Not to be confused with Murano, Burano is another island (or rather, set of four small islands connected via bridges) in the Venetian Lagoon. If arriving into Venice, take the Vaporetto to this colourful fishing area (the houses were originally painted in bright hues to help drunk fishermen find their way home). Burano is famous for lace-making, a cottage industry which began here in the 16th-century; you can visit a museum dedicated to the handicraft as well as lots of lace shops. A stay here offers a more peaceful, secluded experience than the hotels of Venice; particularly after the shops close and the tourists leave on the water taxi.
Casa Burano
The casa is an amalgamation of five shuttered houses, to create a 13-bedroom boutique bed and breakfast. Each of the buildings has a lounge on the ground floor, shared with the residents of that house and offering tea, coffee, treats and a daily “help yourself” breakfast. Guests can book out an entire house if desired, or a single bedroom. The suites all have an airy feel, with similarities to a New York loft in places; think exposed red brick and industrial-chic metal bed four-poster frames. Locally made linens and textiles have been woven into the design, including Orsoni mosaic tiles.
