Oetker Collection announces Geneva hotel for 2021

Oetker Collection has announced that its 10th hotel – The Woodward – will open its doors in spring 2021. Owned by Bastion Holdings, the 26-key project is currently undergoing a complete transformation led by architect Pierre-Yves Rochon.

Originally built in 1901 by French architect Francois Durel in a post-Haussmann style, the hotel sits directly on the shores of Lake Geneva, offering panoramic views of Mont Blanc.

The interiors combine classic with contemporary, with each of the 26 suites carefully curated to possess its own distinct character and individual design designs with signature flourishes including marble fireplaces and bookcases.

Design highlights include the Presidential Suite, designed in elegant ivory tones and offering panoramic lake views from every room with a private dining room and loggia, and the Royal Suite, reached by private lift and designed to resemble a Parisian apartment.

Chef Olivier Jean will lead the hotel’s F&B offering with L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon and Le Jardinier, both recipients of Michelin stars at their New York outposts which are owned and operated Bastion Group.

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon will feature the legendary chef’s open kitchen concept, creating a theatrical dining experience for just 36 guests seated around the counter, as well as two dining rooms that can be privatised.

Le Jardinier by Michelin-starred chef Alain Verzeroli – a play on the French word for ‘gardener’ – will be the restaurant’s first foray into Europe following the success of its outposts in New York and Miami. Rooted in classic French techniques, Chef Verzeroli is renowned for creating innovative dishes where vegetables play a starring role, many of which are vegan, dairy- and gluten-free. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the concept of embracing nature will be reflected in the dining experience with the restaurant housed within two glass-walled verandas overlooking the lake.

The Woodward will also offer two bars and a tea room, as well as a private digestif and cigar lounge, which takes the building’s rich history as a former national bank into the modern-day, through the preservation and reimagination of a former banking vault.

In keeping with Oetker Collection’s commitment to wellbeing, the hotel will include a Wellness Institute by Maison Guerlain and a 21-metre indoor swimming pool – the longest in Geneva.

“Our hotels are all unique masterpieces in their own right, and The Woodward fits in perfectly with its extraordinary location, refined interior design and exciting culinary offerings,” says Timo Gruenert, CEO of Oetker Collection.

He adds: “We will deliver warm, luxury hospitality and I am convinced that our company’s values of family spirit, elegance and genuine kindness will bring this iconic building to life, and ensure guests will quickly feel at home in this new jewel on Lake Geneva.”

Chistophe Aldunate, CEO of Bastion Management says: “We are delighted that The Woodward will be joining the iconic Oetker Collection, a brand that upholds the highest standards in hospitality and who we trust to breathe renewed passion, flair and life into this historic Geneva location.”