1903-1912

Grand Hotel Miramare was one of the first grand hotels to open on the Italian Riviera - the crescent-shaped strip of Mediterranean coastline between the south of France and Tuscany.

In the 1860s the Ligurian railway opened up the Italian Riviera to the world. Santa Margherita, where Grand Hotel Miramare is found, obtained two stations along the railway line. This gave the area a new connectivity and spirit, with the whole mood of the Italian Riviera bringing Santa Margherita to life.

By the end of the 19th century the area had become far more international. Visitors from England, Russia and several other countries brought different cultures, views and lifestyles to Santa Margherita (although back then they came in the winter months, from October to March).

Since 1903, Grand Hotel Miramare has had a front row seat to witness Santa Margherita’s transformation from an old fishing village into a popular destination fit for royal families, world leaders, global celebrities and curious travellers.

Our takeaway from our first decade? Being early, and starting a task straight away, is always the best way forward. As the expression goes, the early bird catches the worm.

We were one of the first hotels to welcome a new type of guest to the Italian Riviera. This ethos of being first, trying different things, and getting on with the task at hand runs throughout the hotel today.

It’s this energy that keeps Grand Hotel Miramare pushing forward. Just because we are a classic and grand hotel, it doesn’t mean we have to be slow and stuffy. In fact we’re quite the opposite.

Our first principle is also a reminder to everyone not to delay in life. If you want to do something, do it. Life is there for the taking.

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