We have exciting news for the watch enthusiasts among our readership. For the first time, we are now offering watch rolls on our webshop - ideal for your next holidays. Read on to learn more!

AW Leather Duo Watch Roll

For our first-ever watch roll, we wanted a design that looks classy but is also practical. Hence, our team opted for a roll that can hold two timepieces with an exterior made from matte textured deer grain leather in marbled navy blue color. Meanwhile, the interior is lined with finest suede-like Alcantara. This material offers maximum protection against scratches and is very pleasant to touch as well. The AW Watch Roll is equipped with oval cushions on which the two watches are placed securely. To make the handling easier, they snap in and out of the case. Like this, you can easily fasten a watch’s bracelet around the cushions. On the outside, the case is secured via an external snap closure. The Artworth branding is stamped in the middle of the external flap adding some extra elegance.

Handmade in Italy

To ensure a very high-quality, we have teamed up with sourcing specialists. They have contracted highly skilled artisans from the Piedmont region in Northern Italy to handcraft our AW Watch Rolls. The traditional manufacturing processes involving unique savoir-faire makes them truly special. Because each AW Watch Roll is handmade, we only offer a limited quantity of 30 pieces. Make sure to get yours here before they are sold out!

A digital safe for luxury watches? Adresta has just launched an app in the Android and iOS app stores which allows one to securely store and manage watches, using blockchain technology. But how does it work?

All relevant Data at your Fingertips

With the new Adresta app, watch owners can easily record their timepieces, create wish- and waiting lists and receive the latest news from the world of watches. Pictures and documents, such as the receipt and certificate of authenticity, can be attached to the created digital watch twin. Recurring events such as services can be added as well and reminders can be set. Should one want to sell its watch, the authenticity, condition and complete ownership history can be looked up and handed over to the new owner.

Adresta, a spin-off of ETH Zurich and Helvetia Insurance, uses the latest technologies to document the life cycle of a watch. In the future, watch owners will be able to book a service or repair in their vicinity with a certified partner. During this process they will be kept up to date on the progress in real time. Next, the startup will integrate the already launched watch insurance, which can be signed up for digitally, into the app. This will allow users to insure their watch in just a few clicks. In the event of a service, theft or loss, the user always has all the relevant documents safely at hand in their Adresta watch safe.

But what about privacy? Users on the Adresta app have sovereignty over their data. It is only shared with the respective brands or service providers at the request of the watch owner. However, watch owners can still make their collection public using a handle similar to Instagram. What we love about the app is, that it was developed in close exchange with the company's own watch community. At Artworth, we even got to test the beta version.

More Security and Transparency for Watch Purchases

When a new watch is purchased from an Adresta partner, all information is also transmitted digitally to the Adresta app. This means that user manuals, receipts or catalogues no longer have to be printed. While the buyer gets insight into the history of the watch, brands can communicate directly with the owners and relevant documents are safely stored encrypted on the blockchain. Since a watch can also be digitally recorded during a service or a sale, Adresta also allows owners to get a certification of their watch directly in the app. Cool, right?

If you are interested in buying one of our vintage OMEGA watches on our store. We are happy to offer you a certificate of authenticity by Adresta for free!

Perfection is the expression of each element in its purest form. And perfection is what one experiences when driving the new Rolls-Royce Ghost. Let us introduce you to the vehicle with a design built upon the architecture of luxury.

New Rolls-Royce Ghost

The new Rolls-Royce Ghost looks like one would imagine an R-R to look. Still, the only carry-over components from the first Ghost are apparently the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy and the umbrella that nestles within the B-pillars. The rest of the vehicle has been designed and engineered from scratch.

The Ghost comes with all-wheel drive which establishes newfound versatility and on-road dynamism without compromising the Magic Carpet Ride. Powered by the next generation 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V12, the Ghost delivers impressive torque at low RPM. Another surprising feature is the illuminated Grille, which emits a divine glow, bestowing the car with a distinctive, 24-hour identity.

Inside the Luxury Vehicle

A convenient innovation in the new Rolls-Royce are the Effortless Doors. The iconic coach doors open and close with accommodating ease. It is much like a built-in chauffeur feature.

