While reports are rife that Clooney and human rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin’s “I do” that was heard by a select few in a private ceremony at a seven-star hotel in Venice, is fictitious and that the real ceremony was slated for Monday, the said venue, Aman Canal Grande, can be billed as nothing less than perfect.
The spanking property overlooks the Grand Canal in San Polo, which is what gives it that name. It is in one of the oldest parts of the city, known for its beautiful palaces, churches and market. Arriving at Aman Canal Grande Venice by boat is the obvious choice for discerning guests.
The landing then leads directly into the palazzo’s Reception Hall, an abode of antique lanterns, soaring ceilings and checkered flooring that welcomes with a sense of bygone luxury, as well as offers direct access to a small boutique and the hotel’s private gardens.
A Grand stairway runs through two levels, connecting the Reception Hall, to the piano nobile, traditionally the grandest floor of a palazzo. At the top of this truly enchanting staircase, one will find the Vestibule, which will further lead to an elegant lounging area in the Ballroom.
Meanwhile, the palazzo’s main living area or piano nobile, elegant as it is, is an amalgamation of contemporary furniture and extravagant surroundings. Such stark contrasts stems from progressiveness combined with the fact that in 1865, Michelangelo Guggenheim himself was entrusted its decoration.
From the Ballroom, the Bar and dining rooms on the piano nobile are accessed. The Bar, in muted earthy shades and with stone statuettes, reflects the same modern yet timeless sensibilities as the rest of the space and provides a cozy setting with canal views, as well as an extraordinary fireplace.
The dining area on the other hand is divided in two- the Yellow Dining Room and the Red Dining Room. While the former features a magnificent fireplace and a ceiling painted by renowned 19th-century artist, the latter looks out over the hotel’s lush Canal Garden. Both serve the same cuisines, Italian and Asian.
Further up, on the fourth level, is The Salon, a relaxed yet equally regal area that also features a grand piano. Here, one can find lofty ceilings and expansive windows providing imposing views of the Grand Canal. And the need to lounge for hours!
Also commanding an impressive spot on the fourth level is the Library. Situated adjacent to the Salon, not only does it enjoy similar views, it even boasts walls lined with ‘Cuir de Cordoue’, embossed gold leather from the 16th century. Besides the palazzo’s original walnut bookcases!
Stanza del Tiepolo or the hotel’s games room offers elegant chess and backgammon boards, as well as card and jigsaw tables. Decorated, in equal parts with murals and views of the Grand Canal, this fourth level space, like the other two – Salon and Library – is only accessible to guests of the hotel.
And speaking of, there’s no better place for a distinguished guest than one of its five signature accommodations. While Aman offers a total of 24 accommodations, these five, all with unique architectural features, are the crème-de-la-crème of hotel suites.
Aman Canal Grande Venice also has a spa, a roof terrace, known as the ‘Altana’ and a meeting room, called Stanza del Guarana. It even has a small gym on the fourth level of the palazzo. Supported by rich history, and modern amenities, today it is owned by Count Giberto Arrivabene Valenti Gonzaga.
A one-night stay, in Aman Canal Grande Venice at the Canal Grande Suite (pictured) can cost €4,000 ($5,000). Rates vary depending on season.
