Austin, Texas—Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report has named Aman Canal Grande, Venice, Italy, as the 2014 Hideaway of the Year. This is the second time in three years that an Italian hotel has received this prestigious award.
Editor-in-Chief Andrew Harper notes, “This is far from being a typical Aman property. The company first made its reputation in Asia, with new hotels designed in a signature minimalist style. In contrast, the 24-room Aman Canal Grande is housed within an ornate 16th-century palazzo and is located close to the Rialto Bridge. The interior is simply dazzling and has been brilliantly modernized by longstanding Amanresorts architect Jean-Michel Gathy. Frankly, I cannot think of a more beautiful place to stay anywhere in the world than the Alcova Tiepolo Suite. The Aman Canal Grande is not a museum, however. It is exceptionally comfortable and offers refined and sincere hospitality, thanks to an outstanding general manager, Olivia Richli.”
To be considered for the annual awards, properties must be relatively small in size, possess strong individual personalities, offer relaxing atmospheres and demonstrate a consistent devotion to personal service.
This was an exceptional year for South Africa, as Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve, and Babylonstoren also received Grand Awards. South Africa was given 11 awards in total, France was a close second with eight awards, and Europe earned 25 awards this year.
Hotel award winners include:
HIDEAWAY OF THE YEAR
Aman Canal Grande, Venice, Italy
NORTH AMERICA
Rancho Valencia, Rancho Santa Fe, California
El Encanto, Santa Barbara, California
Farmhouse Inn, Sonoma County, California
Capella Washington, D.C.
Fisher Island, Miami, Florida
Kingsbrae Arms, New Brunswick, Canada
CENTRAL AMERICA
Mukul, Pacific Coast, Nicaragua
Nayara Hotel, Spa and Gardens, La Fortuna, Costa Rica
EUROPE
Conservatorium, Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Alpina, Gstaad, Switzerland
Vigilius Mountain Resort, the Dolomites, Italy
Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como, Italy
Schloss Elmau, Bavaria, Germany
Domaine des Hauts de Loire, Loire Valley, France
AFRICA
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, Garden Route, South Africa
Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve, near Port Alfred, South Africa
Babylonstoren, the Winelands, South Africa
AUSTRALIA
Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania, Australia
To see the full list, visit GrandAwards.AndrewHarper.com
