Destination Italy: Avani Rio Novo Venice

The modern, minimalist marvel draws inspiration from the city’s creative scene.

Venice is a city swimming in history. Whether it was writers from Lord Byron to Ernest Hemmingway, or movie stars from Elizabeth Taylor to Ginger Rogers, it boasts an old, otherworldly charm. Nevertheless, there are not many hotels aimed at the modern, millennial traveller. Strut forward, Avani Rio Novo Venice.

Located on Calle Larga Raguesi and a short walk from the Venice Santa Lucia, Avani Rio Novo Venice is a minimalist marvel. Sitting by the calm canals, it is surrounded by bridges dating back to the sixth century. The hotel is close to Campo Santa Margherita, Gallerie dell’Accademia and Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

Avani Rio Novo draws inspiration from Venice and its world-class events, from the Venice Film Festival to the Venice Biennale. The lobby is an ode to films, with books on Italian classics and photos of Italian movie stars. Stefano Botteon, General Manager, explained: “We have this wall with black and white pictures of actors and movie directors who have been in Venice. We are also looking forward to the Venice Biennale. We want to use the space on the ground floor for temporary exhibitions, modern art and new artists.”

Rooms and suites

Avani Rio Novo Venice is home to 144 rooms and suites with a contemporary, clean design. The rooms come in soft, neutral tones and materials from beige to white and hardwood floors. We checked into the Deluxe Room, which overlooked one of Venice’s canals. The highlight was the floor-to-ceiling window, which showcased the scenery in style.

Spanning 24 square feet, the room included white linens and walls, which were punctuated by the bright blue chair. The bathroom included a strong shower and film-inspired feel, thanks to the wallpaper with black and white film reel. Plus, the staff were on hand with requests, no matter how big or small.

Restaurants and bars

At the heart of Avani Rio Novo Venice is the all-day dining restaurant and bar, 8 Millimetri Cicchetti and Wine. Drawing inspiration from cinema, it includes photos of movie legends on the wall. The breakfast buffet is healthy as well as hearty, spanning charcuterie cuts, pretty pastries and fresh fruits. The lunch and dinner covers classic pastas and desserts – and when in Venice – it’s perfectly paired with a Venetian Spritz.

Facilities

What Avani Rio Novo Venice lacks in facilities, it makes up for with its close connections within the community. The gym is compact with machines and weights, but the sunrise run with a local offers an active alternative option.   

The hotel provides local workshops with a global influence, from glass to mask making. The Venetian Mask Workshop has created masks that are featured in Gossip Girl and Fifty Shades of Grey, and gives you the chance to create your very own souvenir.

Avani Rio Novo Venice: don’t just book a stay, book one-of-a-kind experiences.

GO: Visit https://www.avanihotels.com/it/rio-novo-venice for more information.