How Aman Spa at Aman Venice Became a True Italian Masterpiece

Since inception, Aman resorts have become synonymous with luxurious, authentic, experiential, and locally inspired encounters. In fact, there is an almost cult-like obsession among travelers who clamor to experience as many of the 33 destinations in 21 countries vas possible, making each opening a momentous occasion for luxury aficionados whose wanderlust is matched by exceedingly high-service expectations. So, when it came time to establish an outpost in the Floating City of Venice, Italy, where better than Palazzo Papadopoli, the magnificent Baroque-style palace that still houses the family that has owned it for more than 200 years?


Over the years, Palazzo Papadopoli, one of the city’s eight monumental palazzos on the Grand Canal, has been home to royals, nobles, and dignitaries.  Its latest incarnation, Aman Venice, is an exquisite 24-room retreat that envelopes its guests in Venetian splendor. Among its jaw-dropping amenities are meticulously restored frescos and furniture, sparkling Murano glass chandeliers, elegant art-filled spaces, private gardens, and incomparable views. Its wellness offerings, which can be enjoyed in the intimate but splendid Aman Spa, are equally impressive. 

The spa is a three-treatment-room haven complete with exposed beams, inviting spaces, and plenty of windows that filter in the warm Italian sunlight. Each treatment room features its own private restroom and shower, and each service begins with a signature foot ritual using Himalayan salt crystals, a soothing massage with peppermint and arnica oils, and a warm compress. “The design of the spa is in alignment with the Palazzo itself; an exquisite blend of Rococo and Neo-Renaissance grandeur intertwined with Jean-Michel Gathy’s contemporary interiors,” says general manager Claudia Schwarze. “As with everything Aman, it’s simple but chic. Think peaceful lighting, luxurious treatment beds, sumptuous spa linens, and our signature spa welcome.” 

Following the welcome ritual, guests can choose from a range of exclusive services performed using the brand’s new bespoke skincare collection designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. The line features 30 products made up of hydrating face creams and serums, nourishing face masks, uplifting body oils, and more. Formulated to address specific physical and emotional needs, the collection incorporates ingredients sourced from and inspired by Aman destinations throughout the world and provides three pathways to wellness: Grounding, Purifying, and Nourishing. The newly updated spa menu features four treatments—Massage Ritual ($282, 90 minutes), Body Polish & Wrap ($285, 90 minutes), Face Ritual ($316, 90 minutes), and Journey ($569, 3 hours)—for each pathway. “We have been chosen as one of five Aman properties to first receive the range, which makes us very proud,” says Schwarze. 

Still, it would not be an Aman wellness offering if local healing practices were not part of the experience. As such, the menu features a selection of Venice Signature Treatments created in conjunction with Tempio di Salute. This line was created using ingredients from Terme Salsomaggiore, which is considered one of the most important termes, or thermal stations, in Italy. 

But no matter in which services they partake, guests are sure to become as immediately entranced by the wellness options as they are by the property itself due to its divine beauty and incomparable service. Marcel Proust once said of the Floating City, “When I went to Venice, I discovered that my dream had become—incredibly, but quite simply—my address.” The same can be said of Aman Venice, where dreams of Italian grandeur have been made a reality. 

SPA STATS
 

Owner: Aman Resorts

Spa Manager: Raffaella Ferronato

Opened: 2013

Client Base: 70% female, 30% male 

Space: 2,152  square feet; 3 treatment rooms 

Products & Equipments: Aman, Essie, Oakworks, Susan Ciminelli, Technogym, Tempio di Salute, Urban Oxy System  

Interior Designer: Jean-Michel Gathy, Denniston (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

 


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