Marriott International has announced plans to open a luxury resort - JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa - on the private island of Sacca Sessola near Venice.

The new property will operate under a management agreement with an affiliate of Aareal Bank AG and is expected to open in 2014.

Just a short boat ride from the city of Venice, the hotel will feature 266 guestrooms and suites designed by Milan-based Matteo Thun & Patners.

Set amongst expansive private gardens and olive groves, the hotel will have a focus on wellbeing and offer a spa, health club and indoor, outdoor and rooftop swimming pools.

Amenities include a range of restaurants and bars and more than 13,000sq ft (1,208sq m) of meeting space.

Amy McPherson, president of Marriott International in Europe said: "Introducing JW Marriott to Venice is an exciting time for the brand as the destination continues to be one of the most desirable in the world, famous for its stunning architecture, art, and culture.

"We are delighted to offer our guests the distinctly unique setting of Sacca Sessola coupled with the elegance and intuitive service synonymous with the JW Marriott brand."