Mandarin Oriental Sets Sail for Venice with San Clemente Takeover

An exclusive island, a centuries-old monastery, and one of the most iconic hotel brands in the world—Mandarin Oriental’s arrival in Venice redefines what luxury means in La Serenissima.

Venice, June 11, 2025 — In a move that signals both ambition and elegance, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced it will take over operations of the San Clemente Palace Hotel, a storied property set on its own private island in the Venetian Lagoon. Located just an eight-minute boat ride from the bustle of Piazza San Marco, the 80,000-square-meter island offers a serene retreat amidst the artistic and cultural pulse of Venice.

This historic site will remain open under current operations until November 2025, after which it will undergo a comprehensive, three-phase restoration led by the British design studio Albion Nord. When it reopens in April 2026, it will do so under a new name—Mandarin Oriental, Venice.

“Bringing Mandarin Oriental’s legendary hospitality to Venice is a significant milestone for our group,” said Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental. “This remarkable property, with its unique heritage and privileged location, aligns perfectly with our vision of creating deeply meaningful experiences. With Venice now part of our portfolio alongside Milan and Lake Como—and soon Rome, Cortina, and Porto Cervo—our footprint in Italy grows even stronger.”

The property, steeped in nearly 900 years of history, includes restored monastic buildings and a 12th-century church surrounded by manicured gardens. Once reopened, the hotel will feature 136 elegantly redesigned rooms and suites that fuse Venetian charm with Mandarin Oriental’s signature contemporary aesthetic.

“We’re excited to begin a new chapter for San Clemente Palace with Mandarin Oriental,” said Emir Uyar, Vice Chairman of Permak Holding. “This iconic location deserves the refined hospitality the brand is known for. We look forward to welcoming guests to a reimagined luxury experience on one of Venice’s most historic islands.”

The revitalized hotel will include four distinctive restaurants, offering culinary journeys that blend local tradition with global finesse. Its expanded wellness offerings will feature a state-of-the-art spa with treatment rooms, saunas, steam baths, multi-sensory showers, and tranquil lounges—complemented by an outdoor pool, yoga pavilion, and tennis courts for holistic wellbeing.

Events and weddings will also find a spectacular home here, with extensive indoor and outdoor spaces that embrace the island’s lush natural surroundings. A dedicated kids’ area ensures that even the youngest travelers are entertained in style.

As Mandarin Oriental continues its thoughtful expansion, Mandarin Oriental, Venice promises to become a new icon of refined travel in Italy—where centuries-old history, cinematic views, and modern luxury meet on a private island like no other.