Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino

After spending three nights at the Belmond Splendido, which was absolutely fabulous, we decided to spend one final night at the Splendido Mare in the heart of Portofino. If I’m being completely honest, we didn’t have particularly high expectations going into the stay. The hotel is quite understated from the outside, and after the experience we had at the main Splendido, we wondered how the Mare would compare. We couldn’t have been more wrong! The location is absolutely perfect, right in the heart of Portofino, and from the moment we arrived we were made to feel so welcome. The bellmen were incredibly friendly and immediately took care of our luggage while we enjoyed welcome drinks at DaV Mare before heading off on a private boat tour of the Portofino coast, which had been arranged by the hotel. Our room wasn’t quite ready when we arrived, but honestly, it didn’t matter at all. We were absolutely delighted when we eventually saw our room — it was beautiful, with a lovely balcony overlooking the main square in Portofino. The location and view were just incredible and really gave us the feeling of being right at the heart of Portofino. And then came another wonderful surprise. When we arrived in our room, we found the most beautiful pastry display along with a bottle of Krug Champagne waiting for us. It was such a generous and thoughtful welcome and really set the tone for what became an incredibly special stay. While we were waiting for our room, the team recommended a beach club which turned out to be one of the nicest beach clubs we have ever visited. The setting was incredible, with the bluest water imaginable, and the whole experience was very special. The restaurant, Langosteria, is also absolutely worth a visit. What really stood out to us, however, was the people. Everyone we encountered was so warm, friendly and genuinely interested in making sure we were having a wonderful stay. Filippo in Guest Relations was fantastic and went out of his way to look after us. He was kind enough to offer us a late check-out, and when I casually mentioned that a member of my family would love one of the hotel’s beach bags, he surprised us by having one brought to our room. It was such a thoughtful and unexpected gesture. We also met Mikaela, the manager, who was wonderful. She personally took such great care of us when we were leaving, making sure we had enjoyed our stay and that everything had been perfect. She was even kind enough to surprise us with a departure gift of beautiful luggage tags and some honey. Again, such a small but incredibly thoughtful gesture. Honestly, we were blown away. We have been fortunate enough to stay in some amazing and very luxurious hotels around the world, and Splendido Mare genuinely ranks up there with the very best. What makes it so special is that it doesn’t feel like hospitality by numbers. You can genuinely tell that Mikaela and her team care about their guests and take a real interest in making their stay special. After having stayed at the main Splendido, we thought the Mare might simply be a convenient one-night extension in Portofino. Instead, it became one of the highlights of our trip. We genuinely didn’t want to leave — and I think that is probably the best compliment you can give a hotel. If anything, we wished we had planned to spend more time at Splendido Mare. We will absolutely be back, and next time we’ll be staying for longer! A very special hotel, an incredible location and, most importantly, an exceptional team. A huge credit to Mikaela and everyone at Splendido Mare.

We’ve traveled all over the world and can honestly say that this is the best hotel—exceeding all expectations across every key element, from the surroundings and ambience to the outstanding service that far exceeded our expectations. Situated right in the vibrant heart of the town, the location is absolutely unbeatable—placing you directly in the center of Portofino’s harbor charm while surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery. What truly elevates Splendido Mare into a class of its own is the incredible array of thoughtful, inclusive luxuries. From the magnificent complimentary boat ride along the Riviera to seamless access to the private beach club and effortless shuttle service, every detail is handled with perfection. The complimentary gelatos next door is also a delightful touch, and the breakfast—available at both Splendido Mare and up at the main Hotel Splendido—is easily one of the finest spreads you will find anywhere. Even the evening turndown service, complete with soothing night teas and artisanal sweets, leaves you feeling deeply spoiled. Beyond the setting and amenities, it is the world-class team that makes this property so legendary. Service excellence clearly starts at the top: the hotel managers, Michela & Filipino set an exceptional standard, leading by example with extraordinary warmth, precision, and genuine hospitality. Every single staff member (Juan and many others) went above and beyond to make our stay unforgettable. Splendido Mare is absolute perfection in every sense and we cannot wait to return!

Me and my wife have just returned from a two night stay at the Splendido Mare, what a Hotel!, setting and hospitality. From the moment we arrived, Michela and her team treated us with sincere hospitality, smiles and service and made our stay truly remarkable. A special thank you to Federico at the restaurant, his service was exceptional. We will definitely be returning

Can’t say enough about this magical place. Michela and her team are true pros and we felt like the most important people on earth from the second we arrived. We’ve stayed at a lot of great places around the world, and this is one we’ll be thinking about for a long time. Mare also puts you in the heart of the Portofino action (strolling the square as the town wakes up in the morning was a highlight) while still being able to access Splendido for the pool, etc. via a quick and complementary shuttle. It was the best of both worlds! And be sure to do the complimentary boat ride along the coast. Wow. We can’t wait to return.

Lovely place great service and manager Mikhaela is so seeet. I will definitely come back as me and my wife enjoyed