BELMOND CIPRIANI

If Venice is a theatre - the Cipriani is the royal box. It is a resort - a way of life - an island apart with the elegance of a private club and the advantage of being at the heart of the city - but gently removed from its hustle and bustle. Belmond Hotel Cipriani is the perfect base for discerning travelers - preferred by movie stars - heads of state and royalty for over 50 years. The Hotels windows overlook the basin of St. Marks - the Palladian church of San Giorgio and distant islands of the lagoon. Connected by a walkway through the garden - Palazzo Vendramin offers rooms and suites where privacy is complete and the view on historic Venice across the water is unparalleled. The Hotel is only five minutes from St. Marks Square by its complimentary private motor launch operating 24 hours daily. Located at the end of the Giudecca Island - the Hotel is set in beautiful gardens. All famous highlights of Venice are a short boat ride away - as well as the islands of Murano - Torcello and Lido di Venezia. Facilities at the hotel include four restaurants with both indoor and outdoor dining featuring the Michelin-starred Oro restaurant with its Murano glass chandeliers. Additional facilities include the only Olympic-size swimming pool in central Venice - 20000 square meters of private gardens - a clay tennis court - a spa and fitness center - sauna - beauty salon - two meeting rooms - a business center - private boat launch and complimentary 24-hour shuttle boat service to St. Marks Square. Said to be the place where Casanova used to meet his lovers - the hotels gardens are the perfect place for an indulging treatment at the Casanova Wellness Centre. The Smile Club is a seasonal childrens program with a dedicated pool for smaller guests along with plenty of activities. The hotel also features comprehensive concierge services - 24-hour room service and complimentary wireless Internet access. The hotels 45 guestrooms and 51 suites are in three separate but very close buildings - the hotel - Palazzo Vendramin and the Palazzetto. The Palazzo and Palazzetto are a very short walk from the Main Hotel building through a beautifully landscaped courtyard. Palazzo Vendramin is a 15th century building that offers several stunning views across the lagoon to St. Marks Square as well as being appointed with several priceless antiques and works of art. The Palazzetto offers similar views and is equally well-furnished. All accommodations in the Palazzo and Palazzetto come with around the clock private butler service at the push of a button. Amenities include complimentary wireless Internet access - IDD phones - mini-bar - desk - climate control - CD and DVD players - daily newspaper - an LCD HDTV with satellite and free movie channels - complimentary fruit plate - fresh cut flowers and windows that open for fresh air. Published rates include full American buffet breakfast in the hotels restaurant.