First ranked as a grand logis in 1628 to distinguish it from a common roadhouse, this historic inn still feels like an exclusive men's club, catering to power-lunchers and well-heeled travelers. It fronts on the main road and is accessible by boat, with a sycamore-shaded terrace and rooms with exposed beams, niches, and antiques. Its inventive restaurant ($$-$$$) draws a regular clientele for its exquisite open-grill specialties, such as Simmental fillet de boeuf or lamb loin with jus reduction. Reservations for the restaurant are essential.
Reviewed by chez_rosbif from London, England on 9/15/07
I was originally inspired to try this hotel based on its, proximity to Lac Leman and Geneve.
4 years - 3 visits later, Hotel du Lac has lost its charm - not what it was 4 years ago.
Once a charming reception, complete with awaiting outdoor dining (and celebrity diners), and a large suite, it has failed miserably at the same rates.
At CHF435 a night, there is no help with the bags, a front door that needs unlocked just to get bags through it, awful parking across the street, and just a single, lone person at the front desk whos not helpful.
This time, September, 2007, each night, we battled spiders crawling all over the room. The first night we killed 8, the second 12. I complained. The front desk help told me that a house with spiders is a healthy house. What?
They may not kill but we do not relish the thought of sleeping with SPIDERS!!!
The wind had kicked up a bit and the closed windows howled all night long.
Breakfast was at 8:00am. After ordering eggs we were told that the kitchen doesnt open til 9am. After being charged CHF 25 per person for the privilege!
At check out, we complained to no avail; the front desk lowered the price of "breakfast" slightly and we were told to contact the manager.
We emailed for 2 weeks were ignored.
If they tell you, on a clear day you can see Mont Blanc you cant. Their web site states that all suites have balconies. They do NOT.
Wed complained each visit that the carpet runners along the falls were a slip hazard and roller suitcases snarl in them. Nothing has been done about it. They simply appear not to care.
So, skip it, especially at the price. You can find better! Pity, as it could be such a gem with the right people.
Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip