Baglioni Hotel Luna: Timeless Splendor at the Oldest Hotel in Venice

Mon, 02/06/2023 - 06:54

Exterior of the Baglioni Hotel Luna

Ed.: The Inspired Stays series highlights hotels we love around Italy. Each property is independently reviewed by an Italy Magazine writer, who is generally hosted on a complimentary basis. Our contributors do not accept compensation or gifts in exchange for specific types of coverage. We only showcase properties we would genuinely recommend overall.

Why we love it

Baglioni Hotel Luna might date back nearly a millennium, but the elegant open kitchen, East-meets-West spa and inimitable Venetian interiors feel as luxurious as ever. With its own private jetty, the Baglioni Hotel Luna is VIP Venice at its best.

What to expect

La Serenissima can often be a little less than serene, especially in and around Piazza San Marco. Not so at Baglioni Hotel Luna, where the chaos and crowds are forgotten as soon as you step through the heavy brass doors. It’s old-world luxury, with velvet carpets and gilded mirrors, and an atmosphere which would appeal as much to 19th century Grand Tour-ing flâneur types as to modern honeymooners or families in search of something truly Venetian.

Background

Classic suite at the Baglioni Hotel Luna — *A Classic Suite at the Baglioni Hotel Luna / Photo: Diego DePol*

Baglioni Hotel Luna allegedly dates back to the Knights Templar in 1118. By 1574, it had become known as the Locanda della Luna — locanda means “inn” or “lodging” — inspiring its current-day name. It’s part of the luxury, Italian-run Baglioni hotel group, which has put its stamp on the new spa and restaurant.

Location, location, location

If someone claimed the phrase “location, location, location” was invented because of this hotel, there’d really be no way to contest the evidence. Hotel Luna’s location — in an elegant palazzo pincered between St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace on one side, and its own private jetty on the Grand Canal on the other side — couldn’t be better. Arrive by gondola to a warm welcome from the portieri.

Where you'll sleep

*View from the San Giorgio terrace by night / Photo: Diego DePol*

The 91 rooms and suites are a maximalist dream, with opulent wallpapers, Murano chandeliers and marble bathrooms. Paired with all the historic grandeur, though, are new-millennium perks like Apple TV. Some of the rooms overlook the streets and canals, while others have views onto the Venetian lagoon and the islands. For a real splurge, the over-the-top San Giorgio Family Terrace Suite has panoramic views over the eponymous island — from its 100sqm terrace, no less.

Dining and drinks

The gilded Canova Bar at the Hotel Baglioni Luna — *The gilded Canova Bar*

Michelin-starred chef Claudio Sadler has made his mark on the refined new menu in Canova restaurant, which serves Venetian classics like Sarde in Saor, but with a fine dining twist. At lunch, a bistro menu serves more casual Italian classics, while the adjacent Canova Bar stirs up cocktails and dishes out snacks until midnight. Breakfast is a classic hot and cold buffet, served in the Marco Polo Ballroom. Be sure to check out the original 18th-century frescoes while you’re tucking into your omelette.

Service notes

Baglioni Hotel Luna reception desk — *Reception at the Baglioni Hotel Luna*

The service is what you’d expect from any 5-star Italian Grand Dame hotel – discreet, charming and endlessly accommodating. Forgotten your toothpaste? No worries, the team will bring one up to your room on a silver platter. Need a gondola to your dinner reservation? Just say the word!

Spa time

Inspired by Venice’s long history of trade with Istanbul and the Byzantine world, the brand-new Baglioni spa has a Turkish Bath, as well as massage and relaxation rooms. A variety of treatments including massages, facials and “Venetian Rituals” can be booked in advance.

Family perks

Keeping kids and parents happy is a big part of the Baglioni business; they offer a complimentary extra bed per room for children. Staff can also arrange a baby kit in your room, and provide welcome presents, surprises and games for little ones.

You should know

Well-dressed bartender pouring Campari into a glass — *Expect the festivities to kick up a notch at certain times of year*

During big-ticket showcases and celebrations like the Biennale and Carnevale, the hotel comes to life with related events and experiences. For the rest of the year, take part in private workshops in a Murano glass workshop, vintage boat tours on the Venice Lagoon, and family-friendly Codega tours of the city after dark.