First opened in 1906, when a trip to the Swiss Alps was de rigueur for the social elite, the Palace Hotel has been restored to all her fin-de-siècle glory by the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. This wonderful makeover has breathed new life into this Swiss Grand Dame, who now flaunts her original marble chequerboard flooring, pastel-coloured stucco walls, impressive scagliola pillars, extravagant chandeliers, and historic artworks. These stunning heritage features have been skilfully blended with the clean contemporary lines of a more modern aesthetic, while still retaining a sense of opulent indulgence. The service is impeccable, and the hotel’s environmental credentials are strong with no single use plastics, electricity powered by the lake and a locally sourced food policy.

  Each of the 136 rooms and suites has been individually designed but all boast superb views across the lake, city, and surrounding mountains. Inspired by the epic scenery, the palette reflects the subtle blues, greens, corals, and greys of the natural world. Expect tastefully pared back décor, Swiss oak flooring, white panelled walls, brass chandeliers, and marble ensuite with Diptyque amenities and Dyson hairdryer. Rooms offer a choice of lake or city view and connectivity options for families. Alternatively, the spacious suites include the option of a separate living room. The showstopping Presidential Suite is housed within the hotel’s central cupola and is enhanced by hand-painted murals and carefully curated original artworks.   Featuring two destination dining venues, a chic brasserie and al fresco Mediterranean dining, the hotel offers world-class culinary excellence, overseen by Executive Chef Gilad Pered. For fine dining head to Colonnade serving Michelin-starred French cuisine or Minamo, for an intimate six-seat Japanese kaiseki-style dining experience. Mozern Bar & Brasserie offers modern all-day dining or dine lakeside at Quai 10 enjoying a Mediterranean menu and vibe. For wellness, the hotel has a well-equipped fitness centre, the sumptuous SPA Bellefontaine, sauna, and steam bath. While there is no swimming pool, guests can swim at the charming 19th century Seebad Lake Pool built into the lake.