Interior details mirror the pared-back sentiment of the Ghost's exterior aesthetic. The modern finishes feel simultaneously timeless and visionary. A particular highlight is the Starlight Headliner. Emphasized with an ephemeral show of shooting stars, the celestial scene is a rarefied vision of pure beauty.

Another captivating feature is the high-gloss, illuminated Fascia. It is a masterful display of the mesmerizing craftsmanship at Rolls-Royce. When the vehicle is in motion, the wordmark is enlivened by the brilliance of 850 three-dimensional stars. In repose, the star field dims and the Fascia seemingly disappears into the abyss of the night.

In the back of the car, responsive touchscreens on the front-central control display offer intuitive, expedient, and refined control. Another unique feature is the champagne cooler which is accompanied by the world's finest crystal glasses preserves the integrity of any celebratory sip.

Overall, the new Rolls-Royce Ghost can only be described as one of a kind. Its refined design, inside and outside, combined with unique features, incomparable comfort, and power is simply unique.

Are you more into Hypercars? Then check out this article about the Porsche 918 Spyder.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Geneva

As leading motor car experts in the Geneva area, Pegasus Automotive Group is happy to assist with any enquiries one might have about the Rolls-Royce range. Contact them here:

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Geneva
Pegasus Automotive Group SA
Route de Saint-Cergues 298, 1260 Nyon

High above the picturesque mountain village of Zermatt, the small 5-star hotel THE OMNIA offers an unique experience to guests looking for the extraordinary. Welcome inside the unparalleled world of the Mountain Lodge!

Guest Experience

Beautifully located "on the rock" in the center of Zermatt, THE OMNIA towers above the town and offers stunning views of the iconic Matterhorn. Here, an unique combination of visionary architecture and clean interior design awaits guests. As a mountain lodge, the 5-star hotel only offers 30 rooms, 12 of which are suites. The rather small size of the hotel makes way for a guest experience which might be second to none. Most staff are from Switzerland and embody the country's high reputation for excellent hospitality. Individual guest wishes are responded to with personal service. All this in a refreshingly informal yet welcoming and professional way. Here, guests truly feel at ease, able to simply enjoy the unforgettable moments awaiting one in Zermatt.

As for our 2 night stay, we arrive on a snowy day in Zermatt. The hotel's own electric vehicle takes us and our luggage directly to THE OMNIA. The hotel is entered in perfect 007 fashion through a tunnel suddenly appearing in the middle of the town. We get greeted and served Swiss sparkling wine as we settle down in the lobby's library. Here, we can admire the contemporary interpretation of the traditional mountain lodge for the first time. The quintessentially American concept, has been reinvented here by the New York based architect Ali Tayar.

Marvelous Rooms and Suites

The beautifully appointed rooms and suites feature warm materials, carefully selected photographs and Aesop skincare products. Offering unrivaled views of the Matterhorn and the rooftops of the village, the rooms are among the most beautiful in Zermatt.

The rooms are furnished with many incredible pieces by USM. The Swiss brand is known for its simplistic, functional and reliable furniture. It compliments the intriguing design of the rooms perfectly. The generously furnished suites make for a great place for breakfast. Before going to bed, we order delicious pastry, french toast and egg benedict and get all these delicacies served right on time in the morning. What a start into a new day!

In every room, a complimentary bourbon is awaiting guests in a beautiful decanter. A very nice touch we appreciate a lot - especially since we are whisky enthusiasts!

Culinary Highlights

Those who like to enjoy an apéro before dinner will love the terrace at THE OMNIA. It offers beautiful views over the picturesque town of Zermatt and up to majestic Matterhorn. After a walk in the afternoon, it is here where we settle down and share a bottle of champagne, while taking in all these incredible impressions.

Later, we head over to the restaurant. Upon arrival, we get invited to settle down on a couch at the fireplace. Here, we have a look at the menu and have a chat with the restaurant manager about tonight's specials. This informal yet professional interaction with the staff is something we truly value and enjoy here at THE OMNIA.

The maison's Executive Chef Hauke Pohl is a master of his art: the art of setting the perfect stage for the synergies of different tastes and thus for the authenticity of local Alpine and seasonal quality products. His style is pure, uncomplicated, modern – often with a twist and flavorful nuances of faraway places. Their newly introduced culinary philosophy proves to be successful, because Executive Chef Hauke Pohl was rewarded with 16 Gault&Millau points. At THE OMNIA, regional and local quality products are at the center of a philosophy which pays great tribute to Alpine excellence.

