They say that the journey is just as important as arrival. And when it comes to Hotel Cipriani’s home and garden, this is true. Vintage motor launches in varnished wood, the epitome of 1970s Venetian maritime chic, will whisk you away from the airport or crowds in St. Mark’s Square. At the hotel, charming doormen welcome guests with a personal touch.
Hotel Cipriani is a custom-built luxury hotel in Giudecca that was built in 1958. It has plenty of elbow space and was originally owned by Guinness Nobility. Honor and Brigid were big fans of Harry’s Bar in Venice. They invited Giuseppe Cipriani to create a hotel with them. The result of this partnership is an unrivaled place for urbane hedonism, generous and attentive services that never waver and a peaceful atmosphere with a feeling of sanctuary and clubhouse confidentiality.
Hotel Cipriani provides a breather in the summer when Venice’s canals are more stinky. In the gardens of Casanova, the orange-blossom-scented lady-killer, the hotel grounds have tennis courts, a garden with a kitchen, a winery, and even a spa. The gardens are home to birds, including Roberta the tortoise. She hasn’t appeared since her recent acqua alt. The showpiece pool is the heart of the hotel. It’s a happy mistake of scale that the architect made when he mixed up meters and feet. Sunbathing around this swimming pool has become a form of entertainment, with the opportunity to people watch on the marble-travertine terrace. Hollywood moguls clinch film deals with loud voices here, while Venetian nobles spend the day in cabanas, spraying Evian complimentary like Chanel No. The staff is treated as an extension of the family.
Walter Bolzonella has retired, sadly. He is famous for creating the Buonanotte Cocktail with George Clooney. Riccardo canella, the star chef of Noma and multi-Michelin award winner, will take over as head chef. He knows that Italian style is about keeping things simple, familiar, natural and fresh. The Hotel Cipriani is known for its timeless Italian chic. Other have attempted to imitate its timeless Italian style. But glamor, as an atmosphere is harder to capture than Acqua Di Parma. It’s synonymous with the hotel with its stunning view of St. Mark’s Cathedral and Doge’s Palace. —Catherine Fairweather
