The Bauers are a well-known family legacy in provincial Veneto as they invest a lot of effort to preserve Venice’s customs and history. The family started their first hotel in the 18th century and still remain a family-owned business today. All the local Venetians know the Bauer’s hotel collection because they have helped to preserve some of the most unique gardens on Giudecca Island and charming monuments across the area.
The Il Palazzo is located in the sought-after St Mark’s Square with the Basilica, in Venice’s most popular square, this five star property – the Il Palazzo, is a culturally relevant and was a remarkable surprise. It’s atmosphere is elegant, sophisticated and unique. In my opinion, when you stay at the Palazzo you are dropped into a classic Venetian tale.
The details matter, after I checked in, the staff consistently greeted me by name. To be honest, I didn’t have time to research a lot about the hotel before I arrived. But, I must confess I was quite intrigued by the history and story of the Bauer family. I also thought that the information provided by the staff was very thorough and, most importantly, very well curated.
Beautiful interiors at the hotel and I said a little ‘wow’ while walking through the open spaces with all the marble floors and Burano glass. One simply admires the classic Venetian light fixtures, fashion and tapestries presented throughout the hotel. Dozens of luxurious lighting fixtures illuminate the lobby and hallways. You feel so much space in front of you.
Dreamy Rooms with views on the Canal
The Palazzo is a large hotel for Venetian standards and has a total of 38 spacious guest rooms and 34 suites. The hallways are big and bright and dreamy to stroll through. The Deluxe Rooms have a beautiful view on rio de S. Moisè, a charming canal, some offer panoramic views and private balconies.
I did spend a considerable amount of time at the hotel and noted that all the staff were extremely welcoming. The Wifi worked well throughout the hotel and in the rooms. I especially loved the silk fabrics by Rubelli and Bevilacqua that were present in the room, the large walk-in closet and the bathroom facilities. There were no coffee/tea making facilities in the room but a simple request from the hotel reception will have you a fresh pot within 15 minutes.
As you can see in the photo, the bathrooms are in Italian marble with toiletries by Santa Maria degli Angeli. You will have about 30 sqm / 323 square feet of Venetian style and comfort at your fingertips. The rooms have this particular romance that gives you a noble Venetian experience.
I was surprised by a very decent selection of information booklets and some macarons and sweets. The free water, my welcome amenity and room scent. And the bed at the Il Palazzo was possibly one of the best beds I have had the pleasure of sleeping in. I loved it. There were no technological gadgets in the room such as iPhone docks and just a simple TV was present. So be prepared to go out to find entertainment or take a pleasing bubble bath in the marble bathroom!
Jazz Night at the Bauers
On Friday nights there is an aperitif concert (7pm – 8pm) and an after dinner concert from (10pm to 12am) called “Jazz at the Bauers“. We particularly enjoyed the live Jazz in the beautifully designed function room.
Another highlight of this hotel is the that it serves some of the finest cuisine in Venice. Every day is a new surprise, especially in the Spring and Summer as you can dine on the outdoor terrace set against the spectacular backdrop of Venice’s Grand Canal.
A Street of Luxury Shopping
One of the highlights of Italy is that you have access to all the fashion you could wish for. Literally, the entire island of Venice is a shopping experience. From quirky restaurants to the luxury stores. At stones throw from Il Bauer Palazzo you will find the all the World’s iconic fashion brands (Prada, Miu Miu, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Dior and many more). There is really no better way to spend your day.
One of the biggest benefits of staying at the Palazzo is that you get access to a private boat Taxi to Murano. You are welcome to visit the Massimilliano Schiavon Murano Glass Gallery which is only available to a limited number of people.
Private Murano Glass Workshop and Gallery
The creations of artist Massimilliano Schiavon is unlike you have seen before. It starts with a tour in the workshop and an explanation on how Murano glass is made while you enjoy Italian coffee or any other Italian drink you desire.
After the short introduction and relaxation you are invited into the Art Gallery in which you will find a number of highly decorative and artistic creations that will make your jaw drop.
Walking around Murano
After the interesting experience in the Glass Workshop I took a walk around Murano and enjoyed the weather. It was warm enough to sit outside in the sun in early December.
Murano is a little bit different from the main island of Venice. It is more laidback and less crowded than San Marco. You can take a peaceful walk across the island and after you are finished the private taxi will be available to return you to the Il Palazzo hotel.
If it is not a Friday night then a perfect closure to the evening is the BBar inside the Il Palazzo Bauer or one of the many Osterias where you can enjoy fresh daily made Venetian Cicchetti Tapas with an Italian wine or Spritz.
You will find culture intertwined in this hotel property. From your arrival to your departure in Venice it will be a ride to remember.
