Straddling the northern shore of Lake Geneva, the Swiss Riviera is one of Europe’s most exclusive enclaves. Glamorous hotels, exquisite boutiques and picturesque towns packed with culture and history are flanked by breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps. Stretching from Lausanne to Montreux, it comes as no surprise that this scenic area is home to a long list of celebrities from royalty to the arts.

Scenery to take your breath away

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Simply outstanding at any time of year, the views across Lake Geneva are some of the most spectacular in the world. One of Europe’s largest freshwater lakes, the bright blue waters of Lake Geneva glisten against a dramatic backdrop of snowy Alpine peaks. Terraced vineyards and charming belle epoque towns line the hillsides. Whether you take to the waters for a cruise or stroll the waterfront paths, the Swiss Riviera is a must-visit destination for any discerning traveler.

For travel inspiration: Switzerland destination guide

High end shopping and exceptional cuisine

World renowned for its high-end shopping experience, the boutiques of the Swiss Riviera are not just stores; they are an experience in themselves. Nestled seamlessly into historic cities, the architecture is exquisite with interior design nothing short of perfection. And foodies will be delighted by the Swiss Riviera’s gourmet offerings, which range from classic Swiss cuisine to exotic international dishes. The region is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, including Anne-Sophie Pic’s eponymous restaurant in Lausanne, which boasts three Michelin stars and is considered one of the best restaurants in the world.

Lausanne

Climbing up the hillside from the shores of Lake Geneva, the city of Lausanne exudes charm and sophistication. As you wander through its picturesque streets, you’ll discover a wealth of cultural and historical treasures, including its stunning Gothic cathedral and world-class museums.

From Hermes scarves to Luis Vuitton bags, Lausanne’s charming Old Town holds within it a mini-shopping paradise. Designer brands and exclusive boutiques can be found among its narrow, cobbled streets, along with historic buildings and cozy cafés. And for a taste of local culture, be sure to visit the bustling open-air market at Place de la Palud, where you can sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses and other local delicacies.

One of the must-visit attractions in Lausanne is the Olympic Museum, a sleek, modern building that pays homage to the city’s status as the Olympic capital, with an impressive collection of Olympic artifacts and exhibits.

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Explore the ancient vineyards of Lavaux

Though less well known than their French and Italian neighbors, the vineyards of the Swiss Riviera produce some of the finest wines in the world. Considered one of Switzerland’s hidden treasures, the exclusivity factor of these vineyards lies in their limited production.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the picturesque Lavaux vineyards lie between Lausanne and Montreux. The culture of vines and wine has been rooted in the Lavaux lands for a thousand years and these ancient terraces have a long and beautiful history. Here you can find Domaine du Daley, the oldest commercial entity in Switzerland whose original cellars were built in 1392.

For wine enthusiasts, a visit to the vineyards of Lavaux is a must, with a range of notable wineries that offer tastings and tours. Among the most famous are the Domaine De La Crasusaz and Terres de Lavaux. Another winery of note is the Domaine Dizerens which produces a range of fine wines using traditional land cultivation methods.

Related article: What to look for in a top-quality Pinot Noir, by wine expert Courtney Kingston

Montreux and Chillon Castle

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Famous for its annual jazz festival and its elegant lakefront promenade lined with palm trees, Montreux is a standout location of the Swiss Riviera. A playground of the rich and famous, the city boasts an elegant atmosphere, exquisite restaurants and a breathtaking mountain backdrop.

The town’s historic Château de Chillon dates back to the 12th century and is one of the most visited landmarks in Switzerland. This fairy-take castle juts dramatically out onto the lake and offers a real insight into the workings of the castle. Visitors can tour the castle’s well-preserved chambers and learn about its fascinating history. From the chateau through Montreux runs the waterfront Quai de Fleurs, one of the most beautiful walks in Europe.

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For those looking to indulge in high-end shopping, Montreux offers a range of exclusive boutiques and designer stores. The town’s Rue du Marché is home to a variety of luxury brands, including Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton. Montreux is also home to many beautiful parks and gardens, including the famous Château de Chillon Gardens, which offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town.

