Rock Hudson’s Villa in Santa Margherita

Having driven through Portofino, Robert Talbot (Rock Hudson) finally arrives at his Villa. And What a Villa it is! As Robert puts it to his majordomo Maurice (Walter Slezac), “the view from the terrace is quite breathtaking”. Indeed it is and not only the director will make good use of it in the movie, but it would also feature prominently on posters and lobby cards across the world. The view? Santa Margherita-Ligure!

The Villa, known as Villa delle Palme, still exists nowadays but has been split into private apartments. You can spot it high above you on Corso Nicolò Cuneo, the steep and curvy road going from Santa Margherita to Recco. Having said this, it is quite tricky to see it as it is located in a very sharp curve and you can’t really park outside. Thanks to the many scenes shot at the Villa dell Palme, it is easily recognisable. First, the Entrance Gate: Situated in the middle of a curve,  it can be seen on many occasions throughout the movie. For example when Robert arrives in Santa Margherita,

 or when Tony (Bobby Darin) and his friends turn up, are about to leave but.. meet the girls!

Again, right at the end when (Spoiler alert) recently engaged Robert and Lisa (Gina Lollobrigida) return to the Villa, only to realise that Maurice is back at it.

Then Villa delle Palme: Once you are there, if you look high above you, you’ll be able to spot the Villa and the Palm trees that give it its name. Also visible is the fence from the terrace seen on a few scenes in the film.

When Maurice rushes to remove all possible evidences of his activities before his employer arrives,

or when Robert and Lisa try to enjoy some romantic time together,

or a little argument.

Again, when Robert and Maurice observe how Tony and Co are setting up their tent right outside the Villa.

Sadly, no pictures from the Villa delle Palme’s terrace I am afraid but, as the saying goes, where there is a will…

How to get there?

Hollywood on the Italian Riviera Movie Map

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