Nestled on the picturesque Venice Lido, the Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort stands as a beacon of luxury, history, and elegance. This iconic hotel, with its unique blend of Moorish architecture and modern comforts, offers a serene retreat away from the bustling heart of Venice while still being in close proximity to the city's cultural treasures. From its inception in the early 20th century, the Excelsior has been a favorite among royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers, earning its place as a symbol of Venetian grandeur.
A Glorious History
The story of the Hotel Excelsior began in 1908, during a period when Venice was experiencing a cultural renaissance. Designed by renowned architect Giovanni Sardi, the hotel was conceived as a luxurious sanctuary for the elite. Its grand opening was a lavish affair, attended by nobility, politicians, and luminaries from around the world. The hotel's architecture, inspired by Venetian and Moorish styles, featured opulent interiors, soaring arches, and intricate mosaics, creating a majestic ambiance that still captivates guests today.
Architectural Splendor
The architectural splendor of the Hotel Excelsior is immediately apparent as one approaches the property. The grand façade, with its distinct Moorish influences, is adorned with elegant arches, balconies, and intricate detailing that harken back to Venice's rich history of cross-cultural exchanges. Inside, the hotel boasts high ceilings, expansive windows, and a harmonious blend of antique furnishings and modern amenities.
The hotel's central atrium is a masterpiece of design, featuring a stunning glass ceiling that bathes the space in natural light. Ornate chandeliers, plush carpets, and luxurious furnishings create an atmosphere of refined elegance. Each of the hotel's 196 rooms and suites is uniquely decorated, offering a mix of classic Venetian charm and contemporary comfort. Many rooms provide breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea or the serene Venetian Lagoon, ensuring a memorable stay for every guest.
Luxurious Accommodations
The accommodations at the Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort are designed to provide the utmost comfort and luxury. The rooms and suites are spacious and elegantly appointed, featuring rich fabrics, fine linens, and bespoke furniture. Modern amenities such as flat-screen televisions, high-speed internet, and luxurious bathrooms with marble fixtures ensure that guests enjoy the highest level of comfort.
For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, the hotel's suites offer additional space and exclusive features. The Excelsior Suite, for instance, provides a separate living area, a private terrace with stunning views, and personalized services to cater to the most discerning guests. The Presidential Suite, a true epitome of opulence, boasts expansive living quarters, a private dining room, and a large terrace overlooking the lagoon, making it the perfect choice for VIPs and special occasions.
Dining Experiences
Culinary excellence is a hallmark of the Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort. The hotel's dining venues offer a diverse array of gastronomic delights, each curated to provide a unique and memorable experience.
Ristorante Tropicana: The hotel's signature restaurant, Ristorante Tropicana, is a culinary gem. Located on the beach, it offers a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Venetian cuisine, using the freshest local ingredients. Guests can enjoy their meals while taking in panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea, creating a dining experience that is both exquisite and unforgettable.
La Taverna: For a more casual yet equally delightful dining experience, La Taverna serves traditional Italian dishes in a relaxed, inviting setting. The menu features a range of pasta, seafood, and meat dishes, all prepared with authentic flavors and a modern twist. The restaurant's outdoor terrace is perfect for al fresco dining, allowing guests to savor their meals amidst the beautiful surroundings.
Elimar Beach Bar and Restaurant: Situated on the hotel's private beach, Elimar offers a laid-back atmosphere where guests can enjoy light snacks, refreshing cocktails, and stunning sea views. It’s the ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or a sunset aperitif, with the gentle sounds of the waves providing a soothing backdrop.
Leisure and Wellness
The Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort is not just a place to stay but a destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. The hotel's extensive leisure facilities are designed to cater to every guest's needs.
Private Beach: One of the standout features of the Hotel Excelsior is its pristine private beach. Guests can bask in the sun on comfortable loungers, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or enjoy a variety of water sports. The beach club provides attentive service, ensuring that guests have everything they need for a perfect day by the sea.
Swimming Pool: The hotel’s outdoor swimming pool, set amidst lush gardens, offers a serene oasis for guests to unwind. With its elegant design and ample space, the pool area is perfect for a refreshing swim or a relaxing afternoon with a good book.
Fitness Center and Spa: For those looking to maintain their fitness routine, the hotel’s state-of-the-art fitness center is equipped with the latest exercise machines and free weights. The on-site spa, meanwhile, offers a range of treatments and therapies designed to relax and rejuvenate the body and mind. From massages to facials, the skilled therapists provide personalized services to ensure a truly indulgent experience.
Events and Weddings
The Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort is a sought-after venue for events, conferences, and weddings. Its elegant event spaces, coupled with its stunning location and impeccable service, make it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Conference and Meeting Facilities: The hotel offers a range of flexible meeting rooms and conference spaces, equipped with the latest audiovisual technology. Whether it’s a corporate seminar, a product launch, or a private meeting, the hotel’s dedicated events team ensures that every detail is meticulously planned and executed.
Weddings: For couples seeking a romantic and unforgettable wedding venue, the Hotel Excelsior provides an idyllic setting. From intimate ceremonies on the beach to grand receptions in the elegant ballroom, the hotel’s wedding planners work closely with couples to create a bespoke celebration that reflects their unique vision. The stunning backdrop of the Venetian Lagoon and the hotel’s luxurious amenities ensure a wedding day that is truly magical.
Exploring the Surroundings
While the Hotel Excelsior offers a wealth of amenities and activities within its grounds, its location on the Venice Lido provides easy access to some of Venice’s most famous attractions.
Venice Film Festival: The hotel is just a short distance from the Palazzo del Cinema, the main venue for the Venice Film Festival. Each year, the festival attracts filmmakers, celebrities, and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, and the Hotel Excelsior becomes a hub of activity and glamour.
Historic Venice: A quick boat ride takes guests to the heart of Venice, where they can explore iconic landmarks such as St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge. Strolling through the narrow streets and canals, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of this enchanting city.
Island Excursions: The Venice Lido is also a gateway to other fascinating islands in the Venetian Lagoon. Murano, famous for its glassmaking, Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace, and Torcello, with its ancient basilica, are all easily accessible and offer unique experiences for travelers.