Discover this on: Majestic Switzerland

 Read more: Majestic Switzerland through the lens of a Travel Concierge

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or culinary delights, the Swiss Riviera is sure to exceed your expectations. To find out more about our limited-edition luxury tours to Switzerland and beyond, take a look at our exclusive worldwide collection.

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Experts in your destination and there to tailor your journey, your Luxury Gold Travel Concierge offers the ultimate service. More than a guide they offer a flawless personal service, tailored to you. To learn how Ultimate Italy is made even more ultimate, we spoke with Travel Concierge Anna to find out more about how she personalizes your tour.

Discover our Italy Luxury Tours and Vacation Packages

Meet Travel Concierge Anna

A specialist in Italy for over 15 years, Travel Concierge Anna knows this beautiful country inside-out. And, a key skill of a Luxury Gold Travel Concierge, she also knows people. “Tailoring the perfect Italy tour comes from our destination experience and understanding our guests. It is also about getting to know people quickly and identifying their wishes and desires.”

Through a combination of conversation and intuition, Anna gets to know guests’ needs right from the start. “I will spend time with them on the first night. As it is always a small group, it’s quite easy to get to know guests fairly quickly and offer a personal one-to-one service. I’ll ask if you have particular things that you’re interested in and would like do.”

But the personalization process doesn’t stop there. Throughout the tour Anna will continue to intuit guest’s likes and dislikes, tailoring the experience as she goes.

“As the trip goes on you learn more and more about people,” she says. “So, we also adapt to guests’ needs as we go. Through my expert knowledge of Italy, I have plenty great ideas up my sleeve to tailor your experience.”

Discover this on Ultimate Italy

Exceptional dining for every palate

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Exceptional dining is at the heart of every Luxury Gold journey, with some truly exquisite restaurants featured on our sublime Ultimate Italy tour. There are also opportunities for guests to choose how and where they dine. In a gastronomic haven such as Italy, Travel Concierge Anna’s local knowledge and expertise enables guests to tailor their culinary experience.

“In Capri, we dine at Michelin starred restaurant Mamma, where the food is exquisite and the views are jaw-dropping,” Anna tells us. “You approach through little narrow back alleys, through a tiny little door which then opens up to a panoramic view over the Mediterranean out towards Naples. It is an amazing dining experience.”

Related content: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

“When guest have a free evening, for example in Perugia or Florence, I will help choose where to dine. In each location I’ve hand-selected restaurants that serve delicious fare and are located near the hotel. Each areslightly different, for example one may be fine dining, one may be very atmospheric and local. Another might simply serve outstanding pizzas, we are in Italy of course!” she says with a smile.

“When it comes to gastronomy, every region is totally different. This is something I love to share with guests. Southern Italy is all about seafood and the views. When in Rome it’s all about finding that little backstreet trattoria that has traditional dishes served by Mom and Pop. And in Tuscany, Florentine steak takes pride of place on the menu.

“You may also have particular restaurants that you’ve heard of and wish to visit, in which case I will help with reservations where possible. It becomes apparent very quickly when guests are really into food so I love to help them out on that journey with all that Italy has to offer.”

Related content: Where to Find the Most Rare & Expensive Food in the World

Pick between exclusive experiences

With many exclusive experiences included on Luxury Gold tours, there are also times where guests can personalize their day, through a choice of two different experiences.

Carefully selected by your Travel Concierge, these thoughtful choices are curated with the Luxury Gold guest in mind. “The thing is with Italy, it has so much to offer,” Anna says. “It has art, history, architecture, beaches, mountains and vineyards. And of course, it has fabulous food and wine. It’s an incredible place.

“In the stunning hilltop town of Assisi in the heart of Umbria, knowing that art and culture appeal to our guests, we extend this offering with the opportunity to visit Saint Francis Basilica, to see stunning frescos dating back around 800 years.

“However, we also understand that guests might want something different, so they may prefer to join a local gourmand to taste delicious Umbrian specialities. That might be mushroom or truffle paste on crostini, interesting varieties of salamis or maybe the famous Umbrian pork, along with delicious olive oils.”

