European summer is upon us and that usually means our Instagram feeds will be making us feel extra envious of those lapping up the sunshine whilst we snuggle up, braving the cold. It’s the perfect time to escape and celebrate your honeymoon in style or should we say celebrate your honeymoon ‘Italian style.’ Come with us as we uncover one of the summer celebrity hotspots.

The Location

Tucked away in the Italian Riviera is the small fishing village of Portofino, where you’ll find Belmond Hotel Splendido and Belmond Splendido Mare. Frequented by the rich and famous, Portofino is a picture-perfect location to add to your Italian honeymoon hit list.

You can reach Portofino by ferry or via car/bus from Santa Margherita. Both are very quick journey’s making it easy to commute between the two.

Do note, after some storms in late 2018, the road into Portofino was damaged and extensive work is underway to repair it. Though this does mean there is some disruption to travel. If you’re planning a visit sooner rather than later, make sure you check with your travel agent to ensure your access to the town is not affected.

About that photo

Yes, this does look like the prettiest garden to explore, but what you might not have noticed is this picture is featuring the restaurant La Terrazza. La Terrazza is one of the prettiest places to eat in Portofino with clear views of the marina.

You’ll be eating fresh local produce as you sample authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner, so make sure to book a table (particularly during the busier months of summer).

About the accommodation

Belmond Hotel Splendido and Belmond Splendido Mare offer a unique Italian escape. You can certainly see why Elizabeth Taylor was known to holiday here! Enjoy views of the sea or the surrounding gardens in either hotel.

Between the hotels there are three restaurants, a wellness centre, a heated outdoor pool, water sports, gym and a complimentary shuttle to take you to and from both locations so you can enjoy all each has to offer.

We’re Also loving

Portofino is the perfect location for a honeymoon. There is plenty to see and do like visit Castello Brown (the best view of Portofino can be found here), tempt your tastebuds at any of the pretty coloured restaurants by the marina or take the ferry to visit San Fruttuoso Abbey.

All images via Belmond Hotel Splendido

Other activities that the Belmond Hotel Splendido could assist in organising are detailed on their website. This includes wine tastings, experiencing a secret underground grotto, visiting a local Wellness Farm or travel a little further and organise a trip to the famous Cinque Terre.

We hope your stay in Portofino is nothing less than fabulous and don’t forget to keep your eye out for an A-lister – you might even see George Clooney enjoying some gelato!

Ms Zebra Says: There’s nothing better than enjoying a gelato whilst holidaying like an a-lister! Or at least I can imagine!!! This sounds like the best place to splurge if you’re enjoying your honeymoon on the coast of Italy!