Set against the cinematic backdrop of the Italian Riviera, Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel, re-opens on 1 May 2021, signalling the beginning of a new era in Portofino and its legendary allure. The 14-room charming guest house has undergone a complete renovation; every detail of the interior design and the guest experience has been carefully crafted to tell the story of the nautical heritage of the harbour town, the surrounding natural beauty of the Ligurian Coast and the timeless glamour of La Dolce Vita.
As the doors open, guests at Splendido Mare can look forward to a choice of exceptional experiences, curated especially for the Mare.
“Our teams have been working tirelessly to create a new standard in Italian relaxed sophistication – and now, the true Belmond magic begins. Together with our guests, we can look ahead to the return of La Dolce Vita by the sea with friends and family enjoying days out on the water, slow afternoons on the beach and joyful evenings on the terrace at the new restaurant, DaV Mare.” Comments Roeland Vos, CEO & President, Belmond.
SAILING THE GENTLE SEA
Departing from the harbour, guests can set sail aboard a traditional Ligurian fishing boat, Gozzo, for a slow and gentle cruise along the beautiful coastline to San Fruttuoso Bay choosing to stop for a swim to the submerged statue of Christ the Abyss, or a dive into the crystal-clear waters of Punta Chiappa. A picnic lunch can be prepared by the hotel’s restaurant, DaV Mare or guests can opt to stop for fresh seafood caught by local fishermen.
In celebration of the opening of the hotel and its connection to the sea, the ‘Regate di Primavera – Splendido Mare Cup’ is returning to Portofino and is set to take place from 6-9 May 2021. The exhilarating race, in partnership with the Yacht Club Italiano, the International Maxi Association and and four of the most prestigious shipyards in the world, is a chance to witness nautical magnificence in action with a fleet of 60-foot racing yachts competing for the title.
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ROMANCE
Treks take the route along the footpath, named after a fabled Italian romance, the ‘Path of the Kiss’ where two young lovers who were separated by their families took their last embrace. The exhilarating 12km stretch from San Rocco, passing through Camogli and onto San Fruttuoso features steep paths and sharp drops with unbelievable views. Half day excursions to Monte di Portofino are also available and can be accompanied by a botanist guide to reveal the benefits of the mountain herbs for health and beauty.
A NEW LOOK FOR A NEW ERA
Splendido Mare re-opens following a complete renovation with interior designs by Festen Architecture. Throughout the hotel, guests will find detailed references to nautical heritage blended with the glamour of the 1950s and mid-century modern references. All 14 rooms and suites are individually characteristic with colours inspired by the traditional Ligurian buildings and luxurious layers and materials by Loro Piana and Rubelli. The art collection features 100 pieces of individually works curated by ARTIQ, with specially commissioned items by Italian artist, Gabriele Cappelli. Uniforms are designs by emerging fashion designer, Arthur Arbesser who has created timeless designs that reflect the atmosphere of relaxed sophistication. The new restaurant, DaV Mare, in partnership with Da Vittorio Group, brings a new level of gastronomic excellence to the Ligurian Coast and is set to become the beating heart of the Piazzetta.
Across Italy, Belmond’s portfolio of iconic hotels is preparing to welcome back guests for a new season of memorable experiences. All seven Belmond properties including Splendido in Portofino, Cipriani in Venice, Villa San Michele in Florence and Caruso in Ravello, open their doors throughout May.
Splendido Mare opens on 1st May 2021 and rooms start from €550 + VAT. To book or for more information visit Belmond.com.