Elevating the everyday

“I’m always considering any opportunities to tailor a guest’s experience,” Anna explains. “I can show secret treasures that you might not otherwise find. If I know that someone is really into art, as we are walking through the streets of Rome I might quietly say ‘let’s just pop into this church because I happen to know there’s a Caravaggio in here.’ This is what happens when you are well experienced and know these hidden gems.”

Related content: The Luxury Gold guide to discovering statement art pieces on your travels

Special moments made exceptional

Wherever possible Anna assists with special requests, to make your journey extra special. “Sometimes guests are keen to trace their family history,” she says. “Guests from the United States often have family connections in Italy. If we are staying very close to where their family originates, I might help them make a visit. This can be a very emotional experience for everyone.”

“We also have guests celebrating big anniversaries, in which case I will help them make it extra special, to find a superb restaurant or location for a truly memorable occasion. There are lots of suggestions that we can make for special moments.”

Related content: 7 ways Luxury Gold makes your travel experience completely stress free

The best of both worlds

“Whilst guests want their service to be personalized, they also love being in a group, to have fun and share experiences together,” says Anna. “This is the great joy of taking these tours, meeting people and making new friends. But for our guests, knowing that they can also tailor their experience is the best of both worlds.”

To enjoy the wealth of treasures the Italy has to offer, and benefit from the personal service of your Travel Concierge, take a look at our Ultimate Italy limited edition luxury .tour

Exclusive hotels offer more than accommodation. They are steeped in history, charm, and a sense of presence that has seen the world’s elite enter through their doors. From Heads of State to politicians and Hollywood stars, these prestigious establishments are adored by those who understand what luxury really means.

Grand Hotel Quisisana, Capri, Italy

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Located in the heart of jewel-like Capri, the iconic Grand Hotel Quisisana is synonymous with the glamour of the island. It has attracted an exclusive crowd since opening in 1860, hosting the brightest stars of the time, from Ernest Hemingway to Tom Cruise. The hotel is also a draw for yacht-loving European aristocrats.

Located in the heart of Anacapri, towards the west of the island, the hotel overlooks the glittering Gulf of Naples. Here you can sit back with a cocktail and soak up dramatic views of Mount Vesuvius and Sorrento. One of Italy’s most exclusive hotels, the interiors exude old-world charm with marble floors, ornate chandeliers and richly colored walls. Elegant and spacious rooms, fine dining and a sumptuous spa complete the celebrity lifestyle.

Discover this on: Ultimate Italy

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Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, Quebec, Canada

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Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec is an iconic landmark that has been standing for over a century. Renowned as one of the best luxury hotels in the world, guests can enjoy stunning architecture, impeccable service and unparalleled views of the city.

A symbol of opulence and sophistication, the hotel has been visited by many prominent figures over the years. Hollywood stars and Heads of state have graced the hotel’s rooms, including Franklin Roosevelt, Queen Elizabeth II and Alfred Hitchcock.

Dining at Le Chateau Frontenac is to experience a masterpiece of French-inspired cuisine. Local ingredients elevate dishes and experts pair each with an extensive wine list. The opulent ambiance of the restaurant, with its grand chandeliers and rich decor, is matched only by the flawless service. It makes for a truly indulgent dining experience.

Discover this on: Indulgence in Eastern Canada

 Read more: The revered Quebec City hotel with an iconic movie star reputation

Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, Iguazzu Falls, Brazil

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Stretching across the border of Brazil and Argentina, the mighty falls of the Iguazzu River make up the largest waterfall system in the world. And guests of the 5-star Belmond Hotel Las Cateras, can enjoy sublime views of the mighty cascades.

A pastel-pink jungle hideaway, the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas has played host to countless notable figures. Princess Diana, Prince Albert of Monaco, David Rockefeller, Eleonor Roosevelt, Tony Blair, Bill Clinton, Anthony Hopkins, Jackie Chan and Paul Simon are among the famous faces that have stayed there.

Relax in the pool and soak up the sounds of the jungle, stroll orchid gardens and sip caipirinhas as the sun goes down. And, as one of the best spa hotels you will find in Brazil, local, responsibly harvested ingredients form the base for sumptuous treatments, delivering the finest in Amazonian healing.

