I launched into a journey to Venice for 2 months, embracing each second of luxurious and sweetness this iconic metropolis presents. Amid the Venetian attract, I indulged in a short but beautiful retreat on the Lodge Excelsior Venice Lido Resort. Situated on Lido di Venezia, this eleven-kilometer-long island is a sanctuary of serenity with golden seashores dealing with the Adriatic Sea on one facet and the Venice Lagoon on the opposite. Lido shouldn’t be solely recognized for its beachside appeal but in addition for internet hosting the distinguished Venice Movie Competition every year. This oasis, only a quick boat trip from the chaos of Venice, presents the proper stability between metropolis pleasure and tranquil luxurious.
Arriving at Lodge Excelsior was like stepping onto a film set, and I imply that actually. This resort has a historical past deeply intertwined with the Venice Movie Competition, which began on its very terrace in 1932. Through the years, numerous celebrities have graced this iconic dock, posing for the cameras as they arrived in type. Naturally, I recreated my very own purple carpet second, feeling each bit the movie star.
Getting into this grand resort, which opened in 1908 and designed by Venetian architect Giovanni Sardi, is like strolling right into a masterpiece. It was laborious to imagine that such an impressive construction was in-built simply 17 months. With its Moorish structure, it boasts an aura of timelessness, as if the constructing itself has witnessed centuries of Italian splendor.
I hopped on the resort’s complimentary shuttle boat from St. Mark’s Sq.. The boat is a modern imaginative and prescient, designed within the Fifties and impressed by the basic Riva boats which might be the epitome of Venetian type. The trip takes round 20 to 25 minutes, throughout which I soaked within the breathtaking views of Venice’s waterways. Upon arrival, the sense of exclusivity was instant. For these questioning, solely small private belongings are allowed on the shuttle, so in case you’re lugging round a mountain of bags like I are inclined to, you’ll want to rearrange a water taxi or Vaporetto.
I might see the shuttle boat are available in from my Junior Suite terrace
This Murano is as outdated because the resort itself from 1908.
Each nook of this resort celebrates Venice’s creative historical past. Murano glass lights grasp majestically, illuminating hallways and lounges. These aren’t simply lighting fixtures; they’re items of artwork. I used to be mesmerized by the eye to element, from the ornate decor to the breathtaking craftsmanship. The whole resort seems like a tribute to Venice’s grandeur.
For film buffs, the resort has hosted scenes from The New Pope collection, starring Jude Legislation, filmed proper on the resort’s non-public seaside. Oh, how I wanted for my very own Netflix right here.
Sala Stucchi Ballroom
In the event you’re planning an occasion, the beautiful Sala Stucchi ballroom is a must-see. This ballroom, which featured in As soon as Upon a Time in America, holds an air of old-world appeal that made me really feel like I had stepped again right into a time when glamour was queen.
As soon as Upon A Time In America starring Robert De Niro
Swimming Pool & Seashore
And don’t even get me began on the pool. Elevated for the last word sea view, the pool space is a spot the place consolation meets class. From the poolside lounges, you may gaze out on the Adriatic whereas sipping on one thing cool and bubbly. For these looking for much more luxurious, non-public cabanas will be booked, providing an unique retreat with uninterrupted views of each the ocean and the trendy pool. I couldn’t assist however really feel like royalty each second I spent lounging there, both poolside or within the myriad of outside seating areas.
The non-public seaside itself is a dream, providing white cabanas which might be the epitome of luxurious. Lounging by the ocean in considered one of these cabanas, with the sound of waves and the view of the glowing Adriatic, was pure bliss.
Junior Suite
The junior suites at Lodge Excelsior have a median dimension of 45m2. The suite I stayed at got here with an non-compulsory terrace overlooking the Venetian Lagoon. The size of the Junior Suite each inside and out of doors are scaled like a a lot bigger unit. The breadth of the open, clear areas overlooking the big terrace was very unique. The pure lighting peering into the room was beautiful at sundown.
Contained in the resort, even the loos are a sight to behold. Tiled with historic Italian ceramics, and adorned with Murano glass lights, the toilet felt like an opulent artwork exhibit. Taking within the sea view from the toilet window? Now that’s what I name luxurious! Each component of the toilet design is a nod to Italy’s wealthy heritage of expertise and artistry, making even the only duties really feel indulgent.
Under is one other room to provide you an concept of the continual change of inside design that was shaped from the onset. The resort’s rooms DNA, have by no means been altered or modified. Including one other nostalgic appeal right here at Lodge Excelsior.
The historical past of the Venice Movie Competition is ever-present throughout the partitions of the Excelsior. As I wandered the resort, I couldn’t assist however be captivated by the pictures of legendary movie stars who as soon as stayed right here. An unique exhibition showcases authentic pictures from La Biennale’s archives, including a contact of Hollywood glamour to the expertise. For a second, I might virtually think about brushing shoulders with the likes of Sophia Loren or Robert De Niro.
However don’t let the grandeur idiot you. Regardless of its dimension, the Lodge Excelsior seems like house. The workers is attentive but unobtrusive, guaranteeing that your keep is each luxurious and comfy. They’ve managed to mix the resort’s wealthy historical past with trendy touches, creating an area the place old-world appeal meets modern luxurious.
After days of lounging by the pool, indulging in high-quality Italian meals, and exploring the gorgeous grounds of the resort, I can confidently say that the Lodge Excelsior is a dream. It presents an ideal escape, the place each nook is steeped in luxurious and magnificence. Whether or not you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a glamorous retreat, or a household trip, this resort ticks all of the bins. And don’t overlook—Venice is only a quick boat trip away, providing yet one more world to discover.
Lavatory With A View
The resort’s terrace is a hidden gem, providing unparalleled views of Venice and the Lido seaside. It’s one of many few locations in Venice the place you get such expansive out of doors house. I discovered myself returning to this terrace time and time once more, whether or not to sip on a morning espresso or a night glass of prosecco. Watching the dawn at 5:45 am from this terrace was a romantic expertise I’ll always remember.
Breakfast
Breakfast at Lodge Excelsior was nothing wanting a decadent affair. Recent Italian pastries, seasonal fruits, and, in fact, prosecco—it’s Italy, in any case! My daughter adored the waffles, which had been served with the freshest fruits of the season. For me, it was the Italian desserts paired with an ideal cappuccino, loved whereas gazing out on the sea. The resort’s buffet-style service means that you can choose your meals, and the workers will carry it to your desk. It’s the small touches like these that make staying right here really feel like a really customized expertise.
Conclusion
Lodge Excelsior isn’t just a spot to remain. It’s an expertise, a second in time the place luxurious, historical past, and trendy comforts converge. And for somebody like me, who loves all issues opulent, that is the Venice dream come true.
Robert De Niro, Martin Scorsese and Ray Liotta
Credit: Historic Archive of La Biennale Venice – Giacomelli 1990
Particulars
Room reviewed: Junior Suite with Terrace
Web site: www.hotelexcelsiorvenezia.com
Tackle: Lungomare Guglielmo Marconi, 41, 30126 Lido VE, Italy
Telephone: +39 041 526 0201
