Hotel Metropole, Venice

Location

The lagoon-facing Riva degli Schiavoni promenade is popular, but this is easily forgotten once you step off the Riva and into the Metropole's deliciously dark and decadent interior. St Mark’s square is a short stroll away. There’s a private water entrance if you’re arriving by taxi.

Wonderfully decadent and very quirky. The Metropole has been in the Beggiato family for generations, and the museum-standard family curiosity collections — of antique corkscrews, fans and nutcrackers among other items — are displayed in halls and corridors. Décor harks back to Venice’s historic trading relations with the east, especially in the tenebrous ground-floor lounge with its comfortable corners and smoky mirrored ceiling. Out back, there's a delightful garden with citrus trees.

Accommodation

Many of the 67 rooms and suites have been revamped over the past few years, introducing still more beautiful brocade soft furnishings and wonderful antiques — from 18th century pieces to Art Deco and items from Asia. Each has its own very particular look and feel. The exotic Suite Damasco has a mosaic-clad fountain in the room and a Turkish bath; one glorious rooftop suite has its own private 'altana' roof terrace. Several rooms enjoy marvellous views over the lagoon. Gorgeous bathrooms are decorated in marble or glittering mosaics. 

Dining

A good buffet breakfast is served in the leafy Citrus garden courtyard when the weather permits. The Oriental bar is open throughout the day, serving light meals and snacks dreamed up in the kitchens of the Metropole’s Michelin-starred MET restaurant, as well as some truly excellent cocktails. MET itself has undergone a complete redesign, by fashion house Raptus&Rose. In the rose-themed space, chef Luca Veritti explores innovative possibilities offered by the freshest of classic Italian ingredients.