The Grazia Guide To Geneva: The Ideal Holiday Destination You’ve Definitely Overlooked

Planning the perfect European break comes with certain requirements to fit the demands of modern holidaying. To achieve the ultimate balance of self-care, there must be a perfect blend of wellness and wildness. Enter: Geneva, the European city less than two hours away by plane.

I know what you're thinking, 'Isn't Geneva a snow holiday destination?' or 'Isn't it that place you land in to drive somewhere else?'. Not anymore. The city famous for it's financial district has seen a huge boost in tourism in the last few years - with US tourists increasing by 40% in the last five years. Allow me explain why.

Geneva is the home of swiss cheese, luxury chocolate and delicious wine. Alongside that, it also hosts mountains perfect for hiking, the huge lake Geneva ideal for swimming and many a glorious spa. Essentially, the city's financial haven has been hiding what is actually the ideal getaway location; perfectly balancing everything you need to both indulge and improve your health.

Think a trip to a traditional Swiss fondue or chocolate workshop Sweetzerland for not only culinary culture but delicious treats. Think wine tasting, fine-dining and rooftop bars like Rooftop 42.

These magical places are nestled in a city that has one of the largest lakes in Western Europe where you can swim, paddleboard or just splash about. Literally, it’s right in the centre of Geneva and not only is it perfect for a morning workout, it hosts spots for sunbathing, diving and general amazing vibes to chill with the locals in a glorious setting.

Then there’s Mont Saleve, just a short drive outside the city, that you can hike up and be rewarded with panoramic views of the Swiss alps and iconic landmarks. With indulgent spas and sunrise yoga offered through Geneva Tourism, there really is an abundance of fun yet fit activities always with a reward at the end – be it the beautiful sunset eating dinner on top of Mont Saleve or the spectacular sunset doing yoga on the docks of Lake Geneva.

With free public transport cards whenever you stay at a hotel, hostel or campsite you can get around the city quickly and easy. Plus, with the Geneva Pass, you can access more than 50 attractions for just 26 swiss francs (£20). Essentially, you have easy access to everything you would want on a detox to retox holiday.

When it comes to hotels, Hotel Bristol comes highly recommended particularly for girls trips. Because, they actually have a women's only floor that you can stay on. Designed especially for and by women, the Ladies First rooms include more amenities, inter-connecting rooms and a Molton Brown welcome pack. The hotel itself also has a beautiful spa, bar and restaurant.

As quite the hidden gem when it comes to getaway destinations, Geneva is one place we can’t recommend highly enough no matter what you’re objective in getting away. Whether you fancy sunrise swimming or just want to eat all the cheese, there’s no going wrong.

Flights from London to Geneva with easyJet from £35 one-way.

Visit www.geneve.com or call 0041 22 909 70 70 for more information