Spa with Matterhorn Views

Wellness is an essential part of holidays in the Alps. Naturally, THE OMNIA offers its guests unique spa facilities. Like most places in the mountain lodge, the spa is a place where people meet and interact in a family-like way. Guests settle down in the loungers around the magnificent pool and enjoy pure relaxation in the steam room and sauna. A special highlight awaits us outside. The large whirlpool, filled with steaming hot water, offers unique views of the Matterhorn. Can there even be a better way to relax?

So, is THE OMNIA the best small 5-star hotel? Well, it has won the title of "Switzerland’s Leading Boutique Hotel" at the World Travel Awards Europe this year - for the 4th time in a row! However, we really want to leave it up to your own judgement and hence recommend you to book your stay at THE OMNIA soon!

Welcome to the Crans Ambassador, a legendary 5-star hotel in the iconic Crans-Montana ski resort. Sitting in a spectacular panoramic location in the Swiss Alps, it invites guests to unwind and enjoy the unique surroundings. Read on to dive into this magical world!

Crans Ambassador's Alpine Chic Style

Crans-Montana was born when two friends fell in love with this majestic plateau during a hunting trip, and opened the first hotel there in 1893. This opening marked the beginning of the entire region's flourishing tourism industry. The exceptional air quality and sunshine also gave rise to sanatoriums from 1896 onward. Next, the golf era started from 1906, followed by world-class skiing, with the first downhill race in 1911. Today, the region is looking back on 125 years of fascinating history.

Part of this rich history is the Crans Ambassador. Truly immersed in the spectacular Swiss Alps, this exceptional hotel offers a breathtaking view over one of the most stunning landscapes in the canton of Valais. When stepping inside the hotel, one is surrounded by the elegant warmth of its amber-hued interior. We love how the hotel is characterized by key notes of wood and stone.

As soon as guests pass through the lobby, they step on the terrace of the Crans Ambassador. It is the true heart of the hotel and, warmed by the flames of a fire pit, provides the perfect spot to watch the sunrise from one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Valais. Here, we enjoy a welcome drink while taking in the magic of the Swiss Alps all around us - an experience to remember!

Inside, the bar lounge, with its comfortable ambience of leather and tartan, is the ideal place to settle down once it gets colder outside. Contemporary yet cosy, its warm wooden fittings, spacious layout and extensive panoramic windows make it a very comfortable place. In this alpine chic environment, we instantly feel like at home. Especially with the large fireplace in the middle of the lounge.

Well-being and Relaxation

In winter, the Crans Ambassador offers snowsport enthusiasts a unique ‘ski-in/ski-out’ location and direct access to one of the most renowned ski areas in Switzerland. Its location so close to the slopes is truly unmatched in Crans Montana.

After all the outdoor adventure, guests can unwind in the luxurious Crans Ambassador Spa. Here, well-being and relaxation await all year round on a large space of 1,300 m² - the largest spa in the resort. Bathed in natural light, the 17-meter panoramic pool creates a stunning mirror to the Alps. Besides the pool, there is also a beautifully designed zone with steam room, sauna and relaxation area. This space is truly dedicated to well-being and rejuvenation.

When it comes to the rooms, the Crans Ambassador has many different sizes and styles to offer. From small and charming to extensive with luxurious bathroom and spacious terrace, there is something for every taste and budget! Things all rooms and suites have in common, are the elegant furnishing, luxurious bedding, and stylish bathroom.

Culinary Diversity

Those looking for world-class cuisine while being on holidays won't be disappointed at the Crans Ambassador. At the La Muña restaurant, ultra-fresh and particularly tasteful dishes get served. The cuisine is inspired by the fusion of Peruvian and Japanese ingredients and recipes. It combines tender with crunchy, raw with marinated, sweet with sour. All ingredients are carefully selected and sometimes hard to find in Europe. We can watch the kitchen team while they prepare the raw (crudo) specialties “à la minute” in the open kitchen. We love the refined recipes used for the various dishes, which we order to share. An outstanding culinary experience!

