Hotel Cipriani

At the far point of the island of Giudecca is the site of one of the most luxurious of all Venice's hotels. It is the only one that can offer its guests a swimming pool (Olympic standard) and there are also tennis courts and fitness facilities for the many Americans who seem to come by. A real peace haven far away from the crowds, set amid gardens and with a traditional Venetian colour scheme in the rooms (salmon pink, beige and ochre) that will remind you that the hustle and bustle of Venice is not so far away after all. The hotel's very own boat service departs from Saint Mark's square.