Step inside Geneva's lakeside haven where history, luxury, and French artistry intertwine

There are some hotels that become the destination itself. The Woodward, Geneva, is truly one of them. Nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by panoramic views of Mont Blanc, the hotel is the first all-suite abode in the city. The 26 suites range in size from just under 600 sq ft to over 1,700 sq ft, ensuring that every guest experiences royalty. The post-Haussmann style limestone building, originally built in 1901 by French architect François Durel, once saw heads of state, royalty, and artists from around the world gather behind its classic façade. Named L’Hôtel Bellevue, the institution later gave way to a private bank but has since been reimagined and carefully transformed by Pierre-Yves Rochon (known for London’s Savoy and the George V in Paris) into a modern classical five-star urban retreat, ensuring its return to its former glory.

Elegant, timeless, and classical inside and out, The Woodward has been designed as more than just a hotel, aiming as it does for the atmosphere of a private home—provided that home is a French mansion! The entire property has been meticulously designed, with custom furnishings, handcrafted accents, and rare art collections giving each nook and corner a unique personality—think silk wallpapers, wood parquetry on the floors, Baccarat crystal chandeliers, and Ralph Lauren armchairs.

As you enter the massive wrought iron entrance door decorated by hand with gold leaf, you are greeted at the hotel’s reception where the walls are made of ebony wood and the floors are covered with lustrous carpets. Carry on to the Lobby Lounge, where a cosy fireplace tucked into 1930’s Art Deco-style polished wood and inlaid bronze invites you to relax. Full-height double doors with bronze handles further convey Art Deco glamour, highlighting the iconic era of design when classical and modern styles first converged. On display is an eclectic mix of precious artefacts and accessories that have been carefully handpicked from across the globe.

No matter which suite you book, you will be greeted with unobstructed views of Lake Geneva and the Alps beyond it. But it is the luxurious suites themselves with their dazzling white-marble bathrooms, huge working fireplaces, plush carpets, and marquetry-style wood panelling that stretches beyond the floor and up the walls, that make The Woodward ideal for your inner diva. Elegant French doors give way to a dedicated entry foyer with wood parquet floors, silk wall coverings, and a private valet box, leading to a large living room and dining area nestled in the alcove of a bay window. Flooded with daylight and featuring a layered palette of creams, beiges and browns along with a mix of pale blues, greens, and greys, the plush bedrooms come with walk-in closets.

The Woodward, a part of the Oetker Collection, which includes among others the Bristol in Paris and the Lanesborough in London, is within easy walking distance of the charming old town of Geneva with its churches and museums.

But while you are in the hotel, you can relax at the Guerlain Spa (the first outpost of the famous French brand in Switzerland), with the longest swimming pool in Geneva, alongside whirlpool tubs, a sauna, a hammam, a fitness centre and, of course, its array of sublimely scented Guerlain treatments.

You must also enjoy delectable meals at Le Jardinier—a farm-to-table restaurant promoting local produce—and L’Atelier Robuchon, the only 2 Michelin Star restaurant in Geneva. From your seat around a 36-person counter, you can watch every move of executive chef Olivier Jean’s talented team as they flow quietly about the kitchen in carefully choreographed and well-rehearsed gestures.

Whether you are visiting Geneva for the lake, the Alps, the watch manufacturers, or simply as a city break back from your ski trip, do check into The Woodward.

Feaure Image and body images credits: Romain Reglade & Claire Cocano.

This article originally appeared in the Harper's Bazaar India January-February 2024 print issue.

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