The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva
Lake Geneva’s reborn grande dame
RESPONSIBLE HOSPITALITY VERIFIED
A favorite of Europe’s well-heeled since 1865, Hotel de la Paix was the grand dame of Geneva’s waterfront. When the property closed for a refresh and rebranding in 2016, the anticipation left many worried about the property’s prowess. But when The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva debuted in fall 2017, doubters were silenced.
While contemporary interiors replace dated furnishings, the hotel’s opulence and grander remain untouched, evidenced by a jaw-dropping, black-and-white tiled lobby that’s punctuated with a gigantic crystal chandelier.
Nods to Geneva’s rich heritage can be found around every corner, from a confectionary outpost from Swiss master chocolatier Philippe Pascoët to pieces from local artists lining the lobby walls. A Nordic fusion restaurant, a chic Grace Kelly Suite and wall-to-wall windows overlooking Lake Geneva round out The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva’s marvelous makeover.
Our Inspector's Highlights
- The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva’s location is hard to beat. Perched on the right bank of the city’s eponymous lake, the luxurious property is just a five-minute jaunt to Geneva’s main shopping streets and top attractions.
- Brunch at Living Room Kitchen & Bar is a must. The menu isn’t massive, but it packs a punch with dishes ranging from the healthy (the French Riviera bowl with mesclun, fennel and citrus) to the indulgent (pancakes topped with gooey, warm chocolate sauce).
- Even if you don’t get a chance to stop byPhilippe Pascoët’s lobby boutique, you’ll taste his wares at check-in, during afternoon tea (three hot chocolates from the confectioner grace the menu) and each evening, when a small bag of sweet treats is placed by your bedside during turndown.
- While the rest of the hotel received a contemporary refresh, the lobby is still a Gilded Age show-stopper, thanks to classic black-and-white tiled floor, marble columns, gold accents and spectacular crystal chandelier.
- Perhaps the quirkiest spot in the Geneva hotel, FRED by Fiskebar is a casually elegant lounge inspired by the travels of fictional Scandinavian aristocrat Fred. Ask the bartenders to tell you his story while you sip on Nordic-inspired tipples and admire the unusual art collection that lines the walls.
Things to Know
- The property’s prime perch on the busy Quai du Mont Blanc also means lots of street noise from your balcony, though double-glazed windows ensure you’ll get a good night’s rest.
- The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva does not have its own spa, but the concierge can arrange for an in-room treatment or services at the nearby Hotel President Wilson.
- Fiskebar is drawing buzz for its fresh seafood and laid-back luxury. Be sure to make a reservation if you plan to dine at the Geneva hotel’s signature restaurant.
The Rooms
- All 74 rooms and suites feature contemporary design in a chic gray color palette. Thoughtful touches include a mid-century modern-inspired desk, LCD HDTVs with Apple AirPlay and plenty of USB ports with plug converters.
- Most accommodations — save for the Classic Garden View rooms — offer at least a partial lake view. For the best water vistas, book a Premium Lake Front room or splurge on a suite.
- Stay like a star when you check into the Grace Kelly Suite. Named for one of the luxury hotel’s most famous guests, the timeless 1,131-square-foot accommodation boasts a stylish art deco design with gilded accents, mid-century modern furniture, faux fur throws, high ceilings and large windows overlooking Lake Geneva, the snow-covered Alps and the Brunswick Monument.
The Restaurants
- Boasting a sleek, Scandinavian-inspired design and modern fine-dining menu, Nordic fusion restaurant Fiskebar serves a more relaxed take on haute cuisine. French chef Benjamin Breton’s seasonally inspired plates might include scallops with roasted and fermented cabbage in caviar sauce or hake with Italian wild broccoli and clams.
- Anchored by a stunning antique fireplace, lounge-stye Living Room Bar & Kitchen is a cozy spot for all-day dining. Chef Lénaïc Jourdren sources the best local bounty for his menu, creating fresh plates like scallops with Belgian endives and Swiss beef fillet in truffle jus.
- Living Room Bar & Kitchen also offers an elegant afternoon tea. Snag one of the grey armchairs to sip on herbal brews, snack on delicate confections (Swiss chocolate is well represented here) and soak up Lake Geneva views through large picture windows.
Amenities
24-hour room service 
Bar
Gym
Meeting rooms
Restaurants
Getting There
Quai du Mont-Blanc 11, Geneva, 1201 Switzerland
TEL41-229-096-000
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