Of course, traditional Swiss alpine cuisine can be enjoyed at the Crans Ambassador as well. The Carnotzet honours the region’s specialties and exceptional products. This traditional Valais restaurant, with its typical and beautiful “montagnarde” interior design, offers mature cheeses and charcuterie sourced from the best local producers and artisans. As Swiss, we always love to share the joy of a fondue or raclette in a cosy Alpine setting.

Breakfast is another daily highlight at the Crans Ambassador. At the buffet with a large variety of regional charcuterie, cheese, honey and bread, we lay the foundation for a successful day ahead. Delicious egg dishes can be ordered as well and are served directly at the table. While the food is fabulous, the breakfast room also adds to the extraordinary experience. Panoramic windows, stylish furniture and many wooden design elements make this space admirable.

Do you want to discover more places in the Swiss Alps? Then read this article on our blog.

The Swiss Canton of Grisons is known for its many beautiful valleys. One of them is called Schanfigg and is a true jewel of the Swiss Alps. This wild mountain valley has kept its original character and cultural features to this day. Here, imposing white mountains and romantic snow covered forests invite guests to experience unforgettable holidays - especially if they stay in the Arosa Kulm Hotel!

Alpine Test Drives

There is a particular reason for our visit at the Arosa Kulm Hotel. Guests who stay at the hotel are in for a treat this year, because the hotel has entered a collaboration with Land Rover. It is now possible to do test drives of the new Land Rover Defender and the Range Rover SVAutobiography. Something we definitely have to do!

Driving the new Defender in this mountainous terrain is a dream come true. We can feel how this vehicle was designed to be driven in this kind of environment. It is exhilarating to feel this car's power and versatility in the challenging terrain of the Swiss Alps.

While the Range Rover SVAutobiography was not specifically designed to take on snow-covered roads, it is still astonishing to experience this luxury car's capabilities in such terrain. This test drive proves again, that Range Rover cars benefit greatly from the engineering know-how available at Land Rover.

Activities & Relaxation

Besides thrilling test drives, the hotel also offers pure relaxation with a breathtaking view over the mountains. Guests can enjoy pampering massages and relaxing moments in the pool and sauna area.

For people who are still longing for more adventure, Arosa has a lot to offer. The fantastic ski area Arosa Lenzerheide with its 225 km slopes starts right in front of the Arosa Kulm Hotel. Cross-country skiers are also in for a treat because 26 km of cross-country trails wait to be discovered.

Experiencing Arosa Kulm Hotel

The history of the Arosa Kulm Hotel dates back to 1882. Back then, a hotel with 30 rooms called "Kurhaus" was opened. Today, the hotel has kept some of the spirit from this era. Although, rooms have been added and renovated on a regular basis. Junior Suites come with a bedroom and separable living room with sofa and comfortable armchair. The perfect amount of space for a week in the Alps with marvelous mountain view!

Another wonderful witness of ancient times is the perfectly preserved "Nostalgiebar" which is used as smoker's lounge. Here, guest can enjoy a drink and cigar in an authentic environment. The hotel has a nice selection of cigars and spirits available for enthusiasts to choose from.

Right next to the bar we find a large library with a beautiful wooden floor and large windows offering beautiful views. There is a big selection of books and a cozy fireplace to settle down and enjoy a snowy afternoon. For those having a competitive spirit, a pool table is waiting.

Culinary Delights

People looking for authentic Swiss cuisine will be pleased by the Muntanella restaurant situated inside the Arosa Kulm Hotel. Chef Florian Mainzger and his team have been looking for new and old local specialties to bring the flavors of the Swiss Alps on the guests' plates. Here, we enjoy alpine cuisine to the fullest!

One of the culinary highlights is the Ahaan Thai restaurant. It is a true Thai palace amidst the Swiss mountains. But why does the Arosa Kulm Hotel serve food from the Far East? Well, in the 1930s, the Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej learned to ski in Arosa and stayed at the Arosa Kulm Hotel. Ever since, Thai Cuisine has been a part of the hotel. Today, chef Tussanee and her team enchant guests with authentically prepared Thai delicacies.

Want to read more about adventure with the new Land Rover Defender? Then read this story!

Swiss people know that cold weather and short days call for warm comfort food. What could be better than enjoying a cheese fondue in Geneva? At the Beau-Rivage Genève, guests can now enjoy a three course menu inspired by the Alps in authentic vintage gondolas while overlooking the Lake Geneva.

