Splendido

Portofino, Italy

Perched above Portofino's harbour in terraced Ligurian gardens, this 16th-century monastery-turned-coastal institution is the kind of place where bow-tied bartenders stir negronis with local gin, a resident pianist plays late into the evening, and Liz Taylor's (who honeymooned here four times) favourite tomato spaghetti still remains on the menu. A recent renovation has brought the rooms firmly into the present, though the spirit and the stunning Portofino views of the 1901 original remain intact. With sea-view balconies, shell-shaped wall sconces and regional flourishes – furniture is sourced from local estate sales and auction houses – rooms exude well-considered vintage coastal charm. Head down to the Baratta Sedici bar for a Ligurian-style cocktail against a backdrop of wall-to-ceiling arch windows, gilded upholstery seating and playful botanical murals. Take relaxation to the max by rejuvenating your health at the Dior Spa, where treatment experiences mix fitness sessions with body scrubs and clean eating.

Key Information

• Rooms: 70
• Starting Rate: $782
• High Season: May-September
• Dining: La Terrazza, Splendido Grill, Dav Mare
• Drinking: Baratta Sedici
• At the Hotel: Swimming pool(s), spa, cooking classes, pottery, tennis, golf
• 39 0185 267802
• Visit Splendido's Website

Location

Via Roma, 2, Portofino, 16034