As private entrances go, the dainty marble bridge that leads to the entrance of Al Ponte Mocenigo is of the grand variety. Steps lead down to a small courtyard and an old edifice as beautiful and typically-Venetian as they come. A short meander from the Rialto Bridge and just behind the remarkable church San Stae, the location is ideal for exploring Venice's maze of alleyways or meandering along the canals. Beautiful antiques and furniture create an awe-inspiring hotel that brings the Venice of old very much alive. This is complete masquerade-ball territory.

18th-century Venice is present in every area from the artworks to the furnishings and facade. Summer evenings can be spent enjoying a glass of wine in the courtyard surrounded by Venetian statues, pillars and fragrant seasonal flowers. As if that wasn't relaxing enough, the hotel's Turkish bath is just waiting to be enjoyed.

The intimacy of the hotel's ten rooms creates a feeling of having discovered a secret piece of Venice. Original exposed beams hang from ceilings and big beds including an ornate four poster rest against the bedroom walls as if fit for a king. Chandeliers in authentic Murano glass and varnished furniture with pastel green, cream and gold sit next to small tables and chairs that say 'time for afternoon tea'. This is a place you'll want no-one else to discover.