Grand Hôtel du Lac, Switzerland

One of the finest properties on a grand hotel-littered stretch of Lake Geneva 

Where is it? Around an hour’s drive from Geneva (or the same distance by lake-hugging railway line), the five-star Grand Hôtel Du Lac sits right at the water’s edge in the beguiling market town of Vevey, where Charlie Chaplin spent his final decades. Romantic castles, boat rides to France and mountain hiking trails are all within easy reach.

Why is it special? Aside from the impressive views across a big blue expanse of lake towards snow-peaked Swiss Alps, this hotel benefits from its proximity to some of the world’s best hospitality schools and is known for its excellent service. The decor is lovely too: a Belle Époque fantasy of ornate cornicing and glittering chandeliers, made even more fairytale-like by a newish infusion of delicate whimsy from interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon.

What are the facilities like? The hotel’s outdoor pool is the perfect place to take advantage of surprisingly sunny Swiss summer weather and there’s a small spa too. Meanwhile, in the wine cellar, experts can introduce you to the country’s vintages – a well-kept secret of which only around one percent are exported. Dining, from master chef Guy Ravet, has always been exemplary but now there’s a new pool terrace bar, Buddha Bar Beach, for a less formal mix of cocktails, sushi and music from the resident DJ. 

How about the rooms? With crystal lamps, thick drapes and Acqua di Parma products, even the most basic rooms feel luxurious, in a low-key European way. Suites, meanwhile, are vast and come with postcard-worthy lake views. The duplex suite has one of the best configurations of any family room we’ve found, with children on a separate floor to parents and a lovely living room where everyone can spend time together.

Grand Hôtel du Lac, rue d’Italie, Vevey (00 41 21 9250606, ghdl.ch).

Image credits: All credit to Grand Hôtel du Lac

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