Nestled in the heart of the Italian Riviera, Portofino is poised to begin an enchanting new chapter as Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, reveals a fresh phase of its stunning multi-year renovation in June. Renowned for its rich history and cinematic beauty, Portofino has long been a destination of choice for global luminaries, artists, and royalty.
Splendido, a grand dame of luxury in Portofino since the 1950s, is set to emerge with a refined elegance thanks to a meticulous restoration by celebrated Martin Brudnizki Design Studio. Adding to the allure, Belmond will launch the exclusive Villa Beatrice in July 2025—a private haven for guests seeking an extraordinary Riviera retreat.
Splendido: The Soul of Portofino
Perched gracefully above Portofino’s shimmering bay, Splendido has embodied the spirit of “la dolce vita” for over seventy years. This luxury hotel, set in a series of terraced gardens on the hillside, has hosted celebrated personalities—from Hollywood legends to European royalty—creating an atmosphere that feels both private and filled with an intangible sense of glamour. The surrounding landscapes echo the charm of Liguria, with expansive terraces and intimate alcoves offering a versatile backdrop for gatherings, whether intimate family celebrations or grand events.
The design palette draws from the vibrant hues of the Mediterranean, with deep blues and turquoises that mirror the nearby waters and subtle pinks and whites that evoke the region’s famous “Puddinga” rock formations. Together, these elements blend to create an ambiance that is quintessentially Italian and uniquely Portofino.
A Heritage Reimagined
With each summer unveiling a new facet of Splendido’s transformation, the restoration of this 16th-century former Benedictine monastery carefully blends timeless charm with modern sophistication. Led by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, the design honors Ligurian craftsmanship while imbuing the property with contemporary relevance. The first phase of updates in 2023 saw a transformation of the pool area overlooking the sparkling Ligurian Bay, a new Splendido Grill restaurant and the renovated Baronessa Suite, one of the hotel’s signature suites, inspired by the noble Palazzos of the region.
This year, newly redesigned guest rooms and an inviting lobby welcomed visitors, embodying the warmth and heritage of the Ligurian Riviera. For 2025, every room and suite will be adorned with locally inspired artworks and botanical prints, whilst the corridors feature exclusive sketches of Portofino and heritage photos of the iconic property and its guests, over the years.
The spotlight will be on the main building’s revival, where guests can expect refined communal areas that highlight Splendido’s legacy as a glamorous and exclusive getaway. The refreshed spaces will include a chic cocktail bar, a coffee and lounge bar, a breakfast area, retail spaces, and even a champagne display.
A new Dior Spa, located on an exclusive roof terrace, will feature four treatment rooms alongside a serene relaxation area. The spa’s design is inspired by local elements, creating a harmonious space where guests can unwind with views of the glittering Ligurian Bay.
The landscaping, meticulously crafted to harmonize with the area’s natural beauty, will showcase native flora, reflecting the distinctive beauty of Portofino. The colour palette draws inspiration from the blues and turquoises of the Mediterranean Sea, while the unique “Puddinga” rock formations of Portofino’s cliffs and the fragrant subtropical and Ligurian herbs further enhance the botanical ambience.
Introducing Villa Beatrice: A Private Slice of Paradise
Located a short distance down the hillside, Villa Beatrice is set to open its doors in July 2025. This exquisitely restored private residence, which joins Belmond’s exclusive portfolio, captures the Riviera’s charm in an intimate setting that offers unrivaled privacy and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Portofino. Originally built by Ligurian industrialist Attilio Odero and designed by renowned Tuscan architect Gino Coppedè, the villa seamlessly combines Gothic Revival elements with Art Nouveau flourishes.
Set within the serene beauty of a national park, Villa Beatrice is an inviting family estate that accommodates up to ten guests across five luxurious keys. One of the villa’s most unique features is La Casetta, a secluded one-bedroom cottage nestled among fragrant citrus groves, offering couples or solo travelers a perfect escape within an escape.
For those seeking both seclusion and luxury, Villa Beatrice delivers. With private sea access, a tranquil sea garden, and a scenic plunge pool and sun deck, the villa offers an ideal spot to soak in the Riviera’s beauty. Inside, guests can enjoy modern comforts complemented by original Coppedè frescoes, antique furnishings, and marble bathrooms that reflect the villa’s historic charm. Martin Brudnizki and landscape architect Marco Bay oversaw the villa’s intricate restoration, ensuring that every detail—from antique ceiling frescos to contemporary regional artwork—resonates with the estate’s Ligurian heritage.
Unmatched Amenities and Unforgettable Experiences
At Villa Beatrice, guests enjoy a suite of personalized services, from a private butler to a chef on request. For wellness enthusiasts, a gym and an al fresco pavilion offer spaces for exercise and relaxation, while the rooftop terrace provides an idyllic setting for yoga or tranquil meditation sessions. An expansive, shaded terrace awaits al fresco dining and intimate family gatherings, where guests can savor meals prepared in a fully equipped kitchen or crafted by a private chef.
The villa’s prime location grants sweeping views over Paraggi, Portofino Bay, and as far as Cinque Terre to the east. Lower terraces provide a closer look at Portofino Bay’s scenic beauty, while each corner of the estate offers vantage points for uninterrupted panoramas. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the Ligurian Sea, Villa Beatrice encapsulates the very essence of the Riviera’s timeless allure.
Portofino’s Golden Age, Reimagined
As Portofino embarks on this new era, Splendido and Villa Beatrice together represent a vision that harmonizes historical significance with modern luxury.
Splendido’s grand renovations and Villa Beatrice’s debut create a destination that honors tradition while setting a new standard in Riviera luxury. For those seeking a retreat that combines the rich cultural fabric of Italy with the ultimate in private luxury, Portofino’s reborn Riviera beckons.
Belmond offers a collection of hotels, trains, boats, safaris and restaurants in the most iconic destinations around the globe. Discover the joy of indulgent details, authentic experiences and unparalleled service at Belmond hotels. For more information, visit https://www.belmond.com/hotels
