- Culture
- Geneva
Geneva may be a cosmopolitan hub, but step just beyond its elegant avenues and you’ll find yourself immersed in some of Switzerland’s most enchanting landscapes. From glassy lakes to vineyard-covered hillsides and medieval villages, each destination is a short journey from the Hamlet—and offers a serene counterpoint to city life.
Here’s our curated guide to some of our favorite summer time escapes.
Paddleboarding on Lake Geneva
Start the day on water, not on land. Paddleboarding offers a peaceful, invigorating way to experience Lac Léman. Glide past the Jet d’Eau, take in the view of Mont Blanc, and feel the rhythm of the lake under your feet.
Where: Plage des Eaux-Vives or Tropical Corner, both a short stroll from the Hamlet.
Pro Tip: Morning sessions are calmest, followed by breakfast at a lakeside café.
Wine Tasting in the Lavaux Vineyards
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Lavaux wine region is a vision of terraced vineyards cascading toward the lake. Just under an hour’s drive from Geneva, it’s the ideal setting for a relaxed afternoon of Pinot Noir and Chasselas tasting—best enjoyed with views that rival the Côte d’Azur.
Experience: Private vineyard tours or lunch at Michelin-rated bistros tucked into the hills.
Transportation: Our team can reserve a chauffeured car or assist you with getting tickets for a scenic train ride via Lausanne.
Yvoire by Boat: A Medieval Escape
Step into a storybook with a boat trip across Lac Léman to Yvoire, one of France’s most charming medieval villages. Cobblestone streets, stone archways, and flower-draped balconies await, along with artisanal boutiques and lakeside dining.
Departures: Board the boat from Geneva’s port just minutes from the Hamlet. The crossing is 50 minutes of pure alpine beauty.
Don’t Miss: Le Jardin des Cinq Sens—a secret garden designed to awaken every sense.
Mont Salève: Geneva’s Balcony
Yet another great Geneva activity, fondly known as “Geneva’s mountain,” Mont Salève is a local secret for breathtaking picnics and panoramic hikes. Whether you ascend by cable car or car, the reward is the same: expansive views of the city, lake, and Alps—ideal for an escape into nature.
Time from the Hamlet: 30 minutes.
Style it Up: Bring a curated picnic with Geneva’s finest cheeses, breads, and rosé. Our team is happy to assist.
Returning to The Hamlet
After a day of discovery, return to the stillness and elegance of your home-away-from-home at the Hamlet. Draw a bath, pour a glass of local wine, and relax as the evening light fades over the rooftops of the Old Town. For those looking to make Geneva their base this summer, Apartment #12 is a refined two-bedroom townhouse featuring an open-plan kitchen, a deep soaking tub, and botanical Aesop products—perfect for unwinding after a day on the lake or in the vineyards.
Book your summer escape now—and let the Hamlet be your gateway to the best of Geneva and beyond.