New Swiss hotel offers lakeside escape
The Woodward brings Parisian style to Geneva
Get a taste of Parisian style and historic architecture in Switzerland at the Woodward, set on the shores of Lake Geneva. Located right on Quai Wilson, the grand new hotel started welcoming guests last month.
The backstory
Part of the Oetker Collection, the luxury hotel is housed in a post-Haussmann-style building that dates back to 1901, when the site originated as another hotel before becoming a bank. The neoclassical façade remains, although famed architect and interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, known for his work on the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills and St. Regis Rome, was enlisted for the revamp inside.
The space
To make guests feel immediately welcome, Rochon designed the lobby to mimic an inviting mansion, with velvet sofas, 1930s-style furniture and a big, hand-knotted Nepalese rug. This carries on in the guest rooms, where the Woodward’s 26 suites (from $1,695) resemble Parisian apartments. Suites range from about 600 square feet to more than 3,260, with a marble fireplace in each one, and cosy balconies in some. Most suites boast views of Lake Geneva or, in the distance, the French Alps.
The dining
Both on-site restaurants are outposts of Michelin-starred spots in New York City. The first is the intimate L’Atelier Robuchon, with an open kitchen and just 36 counter seats (semi-private dining rooms can also be booked), where the menu features elevated plates like roasted suckling lamb chops with stuffed eggplant rolls. The second is the more relaxed Le Jardinier, where you’ll find vegetable-focused fare, such as spelt with saffron, purple artichokes and opal mizuna, served on two spacious verandas overlooking the harbour.
The extra amenities
The Woodward is home to Switzerland’s first Guerlain Spa. Find six treatment rooms, Italian marble showers and a lengthy menu that includes the re-energizing “Spirit of Lake Geneva” body massage. The 13,000-square-foot wellness space, called Club Woodward, also includes an indoor pool, saunas, steam rooms, a hot tub and a 24-hour gym.
The nearby sights
Go vintage hunting in the Plainpalais flea market (one of the largest in the country), sail Lake Geneva or book a one-hour drive to Lavaux, known for vineyard terraces recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Woodward can also arrange a private tour of the Patek Philippe Museum, or hot air balloon rides, where you can enjoy a fondue and the views.