There are times when the best way to escape the city is... by staying in the city. Don’t believe us? Head to one of these inspired city oases hideaways and you’ll instantly forget all the stresses and strains of city life. When you think about it, it’s the ultimate staycation option: stay in the city you live or work in, but feel a million miles away from everyday life. We’re sold.
Here’s how to really hide away from the city you’re in: check-in to a five-star hotel tucked away in a subtropical park. Built as the home of a Russian aristocratic family in the nineteenth century, the hotel boasts multiple restaurants with Gault Millau points and Michelin stars, all manner of wellbeing activities and prime views of Lake Lugano, complete with boat rental. And did we mention the subtropical park?
Luxury on Lake Geneva. Sounds pretty sweet, right? That’s exactly what you’ll find at La Réserve Genève, a five-star hotel set on the lake and surrounded by lush parkland. The beautiful scenery will easily let you forget you’re anywhere near a city, but if you do want to dip into the hustle and bustle, private water taxis will take you on the ten-minute journey. But with five restaurants, a truly vast wellbeing and spa complex and all manner of other facilities, we’re betting you’ll probably just stay put.
Can you truly get away from the city when you’re right in the middle of it? Absolutely, when you stay at this small but perfectly formed hotel in the heart of Basel’s beautiful Old Town. The hotel complex is made-up of two historic townhouses, featuring high-end restaurants, cafés, bars, a wine shop – even a theatre. Rooms range from simple and stylish to those in the kunsthotel/‘art hotel’ section, which allow guests to stay ‘within’ specially commissioned art installations (don’t worry, they’re still as comfortable as ever). See? You’ve already forgotten you’re in the middle of a city.
The historic Hotel Florhof has been designed to allow guests to take advantage of Zurich’s rich cultural offerings, with the knowledge that they have a peaceful, cosy retreat to go back to afterwards. Set in perhaps the finest spot of Zurich’s Old Town, the boutique hotel features a tranquil garden and restaurant with 14 Gault Millau points. Truly the best of both worlds.
Elevated high above the city of Lucerne, this super-sleek hotel offers sweeping views across the gorgeous lake and a whole world of top-notch facilities, activities, and drinking and dining options. These include the renowned Louis Bar, with one of Switzerland’s most valuable whisky collections and live jazz, and Montana Beach Club, a stylish rooftop space that’ll transport you straight to Miami.
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