PRICE:
Frommer's Exceptional

When you win the millions in the lottery, check in here. Le Richemond, which counts some of the world's most prominent people among its guests, has for years been identified as the greatest hotel in Geneva. But since its takeover by the U.K.-based Rocco Forte chain and the insertion, throughout 2007, of millions of dollars of the finest decorative design that love or money can buy, the hotel has re-emerged as the Geneva hotel that everybody is talking about. When Michael Jackson checked in, he was following in the footsteps of the famous and infamous of yesteryear, including Colette, Miró, Chagall, and Swiss resident Charlie Chaplin. Erected in 1875, the neoclassical, travertine building has wrought-iron balustrades, each emblazoned with the letter "R" (Richemond? Rocco?), and is situated across the quayside boulevard from the lake, across from a small park. In the 19th century it was an unpretentious guesthouse. Its acquisition by the Rocco Forte chain catalyzed a radical re-examination of its decor, and although the place was still locked tight for renovations at press time, expectations and ambitions for this hotel ran high -- very high indeed. Accommodations range from the most spacious in the city to medium in size; nearly half of the units here are suites, attracting all of Europe, plus international CEOs. This is true Grand Hotel living, with elegant fabrics, tasteful upholstery, and luxurious beds, plus spacious marble bathrooms with robes and a basket of expensive toiletries. Note: Prices are only approximate and are subject to change in 2008.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's Switzerland, 13th Edition, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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