Gstaad Cheese Fondue in Geneva

The Beau-Rivage Genève’s Terrasse is home to seasonal pop-up restaurants. Currently, the Terrasse Alpine offers an unique mountain atmosphere in the heart of Geneva. Guests can dine in authentic vintage-style ski gondolas from the iconic Gstaad region.

Gstaad is also where the cheese for the delicious fondue comes from. Straight from the Alps into the fondue pot on the shores of Lake Geneva! Opt for a glass of local Fendant, Champagne or a hot beverage to go with your three course meal.

Fondue Therapy Package

For those who wish to escape the everyday life for a long weekend, the Beau-Rivage Genève is offering a special package from now until 31 March 2021. Guests can draw their room or suite category at check-in and enjoy a unique mountain atmosphere in the heart of Geneva by having a fondue in one of their authentic vintage ski cabins.

As a benefit, room service is currently included for breakfast. So guests don't have to worry about getting up and dressed too early but can just enjoy themselves.

If you want to know more about activities taking place at the Beau-Rivage Genève, then read this story about the Geneva Watch Days!

When the first snow transforms the Alps into a winter wonderland, it is time to go out there and explore. The ideal companion for adventures in the snow is the new Land Rover Defender. We took on a Christmas getaway and realized that it is the ideal car for challenging conditions. Let us tell you more!

Christmas time in the Alps

Christmas is the most magical time of the year. Snow covered trees, fairy lights and warm, comfy living rooms filled with laughter and joy. For us, there is no better place to experience the Christmas spirit than in the Swiss Alps.

This year, Santa has put something special under the Christmas tree: a Favre-Leuba Sky Chief Chronograph. The ETA Valjoux powered watch comes with a beautiful burgundy dial with subtle brown subdials. A matching brown suede strap is complimenting the 43mm steel case perfectly.

While giving is a wonderful part of the Christmas festivities, the joy of being together and spending quality time with loved ones is what makes this holiday so special. When staying in a chalet high up in the mountains, the atmosphere is filled with the warmth of candles, the fire place and joy.

Exploring with the new Defender

For adventures in the snow, one needs a trustworthy companion. We found it in the new Land Rover Defender. This vehicle has been designed for optimum durability. Hence, it can handle extreme terrains and confidently takes us from the urban jungle into icy environments.

We love how the new Defender is honoring the vehicle’s history for rugged solidity while thoroughly remaining a Defender for the 21st century. This is most felt inside the car. Here, we find technology that was invented for modern-day adventures. Land Rover's most intuitive technologies to date ensure convenience, connectivity and visibility.

In terms of design, the new Land Rover Defender convinces us with its reductive, sophisticated surfaces. True British design with integrity!

One thing Favre-Leuba and Land Rover share, is their aim to push the boundaries of innovation. Their timepieces and cars offer a definitive reliability, built to accompany pioneers throughout all domains.

Do you want to know more about SUVs? Then click here and read our blogpost about a journey through Scotland's Highlands with the Jaguar F-Pace SVR.

"Do the impossible, because almost everyone has told me my ideas are merely fantasies." This quote reflects Howard Hughes' unparalleled pioneer spirit. But who was he and how did his and Swiss watchmaker Longines' paths cross? We are going to tell you the story in another sequel of our 'Quarantine Reads' series!

Hollywood

The Texan Howard Hughes was an adventurer at heart. Born into a wealthy family in 1905, he lived a privileged childhood. After the death of his parents, he put his inheritance to good use built up a billion-dollar empire. At age 18 he dropped out of university, let others manage the oil-tool business and set out for Hollywood in 1925. As a Hollywood producer and director, he discovered big stars like Jean Harlow and brought Oscar-winning films to the cinema. His first success was Hell’s Angels which debuted in 1930. For this action-adventure about World War I pilots, Hughes acquired a huge fleet of vintage planes. During production, three pilots died and Hughes himself crashed a plane. With production costs of USD 4 million, it was one of the most expensive films of its time. Luckily for him, it was also a hit which put Hughes on the map in Hollywood.

