Italy Archives - The Brief Review

Splendido Belmond Hotel Review – Timeless Luxury | Portofino, Italy

AB — Sat, 23 Aug 2025 07:57:06 +0000

Perched high above the colorful harbor of Portofino, Splendido, A Belmond Hotel is a Riviera icon that epitomizes old-world glamour. Once a 16th-century monastery, it has transformed into one of the most coveted destinations in Italy, attracting Hollywood stars, artists, and global travelers who want to experience the magic of the Ligurian coast in refined luxury. From sweeping views over the Mediterranean to its lush terraced gardens, Splendido delivers an experience that is as breathtaking as it is timeless.

Review of Splendido Belmond Hotel – Details

Best For: Romantic getaways, luxury escapes, special occasions, and classic Riviera glamour
Location: Portofino, Liguria, Italy
Type: Luxury Hotel – Belmond Collection
Price: Rooms typically from €1,500+ per night in peak season
Website: Belmond Hotel Splendido
Instagram: @belmondsplendido

Review of Splendido Belmond Hotel – Highlights

Unmatched Location: Nestled above Portofino with panoramic views of the harbor, coastline, and lush hillsides, offering some of the most iconic vistas in Italy.
Heritage & Glamour: A storied property that has hosted legends from Elizabeth Taylor to Humphrey Bogart, retaining its reputation as a playground for the jet set.
Elegant Rooms & Suites: Decor blends Ligurian charm with understated luxury, many with private terraces overlooking the sea.
World-Class Dining: La Terrazza restaurant is a must for candlelit dinners with views of the bay, serving elevated Italian and Ligurian classics.
Gardens & Pools: Manicured terraces, fragrant with bougainvillea and olive trees, surround a serene pool that feels like an oasis above the sea.
Belmond Service: Attentive, discreet, and polished, ensuring each guest feels personally cared for.
Exclusive Atmosphere: With limited rooms and suites, the hotel feels intimate despite its legendary status.

Splendido Belmond Hotel Review – Things to Note

Premium Price: Staying at Splendido is a once-in-a-lifetime splurge, not a casual getaway.
Seasonal Operation: The hotel typically opens from spring through autumn; check dates before planning.
High Demand: Rooms often book out months in advance, especially in summer, so early reservations are key.
Harbor Access Requires Shuttle/Walk: While the view is incredible, reaching the heart of Portofino involves a short shuttle ride or walk down.
Traditional Style: The charm is classic and elegant guests seeking ultra-modern minimalism may find it more old-fashioned.

Review of Splendido Portofino – Tips

Book a Terrace Room: Waking up to breakfast overlooking the harbor is worth every extra euro.
Dine at Sunset: Reserve a table at La Terrazza around golden hour for one of the most romantic dinners on the Riviera.
Explore the Gardens: The terraced grounds are perfect for quiet walks away from the bustle of Portofino.
Pair with Splendido Mare: Belmond’s sister property on the harbor offers a complementary experience stay at both for a mix of perspectives.
Indulge in Experiences: From cooking classes to boat trips arranged by the concierge, Belmond curates exclusive ways to enjoy Portofino.
If you have any questions, ask in the comment section below!

Review of Belmond Splendido Hotel – Photos

The Splendido Belmond Hotel is more than just a place to stay it’s an institution of Riviera glamour. With its commanding views, impeccable service, and timeless charm, it continues to embody the romance of Portofino that has drawn artists, celebrities, and dreamers for decades. If you want to experience the Italian Riviera at its most refined and iconic, Splendido remains unmatched.

Check out our review of other hotels here.

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Aman Rosa Alpina Review – Alpine Luxury in the Heart of the Dolomites | San Cassiano, Italy

AB — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 13:43:21 +0000

Tucked away in the charming village of San Cassiano, Aman Rosa Alpina offers an intimate and luxurious alpine escape. Combining Aman’s signature understated elegance with the warmth of a family-run mountain lodge, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Dolomites in style whether you’re here for skiing, hiking, or simply soaking in the serene mountain views.

Review of Aman Rosa Alpina – Details

Best For: Luxury ski holidays, summer hiking retreats, romantic getaways
Location: San Cassiano, Alta Badia, Dolomites, Italy
Type: Luxury mountain hotel
Price: €1,200+ per night depending on season
Website: aman.com
Instagram: @aman

Review of Aman Rosa Alpina – Highlights

Prime Location in San Cassiano: Steps away from world-class ski slopes in winter and endless hiking trails in summer.
Understated Aman Luxury: Chic, minimal design with warm alpine touches—think wood-paneled walls, plush bedding, and panoramic windows.
Exceptional Dining: Includes the 3-Michelin-starred St. Hubertus restaurant, celebrated for its creative alpine cuisine.
World-Class Spa: Heated indoor pool, Finnish sauna, hammam, and holistic wellness treatments.
Outdoor Adventures Year-Round: Ski-in/ski-out in winter; cycling, hiking, and climbing in summer.
Personalized Service: Discreet yet attentive staff who anticipate your every need.

