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Grand Hôtel du Lac Vevey: Where old-world charm meets modern luxury in the Swiss Riviera

May 10, 2022

Enthroned along the shores of Lake Geneva, moments away from the terraced vineyards of the UNESCO-listed Lavaux region, the Grand Hôtel du Lac Vevey is a belle époque gem with a modern spirit, offering lake views that are reason enough to visit. With 50 elegant rooms and suites designed by renowned interior architect Pierre-Yves Rochon, a Michelin starred restaurant and seasonal Buddha bar beach eatery, a well-equipped Maison Valmont spa and stylish outdoor swimming pool surrounded by pristine gardens, this is the ultimate lakeside retreat.

Hotel lobby © Grand Hotel du Lac Vevey

What’s the story?

There can be few views as good as the one from the terrace of the Grand Hôtel du Lac Vevey, overlooking the crystalline lake shores towards the snowcapped Alps and, in the distance, white sailboats cruising along the water. The hotel was built in 1868 by Swiss architect Ernest Burnat, and its early years became the mainstay hangout for many illustrious guests — with everyone from princes, to politicians and famed poets like Henryk Sienkiewiez, frequenting its quarters. It was sold in 2004 to its current owners and underwent an extensive renovation lead by famed interior decorator Pierre-Yves Rochon, who lovingly restored the property’s old world charm while injecting contemporary finishes.

What’s it like inside?

Blending the old and new, all public areas were restored to their former glory and showcase a modern take on classical elegance, with bright furnishings and artful design details. Think black and white marble flooring, baroque carpeting, statement floral wallpaper and sumptuous velvet sofas that are easy to spend the day relaxing in. The Oriental Tearoom, a decadent room painted in midnight blue, is filled with Moroccan coffee tables and glitzy Middle Eastern accents, while the light filled ‘Les Saisons’ restaurant wows with pastoral wallpaper and potted greenery that works to create a charming country house feel. And not to be missed is the La Veranda terrace, set in the garden with its Riviera style furniture, offering guests the ultimate Dolce Vita atmosphere backdropped by picture-perfect views of Lake Geneva.

LAKESIDE PARADISE

Discover unique summer offers and experiences at Grand Hôtel du Lac Vevey

Lounge (1), Oriental tearoom (2), Suite (3) © elevatedliving, Grand Hotel du Lac Vevey

What about the Rooms?

All 50 rooms and suites, designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon, are done up in a refined and elegant style, with pretty, pastel color schemes and luxurious marble bathrooms, stocked with Acqua di Parma products. Even the standard rooms are more spacious than you might think, but it’s the lake facing suites, decorated in floral prints with spacious living areas and balconies that offer sprawling views of the lake, that make things a little more special.

How about the restaurants?

There’s the fine dining Les Saisons, a Michelin starred restaurant signed by Thomas Neeser, where French classics are reimagined using inventive techniques and regional ingredients—the shrimp and avocado tartare with hazelnut from Piedmont is a must try. Meanwhile, La Marina bar, a pleasant lake facing lounge, impresses with Mediterranean classics and lots of sharing options; and La Veranda, an outdoor terrace offering laid back European cuisine, invites guests to enjoy its peaceful garden setting surrounded by nature. And don’t forget the stylish Buddha-Bar Beach pop-up restaurant-the first and only Swiss outpost of global restaurant group Buddha-Bar-open during the summer and offering creative Asian cuisine with explosive cocktails and a live DJ.

Les Saisons restaurant © elevatedliving

How about the spa?

The sumptuous Maison Valmont spa designed like a modern living room, offers a seriously impressive menu of rejuvenating treatments, with everything from signature Valmont massages to hydrating face rituals that make use of the brand’s famed skincare products. Besides this, guests also have access to a Turkish bath, a sauna, a fitness room, a cozy relaxation area and outdoor pool that provides breathtaking views of the lake shores.

Anything else?

Being ideally situated in the heart of the Swiss Riviera, the hotel is only 5 minutes from the historic center of Vevey and just short distances from the UNESCO World Heritage Lavaux vineyards. The concierge can organize a range of guided tours & excursions during your stay, including a private wine tour & vineyard lunch overlooking the lake — you won’t be disappointed.