"The last word in old-world luxury, this legendary sleepover luxuriates on the tip of Giudecca island with dreamy views of St. Mark’s Square and the southern lagoon. The hotel is set in a vast, verdant garden with an Olympic-sized pool, the largest in Venice. A top-notch spa, several eating options (Michelin-starred Oro and the casual yet glamorous Cips set on the fondamenta) and a plethora of special activities, including plenty for kids, makes it tip-top for anyone who can afford prices as stellar as its service. It’s away from the beating heart of Venice, but a private launch shuttles guests back and forth to St. Mark’s Square. " - Nicky Swallow