Italy’s Grand Hotel Miramare

Built in 1903, the Grand Hotel Miramare was one of the first luxury hotels on the Italian Riviera. Over a century later, the Miramare has maintained its splendor and is still the epitome of Italian elegance. We explored this historic structure with friend and Resident Manager, Paolo Panzeri, who has worked at the hotel for over 30 years. As we strolled the property, Paolo shared stories of the building’s history, amenities, and exclusive features.

The History

Paolo started our tour by explaining the property’s interesting history. It all started with Giacomo Costa, who turned his private residence into a hotel. Thanks to the management of Kuoni-Stoppani (founders of the renowned Swiss travel agency), the hotel became a popular destination for the glitterati of the time. We’re talking people like Sir Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh who honeymooned here in the 1940’s!
Although the hotel has recently been remodeled, it has maintained its original look and feel. The initial fresco has been refined, along with the gorgeous façade, lovely parquet floors, and stucco walls. So, although it has all the modern conveniences such as air conditioning, satellite TV, and free internet… it still has that same Italian grandeur from 100 years ago.

The Rooms

The Mirarmare has 78 rooms, deluxe suites and classic suites, some with balconies overlooking the Golfo del Tiguillo, and others that gaze upon the beautiful garden. Pastel colors decorate each room, along with recently restored stucco work that mimics the original interiors. Regardless if your room overlooks the sea or the newly landscaped garden – you’ll enjoy luxurious comfort with incredible views.

If you happen to stay in suite 105, you’re in for a treat! For it was in this room that Guglielmo Marconi made history by transmitting telegraphic radio and telephonic radio signals in 1933. Marconi made the hotel his headquarters, and the Miramare named his room “The Marconi Suite” as a result.

The Pool

The pool is a showstopper. Temperature controlled and filled with seawater, it’s something you must take advantage of! Paolo jokingly said they put a shark in there to prove to guests it’s truly salt water… so be sure to look twice before diving in. With sunbeds, umbrellas, towels, tremendous views of the Mediterranean and undivided attention from hotel staff – there’s really no need to leave!  Grab yourself an Aperol Spritz, sit back and relax poolside.

The Restaurant

The hotel’s restaurant, Vistamare, serves traditional Ligurian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in the newly restored dining room. Or, sit on the panoramic terrace with its magnificent front row views or the Mediterranean. Either way, you’ll have an unforgettable experience.

The Garden

 Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the hotel’s newly landscaped garden. You’ll wander through towering palms and maritime pines, a rainbow-colored assortment of blooms, and lush shrubberies.  The path gently guides you to a stunning vista, overlooking the hotel grounds, the sea, and the surrounding seaside village of Santa Margherita.

If you’d like to explore the Italian Riviera, join our Tuscany and the Cinque Terre Culture + Walking tour. You’ll wine taste on the grounds of a castle, explore the cobblestone streets of towering hill towns in the heart of Tuscany, traverse a spectacular coastal trail connecting pastel villages of the Cinque Terre, jump to the head of the line to see Michelangelo’s David, all while relaxing in luxury accommodations like the Grand Hotel Miramare!