A Swiss summer escape with Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva

Summer is nearly upon us and whilst many choose to bear it out in the desert, smart people are making plans to head to Switzerland this summer to enjoy the best in European climate and ambience. Geneva in particular is popular with travellers from the Middle East; as one of the most charming and naturally stunning cities in Europe, it offers a mix of old world charm, extraordinary vistas and a chic modern lifestyle.

Geneva is the perfect base for European summer excursions; centrally located and with easy access to neighbouring countries, this cosmopolitan city has a vast array of activities and attractions. Historical medieval quarters stand alongside funky dining districts and lush parklands whilst the ever present majesty of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps lends a sense of quiet timelessness to the entire area.

For the culturally inclined, the city has over 40 theatres and museums offering a glimpse of times gone by and Geneva’s vibrant performing arts scene. Adventure enthusiasts can partake in anything from hiking and hot air ballooning to white water rafting and horse riding.

There are many options for accommodation in the city but the destination most suited to families on holiday and business travellers is undoubtedly the Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva. The 423 room hotel has an enviable location on the shores of Lake Geneva facing the stunning Jet d’eau fountain and close to key business districts and tourist attractions. Guests are greeted each day with stunning views of the fountain and the majestic Swiss and French Alps, probably one of the most photographed tourist spots in the world.

Spacious lake view rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies enjoy a panorama of the Jura Mountains, Mont Blanc, the Alps and the city. Accommodating to all travellers, the Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva also features a new duplex Geneva Suite – one of the city’s largest at approximately 700m² - with its own private spa, gym and lift and spectacular views over the bustling metropolis.

The hotel has recently been artfully refurbished to reflect the magnificent natural surroundings and the five star excellence synonymous with Europe’s oldest and most established hotel group. Rooms and public areas are subtly designed to reflect the synergy between the lake and mountains with cream marble walls, oak wood and gentle colour schemes.

“Floor Two” offers an entirely new dining experience, with different atmospheres and international cuisines to choose from, all on the same floor: The Restaurant, The Grill, The Lounge and The Bar are geared to meet the most exacting standards, not forgetting Tse Yang’s Chinese restaurant. During the summer, the terrace is a natural extension of the dining area where guests may take their drinks or meals outside and soak up the sun and fresh lake breeze with fabulous views over the Jet d’Eau.

Once guests are done exploring the city and surrounding areas they can seek out the refuge of the hotel’s leisure and relaxation facilities which include an indoor salt-water swimming pool with outside sundeck in summer, a sauna, massage facilities, steam bath, solarium and sun-beds.

A shopping arcade on the ground floor features high end boutiques, jewellers and an art gallery with the best in Swiss luxury goods. Facilities are in place to cater especially to Arab travellers including Middle Eastern cuisine, Arabic speaking staff, prayer carpets and spacious rooms and suites for families.

As a family destination Geneva has a lot to offer, with fascinating activities and sights for children such as the Marionette theatre and the mini train and more civilised pursuits for adults such as the nearby thermal springs, world class shopping and the famous Montreux Jazz Festival for the first two weeks in July and only 60 minutes from Geneva.

This summer the Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva is offering special summer interlude rates at AED 1,800 or CHF 595 per night for a superior room with breakfast. The offer is valid from July through to September. Those who get in quick and stay at the hotel in June can avail themselves of the special soft opening rate of AED 1,330 or CHF 440, not including breakfast.

For bookings and inquiries go to Kempinski-geneve.com.