Ca'Sagredo is a classical 17th century blushed-pink Venetian palace on the Grand Canal across the way from the Rialto Market, a short stroll from the Rialto Bridge and a few steps from Ca'd'Oro, or 'House of Gold', one of the finest examples of the imaginative Gothic style.

That, in itself, is priceless. It is, unquestionably, a jewel within Venice's historical crown glowing with ageless allure. This, in part, is due to its extraordinary cultural heritage from the 17th and 18th Century with great works of art from Giambattista Tiepolo, Sebastiano Ricci, Pietro Longhi, and others, lavishly displayed on walls and ceilings in grand communal spaces and in certain suites and rooms.

Moreover, Venice 'as you want it', is constantly admired from the statuesque windows, of the Grand Canal; the scenic 'highway' that snakes its way through the city and the only one in the world that you would wish to face.

The palace's interior structures have been restored with breathtaking authenticity: sweeping staircases, fireplaces, windows, marble floors along with many pieces of wonderful furnishings from those decorative centuries. This was once a home, belonging to the aesthetical family Sagredo, and the way in which it has passed from family home to 'our' good fortune feels remarkably seamless.

Ca'Sagredo can tick the boxes of Venetian prerequisites for those wishing to enjoy a stay that involves a true connection with the 'spirit' of Venice as well as natural charm, appropriate style and genuine beauty; ingredients that one would imagine to emanate from Italy's - 'La Serenissima' - 'the most serene'.

Some of our most special moments were dining on the terrace of the Restaurant L'Alcove. Nothing is too much for the staff here; the chef is refreshingly adventurous with flavour and always willing to accommodate the eclectic nuances of the younger generation. For many, Venice is about the water, especially this bustling aorta, which never ceases to entertain and amuse its onlookers. The hotel enjoys the boisterous jollies from the gondola park that sits outside, as well as the enormous convenience of one of the few 'almost' free gondola taxis that ferry the punters back and forth to the Rialto Market. The light in Venice is quite incandescent and the reflected light by day and night is truly magical from here. During one lunch, on the terrace at Ca'Sagredo, the sky went from mid-day-azure to cotton wool to angry slate and back to azure and with each light change, the setting took on an hypnotic glow. It is blissfully transporting.

Ca'Sagredo welcomes families and even though it could classify itself more as a museum for cultural couples, it embraces both; it was a home after all.

Find out more and book direct with the hotel at www.luxuryexplorer.com