Spotlight on… The Woodward, Geneva

Oetker Collection’s first ‘Masterpiece Hotel’ in Switzerland, The Woodward, is now open following a complete transformation. The suite-only property is located right on Lake Geneva, with awe-inspiring views of the water and the majestic Mont Blanc.

Dating back to 1901, the post-Haussmann style listed building has undergone a meticulous reimagination by world-renowned architect and interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon.

Suites

The Woodward’s 26 spacious suites, of which 21 offer a full lake view, have been designed to the highest specification. While each is different, they all share a harmonious neutral colour palette, contrasted by hues of blue.

The Presidential Suite is designed in elegant ivory tones and offers panoramic views from every room with a private dining room and loggia, while the Royal Suite is reached by private lift and designed to resemble a chic Parisian apartment.

Pierre-Yves Rochon commented: "What makes this hotel so unique is its location, with the unobstructed view of the lake, its 19th century architecture and the spaciousness of its suites. The Woodward is very different from most contemporary hotels – I would sooner call it a prestigious residence."

Gastronomy

Following seven years as Executive Chef of Michelin-starred L’Atelier Robuchon in Taipei, and leading the restaurant’s openings in Miami, New York and Montreal, Chef Olivier Jean is at the helm of the kitchens at The Woodward.

The hotel’s culinary experiences include L’Atelier Robuchon and Le Jardinier, both recipients of Michelin stars at their New York outposts. L’Atelier Robuchon features an open kitchen concept, creating a theatrical dining experience for just 36 guests seated around a counter, as well as two semi-private dining rooms.

Le Jardinier meanwhile offers culinary creations that demonstrate the mastery of French cooking techniques with a focus on local suppliers and produce. The concept of embracing nature is reflected in the dining experience and décor, featuring many hues of green and housed within two glass walled verandas overlooking the lake and surrounding Alps.

Wellbeing

In keeping with Oetker Collection’s commitment to wellbeing, the Guerlain Spa at The Woodward has six treatment rooms and an extensive wellness menu presenting a broad range of massages and treatments specially created for the first Guerlain Spa in Switzerland.

As well as the spa, Club Woodward spans over 1,200m2 and features a state-of-the-art fitness centre, the longest indoor swimming pool in Geneva, a Jacuzzi, two steam rooms, two saunas, a snow shower, an ice bucket shower, and two Swedish baths.

Experiences

The Woodward can arrange a variety of unique experiences for guests and groups including private tours of the Patek Philippe Museum, considered one of the world's finest horology museums displaying over five centuries of watchmaking history, and trips to the vineyards located in iconic Lavaux.

For those who prefer the outdoors, there are few more leisurely, relaxing ways to explore the region than sailing Lake Geneva and travelling to Montreux, stopping at Nyon, Évian-les-Bains and Lausanne.

Airborne, The Woodward can arrange private hot air balloon tours to take in the majestic mountains up close and enjoy cheese fondue in the sky – or, for the most daring, even an adventure flight that reaches 5,000 metres, oxygen tanks included.