JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts is gearing up for the opening of its first Italian hotel in Venice and first resort in Europe. Slated to welcome guests in March 2015 in an exceptional lagoon location on its own island boasting views of St. Mark’s Square and La Serenissima, JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa will offer 266 guestrooms and suites, some with private pools, boasting locally made bricks, glass and tiles.

“The opening of our first property in Italy marks a time of great growth and development for the JW Marriott brand,” said Mitzi Gaskins, vice president and global brand manager, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts. “The new JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa exemplifies the elegance and service that our guests have come to expect, incorporating modern design elements with authentic Venetian offerings to create a truly genuine experience in a culturally rich market.”

Guests will have access to numerous gardens and outdoor areas spread across more than 16 acres as well as fruit arbors, olive groves and cultivated plots. Facilities will include four restaurants, five bars, a cooking school, a wine academy, a picturesque function space in an old church and a spa with an indoor and outdoor aqua-tonic pool, a health club, eight treatment rooms, a hammam and a luxury spa suite. Additional amenities include a kid’s club, a dedicated family pool, a rooftop pool and water sports such as canoeing and sailing.