Fodor's Expert Review JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa

Set on an exclusive island called Isole Delle Rose, the JW Marriott is a 20-minute boat ride from Venice. Once you get a taste of its lush gardens, fabulous spa, and fantastic pool, you may find yourself quickly settling in to la dolce vita (the sweet life).

YOU SHOULD KNOW Though being on its own island has its perks (like bragging rights), not everyone will be thrilled with having to constantly wait for a boat to take them back and forth to Venice’s sights.

room

The rooms in the main property are chic and modern, done up in neutral colors and with photos of ‘50s movie stars on the walls. Many suites have private terraces, and views are either of the gardens, the lagoon, or Venice itself. For even more luxury, opt for a villa, some of which have their own plunge pools and private gardens.

YOU SHOULD KNOW There’s not a whole lot of unique Venetian style on display here, so you’re better off staying elsewhere if that’s your thing.

bathroom

Good-sized bathrooms have either tubs or showers, while those in the suites or higher have both separate tubs and showers.

lobby

Unlike many other Venice hotels, JW Marriott’s lobby is truly large, with sea-green and cream-colored armchairs and sofas on which to sit and people-watch a while.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Wi-Fi is only free in the lobby and other public areas; otherwise you have to pay (except for Marriott Rewards members).

pool

The tantalizing heated indoor pool extends outside, offering prime lagoon vistas.

spa

The expansive GOCO Spa boasts treatment rooms with amazing views of the lagoon, and unique features like a 90-degree Finnish sauna with Himalayan salt wall. Note that there’s an extra fee of $35 to use the spa for three hours (even for JW Marriott guests).

The signature Hammam Treatment is a full-body cleansing with black soap and loofah followed by a light massage and stretching—the perfect antidote to a hard day of hoofing around Venice.

gym

Has everything you need and is open 24 hours.

dining

Since you’re on an island and getting back to Venice takes some effort, it makes sense that the hotel offers a large choice of places to eat right where you are. There are four restaurants, including Michelin-starred Dopolavoro, Sagra Rooftop Restaurant, and Giardino Restaurant, where you can dine with garden views.

drinking

Sip your Aperol Spritz either next to the rooftop pool or in the elegant Rose Lounge Bar.