A New Spa at the San Clemente Palace Kempinski in Venice

Heading to Venice this summer? Here’s a welcome bit of news for spa junkies: After exploring the historic treasures, and cruising the canals, of the floating city, why not relax at the brand new spa at the San Clemente Palace Kempinski? The hotel is situated on its very own private island—landscaped with verdant gardens and a centuries-old park—yet it’s just a few minutes from Piazza San Marco via complimentary boat service.

This is the very first spa partnership with prized local perfumery brand, The Merchant of Venice, which designed signature treatments incorporating the brand’s essential oils (think sandalwood, jojoba and bergamot. Anchored in the culture and traditions of Venice, the perfumery spotlights the city’s role along the ancient maritime trade routes, and the Venetian history of creating perfumers for European royal courts. At the spa, a massage might feature Mocenigo Rose essential oil which has its roots in the Orient. To quote The Merchant of Venice website: This is “an old rose that came long ago to Europe from the plains of Central China. Now it grows wild in the Venetian countryside, but the silvery pink petals and its fruit-scented fragrance still evoke a rich and exotic lands in faraway places.”

Sprawling across more than 4,000 square feet on two floors, the spa has four treatment rooms and an enticing wet area with a Finnish sauna, hammam and sensorial shower. There is also a relaxation lounge and a fitness center. Other treatments are available using Natura Bissé products.

On a romantic getaway to Venice? Book a treatment in the 530-square-foot Spa Suite, complete with its very own Jacuzzi, sauna and relaxation area. Try an over-the-top treatment like the "Splendor Anti-Age" mask, comprised of eleven 24-carat gold leaves, tailor-made for The Merchant of Venice spa by the Mario Berta Battiloro craft workshop .