Venice is one of those places where you must visit once in your lifetime. At first glance, it may seem as if everything looks just as anticipated, but as you begin to take a closer look, it is obvious that life in is city is not like anywhere else. From the exquisite churches during the day to the meandering alleys to get lost in whilst taking evening strolls along the canal, Venice in all it's history and charm may be one of the most fascinating places to be.
Recommended Duration: 3 days
Time to Visit: September - November
Booking: HOTEL DANIELI, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL http://www.danielihotelvenice.com/
LOCATION
As part of the Luxury Collection Hotels, the address of the pink-hued building of Hotel Danieli maintains the most desirable and prestigious address in Venice. Located on the Riva degli Schiavoni waterfront promenade within lightning proximity to Palazzo Ducale, Basilica and Piazza San Marco, Danieli boasts breathtaking views of San Giorgio Maggiore and the church of Santa Maria della Salute across the lagoon. The popular boardwalk is lively and crowded with tourists during the summer months but once inside these historic walls you will have been transported to another era. The ease of Danieli's location is further complemented by the San Zaccaria vaporetto (ferry bus) stop directly across from the hotel entrance, making travel around Venice as easy as can be.
VIEW MAP.
STYLE & DESIGN
A patrimony of Venetian excellence, the building consists of three linked palazzi with the initial central building built by the noble Dandolo family in the 14th Century. Entering the main palazzo, which was originally a four-storey open-air courtyard that was converted into Hotel Danieli in 1822, feels like stepping into a living museum. The extravagance is a remarkable and one can only imagine the lavish parties and functions that were held at Palazzo Dandolo in yesteryears. The building to the left of this is Danieli Excelsior (constructed in the 20th century), and the building to the right is Casa Nuova (added in the 19th century), both are bridged from the first floor above the main lobby.
The ornate decor of original antiques, stained glass windows and marble pillars accentuates this landing podium, whether you come through the revolving doors of the main entrance or through the hotel's own gondola station - (featured in the 2010 film “The Tourist,” starring Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp), the extravagance is palpable. High ceilings accentuated with flowered murano glass chandeliers are flamboyant yet charming and the setting casts a warm candlelit glow over the lounge area and lobby bar. However, the most photographed aspect of Danieli, preserved is it's original right, is the renowned wooden red staircase - an absolute sight of splendour in the hotel.
ROOMS
The heritage setting of the hotel is reflected in the 210 rooms which are divided into 13 categories and several distinct styles. The rooms in the main 14th century Palazzo Dandolo are lavishly furnished in traditional regal style with murano glass chandeliers, silk patterned wallpaper and ornate mirrors unique with historic detailing. Rooms in the Excelsior Wing are done up in a dramatic gothic style with red fabrics while those in Casa Nuova depict cream wallhangings and pastel furnishings. Each building maintains it's own characteristics yet they all stay true to their luxurious aristocratic lineage. The 12 most exclusive rooms are the Dandolo Suites in the main building. They feature opulent marble bathrooms and Acqua di Parma products, walk-in wardrobes and spacious sitting areas. What you are paying for is the view - the rooms with panoramic views of the venetian lagoon can only feel like something out of a postcard.
STAY : DELUXE LAGOON VIEW DOUBLE
FOOD & DRINK
Terrazza Danieli
The iconic rooftop restaurant and bar serves Venetian and Mediterranean cuisine in the most magical setting. We dined here for breakfast in the morning and couldn't resist coming back during sunset. The best views of the lagoon with delicious food and highly accommodating servers make an experience at Terrazza Danieli one of the greatest (if not essential) pleasures to splurge on in Venice.
Bar Dandolo
Nestled in the heart of the marble pillars on ground floor of the main building, Bar Dandolo is a great place to sit and people watch, while sipping on a late-morning breakfast or a classic afternoon tea. At least two 007 James Bond films have credited to this renowned bar. In the evenings, live piano music in a warm candlelit ambience provide the perfect setting to order a a Vesper Martini or famous cocktail. The bar is also the recipient of Gambero Rosso's "Bar d'Italia" award as one of Italy's Top 20 bars for the past sixteen consecutive years.
TIP: Order the signature Vespar Martini - in true 007 style, served 'shaken, not stirred'.
SERVICE AND CONCIERGE
What truly makes Danieli stand our from the rest is the attention to detail by their dedicated team at the concierge. There is an immediate professionalism and warm touch with catering to each and every request. Our onward travel plans from Venice were amended at the last minute and within the hour the team had made sure the most comfortable alternate option was selected with confirmation. Aside from effortless ease in avoiding panic situations, their insider knowledge of 'authentic' Venice magic is surely worth tapping in to. From shows to private tours, and the best of local dining, - no stone goes unturned without them knowing about it.
OVERVIEW:
A heritage Venetian masterpiece, Hotel Danieli dominates in every way. A curation of glamorous experiences under one roof, steeped in tradition and old world charm. Once entering this house, you realise your entire experience of Venice is an extension of the courtesy you experience in this hotel. The collection of precious art and antiques, the artfully blended comforts, and the immaculate warm welcome from Silver Carpanese and his team will indulge the expectations and desires of all travellers that walk through Danieli's doors.