Lio Grando Hotel: The Forgotten Golden Era of Punta Sabbioni

In Cavallino-Treporti, there are several "elephants in the room"—those obvious sights that stand out, yet no one seems to explain why. We’ve already discussed the old fort, but today we dive into the history of the famous and much-debated Hotel Lio Grando in Punta Sabbioni.

Photo Gallery: The Hotel Today

If you've ever passed through Lio Grando, you’ve certainly noticed a majestic building still bearing the sign "Hotel Lio Grando" and, just a bit further along the lagoon front, an empty, abandoned swimming pool.

But what is the history of Hotel Lio Grando? And more importantly, what was it like when it was open to the public?

• Origins and Strategic Role: Built in the early 20th century in Liberty style, the hotel served as the "gateway" for elegant travelers arriving from Venice. Lio Grando was the main landing point before the development of Punta Sabbioni.
  Source: Historical and Urban Archives of the Municipality of Cavallino-Treporti


• The Golden Era (1950s-60s): During this period, it was the symbol of the Venetian "Dolce Vita" on the coast, famous for its panoramic terrace overlooking the lagoon and a top destination for the elite seeking luxury and tranquility.


• Historical Ownership: The hotel is historically linked to the Bodi family, prominent names in the local tourism industry.
  Source: Local Press (Il Gazzettino / La Nuova Venezia)


• The Mystery of Abandonment: Its closure was not due to a tourism crisis, but rather complex real estate failures and legal proceedings that saw the structure go up for auction several times without success.
  Source: Judicial Auction Portals


• Current Status and Restrictions: Despite numerous redevelopment projects, the building remains "frozen" due to restrictions by the Superintendency (Soprintendenza) which protect its historical architecture, preventing its demolition.
  Source: Superintendency of Fine Arts and Landscape of Venice

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🕵️ Discover How It Used to Be: Exclusive Content

After extensive research, I managed to recover original vintage postcards showing the Hotel and its pool in their full glory. To cover the costs of these rare materials and support my ongoing historical research, I’ve made these images available to the friends of the blog. You decide the amount!

To receive the link and password to access the historical gallery:

Request the link to the images

You will receive the private link by email after your donation.

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© Copyright & Intellectual Property: All original photographs (current shots) in this article are my property. Reproduction, distribution, or use on any platform (social media, websites, print) without my explicit written consent is strictly prohibited.

Legal Disclaimer: This blog is not a news publication and is updated without any periodicity. It cannot be considered an editorial product under Italian Law n. 62 of 7.03.2001. The information reported is the result of personal research and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The author assumes no responsibility for any inaccuracies or for the use third parties might make of the information contained herein. There is no intention to damage the image or reputation of the subjects or properties mentioned.