A Relaxing Retreat at Hôtel Royal Evian Resort
Hôtel Royal, Evian Resort Photo copyright Evian Resort
Looking for a magical getaway not too far from Zurich, where you can unwind with stunning lakeside views, relax in a top-class spa, enjoy excellent dining, and make the most of golf and a whole range of outdoor pursuits? All while staying at a hotel once described as the “most beautiful in the world”?
We recently had the pleasure of staying at the iconic Hôtel Royal, part of the Evian Resort in Évian-les-Bains, France and it was truly a memorable experience. Our journey began in Zurich, taking the train to Lausanne. It was a wonderfully scenic route and a great start to the trip. From Lausanne, we caught the boat across the clear waters of Lake Geneva, surrounded by stunning mountain views, arriving in Evian-les-Bains in the most elegant fashion. As we approached Evian Port, the Hôtel Royal came into view, perched on the hillside and framed by parkland. A minibus from the hotel was waiting to greet us as we disembarked and we were whisked away to this fabulous Belle Époque grande dame.
An Iconic Hotel in Évian-les-Bains
Lobby at Hôtel Royal, Evian Resort Photo copyright Evian Resort
Opened in 1909, Hôtel Royal is a luxurious five-star hotel in Evian known for its Belle Époque charm and modern comforts. Overlooking Lake Geneva and framed by the Alps, this historic hotel is part of the Danone Group, which also owns the world-famous Evian mineral water brand. It has hosted many high-profile guests over the years, including amongst others, Queen Elisabeth II, Greta Garbo, Édith Piaf, Marcel Proust, Ringo Starr and the heads of state attending the 2003 G8 summit. Furthermore, in 2016, the Hôtel Royal joined the select group of establishments in France to receive the prestigious “Palace” distinction.
Art Nouveau and Art Deco
Designed by Jean Albert Hébrard, the building showcases a blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, with interiors crafted by Gustave Louis Jaulmes and Adrien Karbowsky.
The hotel was named in honour of King Edward VII, who sadly passed away before he could stay there. The suite named after him remains one of the hotel’s most exclusive. With its gleaming white facade resembling a grand ocean liner, the hotel has survived two world wars and a major fire in 1958 — after which it was lovingly restored.
The Suite: A Room with Many Views
Our suite was extremely generously proportioned and very luxurious. It faced the lake and featured balconies with breathtaking panoramic views across Lake Geneva and over the gardens and golf course.
The space included a large, exceptionally comfortable bed and a sleek granite bathroom with all modern fittings.
The lounge separate area was ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring or enjoying the spa.
Every window offered a different view of the lake and gardens.
The Evian Spa and Pools
The recently renovated Evian Spa is a major highlight. Known as Europe’s first hotel spa, it covers 1,200 square metres and includes treatment rooms, a sauna, hammam, hydrotherapy trail and a fully equipped gym.
Its wellness concept is inspired by the natural cycle of Evian mineral water. Whilst I was there, I enjoyed the “Harmonie Sublime” treatment, which was wonderfully soothing, and followed it with some time in the magnificent Belle Époque-style rest room:
It’s one of the most beautiful relaxation areas ever.
The indoor-outdoor pool was another treat.
The outdoor section with its jacuzzi jets and rock garden setting was further bonus. There’s also an infinity pool (see picture below) in the gardens offering uninterrupted views of Lake Geneva – you really couldn’t picture a better place for a pool with a view.
Outdoor Infinity Pool Hôtel Royal, Evian Resort Photo copyright Evian Resort
Top Gastronomy at the Evian Resort
If you love good food you really are in for a treat at the Evian Resort. On our first evening, we dined at Hôtel Ermitage, a short 10-minute walk from Hôtel Royal through the scenic parkland. Dinner at Restaurant La Table was simply delicious with wines expertly selected by our knowledgeable sommelier.
On our second night, we enjoyed a wonderful meal at La Véranda, the hotel’s own restaurant, where fresh, seasonal ingredients were beautifully prepared and paired with local wines.
For breakfast La Véranda Restaurant offered and impressive selection of cold cuts, cheeses, fresh pastries as well as a whole variety of cooked-to-order hot dishes. On our final morning, hower, we indulged in an in-room breakfast, elegantly served on a table beside our open balcony. Eating with a view of Lake Geneva in this gorgeous suite was just such a lovely experience.
Although the Michelin-starred Les Fresques restaurant with Chef Patrice Vander at the helm, was closed during our visit, it has a great reputation for its creative dishes and use of produce from the hotel’s organic garden.
See some impressions of our visit here:
Exploring Évian-les-Bains
We also took some time to explore the charming town of Évian-les-Bains. A walk along the lakeside promenade offered more lovely views, and we had a relaxed lunch at La Terrasse du Baron, the first floor restaurant at the Evian Resort Casino, which has a great menu and more of those incredible lake views.
Perfect For Families
Children are not forgotten at Hôtel Royal. The hotel offers a fantastic array of amenities for families with kids. There is childcare available with Baby, Kid’s, and Teen’s Clubs a dedicated children’s pool and even swimming lessons on offer. There are flexible family suites as well as babysitting on request, tailored child-friendly dining, and even parent–child spa treatments.
Sustainability and Nature
The Evian Resort estate takes a hands-on approach to sustainability. It produces its own honey from beehives on site and grows a variety of fruit and vegetables in its gardens. The team also works year-round to preserve biodiversity throughout the 19-hectare parkland, making it an eco-conscious destination as well as a luxurious one.
Photo copyright Evian Resort
The Hôtel Royal certainly lives up to its name. From the grandeur of the building and its historic charm to the fine food, relaxing spa, and scenic surroundings, every detail has been thought thorugh. It’s a perfect spot to switch off, relax, and enjoy a slower pace of life with all the comforts and elegance you could wish for. We thorougly enjoyed our stay there and simply didn’t want to leave! For more information see below.
Hôtel Royal – Evian Resort
Address: 960 Avenue du Léman, 74500 Évian-les-Bains, France
Website: Visit the Hôtel Royal Evian Resort website here
Tel: +33 4 50 26 85 00
*** Articles You May Like ***
Visit The Fondation de l’Hermitage Lausanne: Art, Chocolate & More
****************************
