Villa Franca, a design house in Portofino, Italy

An Art-Directed Retreat in the Portofino Park

Located in the Portofino Natural Park, Villa Franca is a sanctuary that blends its ancient Ligurian roots with sophisticated, design-led interiors. The history of the home is tied to the late Franca Sozzani, the celebrated director of Vogue Italia, who curated its measured, sunlit aesthetic. The villa features six flexible bedrooms across the main structure and a private dependance, comfortably hosting up to 10 guests, with a generous pool and sweeping views over the Gulf of Portofino.

Airy, luminous rooms open toward the spectacular sea view, establishing a focus on the outside world. A comfortable, light-filled living area and a welcoming, fully equipped kitchen anchor the main floor. Furnishings are chosen for their grace and functionality, often sourced from the owner’s private collection of art and design pieces.

Wrapped in ancient greenery and the scent of pine, the outdoor spaces are suspended between the sky and the sea. The large pool provides a central point for relaxation. Wide, shaded terraces, including a dedicated covered area beneath a pergola, offer an ideal setting for long dinners overlooking the entire Gulf.

What we love

We love how you can feel Franca Sozzani’s creative spirit here. The art and furniture make the interiors feel like a personal gallery. The miniature Egg Chair by Nanna Ditzel! It's stylish but totally relaxed, with those ancient trees keeping the terraces cool and shady even in the heat. Floating in that pool with the view of the Gulf feels like you’ve stepped right into a classic Italian movie.

Layout

The estate offers six distinct suites across the main villa and a separate, private dependance, hosting up to 10 adults. The main house includes two master bedrooms with king beds and private baths, one connecting to a single room for a child. A double room in the veranda and a single room with a queen bed each feature private bathrooms and terraces. The separate dependance provides a double bed and a private bathroom, ensuring privacy.

Experiences

Bookable services include Ligurian cooking classes with a private chef, guided hikes through the Portofino Park, private boat charters to Cinque Terre, and tailored yoga or Pilates sessions on the terrace. A relaxing massage or spa ritual can also be arranged.

Good to know

Access to Villa Franca requires navigating a moderately steep, three-hundred-meter path on foot from Portofino village, making the villa unsuitable for those with significant mobility issues. There is one private parking space available for a compact car. Larger vehicles require using public parking in the village.

Amenities & services

Pool, wifi, air conditioning, daily housekeeping, fully equipped kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining, fireplace, linens and towels, private compact car parking, luggage assistance

Around

Portofino is one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic and magnetic harbors. The village is centered around its small, perfect port, lined with brightly colored fishermen’s houses and sophisticated boutiques. Beyond the famous Piazzetta, explore the historic Castello Brown, which offers commanding views and a fascinating history. For design enthusiasts, the surrounding area offers contemporary architecture blended with traditional Ligurian style. The Cinque Terre villages are a short, scenic boat ride away. A car is recommended for exploring the wider region, including nearby Santa Margherita Ligure and the beautiful coastal roads.