Looking to indulge in a chic Venetian holiday but needing respite from the hordes of tourists that flock to the City of Canals each year? Essteele profiles three island getaways just minutes away from the madding crowds. Each guarantees an oasis of calm from which to explore Italy's most spectacular city.
JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa
A glorious boat ride via complimentary water taxi from St Mark’s Square takes you to the island of Isola delle Rose, and one of Venice's newest high-end escapes owned by luxury resort group JW Marriot. The 16-acre property includes a rooftop pool and bars with vistas across to the Venetian skyline, multiple restaurants, landscaped gardens, and a host of activities to choose from including yoga, meditation, cooking and water sports. Whilst preserving the historic value and 'patina' of the ancient island, the accommodation also offers plenty of contemporary touches including private plunge pools, the winning combination saw it awarded the prestigious European Hotel Design Award of the Year in 2016.
Isola delle Rose, Laguna di San Marco,
Ph:0039 041 296 8111;
San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice
Just 10 minutes away from the madness of Venice, rests the private island of San Clemente, home to one of Italy's most luxurious resorts. The historic surroundings of the hotel's courtyards and grounds date back to the second part of the 17th century when it operated as the Camaldolesi Monastery. Now operating as upmarket accommodation, the former monastery has been meticulously restored with period details that honour its historic past. For a truly memorable experience, guests can choose to stay in the 'San Clemente' suit offering four rooms, a private pier and a hefty price tag of $14,000 per night.
San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice
Isola di san Clemente 1, 30124 Venice
Ph: +39 041 457 0111
Venissa Mazzorbo
On the tiny lagoon island of Mazzorbo, esteemed winemaker Gianluca Bisol (whose family are renowned for producing some of Italy's most famous prosecco) has transformed the farm buildings and fishing houses into a multi-award winning restaurant complete with contemporary guest accommodation. Guests can choose between six suites with vistas across the lagoon or the distinctive Venetian-walled vineyard, one of the last examples of its kind. Be sure to make a reservation as the Michelin-star restaurant run by famed chef Francesco Brutto books out months in advance.
Fondamenta di Santa Caterina
30170 Mazzorbo, Venezia
+39 041 5272281