Ritz-Carlton launches in Switzerland
The Ritz-Carlton, together with the Manz family, has announced the completion of Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix in Geneva, becoming the brands’ debut property in Switzerland.
Following a multi-million dollar renovation, extensive redesign and refurbishment, the 152-year-old Hotel de la Paix will relaunch as The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix.
“With its storied past and legacy of outstanding service, rich culture, and culinary discoveries, Hotel de la Paix is an ideal fit for The Ritz-Carlton brand, which continues to grow and provide exceptional service and genuine care to our guests across the globe,” comments Hervé Humler, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Ritz-Carlton, Bulgari and St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. “I am delighted to bring the brand and our renowned service to Switzerland, the country where the legendary hotelier Cesar Ritz was born.”
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix has been renovated to blend modern design, functionality and the building’s heritage. The newly restored public areas reflect a design concept created around art, time and nature, representing the property’s lakeside setting and the city of Geneva. In the hallways of the atrium, an exhibition of tapestries features historical figures that played a role in attaining peace, from Giuseppe Garibaldi to Victor Hugo.
Its 74 guestrooms, including 14 suites, have been re-styled with a modern design that comprises floor-to-ceiling windows, filling each room with natural light to enhance views across Mont Blanc Square, Lake Geneva and the Jet d’Eau. The Grace Kelly Suite, named after the Princess of Monaco, is the hotel’s Presidential Suite, offering sophisticated art deco design and gold leaf gilding.
Paying homage to the city’s gastronomic scene, Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix captures the cosmopolitan nature of the destination with two new culinary experiences. Inspired by Executive Chef Alessio Corda’s respect for organic, regional dishes, Fiskebar introduces a new Nordic-fusion concept, a first-of-its-kind in Geneva. Spread across four interconnecting spaces, including a fresh fish counter with communal seating, the restaurant’s styling is reminiscent of a traditional Scandinavian fish market, where minimalist interiors are set off by natural materials such as wood and leather to create a Nordic ambience.
Meanwhile, Living Room Bar & Kitchen offers all-day dining, serving regional dishes and global flavours with a menu that showcases fresh, local and seasonal produce. The lounge-style setting is embellished with elements of the building’s historic details and original features, such as the 150-year old parquet and walnut floor.
Additionally, the Philippe Pascoët chocolate shop features authentic sweet confections, handmade by Swiss Master Chocolatier, Philippe Pascoët. Complimentary chocolate is offered upon arrival, while the menu includes uniquely blended hot drinks and artisanal chocolate.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix will build on its reputation for hosting historical gatherings and events, with a flexible conference space that can accommodate up to 100 guests in a lakefront setting. The area can be divided into two separate rooms, each offering a garden view and natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Positioned on the shore of Lake Geneva, with views of the city’s famous Jet d’Eau and Mont Blanc as a backdrop, the property has hosted political events including the International Congress of Peace, and welcomed high-profile guests such as the Monaco Royal Family and American actor Orson Welles since its inception in 1865.
“It is an honour to bring The Ritz-Carlton experience to Switzerland, here with an iconic luxury hotel that has borne witness to a multitude of historic world events,” comments Jenni Benzaquen, Vice President, Luxury Brands, Europe for Marriott International. “The Ritz-Carlton is proud to embark on a new chapter in Geneva, infusing the brand’s legendary service standards into this beautifully renovated hotel.”
“We are very excited about the reopening of the Hotel de la Paix under The Ritz-Carlton brand,” adds the Manz family. “We chose The Ritz-Carlton as operator because we are convinced that the expertise of The Ritz-Carlton in luxury hospitality is going to help this unique property to maintain its position as one of the leading luxury hotels in Geneva in years to come.”