Aviation

As an indifferent student, Hughes had a liking for mathematics, flying, and mechanics. He took his first flying lesson at 14. As a flight enthusiast he grew beyond his limits and not only obtained his pilot's license, but even developed his own aircraft, which thanks to its aerodynamic shape was faster than all the others: in 1935 Hughes already achieved 566 km/h, breaking the world speed record. In 1938 he also succeeded in making the fastest round-the-world flight in 3 days, 19 hours and 14 minutes in a Lockheed Super Electra. To find his way, Hughes and his navigator used several Longines chronometers, including a high-precision instrument for astro-navigation. A lifelong aircraft enthusiast and pilot, Hughes survived four airplane accidents, one while setting the airspeed record in the Hughes H-1 Racer.

Hughes H-4 Hercules

Besides fast planes, he also built large aircraft. During World War II, the US War Production Board contracted Hughes to produce the gigantic Hughes H-4 Hercules flying-boat to transport 700 troops or 60 tons of equipment across the Atlantic as an alternative to ships that were vulnerable to German U-boats. The Hercules was the world's largest flying boat, the largest aircraft made from wood, and, at 97.5 m, had the longest wingspan of any aircraft. The Hercules flew only once for 1.6 km, and 21 m above the water, with Hughes at the controls, on November 2, 1947.

TWA

In 1939, Hughes began to quietly purchase a majority share of TWA stock; he took a controlling interest in the airline by 1944. Following his involvement, his company Hughes Tool Co. purchased the first 6 Stratoliners which Boeing ever manufactured. While five of them were operated by TWA, he used one of them as his private plane.

Moreover, Hughes also personally financed TWA's acquisition of 40 Constellations for $18 million. It was the largest aircraft-order in history up to that time. The nowadays iconic Constellation planes were among the highest-performing commercial aircraft of the late 1940s and 1950s. They allowed TWA to pioneer non-stop transcontinental service.

Longines Spirit

To pay tribute to the pioneer spirit of aviators and visionaries such as Howard Hughes, Longines has launched the Longines Spirit. It is designed in the style of the watches of famous pioneers who relied on Longines timepieces for their conquests. Bearing witness to Howard Hughes' pioneering spirit, the timepieces aim to inspire future generations to reaching new heights of achievement. All the models in the Longines Spirit collection are equipped with the latest technology. The result: high-precision movements, all of which are chronometer-certified.

Business Ventures

As a businessman, Hughes always showed a good hand and invested in industries that were just about to break through. Besides oil drilling equipment, film production and aviation, he also invested in real estate. He was particularly interested in Las Vegas. While staying in the Desert Inn, Hughes refused to vacate his room, when the owner asked him to leave because he didn't want to gamble in the hotel's casino. Instead of leaving, he decided to purchase the entire hotel.

He then went on to acquire more real estate in Las Vegas and even bought local media outlets. Overall, it is estimated that he spent $300 million on real estate in the Gambling Capital of the World and hence quickly became one of the most powerful men in Las Vegas. He used this influence to change the image of Las Vegas from its Wild West roots into a more refined cosmopolitan city. Hughes’ vision for the city was more glamorous: "I like to think of Las Vegas in terms of a well-dressed man in a dinner jacket and a beautifully jeweled and furred female getting out of an expensive car."

Howard Hughes in Pop Culture

In 2004, the intriguing story of Howard Hughes was portrayed in the movie The Aviator. The epic biographical drama film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Howard Hughes. Moreover, the producers of the 1971 James Bond movie Diamonds Are Forever based their villain on the character of Hughes. A tall, Texan, reclusive billionaire character named Willard Whyte operates his business empire from the penthouse of a Las Vegas hotel. His habitual seclusion and his control of a major aerospace contracting firm are key elements of the movie's plot. Several sequences were actually filmed on location at The Landmark Hotel and Casino, which was owned by Hughes at the time. A film we definitely recommend watching if you happen to be in quarantine right now!

Housing the International Olympic Committee’s headquarters, Lausanne is surprisingly well known for its rather small size. Not too long ago, the reputable magazine Monocle even designated Lausanne as 'Best small city in the world'. Does the city in the French speaking part of Switzerland really have all the assets to deserve the top spot in the ranking? We decided to go and find that out. For our stay, we chose the magnificent Beau-Rivage Palace as our home base. A decision that paid off!

