After a year of more downs than ups, the one thing most of us have missed is the ease of booking a getaway. If you are desperate to book in a treat for later this year or next, the ideal destination isn’t as far away as you might think. That’s right, whether you want a summer escape or a winter retreat, Hotel Beau Rivage in Geneva is the perfect escape.
One of Geneva’s most iconic hotels, it sits nestled in on the shores of Lake Geneva, overlooking a stunning backdrop of the Mont Saleve, with a striking view of the jet d’eau fountain and the incredible outline of the Alps. An unforgettable view rain or shine pulling you into the many activities the city has to offer.
Once you tear yourself away from the outdoors and step into the atrium you can feel the rich tradition and history draped around you, opulent interiors, plush velvet finishes and pink marble throughout – as though you have taken a step back in time to see the chandeliers, period paintings and collected antiques sitting in place as it would have once been. It feels decadent without being pretentious, as the immediate warm welcome and cheery hospitality you receive at check-in puts you completely at ease. If you are worried about the current health and safety in hotels, fear not, Hotel Beau Rivage allow you to have a comfortable experience while staying safety conscious.
There is a nod to the hotel’s grand history throughout every room, each with a different tone but all highlighting the stories the walls could tell with having played host to a number of illustrious visitors and historic figures. The Beau Rivage has had many a guest from the Empress of Austria and Emperor Ashkito of Japan as well as many celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Eleanor Roosevelt. Each turn of the corridor from one suite to another has carefully been thought out to observe the past (with antique furnishings) and bring in touches of the present (such as the shower turn hammams in some of the bathrooms). Although indulgent it feels like a home away from home, that is if your home was a luxurious 19th-century abode, but the comfort and luxury it provides allows you to completely relax into your break. Enjoy every moment from the king-size beds with more pillows than you could ever need to the Jacuzzi baths and the incredible hospitality the staff provides. The attention to detail to make sure the soul of the hotel remains intact does not go unnoticed, the hotel remains steeped in history with a vibrant modern touch.
Another perk of the hotel is the wonderful private treatment room that will send you into a calm and tranquil state. A personal recommendation: book in post-check-in, drop your bags, pop on your robe, and head to The Bellefontaine. The suite has many treatments from the more energizing to a top to toe signature offering that is aimed to meet your body’s needs specifically, let the stress float away as your body sets into holiday mode.
You will be spoilt for choice with the culinary options at Hotel Beau Rivage. First on the list, and not only an incredible offering from the hotel itself but one of Geneva’s most renowned restaurants, is Le Chat-Botte where you can delight your taste buds with unforgettable food at Michelin-star standard – led by the talented Chef Dominique Gauthier. You can also join him at the chef’s table for an exclusive fine dining experience, bespoke seasonal menus to celebrate any occasion or anniversary in the intimate and indulgent setting.
More gourmet pleasures can be found at La Terrasse also headed by Gauthier, he has built a menu made up of delicious fun-to-share food that encourages you to try everything on the menu – perfect for those of us who are more indecisive when choosing what to eat.
Albertine’s Lounge is a must-visit while staying at Hotel Beau Rivage, the stylish and contemporary terrace offers a calm atmosphere, perfect for that end of day drink when you’re ready to kick back and relax. Whether you’re in need of a cocktail or just a snack, the menu suits your needs with a varied drinks offering and a tapas selection of Asian and Mediterranean flavours.
Finally, why not take a seat in the wine cellar, the iconic venue at the heart of Beau Rivage provides an extraordinary privilege to try some divine food and wine pairings with the guidance of the Head Sommelier. Enter a realm of exceptional vintage bottles while enjoying an experience that is second to none.
As well as enjoying all that the hotel has to offer, don’t forget to try your hand at the local activities. Hotel Beau Rivage is kicking off the summer season with a programme of outdoor wonders, from the adrenaline-fuelled to the more genteel offerings. Create your perfect holiday itinerary through the hotel, whether it be mountain foraging, sunrise concerts, helicopter rides or surfing and one activity that comes highly recommended would be Paddle Yoga.
The hotel has partnered with local Yoga Shop Geneve allowing you to find early morning serenity and helping you to leave your stress at the shore while venturing out onto the calm waters for a paddle yoga session with instructor Estelle. The hit of fresh morning air mixed with Estelle’s soothing tones sends you off into a relaxed state of mind. Whether you are an experienced yogi or a beginner, the search for tranquillity will be met and start your day off right.
Along with all that the hotel has to offer, something that makes everything even more enticing is the quick and easy 10-minute free tram ride from Geneva airport.
You can stay at Hotel Beau Rivage from £400 per night, based on two adults sharing a Classic room. For bookings visit beau-rivage.ch/en or phone +41 22 716 66 66
Written for you.co.uk & dailymail.co.uk/home/you
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