The quintessential Venetian hotel...
There are few experiences more lavish than arriving by boat to a palatial hotel along the Grand Canal. You are living out a film scene, literally. A big budget movie when you consider it is the iconic Hotel Gritti Palace...
Stepping into the Gritti Palace you immediately take in its Venetian history. This was home to a Doge in the 16th century and has always been a residence of grandeur to notables such as Ernest Hemingway while John Ruskin wrote his famous "Stones of Venice" here. The decor is very Venetian palazzo with Murano glass and velvet accents to create lush visual opulence.
After a very relaxed check-in I was taken up to my very spacious room, a rarity in Venice especially in an old establishment. While I did not have a front Canal view, those are mainly for suite stays, my room did have a nice view of the Campo outside with lots of light coming through the windows. The room decor did continue the palazzo theme but in a more contemporary way so it felt elevated and not stuffy as many period hotels tend to be. Very comfortable, especially the bed which was luxurious on every level.
The bathroom was equally grand and spacious. White marble, and a large bathtub which I love! and so rare these days. I enjoyed a decadent bubble bath (again, just like in the movies) with their deluxe Aqua di Parma bath products generously replenished throughout my stay,
The property has an upmarket restaurant where you can feast like a Doge, and where in the mornings offers a large breakfast buffet complete with a "ham man" who cuts fresh Parma ham off the bone for your breakfast. You have comfortable views over the Grand Canal while nibbling on freshly baked croissants, and in the warmer months outdoor seating.
The hotel also has a renowned Cooking School giving lessons on Venetian cuisine. It includes a visit to the Rialto Market to pick up fresh produce before cooking it on sight in their gorgeous guest kitchen and chef's table.
The jewel, the gem, of this property is the Bar Longhi, named after the famous 18th century painter they also have on display actual paintings by the artist which sit perfectly in this lavish room of Murano chandeliers, decorative marble, and smoky mirrors. For a relatively small space it feels quite palatial, while the cocktails are as spectacular as the room.
You can also sit outside directly on the Grand Canal at their Riva Bar. Same great service with a spectacular view of the Santa Salute church. It also makes for a nice place to have lunch or a relaxed beverage when looking to rest your feet.
The Gritti Palace is nothing short of stupendous. From the moment you step off that boat you are met with refined attentive service from the private dock greeting to evening turndown. The people who work here make sure every detail is perfect. It has a sense of place, very Venetian and with that very grand. It offers a luxurious oasis from the heaving crowds of tourists in the city. In a city that lives off tourism, the Gritti offers travellers refinement and beauty, a place where guests literally live a Doge.
Please note I paid for my own stay at the hotel and this review is based on my personal experiences at the property.
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