Places

Lake Geneva: An insider’s guide to the Swiss Riviera

16.04.2025
Published by
Ultima Collection

Justly famous for its picturesque lakeside setting, Geneva offers all sorts of urban attractions plus views of dramatic Mont Blanc.

Geneva is a city that exudes effortless sophistication. Here, time is measured in exquisite Swiss watches, fine dining is an art form and the lake is more than a view – it’s a way of life. At Ultima Quai Wilson Geneva, you are just moments from the water and the city’s cosmopolitan heart.

Framed by the mirrored stillness of Lake Geneva and the snow-capped peaks of Mont Blanc, the city offers a rare blend of tranquillity and prestige, of historic grandeur and modern indulgence. A short 20-minute drive from Geneva’s centre, Ultima Grand Villa Geneva offers a peaceful retreat, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Alps.  

The rhythm of water: life on Lake Geneva

Geneva’s pulse is found along the lake. It’s in the morning joggers tracing the Quai du Mont-Blanc, the yachts drifting past opulent mansions and the iconic Jet d’Eau – a fountain that soars 140m into the sky, a striking emblem of the city.

The best way to explore? A private yacht charter, accompanied by a chilled Swiss Chasselas. Glide past the shoreline taking in Geneva’s elegance, or cruise towards the medieval Château de Chillon, its turrets reflecting in the still water. As the sun begins its descent, cruise towards the golden hour at Bains des Pâquis – a chic yet unassuming lakeside retreat where locals gather for fondue and the best sunset views in town.

 

Timeless elegance: from Old Town to haute horology

For connoisseurs of craftsmanship, Rue du Rhône is a pilgrimage. This elegant boulevard is home to the who’s who of haute horology – a must-visit for one-of-a-kind watches. Nearby, Geneva’s designer ateliers create a fashion landscape as refined as the city itself.

Beyond the boutiques, Geneva’s Old Town (Vieille Ville) is a maze of cobbled streets, hidden courtyards and centuries-old façades, best explored at a leisurely pace. Stop at Place du Bourg-de-Four, once a gathering place for the city’s intellectuals, before climbing to St. Pierre Cathedral, its ancient bell tower offering panoramic views.

Art lovers will find treasures in the Museum of Art and History, while a world-class opera or ballet performance at the Grand Théâtre de Genève is not to be missed. And for those fascinated by the inner workings of diplomacy, our team can arrange a private tour of the United Nations – a rare opportunity to step behind the scenes. 

A taste of Geneva: Michelin stars & Swiss wine tours

In a city synonymous with discretion, Geneva’s fine dining scene is a quiet triumph. At the two-Michelin-starred Domaine de Châteauvieux, chef Philippe Chevrier elevates Swiss produce with impeccable French technique.

For Michelin-starred dining with a lakeside view, Bayview by Michel Roth delivers precision in every dish. Meanwhile, L’Address, a favourite among in-the-know locals, serves up creative plates in an effortlessly stylish setting.

And then, of course, there is Swiss wine – a well-kept secret, largely unavailable outside the country. Let our team arrange a private tasting in the Lavaux vineyards, where the coveted Chasselas grape thrives. Or for something sweet, try a masterclass with a Swiss chocolatier, where you’ll learn why Geneva’s pralines are among the finest in the world.

 

From city to summit: extraordinary experiences

Geneva offers a gateway to adventure as well as indulgence. A private helicopter tour over Mont Blanc is an experience like no other, sweeping over glaciers, sheer rock faces and untouched Alpine valleys. In winter, bask in the serenity of the snow-touched landscape and unwind with a bespoke treatment in our state-of-the-art spa.

Come summer, the Alps transform into a playground of a different kind. Hike through meadows bursting with wildflowers, picnic beside mountain lakes, or let us secure a private suite at the Montreux Jazz Festival, where the world’s greatest musicians perform against a breathtaking backdrop. And when the day draws to a close, retreat back to Ultima Grand Villa Geneva for a chef-curated tasting menu, best enjoyed by candlelight on your lake-facing terrace.

To start planning your Geneva escape, please get in touch with our team.

 

Images: courtesy of Getty Images, Gavin Li, Kseniia Zapitakina (Unsplash).

 

Explore our collection

Discover our range of ultra-luxury villas, chalets and hotels. 

Step into our world…

Unlock exclusive access to our latest news and offers, stories by world-leading experts, plus the behind-the-scenes moments.