Londra Palace Hotel

History

In the year 1860, there was great excitement in Venice for the opening of a new hotel on Riva degli Schiavoni, just a few steps from Piazza San Marco: the grand five star Beau Rivage. It had been designed by Fuin, a famous Venetian engineer of the period, in neo-lombard style with white marble from Istria. It was built next to Hotel d'Angleterre et Pension, which had been built seven years before by an architect named Rossini.One next to the other, the two Hotels were predestined to become one in the year 1900 with a new name: Hotel Londres et Beau Rivage, the two Hotels were latter connected by a central part that brought the number of the windows on the Lagoon to one hundred.During the years of fascism the name became Albergo Bella Riva due to the dislike for foreign names. At the end of those years renamed again as Hotel Londres & Beau Rivage until 1973, when eventually became the actual Hotel Londra Palace. A journal of the period wrote that Gabriele D'Annunzio, in times of dire straits, instead of going to a near Hotel, used to be profoundly satisfied to go to the elegant Beau Rivage; and this is what he did in the autumn of 1894 for the inauguration of a monument dedicated to Vittorio Emanuele II. The same familiarity and elegance, without forgetting the evocative view on the Lagoon and on the island of San Giorgio, accompanied by the typical Venetian spleen, inspired the Russian composer Ciajkovskij the first three movements of his Fourth Symphony, which he first called "Do Leoni", in honour of the lion of San Marco and of the English rampart one. This was a masterpiece, which he composed in Room 106, as the pictures and souvenirs left to the Hotel by the Russian government witness. It is a room full of history and emotions emotions bringing some of our guests state that they were waken up in the middle of the night, by a weak light and a barely noticeable music. Could this be true or is it fantasy?

The Hotel Londra Palace is just a few steps from Piazza San Marco, along the Riva degli Schiavoni walk: right in the heart of the city, with its Luxury Shops, Museums, Churches, Palaces and all the minor Venice; in front of the public vaporetto stop at San Zaccaria. May be easily reached from Marco Polo Airport, the Train Station of Santa Lucia, and Tronchetto or Piazzale Roma for those who arrive by car.

The Hotel Londra Palace has a characteristic trait. Each of its 53 rooms is different from the others. All offer hospitality combining the charm of a historic Hotel, thanks to the style of the Biedermeier furnishings and the fabric-covered walls, with the comfort and technology of modern life, including:

• satellite TV
• wireless Internet connection
• mini bar

Rooms are divided into three categories according to their size and view, overlooking the city or the Lagoon.

Classic Room

The Classic rooms offer between 18 and 22 square metres of space and overlook the city of Venice. The view lends a relaxing atmosphere to these rooms, a trait that is especially appreciated by those who love elegant intimacy.

Deluxe Room

The Deluxe Rooms offer between 18 and 22 square metres of space and overlook St. Mark’s Basin. Admiring the view of the Lagoon is like looking at a living painting, making a stay in these rooms a unique experience.

Junior Suite

The Junior Suites offer between 28 and 32 square metres of space and overlook St. Mark’s Basin. One of these suites has a balcony, another has a terrace, yet another has a hideaway whirlpool bathtub.

“Do Leoni” Restaurant

The ‘Do Leoni’, which renders homage to the symbols of England and Venice, is the pride of the Londra Palace, and outside guests are also welcome. It cuisine and atmosphere make the restaurant a reference point for gourmets from all over the world. The Chef, Loris Indri, combines the traditions of classic Venetian fare with more elaborate dishes that delight even the most refined palates. The wine and champagne list also offers a rich selection of prestigious labels.

Bar

Cocktail time is an authentic Venetian rite. It is performed by the hotel’s Barmen in relaxing surroundings, mixing local tradition with an international spirit. The splendid veranda facing Riva degli Schiavone is the ‘secret’ ingredient that turns even a casual break into a special experience.