Ca' Sagredo
Ca' Sagredo is the most recent luxury five star hotel in Venice. Housed in a spectacular 15th century palazzo overlooking the Grand Canal just beyond the Rialto Bridge, it oozes history and elegance. The palazzo was the former residence of the powerful Sagredo family and guests feel this as soon as they enter the gloriously imposing entrance hall, whose highlight is a breathtaking marble staircase flanked by Pietro Longhi’s original 18th century frescoes.
Officially a National Monument, it is the closest you will get to sleeping in a museum. Breakfasting in the double height ballroom surrounded by gilt chandeliers and more impressive art works and sleeping in our favourite room La Suite della Biblioteca which was the original library of Zaccaria Sagredo. Dating back to the early 18th century, adorned with gilded shelves in which the historic collection of books and periodicals are kept. There is no other hotel room like it.
The location is charming, just a short ‘traghetto’ gondola ride across the Grand Canal from the atmospheric and picturesque fruit and fish market. Many rooms overlook the Grand Canal, but for quieter rooms opt for those overlooking the sun filled piazzetta which is delightful. On the top floor some rooms boast small wooden terraces with breathtaking views of the city, on a fine day the snow capped Dolomites can be glimpsed in the distance.
Bedrooms vary in size and style but all have been restored in good taste. Soothing creams and yellows pervade throughout, the marble bathrooms are well stocked with fluffy towels and products and air conditioning and plasma tv’s are a feature of every room. Many rooms boast original frescoes and Venetian glass chandeliers.
The hotel restaurant L'Alcova is elegant and cosy and offers classic Venetian dishes. Our favourite tables are on the small terrace overlooking the Grand Canal. The service both here and throughout the rest of the hotel is excellent, with charming and efficient staff on hand day and night.
Ca' Sagredo is magnificent and does justice to Venice’s fascinating and glamorous history.