Another new discovery. This is an exquisite Gothic Palazzo,
and was the family home to no less than eight Doges. Palazzo
Contarini is tucked away in a more residential part of
Castello, about ten minutes' walk from San Marco, but well
off the beaten track, up near the church of San Francesco
della'Vigna. The atmosphere of this palazzo simply exudes
the romance of Venice. Entering from the street through
a large wooden door one is surprised to discover an oasis
of calm, an elegant courtyard with a staircase straight
out of a Shakespeare play and a delightfully quiet walled
garden and fountain.
The palazzo has a discreet reception area with English-speaking
staff. One can arrive by private water taxi, enhancing
the impression of being a guest in a private house rather
than in a hotel. The highlight at this hotel is the drawing
room on the piano nobile. Huge and full of light
and stylishly furnished with impressive beautiful antiques.
Breakfast is served in the elegant dining room overlooking
a pretty canal.
There is one Superior Double room and four Deluxe Double
rooms, all decorated with fine antiques and all with immaculate
white marble bathrooms. In the eaves of the Palazzo nestle
apartments which sleep between two and six people in modern
split-level conversions. These are ideal for those with
children as they have compact kitchens and sitting rooms
and are furnished in an elegant mix of antique and modern
style. There is a porter 24 hours, a welcome food basket
can be provided on request and a laundry service is available
at extra charge.
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