It’s time to visit Geneva – Glass travels to the Hotel d’Anglettere, by Lake Geneva, right in the heart of Europe
Hotel d’Anglettere has to be the most perfect place to stay while enjoying a relaxing city break on the picturesque Lake Geneva, located literally in the heart of Europe. This stunning property has a history dating back as far as 1872, when it was originally conceived as one of Europe’s finest luxury hotels with the majority of rooms giving a spectacular view of the Lake and Mont Blanc.
Distinguished pieces of artworks line the walls of many of the guestrooms and suites inside the hotel – varying from original Walt Disney cells to Chagalls and Picassos. In 1995, the hotel was given a total renovation, resulting in a stunning new interior combining charm, elegance and sophistication. Regularly hosting celebrities and heads of state, the hotel is known for excellent service and complete discretion, allowing guests to relax within its understated haven.
Today, the hotel is famed for holding regular culinary and art events. One of which is the return residency by Harcourt, the legendary Parisian-based photographic studio, enabling visiting guests of the hotel the unique opportunity to have a glamorous portrait taken by the renowned house of Harcourt, while relaxing on Switzerland’s finest lake. Internationally famed for their cinematic portraits of the stars of The Cannes Film Festival, Studio Harcourt is one of the most well known and acclaimed photographic studios, particularly distinguished by an imitable use of lighting, with each subject. Each photograph has the Harcourt logo embossed on the right hand corner, adding authenticity.
The celebrated afternoon teas served at the hotel has placed this establishment firmly on the map amongst the locals and are the best teas to be served anywhere across the channel. ‘Tea’ is taken in the magnificent dining room with marvellous views across the Lake and Mont Blanc alike, emulating the afternoon teas served across the UK. Including in the offering trays of sumptuous sandwiches, along with warmed scones, homemade jams and an array of pastries and confections – cheesecake served is from a recipe passed down for generations by the owner’s family.
For those reluctant to leave their adoring dogs at home, the hotel is a “pet friendly” establishment and proudly offers a pet concierge service, which includes special one-to-one walks along the waterfront. Bowls and basket are also supplied ensuring all family members are guaranteed a break to remember.
Geneva is a marvellous place to explore with lots of things to do. Top of the list has to be a visit to the UN European headquarters, which has played host to numerous historical negotiations. The hour-long tour offers updates about the current activities of the United Nations and includes visits to the famous Council Chamber, where the murals by José Maria Sert can be viewed, and The Human Rights and Alliance of Civilisations Room, decorated by Miquel Barcelò.
A trip to Geneva’s Old Town (Vieille Ville) located across the Lake is a refreshing 10-minute water-taxi journey away from the hotel d’Anglettere. One can meander along the traffic-free cobbled streets arriving at numerous squares scattered with an array of top- end designer boutiques and smaller specialist shops. Its great to sit and people watch at one of the many cafes along the way before a visit to the famous Patek Philippe Museum, aptly located in the city where watchmaking has been an established industry for more than four centuries. No wonder the museum is home to an extensive collection of timepieces and an unusual library entirely dedicated to the subject of horology.
by Amanda Bernstein
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