In the center of town, this Belle Époque hotel has catered to the rich and famous since 1878. Family-owned, it's permeated by a sense of well-being; the staff is warm and efficient. High ceilings give guest rooms a majestic feel, accentuated by warm, pale colors, and period pieces. Most rooms look onto Mont Blanc or Mont Brevant. The restaurant, Les Jardins du Mont Blanc, under the direction of chef Yoann Conte, manages a successful marriage of convenience between local products and tradition and contemporary creative cuisine. Besides classic French dishes (try the succulent crayfish with shallots and chanterelle mushrooms), many foods available only locally are served, such as a delicious lake fish known as fera. Pros: traditional environment; exciting dining; good value. Cons: threadbare rugs and tired furnishings; understaffed at times; a sense of faded glory.
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