Cipriani, Venice

The Cipriani in Venice is a very special place; an oasis of calm in one of the world’s busiest tourist cities. It is situated at the end of the Giudecca with stunning views over the lagoon, served by a private motor launch from Piazza San Marco. We’ve stayed there a few times over the years, when funds have allowed, and enjoyed every minute. The hotel was opened in the 1950’s by the famous owner of Harry’s Bar, Giuseppe Cipriani, who also invented the Bellini cocktail. One of the very few hotels in Venice to have a swimming pool, it’s the perfect place to relax in an atmosphere of gently faded opulence. And there’s more than a sporting chance of rubbing shoulders with the occasional film star.