When the Oetker Collection opens a Masterpiece hotel on the banks of Lake Geneva, you make a note to self to book a stay straight away. And when I finally check in, I find that the tenth masterpiece certainly lives up to my expectations and then some.
Designed to perfection
With grand Belle Époque architecture dating back to 1901, the stately post-Haussmann-style hotel with just 26 fabulous suites has had all the contemporary bells and whistles added in by renowned architect and interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon. Geneva’s newest gem glitters with all the glamour of a lake house and the familiar comforts of an intimate mansion. Lacquering has been used throughout the hotel, from the unique ‘experience bars’ (done by Atelier Anne Midavaine) with mother-of-pearl inserts within the suites, to the red elevator by Swiss cabinetmaker Gruyeria, as well as the doors of the treatment rooms in the spa. Polished ebony walls in the lobby reflect the crystal chandelier from Mathieu Lustrerie. There are many quirky touches that reveal themselves over time.
Of these, I am especially amused by the idea of a preserved vault from the time the building was a bank, serving as a cigar lounge with a ‘No Smoking’ sign on its steel door today!
Suite as can be
Hotel tour done, I’m ready to see what my Mont Blanc suite is all about. It not only has stunning views of the iconic mountain from its over-sized picture windows, but also Geneva’s most famous attraction, the Jet d’Eau.
As scenic as these are, it’s the interiors that have me enthralled! I can’t stop marvelling at the beautiful Baccarat chandelier, the Medusa from Lalique crystal door handles in the bath, to the wooden marquetery floors crafted by Vasselleti, a flooring atelier in Tuscany.
Even the bedheads in the top-end suites boast a backing of sumptuous silk wallpaper from Fromental’s Prunus collection!
A few nights in this suite, its glorious bed, decadent marble bath with an unbelievable view, Guerlain toiletries, heated bathroom floors and remote-controlled toilets, and I feel like I never want to leave.
The spa that loves me
When I do manage to step out, I go for a proper pamper at the spa, the first one by Guerlain in Switzerland. That’s 1,200 square metres of Club Woodward in which I find all I need to truly rejuvenate. Six wellness suites, a variety of treatments, excellent therapists, fragrant Guerlain products, the perfect ambience… a hyper luxe feel all the way.
Plus, a 21-metre-long indoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art gym, two each of the saunas, steam rooms, Swedish baths, and one rather generous-sized hot tub.
The dining is fine
As if this is not luxurious enough, The Woodward does some very memorable meals. Think a relaxed brunch at Le Jardinier, with Lake Geneva presenting the perfect backdrop and sharply dressed bankers talking shop in hushed tones over the customary coffee and croissants while my selections are rather more bingey.
The same light-filled restaurant transforms into a sophisticated bar and dinner spot by evening, its full-length windows capturing the glorious sweep of the lake in its many moods.
For dinner, I book a seat at the Michelin-starred L’Atelier Robouchon, where Executive Chef Olivier Jean takes forward the legacy of his mentor, the late Joël Robuchon.
It’s a unique experience, where 36 diners can sit at the long counter and watch the master and his team at work.
As a vegetarian, I’m pleased that I can enjoy a very satisfying six-course menu that is as delicious as it is creative. Local seasonal produce stars in moreish dishes such as the silky carrot velouté, while I’m amazed by innovations such as the green mustard sorbet and a Black Forest dessert that is surprising in many special ways.
Sweet dreams are made of this
It’s French Pastry Chef Titouan Claudet who is behind the last one. I am told he’s a perfectionist and artist at heart, who approaches the creation of his desserts as a real challenge. An Instagram star, he is fascinated by puff pastry and layered stacks. During my stay, I find that most of his desserts subtly combine three flavours — a fruit, chocolate, or a dry ingredient, such as almond or hazelnut, as well as a spice, herb, or yogurt. Interesting, to say the least.
While it’s very tempting to spend all my time in Geneva at The Woodward, there’s a lot to explore while I’m here. My recommendations: A private tour of the Patek Philippe Museum for its wonderful collection of luxury watches, visiting the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, and sailing on the serene lake.
The Mont Blanc suite costs $5000++ per night and comes with complimentary airport transfers. The Woodward Geneva is located in, Quai Wilson 37, 1201 Genève and is approximately 30-40 mins from Geneva airport.
Note – The writer was hosted at the Woodward Geneva, but all the opinions expressed herewith are his own.
