Palazzo Venart

Tucked away behind private gardens leading onto the Grand Canal, Palazzo Venart is a refined, luxury hotel for the in-the-know traveller to Venice. At just 18 rooms it is an intimate stay, and it is immediately apparent upon walking in that the restoration of the ornate, 16th-century palazzo it calls home has been undertaken with the greatest attention to detail. Gilded antiques and thick, red curtains line the lobby; notice the restored frescoes as you walk up to your room. The hotel rooms are dressed in keeping with the building's heritage; the classic double rooms are more modest, with a pretty terrace, patterned wallpaper and crisp linens. Meanwhile, the luxury open plan suite is all decadence, replete with antiques and boasting high ceilings and an original fireplace. The hotel's GLAM restaurant and bar attracted attention recently when head chef Enrico Bartolini was awarded a Michelin star for the dining experience - not his first either. There is a pleasant, discreet courtyard for guests who prefer al fresco dining, and, of course, an extensive wine list. It's a fitting addition to this already exclusive Venetian hotel.