Lush Portofino, Italy, Is a Replica of the Biblical Garden of Eden; Notoriety Came courtesy of the Splendido Hotel
Belmond Splendido: A Luxury Retreat Embracing the Spirit of the Italian Riviera
Nestled on a hillside that cascades towards the sea, the Belmond Splendido in Portofino, Italy, offers a unique blend of history, luxury, and Italian charm. Originally a 16th-century Benedictine monastery, later an aristocratic summer residence, and now a refined retreat, the hotel seamlessly merges heritage with Mediterranean elegance.
The complex retains its Gothic Revival architecture, accompanied by Art Nouveau touches introduced during earlier phases. Soaring ceilings, original frescoes, arched windows framing panoramic views of the Gulf of Tigullio, and pastel façades typical of Ligurian coastal style are some of the architectural delights that greet guests. The hillside location offers terraced lush gardens and a panoramic setting that embraces the spirit of the Italian Riviera.
Martin Brudnizki Design Studio approached the renovation as a "portrait painter," emphasizing restoration over radical change. Interiors evoke a grand coastal villa with a residential feel, featuring carefully sourced antique furnishings, some restored in the Genoese tradition, and decorative details such as pesto-green accents, wall frescos of native flowers, and glass chandeliers that seem to float, all reflective of Ligurian craftsmanship and culture.
The hotel celebrates Liguria’s architectural heritage and "slow luxury living" ethos by integrating traditional crafts with modern hospitality. It actively honors local artisanal techniques, using materials and decorations that speak to the region’s natural beauty and artistic traditions, making guests feel immersed in the local lifestyle. Culinary offerings emphasize local ingredients, including fresh seafood and cocktails inspired by regional produce, reinforcing the cultural connection.
While explicit details on sustainability are not deeply covered in the available sources, the renovation emphasized quality, longevity, and respect for the original fabric, suggesting an aligned ethos of sustainability through preservation rather than demolition. The hotel's integration into the natural hillside setting, use of authentic materials, and involvement of local craftsmen indicate sensitivity to environmental and cultural sustainability.
The revamped hotel comprises 64 rooms and suites, including the exclusive Villa Beatrice with its own pool and garden. It features a Dior Spa with treatment rooms and a bay-view sun deck, a salt-water swimming pool overlooking the town, and dining venues like the Splendido Grill and alfresco terraces shaded by wisteria. A complimentary shuttle links the hillside hotel with its sister property, Splendido Mare, located in town.
Luke Abrahams, a freelance journalist specializing in luxury lifestyle journalism, sustainability, spirituality, culture, and history, has visited the Belmond Splendido and commends its ability to provide not just a place to stay, but a cultural and sensory immersion into Portofino and the Italian Riviera.
In summary, Belmond Splendido harmoniously intertwines its rich history and architectural beauty with refined interior design deeply rooted in Ligurian culture and craftsmanship, while embracing a subtle, preservation-focused approach to sustainability and modern luxury.
