Enjoy a Winter Wonderland in Geneva

Geneva was voted Europe’s leading city break, dubbed as a shopping paradise, is one of the world’s safest cities, and is a favourite among Gulf travellers during the summer. Yet to be discovered this winter season, Geneva transforms into a winter wonderland.

Taking advantage of its lakefront location, experienced Clefs d’Or and unrivalled 150-year-old reputation, there is no better way to soak in what the city has to offer than by staying at the oldest hotel in Geneva, Beau-Rivage.

Here are some of the activities that are sure to enrich every discerning traveller’s experience:

• When booking a room in the city, visitors receive a free perk with a “Geneva Transport Card“, allowing them to use Geneva’s public transportation for the entire duration of their stays. The seasoned staff of Beau-Rivage will provide their visitors with a city exploration guide and the free transport card upon request.
• Mountain lovers can go all the way to Mont-Salève, the French side of the city, using their card, as it’s just a few bus stops from Beau-Rivage. An ideal spot for sports fanatics where they can choose to go hiking, paragliding and even cross-country skiing.
• Admire the magnificent view of Geneva and its surroundings from the Salève cable car.
• The award-winning Clefs d’Or of Beau-Rivage can arrange a scenic boat tour on the lake, organise a luxurious vehicle to take the travellers on a day-journey to discover the most spectacular villages for a grape-tasting experience or even have a unique drive on the lonely forest roads leading to the summit of La Barillette.
• Travellers can explore the open-air history of the region. The English Garden is just a few steps from the hotel, and there lies the famous Flower Clock and National Monument. Its paths are the perfect place for an idyllic stroll in the centre of the city where in winter it’s laden with Swiss food stalls and tasty treats.
• A few steps up from the old town is the Vieille-Ville, the largest historic town in Switzerland, dominated by St. Peter’s Cathedral, the symbolic location of the Reformation.with creative, modern fare from chef Dominique Gauthier.

With these recommendations of things to visit, the scenic, historic and serene city of Geneva is a must-visit destination in the winter. Nestled between white mountain peaks and a crystal-clear lake, the Swiss city is ideal for all seasons, as each brings with it attractions that will sure to make any getaway a memorable one.

St. Moritz’s hidden Christmas Fantasy

If you’re planning on heading to St. Moritz for the festive season, you must think about staying at Giardino Mountain. It is located in the Swiss Alps’ most breath-taking setting, The Engadine.

Nestled in the quaint village of Champfèr, the retreat is hidden from the hustle-bustle of St. Moritz’s busy streets yet it is a few minutes away from the town’s luxury shopping district. Travellers looking for a magical Christmas experience can explore the town twinkling with Christmas lights or simply sip hot chocolate in any of the hotel’s 78 luxurious Alpine-style rooms and suites.

With access to over 80 slopes, Giardino Mountain is a haven for adventure-seekers. Guests can also revitalise their senses with warm relaxing massages at the retreat’s signature dipiù Spa. Alongside, the hotel provides a therapeutic and non-medical health programme for guests, called Ayurveda by Giardino. The concept focuses on holistic well-being for the body and mind achieved through consultations, treatments, nutrition and exercise.

Room rates start at CHF 465 per night. For more information or bookings, visit www.giardino-mountain.ch or call +41 (0)800 333 313.

If you’re looking at the details of their Festive highlights and activities, see below:

Festive season highlights:   

19^th December, Snowshoe tour – Guests can discover the unparalleled beauty of the Engadine with snowshoes strapped to their feet. Both beginners and intermediates can explore the beautiful spots at their own pace with a pit stop for tea, punch and cookies. Alternatively, they can also opt for Nordic Walking.
20^th December, Engadine flight – Guests can book a helicopter ride to soak in breathtaking views of the Piz Palu and Piz Bernina peaks, lake and glaciers. The unforgettable experience is priced at CHF 210 per person.
23^rd December, Gospel Concert – The festivities at Giardino Mountain begin with soulful international melodies on the terrace. The gospel band will also play pop, funky and R&B tunes. The winter evening will be complete with warm drinks and scrumptious dishes available at the Christmas market stands.  
24^th December, Christmas Eve Dinner – Diners celebrating Christmas Eve at the rustic Stüva can savour specials such as Marinated salmon served with beetroot, apricot mustard and granola, Potato leek soup with truffle, Whole Duck roast served with bread dumplings and red cabbage along with the indulgent Kaiserschmarren with plum compote and cinnamon ice cream. The menu is priced at CHF 98 per person. Children will also get a chance to meet Santa Claus while he is visiting the hotel’s restaurants.
25^th December, Christmas Gala Dinner- The retreat’s casual dining restaurant, Hide & Seek will offer an exclusive Christmas menu created by Executive Chef Michel Hojac. The gala dinner will include dishes such as Epoisses cheese crème brûlée, Octopus Massaman curry and Duo of deer served with pear, brussels sprouts and Tasmanian pepper. Priced at CHF 130 per person.
26^th December, Snow Fight – The hotel’s Kids Club will host a fun snowball fight for all little guests in the garden.