Not What It Seems

Geneva, Switzerland has the reputation of being dull, dreary and uncompromisingly uneventful! How mistaken this representation is.

Now don’t get us wrong, we’re not saying it’s the Vegas of Western Europe (though it does have a great casino in the city centre). But this little town has a lot to offer – beyond great chocolate, efficient public transport and the United Nations.

The winter season stays relatively mild, while offering easy access to some of the best slopes around. Spring is beautiful, what with the stunning (and swimmable) Lake Geneva, the backdrop of the Mont Blanc and countless parks scattered across the city.

But it is summer that we’re most excited about touting. The weather is magnificent and with temperatures well up into the 30s you can enjoy the lakeside beaches and outdoor cafés as if you were in St. Tropez (minus the over-sunned fashionistas).

The shopping is just as good. Stroll down the swanky Rue de Rive and you will not be disappointed. June is Fête de La Musique, when for three days the city is transformed into one giant stage as live performances of all types are scattered throughout the town.

Catch a classical show at the Cathédral St. Pierre in the Old Town, or a DJ set at the cultural centre (and squatters haven) L’Usine. The number of Michelin star restaurants popping up in the canton will satisfy all you foodies and with the surge of young professionals returning to Geneva in recent years, the bar and club scene has been transformed.

For a special night out in early July we suggest you take a short drive (or train ride) to the stunning town of Montreux for a laid back night of lakeside drinking, dining and dancing. This year marks the Montreux Jazz Festival’s 75th anniversary so you can be sure that the line up is stellar.

Forget Glastonbury, this is the festival of the season. The veterans like Leonard Cohen, Chaka Khan and Lenny Kravitz will be there to show the next generation (Alicia Keys, The Gossip and Mark Ronson to name just a few) how it’s done.