Luxury Lifestyle Magazine travel editor Natasha Heard takes a quick look at what Geneva has to offer couples this Valentine’s Day weekend.
Why settle for anything less than the best this Valentine’s Day? Show your loved one how much they mean to you by whisking them away to Geneva, one of Europe’s best city break destinations. With some of Europe’s leading museums and cultural attractions, as well as its own buzzing contemporary art sector, Geneva has exploded onto the scene as a leading cultural destination within the past few years.
Situated just 90 minutes from London and boasting a wide array of cultural and culinary delights, Geneva is perfectly placed to welcome the most discerning of travellers this Valentine’s Day. The city is bursting with cultural delights, whether it’s strolls round the gorgeous Lake Geneva, customised tours, or the Geneva Pass which covers 47 tourist attractions and activities, free or at preferential rates, and even includes a few gifts, Geneva has something to cater for every taste. Over the Valentine’s period, travellers can enjoy the renowned Antigel Festival – now in its sixth year. During this festival, the streets of Geneva are filled with awe-inspiring artistic projects. With a diverse range of beautiful acts in an array of unusual settings, an unforgettable experience lies around every corner.
Couples can explore Geneva’s wealth of history and cultural offerings by visiting the numerous museums and galleries scattered around the city. The International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, the International Museum of the Reformation, the Patek Philippe Museum and the Bodmer Foundation are particular favorites amongst couples keen learn about the city’s unique heritage.
For those interested in indulging in Geneva’s extensive shopping options, the famous Rue du Rhône is lined with more than 80 luxury boutiques, renowned fashion brands, exclusive jewelers and master-chocolatiers. After the frenetic pace of Geneva’s shopping district, couples can relax with an idyllic spa experience in La Reserve – one of the true gem’s that the city has to offer. La Reserve is one of the most exclusive and sophisticated luxury 5* resort and spa in Switzerland, with views overlooking Lake Geneva and stretching as far as the Alps. With a sauna, indoor pool, fitness centre and Hammam, at La Reserve you will find an intimate and infinitely pleasing home away from home, where excellence is both a vocation and a promise to those who share an appreciation for a different way of life – it’s the perfect end to an unforgettable holiday.
For long over four centuries, Switzerland has been the global leader of luxury watchmaking producing 95% of all watches sold at prices of over 1,000 francs. With over 80 independent jewelry and watch boutiques, couples are encouraged to take a stroll down the Rue de Rhône, where they will also encounter the opportunity to partake in a watchmaking workshop. Hand-rolled cigars, leading auction houses and exclusive leading chocolatiers are amongst some of the other things the intrepid traveller is bound to stumble upon. If you’re struggling for present ideas for your Valentine, these boutiques will give you a handful of ideas in no time at all.
Coined as Switzerland’s capital of gastronomy, Geneva also boasts a gourmet experience not to forget with countless Michelin Star restaurants (as well as numerous quirky offerings) never far around the corner. With over 140 restaurants offering menus from 5 different continents, it is a food-lovers paradise where couples are spoilt for choice when deciding where to dine by candlelight.
For those couples wishing to explore Geneva’s contemporary art scene, the quirky and unique pop up concept store FOUUND is at hand. Located in the heart of Geneva in a former factory, FOUUND is a meeting place that blends quality products and services. A refreshment bar, shop designers, hairdressers, tattoo artists, artist workshops, yoga classes, exhibitions, market nights and wine tasting are a few of the activities couples can experience here.
Geneva Tourism is inviting couples to spend this Valentine’s Day in luxurious comfort with the ‘Romantic Weekend’ package which includes a stay in one of Geneva’s many 5 star hotels. Guests can indulge with the included breakfast in bed and also take advantage of late check outs because we’re sure you’ll love it so much you won’t want to leave in a hurry.
How to get there
Swiss Air (swiss.com) flies to Geneva from Heathrow and London City airport, from £120 return. British Airways (ba.com) and EasyJet (easyjet.com) also fly from London and regional UK airports. The short train transfer from the airport is complimentary to air passengers.
To find out more, visit http://www.geneve-tourisme.ch/en/home/
