Bespoke Photography Experiences at Belmond Hotels

From night-time shots to underwater photography, these innovative experiences allow guests to capture some of Europe’s most inspiring destinations from a different perspective, filling holiday albums with unique shots that will be treasured forever. Photography experiences on offer include:

Evening Photo Tour of Venice at Belmond Hotel Cipriani

Positioned beside the lagoon on the tip of Giudecca Island overlooking the Doge’s Palace, Belmond Hotel Cipriani is a true Venetian legend famous for its exquisite interiors and incredible cuisine. Guests at the hotel can now embark on a night-time tour of Venice after the crowds have dwindled, led by an expert guide through secluded courtyards and across bridges and piazzas as they photograph the city in the magic of the evening.

Beginning at sunset to capture the changing light, this incredible tour allows guests to catch Venice on film from a new viewpoint. Suitable for beginners and advanced photographers alike, the tour allows budding photographers plenty of time to experiment for the perfect shot.

Underwater Photography at Belmond Hotel Splendido

Set overlooking the picture-perfect harbour of Portofino with its luxury yachts bobbing at anchor, Belmond Hotel Splendido is one of Italy’s most glamorous retreats. Guests can indulge with warm days by the pool, celebrated cuisine and magical views of the turquoise Mediterranean. The hotel has launched an underwater photography experience, allowing shutterbugs to snap the region’s vibrant underwater world during a scuba dive.

Accompanied by professional scuba divers, this thrilling half-day tour is open to all guests over the age of 10 who have previous experience of diving with underwater breathing equipment (an introductory course is available with a qualified instructor for those who need it). Diving equipment and cameras are provided as guests descend underwater to photograph hidden treasures below the surface.

Florence from the Sky at Belmond Villa San Michele

A 15th-century national monument, Belmond Villa San Michele is a work of art with the ambiance of a private home. The hotel sits nestled on a hilltop amid lush trees and terraced gardens, enjoying unparalleled vistas of Florence, stretched out before it in all its classic splendour.

For an even more dramatic view of their spectacular surroundings, guests can take a magical flight over Florence or the cypress-studded Chianti hills in a hot-air balloon. A professional photographer joins the tour, teaching keen photographers how to take the best panoramic shots against the enchanting backdrop as they capture the region from a new angle.

Naples by Vintage Vespa at Belmond Hotel Caruso

A former 11th-century palace set on cliffs beside the Amalfi Coast, Belmond Hotel Caruso in Ravello seems to drift on a ‘balcony’ above the Mediterranean Sea and boasts a stunning infinity pool that appears suspended in the clouds. Beyond this peaceful haven, guests can explore nearby Naples in style on a vintage vespa and chronicle their journey on film.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Naples is overflowing with stunning architecture and breathtaking views. Visitors can navigate their way through the charming city aboard their glamorous vespa, stopping along the way to snap the sites and enjoy an original Neapolitan espresso at one of its exclusive cafés.

‘Cook and Camera’ Experience at Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo and Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea

Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo sits adjacent to Taormina’s Greek Theatre with unrivalled views of the coastline and Mount Etna, while sister hotel Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea is set on its own exclusive beach down in the beautiful Bay of Mazzarò.

Guests at both hotels can embark on a photographic culinary journey, learning to create and photograph Sicilian cuisine during a cookery class with a twist. Led by Executive Chef Roberto Toro, participants will learn to cook, style and photograph delicious dishes before sitting down to dine on their creations. The experience also includes food-themed photography excursions, such as visiting the fish market in Catania or a street food tour through Taormina.

Bird-Watching Photo Tour at Belmond La Residencia

Sheltered by green mountains on Mallorca’s peaceful north-west coast, Belmond La Residencia is one of Spain's finest luxury boutique hotels. Its twin manor houses and award-winning spa sit in lush gardens among olive and citrus groves on the edge of the artists’ village of Deià.

Nature lovers with a flair for photography can take a bird-watching photo tour from the hotel. Mallorca is located in the migratory path of birds flying north in spring and south in autumn, providing an ideal resting place for these feathered friends as they recuperate en route. From the wetlands of the Albufera to the caves and gullies of the Tramuntana Mountains, there’s an array of scenic locations to snap shots of the birdlife in action.

Visit website: belmond.com