Rosa Alpina Review – Things to Note

High Price Point: As with all Aman properties, the rates are among the highest in the region.
Limited Nightlife Nearby: San Cassiano is quiet perfect for relaxation, but not for party-seekers.
Seasonal Closures: The hotel typically closes in shoulder seasons, so check availability before planning.
Booking St. Hubertus: The restaurant books out far in advance, especially during ski season reserve as early as possible.
Mountain Weather Can Change Quickly: Pack accordingly for variable conditions.

Review of Rosa Alpina Aman – Tips

Book a Suite with Mountain View: The extra space and sweeping Dolomite vistas are worth it.
Visit in Both Summer and Winter: Each season offers a completely different experience.
Reserve Ski Passes in Advance: To avoid queues during peak season.
Take Advantage of the Spa After a Day Outdoors: It’s the ultimate way to unwind after skiing or hiking.
Ask the Concierge for Hidden Trail Recommendations: They can point you to less crowded, breathtaking spots.
If you have any questions, ask in the comment section below!

Review of Aman Rosa Alpina Hotel – Photos

Aman Rosa Alpina blends alpine charm with Aman’s flawless service and design philosophy. It’s not just a hotel it’s an experience that immerses you in the magic of the Dolomites. Perfect for travelers seeking seclusion, luxury, and nature at its most spectacular, it’s a destination you’ll find hard to leave.

Check out our review of other hotels here.

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The St Regis Rome Review | Rome, Italy

AB — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 12:08:28 +0000

The St. Regis Rome is a luxurious five-star hotel offering an opulent experience in the heart of Rome. Combining timeless elegance with modern amenities, this iconic hotel boasts beautifully designed rooms, world-class dining, and impeccable service.

Review of The St Regis Rome – Details

Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele Orlando, 3, 00185 Roma RM, Italy (Google pin)
Tel: +390647091

Review of St Regis Hotel Rome – Video Tour

A full video tour walk through at the St Regis Rome below:

Review of St. Regis Rome Hotel – Highlights

Opulent Interiors: The St. Regis is known for its palatial interiors, featuring stunning chandeliers, marble floors, and lavish décor that reflects the grandeur of Roman architecture.
Exceptional Service: Guests are treated to the renowned St. Regis Butler Service, offering personalized attention and ensuring every stay is memorable. The staff recognize you by name, even after the first day.
Luxury Accommodations: The rooms and suites are elegantly appointed, blending traditional Italian style with modern comforts, including plush bedding, luxurious bathrooms, and state-of-the-art technology.
Prime Location: Situated near the Piazza della Repubblica and within walking distance of many of Rome’s top attractions, including the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain, the St. Regis is ideal for exploring the city.

The St Regis Rome Review – Things to Note

High-End Pricing: As a luxury property, rates are on the higher end, but the unparalleled experience and prime location justify the cost.
Renowned Dining: The on-site restaurant, Lumen, offers gourmet Italian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients, making it a top dining spot in the city. The same restaurant also hosts breakfast at the St Regis. While the selection is limited (compared to other 5 star hotel breakfasts) it makes up for in terms of quality of produce on offer.

Review of St Regis Hotel Rome – Tips

There are plenty of benefits for Marriott Bonvoy members from upgrades, early check in, late check out, free high speed internet and more. As a Marriott elite member you can choose either 1,000 welcome points, a welcome amenity or daily breakfast. If you are staying more than one night, the best value would be the free daily breakfast for two.
Indulge in Afternoon Tea: The St. Regis is known for its sophisticated afternoon tea service, a lovely way to unwind after sightseeing.
Use the Butler Service: Take advantage of the personalized butler service, available to help with everything from unpacking to arranging transportation. One such request, which is always popular is their coffee and tea service, in which freshly brewed beverage is delivered to your room any time of the day with some biscuits.
Spa and Wellness: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating experience at the hotel’s spa, offering a range of luxurious treatments.
For other places to check out in Rome see our reviews here.
If you have any questions, ask in the comment section below!

Review of The St. Regis Roma – Photos

The St. Regis Rome offers an exquisite blend of historic charm and modern luxury, making it one of the finest hotels in the city. From its opulent rooms to its world-class service, it’s the perfect place for a luxurious Roman getaway.

