T R A V E L | B E L M O N D E X P E R I E N C E - I TA LY & S I C I LY
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his special property has a long history, which started with its life as a monastery. During the 16th century, Saracen pirates attacked it so relentlessly that the monks had little choice but to flee. From the 19th century, Baron Baratta converted the abandoned monastery into an impressive family summer home, with sweeping vistas from every room. In 1901, Ruggero Valentini, who is credited with forging tourism to Portofino, transformed the Villa Baratta into the world-famous Grand Hotel Splendido. Valentini began to host many famous and noble families in Europe at the Spendido, with the Duke of Wellington being the first to sign the visitors book. Throughout the 50’s and 60’s the property became a favorite of Hollywood celebrities with the likes of Lauren Bacall, Humphrey Bogart, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Clarke Gable and Ava Gardner among the many to savour the splendour of the Splendido. In 1985, the Orient Express Hotels (now rebranded to Belmond) took over the property and embarked on the monumental task of a complete refurbishment. On our arrival, we were greeted like a family member coming home after a long absence. With the perfect weather, we felt a strong pull from the heated saltwater pool with the stunning sea vistas. We could see the staff efficiently servicing the needs of the guests, personalizing orders and securing coveted tables, with the heady aroma of freshly baked pizza and home made pasta wafting in the air. We were guided to our suite, which was beautifully furnished with timber floors and luxurious fabrics, walk-in robes with hand crafted twin vanities, marble bath and shower. From our own private terrace the view was a mosaic of turquoise sea, terracotta roofs and potted flowers creating a panoramic canvas. The property offered a variety of accommodation options from double rooms, junior suites, suites and Dolce Vita, Presidential and Ava Gardner Suites (which ranged in size from 50m2). The property was dripping with cascading wisteria and the gardens included hundreds of indigenous olive trees sheltering the bushes of lavender plants and wild herb gardens. The ubiquitous potted red geraniums were a signature statement. The gardens invited investigation, and one couldn’t help but meander each afternoon to seek out a new and secluded vantage point to enjoy the magnificent vistas of Portofino.
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