Put this 5-star hotel on your Euro summer bucket list.
Wedged between shimmering Lake Annecy and the thunderous French Alps, Le Palace de Menthon is the hidden secret of European vacationers during summer holidays – and with good reason. While the rest of the world flocks to heaving Capri or Lake Como, Le Palace de Menthon holds court over a stunning private beach and six hectares of gardens, its sweeping staircase and imposing exterior exuding all the vibes and grandeur of a Royal residence. In short, this place has all the beauty of its Italian cousins, but none of the squished sardine Euro summer vibes.
Location: Menthon Saint-Bernard, Haute-Savoie, France.
How to get there: Le Palace de Menthon is a one-hour drive from Geneva airport, and five minutes’ drive from the Old Town of Annecy.
Flight time from Perth, WA: 17 hours to Geneva, then an hour drive from Geneva airport to the hotel.
Despite its name, its 65 rooms and some seriously exquisite handwoven carpet suggesting otherwise, Le Palace de Menthon has never been a palace. In fact, it only dates back to 1906, and has always been a hotel. Don’t let that stop you though, because staying at this 5-star hotel will convince you that you are, indeed, a descendent of Louis IV and are now in your rightful digs.
7 reasons why Le Palace de Menthon is our favourite 5-star hotel in Annecy.
- Private gardens, private beach.
Yes, you’ll be sharing Lake Annecy’s gentle cerulean waters and beautifully manicured blooms with other hotel guests, but this little slice of heaven isn’t open to the public so won’t be inundated with throngs of tourists – even in peak summer season. There’s a waterfront bar and plenty of lounge chairs, too.
2. Views, views, views (did we mention the views?)
In one direction, sunlight dances on the calm blue waters of Lake Annecy. In the other, the resplendent French Alps stretch out for as far as the eye can see. Whether you choose a lake facing or forest facing room, you’ll be winning. All rooms feature private balconies, are sound-proofed and dog-friendly.
3. It has an out-of-this-world onsite restaurant
Hotel restaurants can sometimes be lacking, but not Le Viù. The bistronomic fare is delicious, intricately-crafted and artfully presented, with a small but thoughtful modern dinner menu offering French favourites such as duck breast, foie gras and Brittany shortcrust. The backdrop is stunning, offering a jaw-dropping panoramic view of the lake and mountains. The daily breakfast buffet is a pure delight too.
4. The spa of dreams
An impressive sapphire-coloured heated pool, sauna and hammam sit right on the water’s edge, surrounded by giant bay windows that deliver a breathtaking view over the lake. This is the perfect spot to start and finish your day, kickstarting with a sauna or unwinding with a swim after a day of exploring.
5. The carpet
Yes, the carpet in the lobby. It’s exquisite, hand-woven, ridiculously regal and a piece of art in itself. We’re obsessed!
6. The epic cycling
Surrounded by dedicated cycling paths, Le Palace de Menthon is the perfect place for a magic ride. E-bikes can be hired from the hotel – it’s an easy and picturesque ride into charming Old Town.
7. The price
Le Palace de Menthon doesn’t come cheap, but doesn’t break the bank, either. In comparison to many other five-star Euro summer destinations, this one is a real bargain. Check out the price, we think it will surprise you!
Now we have to add a disclaimer here: We’re stopping short at calling Le Palace de Menthon a perfect 5-star experience for two reasons. First up, nobody helps you with your luggage when you arrive and leave, which is a bit surprising given how grand it all is. Secondly, there’s no table service on offer when lounging beachside. Are these dealbreakers though? Absolutely not. We still think this is the best five-star hotel in Annecy and if you’re happy to lug your own bags and shift your butt from your lounger to the bar for your arvo cocktails, you’re going to love the rest.
Le Palace de Menthon
665 Rte des Bains, 74290 Menthon-Saint-Bernard, France.
Getting there: The easiest route here is from Geneva. There’s a bus from Geneva Airport to Le Palace de Menthon, via Annecy, which takes around two hours, 16 minutes. Alternatively, you can hire a car at the airport, or catch a Swiss Railways train from Geneva to Annecy.
Cost: Check the link below for the most accurate and up-to-date nightly costs.
Best suits: Active vacationers who love hiking in mountains and swimming in alpine lakes; wannabe Royals; those who love a good view, good food and living the good life.
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