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
Related Stories
Zurich’s Dolder Grand hotel is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, and has long stood as a beacon of timeless, casual luxury.
Discover more
Presidents, prime ministers, the royals, half of Hollywood and London’s high society have all enjoyed the privilege of sitting at Anton Mosimann’s table. The only way to top this exclusive experience is to dine with him. Switzerland’s most famous chef is the perfect old-school gentleman and a walking history book. We had the privilege of accompanying him on his rally through half of Switzerland – in the slipstream of his fiery red Jaguar XKR8.
Discover more
I don’t know about you, but I always feel ambivalent about oh-so-attractive and apparently-super-duper-exclusive upgrade offers – be it at a hotel, fashion store, rental car company, fine dining restaurant, on a webshop or per Instagram DM.
Discover more
I’m honestly kind of surprised that – having survived the wonderful yet energy-zapping years of early child rearing, parents’ evenings from hell and moody teenagers – I find myself in a Zurich café with my editor and friend, Evelyn, launching into a caffeine-fuelled monologue about my younger daughter Lily that leaves us both somewhat jittery, exuberated and slightly in need of a lie-down.
Discover more
When it comes to nightlife and bars, the heartland of Swiss tourism at Lake Lucerne is a real dark horse. During our visit, we meet a bar chef who tickles our taste buds, bravely order a cocktail with a bite, and dine in what is probably the most exclusive Japanese restaurant in Switzerland.
Discover more
Discover how to prepare for your first marathon.
Discover more
With its imposing neo-baroque architecture and sprawling, verdant gardens, the Palace, as it is known locally, has remained a sought-after destination for over 160 years for those seeking an indulgent experience in one of Switzerland’s most breathtaking settings.
Discover more