KCR Spring 2025 Magazine - Flipbook - Page 60
A Geneva Getaway
When you are planning a holiday, most of us will choose between a
relaxing sun-kissed vacation and a winter wonderland of snow and
activities. Whether it will be an urban exploration or being surrounded
by nature, few places can accommodate both, and the historic city of
Geneva just happens to be one.
Nestled between an idyllic alpine lake and the grand imagery of the
Alps and Jura mountain range. Geneva o昀昀ers an abundance of culture,
gastronomy, and luxury.
A Gourmet Gastronomy Experience
Geneva is a hub of world-call restaurants, street food festivals and chic
venues. Ranked third in the world for diverse gastronomy, Geneva o昀昀ers
delicious food from around the world.
The city o昀昀ers many mouth-watering local specialties, such as luscious
chocolates, fresh 昀椀sh from the lake and cheese fondue.
From its lavish shopping district and historic lineage with celebrations
like ‘Fête de l’Escalade’, the city has something for everyone.
Geneva o昀昀ers unique experiences with dining. The restaurant Monsieur Ador is adorned with James Bond decor that creates a setting 007
himself would dine in. The brasserie o昀昀ers a seasonal menu that takes
inspiration from classic French cuisine with Mediterranean elements.
Geneva is the ideal location for a getaway to the Alps and a great starting
point to places like the Megève ski resort and Verbier village.
‘Balila’ is a Lebanese restaurant that is reworked to include Western
cuisine elements. It is a spectacular experience that is unique in Geneva.
The city boasts activities unique to the winter season. At the ‘Bains des
Pâquis’ spa, you can enjoy a relaxing swim and sauna experience. There
are many wellness spas scattered throughout the city for you to enjoy.
59 award-winning restaurants can be found in the city, along with 30
master chocolatiers. One of which includes Favarge, which is Switzerland’s oldest chocolate manufacturer that dates back to 1826.
While in Geneva, make the most of the impressive chocolatiers that can
be found all around the city. The ‘La Bonbonnière’ chocolaterie o昀昀ers a
chocolate-making workshop; by the end of the experience, you will feel
like a professional.
Culture
Geneva prides itself on its culture and often celebrates it. One such celebration is the ‘Fête de l’Escalade’ that recognises a historic victory for
the city against an ambush in 1602. It is a source of great pride and joy
for Geneva as the festival has di昀昀erent attractions throughout the city.
The Choco Pass is a delicious way to explore the city while also getting
to sample the local chocolate. It includes 10 chocolate shops that are
partnered with Geneva Tourism.
Vibrant ambience
Hailed as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, the heart of
Geneva’s Winter Wonderland is located overlooking the alpine lake.
In clear view of the iconic Jet d’Eau, which has signi昀椀cant ties to the
city’s historic watchmaking heritage.
The market has many food stalls and pubs for people to enjoy while
soaking up the Christmas atmosphere. Along with arts and crafts stalls
that each o昀昀er unique trinkets and gifts for yourself or loved ones over
the holidays.
Fondue at the Chalet is an outstanding experience. Hosted in a wooden
hall that transports you to a cozy setting. With attentive servers and
delicious food, it is a must-see while visiting.
Travel in Geneva
Geneva prides itself on using public transport. Locals and visitors alike
can purchase the Geneva Transport Card. However, visitors who stay in
approved hotels can get this transport pass for free. The o昀케cial Geneva
Tourism website has a page dedicated to the Travel Pass, including an
FAQ and a guide explaining how to receive your card.
Getting to the city center from Geneva Airport is relatively easy, with a
7-minute train ride that departs from the airport. So there is no need to
scramble to 昀椀nd the nearest train station.
Geneva International Airport is unique in its location, allowing it to be
a hub for travel across Europe. 570 trains depart daily, including connections that can quickly get you to Paris and Milan. Making Geneva the
perfect location for multi-country holidays.
Activities
Geneva o昀昀ers the City Pass, which allows you to enjoy activities for free
or at discounted prices. With a total of 60 activities included in the pass.
Other activities to do in the city include exploring the various museums,
kayaking down the Rhône river, and taking the Geneva Grand Tour
cruise.
There is an abundance of tours that you can take to explore di昀昀erent
aspects of the city. From watchmaking and park tours to excursions to
the nearby vineyards.
Stalls, marches and theatrical sword 昀椀ghts are but a few of the activities.
There are numerous museums, music festivals, performing arts and
music halls throughout the city. There is even a tour dedicated to gra昀케ti
art that displays the city’s vibrant underground scene.
The Le Grand Théâtre de Genève Opera House is a stunning feat of
architecture inspired by the Palais Garnier in Paris. It features world-renowned ballet and opera programmes.
Nature
Even though Geneva is an urban exploration haven, it is surrounded
by nature. With parks scattered throughout the city, the Rhône river,
mountains and the largest lake in western Europe. The city even has
swimming areas and beaches that are ripe with water activities.
Rolling vineyards and countryside surround the city, dotted with
picturesque villages. As previously mentioned, there are tours you can
take to travel to the vineyards. Wine is a major industry in Geneva.
Many local wines are not even exported, so they can only be enjoyed in
Geneva.
Luxury
There are many high-end exclusive boutiques and 5-star hotels in
Geneva. The Rue du Rhône is a luxury shopper’s delight, with over 80
international designer boutiques to be found. As well as high-end local
gems like La Muse Geneva and Boutique Noa.
Bongénie Grieder is Geneva’s historic luxury shop. It includes only the
most sophisticated brands. Whatever your style is, Bongénie caters to
all with handpicked new collections from luxury designers. You can also
enjoy a personal stylist to help guide you through the collections.
An icon of Geneva’s luxury origins lies with their high-end
watchmaking. With workshops available and tours of the Patek Philippe
Museum.
Geneva is home to many 5-star luxury hotels like The Mandarin Oriental
Geneva, Hotel d’Angleterre Geneva, and the Fairmont Grand Hotel
Geneva. There are 14 5 star hotels in total that o昀昀er luxury accommodations and experiences.
Accommodation
We were hosted by The Mandarin Hotel Geneva while exploring the city.
Situated on the bank of the River Rhône with breathtaking views of
Geneva’s Old Town and the mountain range.There are many di昀昀erent
rooms available. So whether it is a solo, family or romantic trip, The
Mandarin accommodates all. The in-house restaurant, Sachi, o昀昀ers
re昀椀ned dining while overlooking the River Rhône.