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Antico Forno Roscioli Review | Rome, Italy

AB — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 11:48:51 +0000

Antico Forno Roscioli is a legendary bakery in Rome known for its artisan breads, pizzas, and pastries. Located near Campo de’ Fiori, it has been serving locals and tourists since 1972, offering a taste of traditional Roman flavors.

Review of Antico Forno Roscioli – Details

Address: Via dei Chiavari, 34, 00186 Roma RM, Italy (Google pin)
Tel: +39 06 68 64 045
Website: Antico Forno Roscioli

Antico Forno Roscioli Review – Highlights

Authentic Roman Pizza: Their pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) is baked to perfection, with a crispy base and a variety of toppings, from classic Margherita to rich mortadella.
Focaccia and Breads: The bakery is famous for its freshly baked focaccia and loaves of bread, which are made using time-honored techniques and high-quality ingredients.
Pastries and Desserts: Along with savory items, Roscioli offers a selection of traditional Italian pastries, including their famous maritozzi, a cream-filled Roman bun that’s a local favorite.

Review of Antico Forno Roscioli – Things to Note

Always Crowded: As one of Rome’s most popular bakeries, it tends to get very busy, especially during lunch hours, but the service is quick, and the food is well worth the wait.
Takeaway Focus: The bakery has limited seating, so most customers grab their food to go. It’s perfect for picking up a snack while exploring nearby landmarks.

Review of Antico Forno Roscioli Rome – Tips

Pizza Bianca: A simple yet flavorful flatbread, the pizza bianca at Roscioli is a must-try, especially when paired with their high-quality cured meats.
Go Early: The bakery is busiest during midday, so visiting in the morning will give you the best selection of fresh bread and pastries.
Bring Cash: Though many places in Rome now accept cards, it’s always a good idea to carry cash, especially at smaller, more traditional spots like Roscioli.
Check out more restaurant reviews here.

Review of Antico Forno Roscioli Bakery – Photos

Antico Forno Roscioli offers a quintessential Roman bakery experience, with an incredible selection of baked goods that reflect the city’s rich culinary traditions. Whether you’re craving pizza, bread, or pastries, this historic bakery is a must-stop for food lovers exploring Rome.

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Pizzeria Piccolo Buco Review | Rome, Italy

AB — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 11:19:53 +0000

Piccolo Buco, a cozy pizzeria near the Trevi Fountain in Rome, is a must-visit for pizza lovers seeking authentic Italian flavors. Known for its wood-fired pizzas with perfectly blistered crusts, Piccolo Buco offers a menu that focuses on quality ingredients and traditional recipes.

Review of Pizeria Piccolo Buco – Details

Address: Via del Lavatore, 91, 00187 Roma RM, Italy (Google pin)
Tel: n/a
Website: Pizzeria Piccolo Buco

Pizza Piccolo Buco Review – Highlights

Wood-Fired Pizza: The pizzas at Piccolo Buco are cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven, featuring crispy yet airy crusts with a slight char, topped with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Authentic Italian Menu: Besides pizza, the menu offers a range of classic Italian dishes like bruschetta, caprese salad, and tiramisu, all made with local ingredients.
Warm, Intimate Atmosphere: The restaurant’s intimate setting is perfect for a casual meal with friends or family, offering a charming and cozy ambiance that complements the delicious food.

Review of Piccolo Buco Pizza – Things to Note

Popular Location: Given its proximity to the Trevi Fountain, Piccolo Buco is a hotspot for tourists, there are NO reservations so expect long waits up to one hour, especially during peak hours.
Reasonable Prices: Despite being in a prime tourist location, Piccolo Buco offers reasonably priced meals for the quality of food and service provided.

Review of Piccolo Buco Rome – Tips

Order the Margherita Pizza: Simple yet exceptional, their Margherita pizza is a customer favorite, showcasing fresh mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, and basil on a perfectly charred crust.
Try Their Homemade Desserts: Their tiramisu is a standout dessert that offers the perfect balance of coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa.
Arrive Early: To avoid the tourist rush and secure a seat, try to visit during off-peak hours or make a reservation in advance.
Pro Tip: You can add parma ham to any pizza for an extra 2.5 Euro and it is highly recommended.
Check out more restaurant reviews here.

Review of Piccolo Buco Restaurant – Photos

Piccolo Buco offers an authentic Roman pizza experience in the heart of the city, delivering high-quality ingredients and traditional Italian flavors in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping by after visiting the Trevi Fountain or making a special trip for great pizza, Piccolo Buco guarantees a delicious and memorable meal in Rome.

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