Fodor's Expert Review Beau-Rivage Palace
17–19 pl. du Port, Lausanne, Vaud, 1006, Switzerland
Of the scores of luxury hotels in Switzerland, this gleaming grande dame stands apart—its neoclassical flourishes 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. Guest rooms have many modern touches—remote light controls, towel heaters, Wi-Fi. The hotel has a trio of top-notch restaurants: the romantic Anne-Sophie Pic, the lively Café Beau-Rivage, and the Miyako sushi bar. You can also enjoy the lake views over breakfast in the glass-enclosed La Terrasse. The sybaritic spa, umbrella-canopied terraces, meandering footpaths, and a hovering staff make it easy to understand why some guests stay the season.
PROS
- old-world elegance with modern flair
- park setting with lake views is incomparable
- extraordinary breakfast buffet
CONS
- grand interiors missing a personal touch
- staff formality adds to upper-crust ambience
- rooms above event spaces can be noisy
