BAUR AU LAC
Talstrasse 1, Zürich bauraulac.ch Looking at its unassuming dovegrey, Neoclassical exterior, you’d never guess the 119-room Baur au Lac is the grandest five-star boutique hotel in Zürich. Owned and run by the Baur family since 1844, it’s comfortable, tasteful and opulent, and counts Haile Selassie and Brigitte Bardot among its guests. The spacious rooms and suites are decorated with original art, while minibar items (included in the rate and replenished daily) are hidden inside ornate gilded cabinets. With first-class service, a private park and a location that straddles the financial district and the Old Town, it caters primarily to a business clientele during the week.
Business facilities Yes, there’s a business centre but it’s the six high-tech conference salons that are most impressive. Wi-fi Super-fast and free.
Food and drink Set in a glass gazebo, the Michelin-starred finediner Pavillon has acclaimed chef Laurent Eperon at its helm. A hipper crowd frequents the more casual Rive Gauche.
Fitness and wellbeing The rooftop fitness centre has incredible lake and mountain views.
Run route For a five-kilometre run, go south along the banks of Lake Zürich, turning back when you get to the tiny island of Saffa-Insel.
Coffee nearby Visit Odeon (odeon. ch) for some history with your brew. Somerset Maugham used to write here; Einstein was a regular, too.