The 3.9 L V8 Ferrari Portofino
Portofino: A Timeless Tale of Riviera Glamour
Nestled on the Italian Riviera’s edge, Portofino, once known as “Portus Delphini” due to the abundant dolphins in its waters, has always been a magnet for those seeking beauty untouched by time. It’s not a hidden gem, nor is it the newest kid on the block. Yet, when you talk about Mediterranean charm, Portofino stands in a league of its own.
In a world where every traveler is on the hunt for the ‘next big thing’, Portofino is a testament to timeless allure. Maybe it’s the whispers of its age-old stories, its prime location, or simply its soul that’s drenched in pure charisma.
Centuries ago, the great Pliny the Elder tipped his hat to this stunning port, dubbing it “Portus Delphini”. And it seems the enchantment hasn’t skipped a beat. Even today’s rockstars of the tech world, like Elon Musk, have been spotted soaking in Portofino’s magic, walking the paths trodden by legends for over two millennia.
Beyond the celebrity footprints, Portofino spins tales of medieval tussles between powerhouses like Genoa, Venice, and Florence. But with Italy’s unification in 1861, this seaside haven pivoted from its tales of fishing nets and battles to a chronicle of luxury and spotlight.
Elon Musk with his 17-year-old son Saxon in Portofino – ©GrosbyGroup
The plot thickened with an Englishman, Montague Yeats-Brown, in 1867. He eyed the historic Castello Brown and saw beyond its rugged walls. With a touch of innovation, he transformed this age-old fortress into a chic abode. This move solidified Portofino’s reputation as Europe’s go-to spot for opulence, especially during the glitzy Roaring Twenties.
Moreover, it’s crucial to mention the significant real estate maneuver by Bernard Arnault that essentially gave him ownership of half of Portofino. Arnault acquired Belmond, the entity that owns the iconic Lo Splendido, gracing two prime spots: the hilltop and the central Piazzetta—ranking it amongst the top 20 hotels in Europe.
Additionally, his acquisitions breathed new life into the renowned emerald-green bay of Paraggi, with two beach resorts revitalizing the seaside spot. Not to mention the transformation of Villa Fortunato, a sea-facing marvel, into luxurious apartments for short stays.
The shopping scene also bears his signature, with Louis Vuitton’s store on Molo Umberto I, Emilio Pucci on Via Roma, and both Dior and Loro Piana gracing the Piazzetta in Portofino. And if that wasn’t enough, Arnault has purchased a second villa for himself, which is currently undergoing renovation.
In essence, Portofino’s spirit, beautifully penned by authors like Elizabeth von Arnim, remains undimmed. As the future unravels, Portofino stands tall, promising to be that ever-shining beacon of elegance, history, and allure on Italy’s coastline. And we, the lucky witnesses of its perpetual glow, can only bask in its radiance, today and always.
