Auberge du Père Bise ★★★★

It’s always exciting when you find out that you’re staying somewhere a famous person has stayed… especially when it’s someone like Charlie Chaplin, Winston Churchill, Richard Nixon and the Queen of England herself! This unique 100-year-old inn bears a name that has been made famous by three previous generations, thanks to their talent and expertise which have evolved harmoniously over the years. You’ll feel like part of the family when you experience the laidback yet excellent hospitality and the signature dishes passed down through the generations, not to mention the huge range of activities which could keep you busy for weeks on end.

“The most beautiful country in the world” – Winston Churchill

Visitors are attracted by the unique beauty of the area and by the quality of the efforts made to save the lake and its surroundings from any pollution - something which has destroyed so many other great natural feats. The mountains are soft and full of alpine character, with clear water which changes with the seasons… vivid green in spring and summer, glowing blue in autumn, pristine white in winter. The protected environment is respected and loved by the caring community whose passion, determination and genuine love of nature has led to it being the purest lake in Europe.

Upon arrival at Auberge du Père Bise, you’ll be checked in by the helpful staff and escorted to your luxurious suite, complete with a mini-bar, a satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a safe, air-conditioning, a bathtub and separate shower, bathrobes and a private balcony or terrace with stunning views of the lake.

Hungry from your travels, perhaps it’s time for a bite to eat. Sophie Bise, a key figure in gastronomy, preserves the authenticity which her great grandparents created, adding her own inventive touch. Working with local fresh products, her unique dishes are complimented with historical and regional wines from the authentic cellar. Her genuine passion which has been passed down through several generations comes across in her exquisite menu which changes several times a year, with dishes including traditional foie gras, crayfish, steak cooked to perfection and fresh fruit platters served with refreshing sorbets.

“A day without laughter is a day wasted” – Charlie Chaplin

The surrounding area is perfect for all the leisure activities you can think of, but first let’s take a stroll through the colourful, cobbled streets of Annecy’s Old Town where a multitude of castles, churches, museums, shops, restaurants, markets and local craftspeople awaits you. In fact, the area has received the much-coveted “Art and History” label, meaning the cultural possibilities are endless. For the adventure-seekers, the lake hosts a huge range of sports on both water and land. The mountain breeze provides ideal windsurfing conditions, whilst the underwater archaeological sites dating back to the Neolithic area make it fascinating for scuba divers. One of the most popular cycle routes in the country goes around the lake, and was even used for the 2009 Tour de France! The rest of the activities available include hiking, paddle-boarding, canyoning, rowing, sailing, white-water rafting, high-ropes, climbing and for those who aren’t scared of heights, you can even try paragliding, bungee jumping and flying in a gyrocopter. But if none of that takes your fancy, you can always go and find your own slice of paradise at the private beach. It might sound like a cliché, but there really is something for everyone at this haven of tranquillity, where you can disconnect from the real world and learn to appreciate the beauty of nature.

* Below is the 3 course Signature Menu (drinks excluded) prepared by Chef Sophie Bise (menu is subject to changes):