly with the interior detailing, furniture, and greenery. Plus, a retractable sunroof in tones of acorn green and terracotta against a bright white background provides a striking contrast against the red-flecked composite stone floor.
The new Baronessa Suite
Each of the 64 rooms at the Splendido is a gem, but a diamond in the hotel’s crown is the Baronessa Suite.
The stunning Baronessa Suite is designed to evoke the splendour of the Ligurian Riviera. Complete with enchanting frescoes and handcrafted decorations, the new design harks back to the luxury of the mid-20th century.
Inspired by the noble palazzos of the region, the Baronessa Suite strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance.
Rich fabric wall coverings contrast beautifully with the Graniglia alla Genovese flooring, with a mosaic border finish.
The antique furniture has been reupholstered in bespoke fabrics. This includes a statement chaise longue and carved timber side table, as well as a petite vanity table with a contrasting footstool.
Even the furniture itself was painstakingly acquired. The collection is carefully curated from local auction houses and estate sales. This preserves the hotel’s deep connection to the Ligurian identity.
One of the highlights of the Baronessa Suite is the grandiose carved timber headboard. It depicts unfurling agapanthus leaves, and contrasts beautifully against the soft fabric of the upholstered insert.
The painted Genovese antique bedside tables are topped by Albissola table lamps, which add to the old-world charm of the suite.
The suite’s magnificence extends outdoors to the expansive terrace. Guests can bask in the warm morning sun while enjoying a sumptuous breakfast at the rattan seating area or the dining area.
The Baronessa Suite offers a feeling of royalty. You can relax in this luxuriously renovated suite and admire every thoughtfully-considered detail.
When does Belmond Hotel Splendido reopen for 2023?
On 8 June 2023, as the property welcomes guests for the summer season.
What is Belmond Hotel Splendido?
Splendido is the jewel of Portofino. It sits atop the idyllic paradise and overlooks the entry to the main harbour.
You can frolic by its iconic pool, throw open the windows in your room or sit on the terrace and admire life as it drifts luxuriously by.
The hotel is famous for its luxury clientele who look to visit Splendido to escape the prying eyes of the world by the Ligurian Sea.
There are 64 rooms to choose from. It sits on a larger parcel of land than its sibling hotel: the Splendido Mare in the main square of Portofino.
Owned by Belmond, who has been setting new watermarks in luxury for almost 50 years around the world. It now has 50 properties in 24 countries around the world. Each is more magnificent and lovely than the last.
Splendido and Belmond are also part of the LVMH family, which guarantees its authentic pursuit of what it describes as “timeless heritage”.
