We bid farewell to the Dolomites for a two-hour journey that transports us to another world: Venice, the floating city and entrepôt republic that dominated the trade routes between Europe and the exotic East for much of the mediaeval period. If you haven’t been before, the first sight of tawny Venetian roofs and pastel walls rising from their shimmering reflections in the Lagoon is unforgettable. If you are an old friend, its echoing canals and twisting alleys will delight anew – there is always something to see that you have never seen before.

More good news, on route we encounter the Prosecco Hills, designated UNESCO World Heritage site for its “mosaic-like” agricultural landscape made up of little vineyards with woods and meadows between them.  It wouldn’t be a Soirée if we didn’t pop in to taste and learn about the local sauce!

Once at the coast, we take by far the most elegant method of transport across the sea, using private water taxis to skirt Venice itself on our way to our own haven of San Clemente, a private island within minutes by boat of both Venice and the Lido. Once checked in, it’s time to spend a peaceful afternoon exploring our new domain, which includes expansive gardens, an outdoor pool and sunbeds, tennis courts, pitch-and-putt and a spa. In the evening, the mood here is relaxed but elegant. 

Consider staying on our island for a light dinner composed of aperitifs and cicchetti – Venetian nibbles – on the terrace of Al Bacaro, overlooking the city of Venice.
Al Barcaro hosts a jazz band on Friday nights—perfetto! Or you might take the hotel’s complimentary water shuttle over to Venice (a fun 15-minute ride) to get lost in the romantic streets, slide gently through the canals by gondola, or dine at a favorite haunt.

San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice (B, L)