If there was one word to describe Portofino and its most significant hotel, Splendido, it would be well, splendid.
With its flowered façade and breezy, comfortable interior, overlooking Portofino and the harbour, the Splendido has always been the hub for international yachtsmen, old money and those in the know.
Each room is simple and peaceful, in keeping with the light blue surroundings that mirror the beauty of the Mediterranean. The suites are well-proportioned with the beautiful Italianate marble bathrooms. The pièce de résistance, however, is the balcony with sweeping, breathtaking views over the bay.
For those who want to make a splash yet value discretion, the presidential suites are large self-catering apartments equipped with everything one could want to be happy. The outdoor pool and terrace for those sunny spells, breakfast in the mornings or dinner in the evenings are a magical experience. Watching the sun emerge or disappear casts a magical light on this isolated yet breathtakingly beautiful spot.
We also visited the little neighbouring village, Santa Margherita de Ligure, which has several boutiques, as does Portofino itself, with local shops offering crafts and clothes of every quality but usually the best. The atmosphere along this coastline is one of contentment: everyone is relaxed and filled with joie de vivre. The main attraction, however, remains the Splendido. We were treated to a lively performance by the resident musician and an impromptu duet with a waiter. Eventually, the enticing and magical atmosphere inspired this writer to dance to the Copacabana tune barefoot. Watching couples snuggling on the sofas, groups merrily laughing to the whims of the musician, I thought of Grace Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor, Humphrey Bogart and myriad other stars staying at the Splendido. They must have loved the seclusion and the inherent elegance of the place just as everyone else does today.
In peak season you will find the jet setting, yachting crowds that descend upon Portofino in the summer. At the end of this, a serene quiet descends upon the small harbour, casting a surreal beauty on this magical place. On our last day the sun emerged over the spectacular bay and as we departed, we vowed to return to this perfect haven of happiness.
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