Madama Garden Retreat: A Tranquil Oasis in the Heart of Venice
Nestled on the bank of one of the most important canals in the authentic Sestiere Cannaregio, within the historic walls of the noble residence Palazzo Antelmi, lies Madama Garden Retreat. This exquisite residence, enveloped in a lush garden, captivates the attention of curious tourists who catch a glimpse of it while admiring the imposing facade of the Scuola della Misericordia or passing beneath the bridge on boats.
A Secret Entrance
At the heart of Madama Garden Retreat lies the "Porta d'acqua," a secret entrance that leads discerning travelers to the exclusive "Madama" structure. Designed to cater to artists, art collectors, interior designers, information and communication professionals, and aficionados of the Italian lifestyle, this haven has become a favored meeting place. Mara De Guidi, a former manager in the fragrance industry turned hospitality entrepreneur, envisioned and realized this harmonious symphony of hospitality, composed of nine distinct suites.
The present layout of Madama is the result of a meticulous restoration overseen personally by Mara De Guidi. Spanning nearly three years, she not only ensured the preservation of the building but also designed and implemented an engineering system to safeguard guests and the precious decorations from sudden changes in the tides.
Mara dedicated herself to every aspect of the redevelopment, from the architectural revival to the interior furnishing. She imbued each room with a touch of magic, adorning them with furniture and decorations crafted from wood, glass, iron, brass, velvets, silks, and brocades. These traditional materials from Venice's history were carefully interwoven with contemporary sensibilities.
Exquisite Gestures and Enchanting Gardens: Enhancing the Madama Experience
Beyond the physicality of the space, Mara showers her guests with thoughtful gestures to make them feel truly welcomed and anticipated. From the meticulously crafted room fragrances to the natural cotton linens and the Dyptique courtesy sets available in the suites, every detail is meticulously curated. Moreover, personalized fruit and dessert arrangements are prepared in every corner of Madama, delighting guests' senses of sight and taste.
Madama has further solidified its identity through its lush garden, which has now become an integral part of the Wigwam circuit. This exclusive club, composed of influential gardening enthusiasts and internationally renowned experts, organizes events and seminars dedicated to the preservation of knowledge and traditions in gardening that would otherwise fade away with time.
Unparalleled Excellence and Tailored Experiences: Madama's Journey to Acclaim
Since its opening, Madama has quickly earned its place among the top Venetian hotels. Guests and industry critics have awarded it the highest scores, recognizing its commitment to exceptional service and unparalleled experiences. In 2022, Madama made its debut in the Olympus of "top choices" by winning the prestigious Best Breakfast award for the Europe and UK region, as recognized by the renowned Johansens Condé Nast guide. The retreat continued its success in 2023 by becoming a finalist in the same category.
Madama Garden Retreat caters to discreet and inquisitive adult guests seeking a tranquil and cozy haven for contemplation, reading, work, and cultural enrichment. Supported by the knowledgeable concierge service, which acts as an inexhaustible guide, guests can explore and engage with the city. The concierge offers valuable suggestions and makes reservations for places and experiences that transform every stay into a remarkable journey.
For those yearning for a serene escape in the heart of Venice, Madama Garden Retreat is a haven where beauty, tranquility, and hospitality converge to create an unforgettable experience.