Belmond Hotel Splendido Review: Italian Riviera Glamour or Just a Name?
“Now, it’s big black cars and Riviera views”
Staying at a hotel where celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and George Clooney have vacationed sounds pretty dreamy, right? That’s exactly what you get at Belmond Hotel Splendido in Portofino. This former 16th-century monastery has been transformed into one of the most iconic spots on the Italian Riviera. With breathtaking sea views and a touch of old-school glamour, it's easy to see why it’s so popular. But what’s it really like to stay at this celebrity hotspot? Let’s take a closer look at the experience!
Here we go! Let’s determine if staying here is worth it while we cover all aspects of the hotel, from the rooms to the location.
The Location
Located on a hillside above Portofino’s harbor, the hotel offers views of the Italian Riviera, known for its colorful, charming villages and clear waters. The nearest airport is Genoa’s Cristoforo Colombo Airport, about an hour’s drive away. The hotel does offer a shuttle service, but if you’re up for a scenic drive, getting there by car is a great option. Do keep in mind the roads are quite narrow.
When we arrived in Portofino, police stopped cars to say parking was full, but once we mentioned we were staying at the hotel, we were allowed through. Just note that the final road to the hotel is uphill, but that’s where the gorgeous views really kick in!
The Rooms
The rooms at Belmond Hotel Splendido are spacious and stocked with everything you might need for a comfortable stay. There’s even a Dyson hairdryer and complimentary toiletries, including sunscreen and after-sun, which is a nice touch. We originally booked a deluxe room with a sea view but got upgraded to a junior suite, which was amazing! The view from the balcony was stunning, and since the view is such a big part of the hotel's charm, I’d definitely recommend splurging on a room with a sea view.
My only drawback was that the mattress had a dent, and since I’m very sensitive when it comes to sleeping—my family even nicknamed me “Princess and the Pea” when I was younger—I found it a bit uncomfortable. I’m guessing most people wouldn’t have even noticed, but it did affect my sleep a bit. Since we were only staying one night, I didn’t bring it up, but I’m sure the staff, who were super friendly throughout our stay, would’ve sorted it out if I had.
The Restaurant
Dining at Belmond Hotel Splendido is definitely a highlight! The main restaurant, La Terrazza, serves tasty Mediterranean dishes and has those gorgeous views you’ve likely seen all over Instagram and Pinterest. Just a heads-up: even as a hotel guest, you’ll need a reservation, so make sure to contact the hotel ahead of time to snag your spot.
Right next to La Terrazza, there's a cozy bar area where a local pianist plays some tunes, making it a perfect spot for a pre-dinner drink. If you're in the mood for something more casual, there’s another restaurant one floor down that offers delicious pasta and pizza. You can also enjoy drinks and lunch options like burgers and club sandwiches by the pool. It’s a great way to chill out and soak in the relaxing vibes.
The Amenities
When it comes to amenities, the star of the show at Belmond Hotel Splendido is definitely the pool. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the stunning views. If you’re looking to burn off some energy, there are also tennis courts where you can have a fun match. Plus, there’s a gym if you want to keep up with your workouts. Want to explore Portofino? The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service into town.
And for a truly special treat, don’t miss the outdoor spa at the end of the gardens—imagine enjoying a massage while gazing at the bay of Portofino. It’s a fantastic way to unwind and soak in the views around you!
The Verdict
Overall, my stay at Belmond Hotel Splendido was wonderful. The staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. The rooms were spacious and had everything we needed, plus the views were simply incredible. The food at the restaurants was delicious, but as I mentioned earlier, the main attraction is the pool—it's a fantastic spot to relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery.
The hotel is small, with only 70 rooms and suites, and is open only during the summer, so I can understand the price tag. While I do find it a bit steep, experiencing the Italian Riviera’s glamour, even just for a day, is something I’d recommend at least once in your life!
I hope this was helpful. If you have any more questions, you can always reach out here or on Instagram, and I’m more than happy to answer any of your questions. Happy Travels!
