A very special breakfast on top of The Scala Contarini Del Bovolo

It’s rare to have Venice all to yourself but to really appreciate its magic, you need to see it without the crowds. Early morning is enchanting; the light soft, the air still, suffused with a beautiful calmness before the city wakes up to a new day. Experience this special ambience on a hypnotic boat ride from the hotel to St Mark’s Square. From the moment you step off our boat and stroll through the square, you witness Venice in a deserted, hushed state. On reaching Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, you’ll be warmly welcomed and invited to climb the striking staircase. A harmonious blend of Renaissance, Gothic and Venetian-Byzantine architecture.

At the top, in the stunning belvedere, Cipriani, a Belmond hotel, Venice invites you for a fascinating breakfast experience. Your first morning coffee as you look out over the rooftops, watching the city awaken before you. A delicious breakfast follows. At 26 metres (and 113 steps) high, the Scala is the tallest spiral staircase in Venice, characterised by its alternating red cotto bricks and white Istrian stone. Its name, “bovolo”, derives from the Venetian word for snail. It was commissioned in the 15th century by the noble Contarini family, one of the city’s founding families. Keen-eyed movie buffs may recognise the structure from Orson Welles’ 1951 Othello, when it served as Brabantio’s house. 

A hidden architectural gem as you gaze out over Venice, watching it come to life before your eyes. 

Prices starts from Euro 300,00 per person. It includes: private entrance to the Scala Contarini del Bovolo and breakfast. Info & Reservations: +39 041 2408505 or concierge.cip@belmond.com.