Baglioni Hotel Luna ★★★★★

My wonderful husband seemed to have disappeared under a mountain of work for weeks, and he was starting to feel tired and a little worn down. He needed a break, and I wanted to treat him to the perfect romantic surprise. Venice, with its gorgeous architecture, rich cultural heritage and reputation for romance seemed like the ideal destination, and my brother-in-law suggested the perfect hotel.

Very well situated in the heart of Venice, the Luna Baglioni is just a stone’s throw from the most famous artistic and historical sights of the city. Like all the grand residences that line the canals, the hotel has a private pontoon, and we treated ourselves to a water taxi from the airport to arrive in style. The residence has been here for more than five centuries, and those in the know say that Casanova concealed some of his loveliest secrets in these very walls. On seeing the pretty façade for the first time, I could see my husband relax and forget about the stresses of work in just a few moments. 

Inside, the Luna Baglioni is a glorious ode to the elegant and rich history of the city. Sumptuous textiles, ornate antique furniture and fascinating objects fill the historical rooms to create an authentic and delightful Baroque style. We were guided to our Superior Room, and I have to say that the only thing possibly more beautiful than this space was my husband’s smile on seeing it. A chandelier straight from Murano, huge antique mirrors, heavy silk covering the walls, and shimmering gold details displaying Venice’s taste for luxury plunged us back in time. The luxurious four-poster bed, glorious marble bathroom and modern amenities make for a perfectly comfortable, indulgent environment. 

Keen to explore the city but in no rush to leave the splendour of our hotel right away, we began the afternoon in the Marco Polo lounge, whose 17th-century frescoes rival those to be seen in the Doge’s Palace. We then headed out, wandering along the canals and over the bridges, enjoying the sights and deciding to leave the museums and galleries for the following days. In Venice, just walking down the street is as fascinating and enriching as a trip to the world’s top museums. Later on, after a drink on a terrace in Saint Mark’s Square, we had supper at the hotel restaurant, the Canova. It is one of the best restaurants in Venice, with a superb Italian menu in a glorious setting, and the best wine list I’ve ever seen.

A few wonderful days later, we left Venice with contented smiles, feeling truly spoilt. The Luna Hotel Baglioni is the most generous of hosts. Here, you feel like a special sort of modern aristocrat, with the greatest luxury of them all available to you: endless time to enjoy the many splendours that surround you.