Suite Talk - Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues
Founded in 1834, the iconic Hotel des Bergues was Switzerland’s first palace and Geneva’s very first hotel. A weighty landmark in its own right, it is considered by many as the number one address in town among the many upscale waterfront hotels that host Geneva’s well-to-do visitors flocking in from all four corners of the planet.
Lavish and quintessentially French in its decor, the overall opulence is reined in by modern touches here and there while still preserving the hotel’s rich and colourful history. Back in the old days, the top floors of this striking neo classical build were reserved for staff, while the distinguished clientele lodged comfortably on the lower floors. Today, the 6th floor is home to the hotel’s award-winning spa and pool, one of its three first-rate restaurants, and a handful of signature suites that stand out from the Louis-Philippe lavishness that typify the majority of the rooms and suites.
One such apartment-style gem is the Penthouse Loft Suite, located on an auspicious corner with alluring views over Geneva’s skyline, the lake and beyond, lending this suite a powerful sense of place. In true Pierre-Yves Rochon style, the space is beguiling and composed of carefully curated elements that remind us of the rich culture and history of the property. Rochon’s classic French touch becomes evident through the materials and textures used, seamlessly meshing contemporary lines with traditional accents. Elegant, inviting and soothing, this suite has it all: fireplaces in the living room and bedroom, a spacious marble bathroom with a walk-in shower and a built-in hammam, a dining table, work station and amenities abound in a colour-palette that is easy on the eye, peaceful and welcoming.
Symmetry plays a prominent role in the spaces as sharp geometric lines contrast pleasingly with soft hues, complemented by completely customisable lighting to create the perfect mood for every occasion. If ever there were a true-type of what a pied-à terre should be, the Hotel des Bergues’ Penthouse Loft Suite would fittingly feature at the very top of the list. Needless to say, this being a Four Seasons property, the suite comes with all ritzy creature comforts demanding guests could possibly expect. The attention to detail is nonpareil, and the suite's interior spirit makes one feel immediately at home. With the much-esteemed Spa Mont Blanc just a few languid steps away, this smart uber-suite is the perfect hideaway for a leisurely weekend or lengthier business sojourns at this waypost property in Geneva that truly is in a class of its own.
1. Dine at the top
The incredibly popular Izumi serves Japanese-Peruvian fare known as Nikkei under the auspices of Chef Mitsuro Tsukada on the hotel’s top floor. During the summer months, guests can dine al fresco at the expansive rooftop terrace with 360-degree vistas of Geneva, the Alps and the lake while indulging in Tsukada’s inventive and ambrosial menu.
2. Top up your tan
Soak up the sun at Bains des Pâquis, Geneva’s most famous lido, with its picture-perfect view of the Jet d’Eau, the lake and the city. Since 1932 it has welcomed locals and visitors alike to its concrete structure and wooden platforms surrounded by the lake's azure waters right in the centre of town.
3. Splash out
Just a stone’s throw away from the hotel, the upscale Rue du Rhône tempts serious shoppers to put their credit cards to good use. Whether it’s high-jewellery, fine watches, artisanal chocolates or the dernier cri in fashion you are after, Geneva’s answer to Fifth Avenue will certainly not disappoint.
Words S. Hottinger-Behmer
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