Nestled right on the watery thoroughfare with the Rialto Bridge mere footsteps away, this little horological gem offers a delightfully quirky take on Venetian hospitality. While most places in this ancient city lean heavily on baroque splendour and gothic grandeur, this boutique bolthole has dared to be different, with a contemporary approach inspired by the fascinating world of collectable watches. Red leather sofas lounge beneath wooden-beamed ceilings, modern artwork adorns the walls, and custom-made furnishings speak to the designer's meticulous eye.
The spacious ground floor houses a reception, bar and lounge area that flows together in a sea of rich crimson. Here, vintage leather sofas invite leisurely lounging, while a statement fireplace adds warmth on cooler evenings. The fourth-floor terrace is an absolute treat, offering mesmerising views of the Grand Canal – the perfect spot for sipping a Spritz as the sun sets over the terracotta rooftops. The elegant breakfast room serves up morning treats to fuel your day of exploration, while the L'O bar provides light bites and tempting local tipples. Come summer, seating spills out along the canal, offering front-row seats to the aquatic theatre that is Venetian daily life.
The 43 rooms carry through the hotel's watchmaking theme with surprising delicacy. Each features a luminous painting made with real clock mechanisms – a subtle nod to the horological inspiration without veering into gimmicky territory. The minimalist style is elevated by custom-made design elements, from unique seating to statement lighting fixtures that cast intriguing shadows. Many rooms overlook the Grand Canal directly, offering priceless views of this famous waterway. Fine marble bathrooms feature contrasting coloured sanitary ware and bespoke accessories, while the bedrooms themselves showcase unusual combinations of quality materials – think wood, leather and marble playing off each other in unexpected ways. Technological comforts abound, with cutting-edge lighting systems and soundproofing that ensures the bustle of the city stays firmly outside.
The oh-so-central location combined with those stunning Grand Canal views – sink into the terrace sofa with an aperitivo and watch the gondolas glide by.
Book a cocktail at the Santa Cocktail Club where the mixologists create concoctions worthy of a Michelin-starred restaurant. Their Venetian-inspired drinks are utterly divine.
The minimalist style might not appeal to those seeking traditional Venetian opulence – this is definitely one for modern design lovers.
A slowly sinking city where gondolas glide along a labyrinth of enchanting canals.
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