Hotels in Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy

Imperiale Palace Hotel, Santa Margherita Ligure

This five-star Italian Riviera hotel has a marvellous location. Santa Margherita Ligure is a charming coastal resort just along the coast from the glitterati's favourite, Portofino. The town encircles a picturesque harbour, lined with smart, upmarket yachts, as well as local fishing boats, which can be seen unloading their catches in the bustling morning fish market. A little way inland you'll find an interesting castle and the attractive, black-and-white-striped church of the Frati Cappuccini, or hooded brothers. The seafront has plenty in the way of elegant restaurants and pleasant bars and the area has lots of opportunities for day trips and excursions, in the unlikely event that you get bored with pottering along the relaxed promenade.

Originally built as a fabulous private villa, the Imperiale Palace Hotel was built in 1889. The town of Santa Margherita Ligure is steeped in history - the Treaty of Rapallo, which finally brought the First World War to its end, was signed here in 1922. This beautiful old villa is surrounded by extensive parkland, which slopes gently towards the sea, and an enchanting view over Portofino Bay is available from the hotel's broad marble terraces. There are 104 delightful rooms, including 18 suites, all with well-appointed private bathrooms, direct-dial telephones, satellite TV, radio and a generous minibar.

There is a wonderful turn-of the century ambience to the restaurant and bar, which are furnished with fine Liberty-style pieces. And there are wonderful terraces where diners can eat by flickering candlelight with panoramic views out to sea. The service here is first class and elegant dinner dances are held throughout the summer.

This Italian hotel has its own private beach and a delightful seawater swimming pool surrounded by exotic plants. There is also a beach side bar and an American-style grill restaurant by the sea. Fitness fanatics will be delighted with the state-of-the-art gym with its steamy Turkish bath and therapy rooms offering all manner of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments.

There is a 24-hour service on reception and professional, attentive staff offer the highest standards of service to ensure you want for nothing during your stay at this Italian Riviera hotel. There is ample free car parking and all major credit cards are welcome.

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Double room from €304