Experiencing Beau-Rivage Palace

Situated on the banks of Lake Geneva, the Beau-Rivage Palace is nestled in the most beautiful spot of Lausanne. As we arrive here, we take in the Mediterranean atmosphere of the nearby harbor. We settle down in the hotel’s four hectare large garden. On the splendid terrace, we enjoy a glass of rosé champagne and enjoy the oasis offering views onto Lake Geneva and the Alps.

Since its opening in 1861, the Beau-Rivage Palace has been one of Switzerland's most prestigious grand hotels. As such, it is still an ambassador of the highest Swiss hotel tradition is a great example of the country’s typically excellent hospitality. It was here, that defining moments in history took place: the signing of pioneering treaties, famous artists finding inspiration, royal families and famous celebrity guests recharging their batteries.

Carefully renovated rooms

Classed as one of the best hotels in Europe, it is made up of two, nowadays connected, buildings. Between 2012 and 2014, all rooms were renovated. Many pastel colors were chosen and mirror effects introduced. Now, the calming atmosphere of the lake can be felt inside the iconic 5-star hotel too. This is especially true for the Junior suite we stay in. From its balcony and large lounge, the splendid view of Lake Geneva and Château d'Ouchy can be taken in. The perfect place for us, to enjoy an espresso!

Since we really adore the view from our room, we decide to have breakfast right in our lounge. We are quick to realize, that the Beau-Rivage Palace really knows how to spoil its guests. Carefully prepared fruit platters get served along with other mouth-watering breakfast dishes and freshly pressed juice. On the wrist this morning, the Longines Master Collection with both moon phase and calendar complications. An elegant watch for a classy stay!

Cinq Mondes Spa

Besides culinary delight, the Beau-Rivage Palace also offers attractive wellness facilities. The modern spa area opens onto the hotel’s four-hectare park which provides pleasant natural light and offers views of Lake Geneva. For active guests, two outdoor tennis courts await. Moreover, a well-equipped gym with panorama windows makes the daily workout especially rewarding.

Coffee at Ça passe Crème

As we set out to explore the charming city of Lausanne with its many outstanding restaurants, historic buildings and the Olympic Museum, we notice a little coffee shop called Ça passe Crème. Here, they serve specialty coffee and know how to treat their customers with beautiful latte art! For us coffee-lovers, a city needs to have at least one world-class coffee shop to make it worth visiting. We're happy to announce that Lausanne ticks this box thanks to the guys at Ça passe Crème!

For our stroll through the city, we have strapped the Longines Heritage Classic Chronograph 1946 on the wrist. With its 40mm case, blued hands and chronograph complication, it embodies the quintessence of classicism in watchmaking. How do you like it?

Visiting Domaine du Daley

Just a couple minutes away from Lausanne, the beautiful region of Lavaux is home to some of the most scenic vineyards in the world. Here, we meet with Cyril Séverin, owner and manager of prestigious Domaine du Daley. The winery's impressive history dates back to 1392. For more than five centuries, it was owned by the Chapitre of Saint-Nicolas in Fribourg.

Recently, Domaine du Daley made substantial investments to create state of the art facilities. All with one goal: produce outstanding wines and respect the great terroir. Their strategy pays off, as they have won numerous awards. Moreover, the great wines of Domaine du Daley have made it on the menus of some of the finest restaurants in Switzerland, China and Japan. In fact, Cyril Séverin is one of only few winemakers in Switzerland who export a significant share of their wines. As we taste some of the marvelous wines on the new terrace, witnessing a stunning sunset, he tells us more about his wines. Cyril Séverin is particularly proud of his original vinification of Chasselas. It is the traditional grape of the region and widely known in Switzerland. His Chasselas offers an exquisite expression of terroir and minerality through some years of aging and surprises even the most discerning tasters. We were also impressed by his signature La Légende blend. A truly unique wine that we can recommend to everyone loving white wines!

Now, is Lausanne really the best small city in the world? Well, it is definitely up there! With its location on the shore of scenic Lake Geneva, old town, Olympic history and world-class hotels, it has something to offer for everyone. Is it really the best? That is up to you to decide, so make sure to visit this charming and lively city soon!

Are you not much of a French speaker? Then read this blogpost about the new city and lake resort 'The Living Circle' in Zurich.