Hotel Review: Hotel Cipriani, Venice

Situated on the eastern end of Giudecca island, this really is the best of both worlds: St Mark's Square with the cathedral and the Doge's palace is just a five-minute boat shuttle away, and yet you are quite removed from the hubbub of the main tourist hotspot, with lush gardens to roam in and lagoon-side restaurants to dine in.

By plane: flights from London to Venice take 2 hours. Take an airport boat (over 1 hour) to reach the hotel, or a water taxi. Book flights to Venice.

From the moment you step off the boat you don't doubt you are somewhere grand - from the liveried doormen in their tail coats to the chequerboard-tiled reception with its Murano glass chandelier and walled wooden key holder. This is about old-fashioned glamour rather than cutting-edge style.

It feels like the staff know the name of every guest and preempt their every need. Facilities are wide ranging and include tennis courts, sauna and steam room, gym, small spa and plenty of retail outlets, including the only Pucci store in Venice. Full pool service operates in daylight hours.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Terrace
• Garden
• Swimming pool
• Fitness centre
• Spa
• Tennis court
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms and suites are different in shape and size but all feature classical furnishings with ornate gilt-framed mirrors, damask headboards and marble bathrooms. Most have lagoon or garden views; some look over the Grand Canal. Opt for one with a terrace or patio.

Room types: Superior, Premium Rooms; Junior, Suite, Dogaressa, Palladio, Serenissima, San Giorgio Suites

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, hairdryer, TV, free Wi-Fi

Foodies will be in heaven here. Choose from Michelin-starred dining in Oro, which has just 20 covers, to the lively Venetian-style brasserie Cip's Club. At Il Porticciolo you can sample lagoon-caught fish and oysters.

Il Portiocciolo: oyster bar and seafood restaurant, lagoon views. Open daily for lunch.

Oro: fine dining, Venetian cuisine. Open Tue-Sat for dinner. Eight-course taster menu from €250.

Cip's Club: elegant restaurant, open for lunch and dinner.