Set on the banks of Lake Geneva, overlooking the famous Jet d’Eau, with the snow-capped Alps in the distance, the historic Le Richemond is one of the most prestigious hotels in Geneva.

The hotel has been a destination for international travellers since 1875, when it was an upmarket guesthouse with just 25 rooms, owned by Adolphe-Rodolphe Armleder. As its reputation for service and style grew, so did its clientele, which included some of the greatest names of the 20th century, including Charlie Chaplin, Louis Armstrong, Sophie Loren, Rita Hayworth and Marc Chagall.

In the last century, guests fell in love with Le Richemond’s wrought-iron balconies, its views of Brunswick Gardens and Lake Léman, and its discreet peace and quiet. These are still some of the reasons guests keep returning. The historic building kept its old-fashioned charm, but was updated in a bold, contemporary style with colourful fabrics, classic furniture and large, marble-lined bathrooms. As well as new-look rooms and suites, a destination spa, highly acclaimed Italian restaurant and bar were created, making Le Richemond one of the most desirable five-star deluxe hotels in Geneva and Switzerland.

Easily accessed from the train station and international airport , Le Richemond is set in the heart of Geneva’s business district, close to the River Rhône and Lake Geneva. Just across the river, the city’s Left Bank is home to the historic Old Town, with the cathedral where Jean Calvin preached, the museum district, and the fashionable shopping of Rue du Rhône and the pedestrian-only Grand Rue.

Geneva is a cosmopolitan, year-round destination with a variety of attractions, events and festivals, including L’Escalade in the winter and summer’s two-week Fêtes de Genève. Its museums contain fascinating collections, from the timepieces of Patek Philippe to contemporary art and the International Red Cross. Visitors to the city can sail the waters of Lake Geneva, and enjoy the region’s clear air and scenic beauty by exploring the surrounding countryside and Alpine villages. Geneva is used to playing host to the world and Le Richemond, in its stylish modern reincarnation, continues this tradition.