Not quite four stars ... but more than three. This is a quaint boutique hotel located pretty much over the bridge from the main train station -- one of our criteria when choosing lodging.
Our room was small, but nicely appointed. I slept comfortably, though like many hotels, the mattress was hard and the air conditioning not-so-wonderful. Gardena is quiet, on a canal off the main drag, but minutes away from the Grand Canal and scores of restaurants.
Breakfast is of better quality than our other hotels. They all serve meats, cheeses, croissants etc. -- but this was actually good. There's a server on duty each morning who happily prepares American coffee, cappuccino, espresso -- whatever you want. If you don't mind dodging pigeons -- a lot of 'em in Italy -- you can take your meal in the lovely courtyard, which is where I sat quietly reading my book.
The staff is helpful. The location close to the water bus. Really, it's a good place to stay, and I would easily return. read more