Discover this on: Classic South America

 Related content: Our top 10 hand-picked luxury hotel stays for 2023

Imperial Hotel, Tokyo, Japan

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From Charlie Chaplin to Marilyn Monroe to Keanu Reeves, the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo is the A-listers hotel of choice in the city. A luxurious five-star hotel establishment, this legendary Tokyo landmark it is one of the city’s oldest hotels and has welcomed royalty, heads of state, celebrities and international business leaders for over 115 years.

Opened in 1890 at the request of the Japanese aristocracy, the Imperial Hotel has been rebuilt several times over the decades. The Imperial, one of Tokyo’s most exclusive hotels, is renowned for providing discreet and exceptional service to discerning guests. Located in the heart of the city its, 13 selected gourmet restaurants offer delicious national and international cuisine. This highly sought after establishment combines all its amenities with impeccable Japanese hospitality, for a truly luxurious stay.

Discover this on: Majestic Japan

 Related content: A journey of a lifetime: Unearthing Majestic Japan with Luxury Gold

Hotel Schweizerhof, Luzern, Switzerland

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The moment you step inside the Hotel Schweizerhof in Luzern you’ll be struck by the hotel’s impressive grandeur. A true gem of Swiss hospitality, its crafted floors and marble columns exude elegance from every angle. Offering the highest standards of luxury accommodation, the rooms and suites are impressive. Enjoy plush furnishings, sumptuous bedding and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Luzern.

Spend a night at the Hotel Schweizerhof and  follow in the footsteps of kings, emperors, writers, politicians, musicians and actors. Each of its 101 rooms and suites tell a story about former guests. These include Leo Tolstoy, Karl Frey, Richard Wagner and Queen Elizabeth II.

The hotel’s gourmet restaurants, Gallerie and Pavillion, offer authentic Lucerne specialties  alongside exotic dishes from the rest of the world. Savor dishes such as Lobster Bisque with vanilla, kaffir lime and mango, Scottish smoked salmon, and honey parfait with black walnuts and pear.

Hotel Bristol, Warsaw, Poland

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The Hotel Bristol in Warsaw is a true masterpiece of luxury and elegance, in the heart of Poland’s capital city. A landmark on the city skyline, its majestic neo-renaissance façade is surrounded by the UNESCO listed Old Town and the Royal Castle. Elegant Art Nouveau interiors house 206 rooms, described as the most luxurious in Poland.

The hotel has long played an integral role in Warsaw life, welcoming guests since 1901 and hosting leading figures from the worlds of politics, music and royalty. John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Queen Elizabeth II, the Emperor of Japan, Sofia Loren, Ray Charles, Tina Turner, Woody Allen and Placido Domingo have all stayed here.

 Following an extensive renovation, the hotel offers Warsaw’s ‘Belle Époque’ charm combined with contemporary 5-star comforts and service. If you are a lover of exclusive hotels, then the Hotel Bristol will not disappoint. The perfect location from which to explore the city, or relax and enjoy the amenities, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable stay.

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Hotel Metropole, Venice, Italy

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Superbly located just a few steps from St. Mark’s square, Venice’s Hotel Metropole sits on the edge of the lagoon, with superb views out over the water. One of the city’s most exclusive hotels, this stunning showcase of Italian luxury and history dates back to the 16th century.

Once an orphanage and church, the hotel now has an acclaimed restaurant AND a series of art collections. It also features a historic chapel-turned-Oriental-tearoom. Here Antonio Vivaldi once gave music lessons to orphans in the 1700s.

The hotel offers an ‘intense and theatrical atmosphere’, packed with intricate tapestries, frescoes and Murano glass chandeliers. Music is the heart and soul of this hotel, with Lou Reed, Patty Smith Lenny Kravitz and Grace Jones all staying here over the years. Other amenities at the Hotel Metropole include a luxurious spa and private water taxi service, allowing you to explore Venice’s canals in style.

Discover this on: Ultimate Italy           

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Magnificent stays are at the heart of every Luxury Gold journey. To enjoy these exclusive hotels, and more as you travel, take a look at our exclusive collection of limited-edition luxury guided tours.