My undying love for crumbling old buildings and vintage architecture coupled with a yearning for the rustic appeal, these were the main few reasons why I picked Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo for our three-night stay in Venice.
This gorgeous 18th-century Venetian palace oozes charm from every brick and tassel of the glorious gold damask curtains.
Our room overlooked a quiet canal, a great view to wake up to, only made better by the occasional gondola gently flapping through the calm waters.
The plush interiors are a conscious effort to recreate the fashionable opulence of 18th-century Venice. Yet, you will not be kept wanting of any modern day comfort that you could possibly think of! Most of these comforts have now become a basic need and come to think of it we can’t seem to make do without them.
Think wifi, satellite T.V, electric heating, a posh stocked mini-bar, bathrooms kitted out with modern day accessories, electric heating and of course the adjustable electric lights that add just the right touch of splendour to the massive decorative Murano glass chandeliers.
Our room had a little alcove, conveniently hidden away from sight, perfect soft for storing away luggage and other unsightly objects that might take anything away from this near – perfect room. The large bed had two velvet upholstered armchairs at the foot of the bed and a delicate pistachio coloured writing desk and chair. Heart shaped chocolates wrapped in bright red and gold paper, placed on the elegant desk seemed to match not just the red velvet chairs but also the gold damask curtains, gold bordered mirrors and picture frames and even the regal looking gold-embroidered top sheet for the bed.
The bath was spacious and had the unmissable separate bidet (although personally I quite prefer a combined bidet toilet seat equipped with a seat warmer – ah! But more on that later – I guess!)
We visited in Feb or else would have loved to sip our morning coffee in the beautiful courtyard. Imagine having breakfast with ancient columns and statues of angles peering down, watching over this 17th-century building…
When you peek through the beautifully crafted wrought iron gates, you will catch a glimpse of the private bridge made out of marble, leading into a private courtyard. This bridge which lends its name to the Hotel.
Located right behind the hotel is a grand 17th-century church called San Stae and few meters away is the vaporetta stop or public water bus. Rialto market is a short walk from the hotel and St. Mark’s Square is a not too far either. In fact, when we got to Venice from the airport bus, we walked to Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo and by morning the next day we were walking to Rialto market from the hotel, navigating narrow bylanes and hopping across brides like seasoned locals!
I wouldn’t think twice before booking this 2-star hotel if I went back to Venice. They offer fabulous rates especially when booked directly via their site, the rooms are luxurious, the staff polite and very friendly and the breakfast is hearty.
* I planned this entire trip on my own and have paid in full everywhere I have stayed at and eaten at. As always all opinions expressed are as always my own.
