Of the scores of luxury hotels in Switzerland, this gleaming grande dame stands apart, its neoclassical structure seamlessly restored to period opulence, its vast waterfront grounds manicured like a country estate. Every inch of marble, crystal, and polished mahogany sparkles like new. Rooms have many modern touches—remote light controls, towel heaters, wireless connections. The hotel has a pair of first-class restaurants: the romantic La Rotonde (jacket required) and the Café Beau-Rivage (see above) plus an uber-restorative spa, Cinq Mondes. Umbrella canopied terraces, footpaths, and a hovering staff make it easy to understand why some guests stay the season.
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