Belmond Splendido, Portofino, Italy, Mediterranean

Nestled in the hillside overlooking Portofino’s glistening bay, this is the Grand Dame of the Italian Riviera, enticing the world’s fashionable elite to its mesmerising setting. Here, sophisticated glamour blends seamlessly with a storied Italian heritage. Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, is an emblem of Portofino’s enduring allure. This wisteria-draped former monastery, and then an aristocrat’s summer residence, is an Italian coastal classic and sitting on the Splendido’s terrace as the boats cruise in and out of the harbour feels a heavenly form of bliss. This was the hotel of choice for the Dolce Vita set in the 50’s and 60’s when Portofino competed with Capri and Positano. The visitors book includes names of royalty, musicians, writers and rock stars from Grace Kelly, Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall to Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Today, the Splendido legend lives on. This is the place to combine Mediterranean charisma with calm rejuvenation and captivating vistas. Perfect for a long weekend escape or to mark a special celebration, the nearest airports are either Genoa (a 45 minute drive) or Pisa (an approx 90 minute drive).