By Maggie Miles
As we embark on a gondola ride along the serene canal in Venice’s lively Cannaregio district, we are fully immersed in the vibrant soul and romance of the historic city. Floating toward Hotel Heureka — a former private palace turned boutique hotel — the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson echo in our minds: In this case, the journey is just as magnificent as the destination.
Stepping through the doors of this stunning palazzo, we enter a world of elegance and charm, where every detail is a testament to timeless beauty.
While Hotel Heureka opened in 2017, its history stretches back centuries, inspiring the saying, “If walls could talk.” Immersed in Venetian allure, we can almost sense the nobles and dignitaries who once walked these halls.
Born from the dream of Angela Silarna Valach and Erwin Krause, who longed for a Venetian home, the couple spent years searching for the perfect location. Though in poor condition, the moment they entered, they exclaimed, “Heureka, I found it!” A feeling we echo as hotel manager Andrea Penzo warmly welcomes us.
Designed by Angela, a talented interior designer, Hotel Heureka seamlessly blends Venetian charm with modern design. “Every piece here brings its own character, a certain harmony, but also an interesting tension,” she tells us. Each room is uniquely designed, featuring modern amenities, luxurious bathrooms, and stunning antique furnishings. Fine fabrics from Rubelli, Lacroix, and Orchard Fabrics add an exquisite touch.
“Every corner of a room, as well as every part of life, can offer an adorable view and make people feel more responsible for the world’s beauty,” Angela tells us.
Our canal-view room offers a romantic, serene air, while other rooms overlook the private garden. As we admire the sights below, we prepare for dinner in the hotel’s secret garden.
At the secluded garden restaurant, Chef Justus presents a Venetian-inspired fine dining experience, featuring fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is enchanting — candlelit tables, soft music, and the tranquil beauty of the garden. Guests can enjoy private dinners or themed nights, celebrating Venetian cuisine and culture.
Now, Andrea joins us, sharing insights into the hotel’s exclusive cultural experiences and excursions. “Cannaregio is certainly a wonderful area, full of hidden gems,” he tells us. His favorites include the Gesuiti Church, a Baroque jewel famous for its polychrome marble, and the Island of Murano, just a five-minute boat ride away, where guests can discover the century-old tradition of Venetian glassmaking.
Over the years, the hotel has partnered with local artisans to offer over 15 unique private experiences, from boat tours on luxurious wooden boats to evening visits at the Doge’s Palace, blending art, food, and history in the most authentic corners of Venice.
“I would particularly recommend exploring secret Venice, with private visits to centuries-old palaces and hidden gardens, accompanied by a professional guide,” says Andrea.
The next day, we set off for a private boat tour to a nearby Venetian island, followed by a walk through the Venetian Ghetto, indulging in Cicchetti, Venice’s beloved tapas-style bites.
Returning to Hotel Heureka, we retreat to the garden, greeted like old friends. In just a few days, it already feels like a home away from home — a luxuriously eclectic haven in the heart of Venice.
Whether visiting for a romantic getaway or renting the entire palazzo for a wedding or private event, guests of Hotel Heureka will find themselves enchanted. Here, history and modern luxury merge seamlessly, offering an exclusive and unforgettable Venetian experience.