A Tasty Suggestion
Le Relais de l'Entrecóte is one of Genevafs most famous restaurants. Right in the heart of the city, queues are regularly spilling on to the street at weekends to get inside. This is all for a restaurant that serves just one meal, steak and chips. The steak is marinated in a special maison sauce and is served with hand-cut chips and a walnut salad. The steaks are served to you in halves, one half for the starter, one for main course. The only emenuf to speak of is the dessert menu which offers many favourites such as sticky toffee pudding and other classics.
Open Monday to Saturday this is not an intimate dining experience. The tables are situated close to each other, and the smoky atmosphere gives the restaurant a very close feel. You cannot reserve a table and it is first come first served. The steak meal costs 38 CHF which is around £15. For more information phone +41 (0) 22 310 6004
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SEPTEMBER 3 | 7: The Vernierfs annual Open Air Music Festival celebrates both new and current artists from a range of music genres. With great music and food all weekend it is not to be missed. To find out more go to www.cpfgeneve.ch
...and here are some more great things you can do in and around Geneva...
OCTOBER 2008: Genevafs very own flamenco festival brings a taste of Spain to the French Alps. Held at the Alhambra in the city centre, dancers from Seville headline the event with their traditional dancing. Visit www.al-andalus.ch/ for further information.
NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008: The Geneva Christmas Market is in the Place de la Fusterie is a great place to get last minute Christmas gifts. Its filled with locally made arts and crafts as well as other gifts from all over the world. To find out more visit www.wwsa.ch/
DECEMBER 2008: The International Showjumping World Cup is held at the Palexpo Exhibition Centre as riders battle it out for the sportfs ultimate title. For more information visit
www.concours-hippique.ch/
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European Football Championships head for Geneva
Geneva is one of the official locations for the UEFA Euro 2008 in June. One of the biggest events in the international football calendar, it begins on the first of June and ends on the 29th. Millions of fans from all over Europe are expected to flood to Geneva where a new stadium is almost completed. www.uefa.com/competitions/euro/index.html
Check out the museography
The International Museum of the Reformation opened a couple of years back. Using the latest 'museography' - high-tech, hands-on technology for museums - it traces the history of the Reformation not only in a religious context but also highlighting the impact it's had on culture and society at large. An obvious must for anyone doing GCSE History of the Reformation, but also for anyone with only a vague understanding of why the Reformation was such a turning point in European history. www.musee-reforme.ch
Geneva Keypass
The launch of the sightseeing Keypass has made 24-hour travel around Geneva infinitely cheaper and easier. The 24-hour pass allows unlimited travel on trams, trains, bus or ferry (Mouettes) from one museum to the next using just one ticket. www.keytours.ch
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You'd think from its profile in world events that the city of Geneva was on the same scale as New York, London or Paris, but it's far more compact. Although it's Switzerland's third largest city, its population is a very manageable 185,526 making it easy to negotiate on foot and giving it a far cosier feel than its position as the world capital of bureaucracy suggests.
Its location is stunning. Perched perfectly on the banks of the beautiful Lake Geneva with a backdrop of hills and mountains, split down the middle by the River Rhone, its position at the foot of the Swiss Alps makes it an ideal starting point for skiing holidays. But linger awhile and there's far more to enjoy: great food, breathtaking scenery and some of Switzerland's top museums and galleries.
Geneva's city centre is dominated by the Rhône which travels west into France. The main shopping district, Les Rues-Basses, and Old Town lie on the south bank and further south is the university. A little further out is Carouge, packed with artisansf shops, impressive Italian-style architecture, a lively, spirited quarter with lots of quirky character and a contrast to the town centre.?/p>
Geneva's cobbled Old Town, set high on a hill, is delightful to stroll around but it is the Cathédrale St-Pierre that dominates. Surrounding the church are a clutch of world-class museums, this area alone is enough to swallow a weekend. And then therefs the Place Bourg-de-Four, a public square which has become the 'in' place to meet plus?any more mostly free museums and, of course, there's the lake. The Art and History Museum is vast with everything from paintings to weaponry, while the International Red Cross & Red Crescent Museum is a history of the humanitarian bodies.
But, beyond its museum culture, Geneva is a peculiar but interesting paradox. It was home to the Reformer Jean Calvin, the great influence on Scottish Presbyterianism. A staunch Puritan, Calvin transformed Geneva into a "Protestant Rome" in the 16th century and his disciplined, frugal lifestyle and strong work ethic still echoes today; it's probably responsible for giving the city its continued wealth. Yet high up on the hillside overlooking the lake are some of Hollywoodfs top glitterati, residing in the world's premium real estate, splashing out in the most sumptuous of shops and lavishly dining in Geneva's exquisite restaurants.
But don't panic, not all Genevans are rich, so if you're here for a visit there's no need to break the bank. There are over 1,200 dining establishments to choose from and masses of cafe's serving inexpensive but good food. And if you're a fan of classical music, you're in for a treat, the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande (one of Europefs best) often performs here and there's a continuous programme of chamber music and opera staged at The Grand Theatre.
Whether you're after culture, music, Swiss gastronomy, luxury shopping or want to ski, stay a spell in Geneva. It might be the watch capital of the world, but quality is its hallmark.
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After breakfast head to the lakeside for a stroll along the quays, passing the Brunswick Monument containing the tomb of Charles II. You cannot possibly miss the whopping Jet d'Eau spurting out hundreds of gallons of water every minute, itfs a great photo op, and a chance to cool off if itfs warm. Another jaw-dropping treat is at Pont du Mont-Blanc with Europefs highest peak in the distance and although therefs usually a stream of traffic on the bridge, the Jardin Anglais, at the end of the bridge, makes a pleasant amble, look out for the famous Flower Clock.
Then make your way to the grand Place Neuve with its impressive Neoclassical buildings and towering wall, pop in to the Musee Rath for a look at one of the world-class art shows, then stroll south to the Parc des Bastions to see the Reformation Wall with its giant statues of the influential Reformers. Stop off for lunch at a terrace café on the lively Place du Bourg de Four and then spend some time at the CatheLdrale St Pierre, especially the Chapelle des Macchabe'es and, if youfre inclined, take a look at the archaeological dig going on beneath the cathedral, open to the public with free audio guide.
Head past the grand Palais de Justice building to the Musée d'Art et dfHistoire and if youfre a fan of fine art, head up the stairs where Rodinfs The Thinker and The Tragic Muse sit, and then enjoy hall after hall of great masters, including works by Rembrandt, Pissaro, CeLzanne, Renoir and Modigliani.
After all that culture, spend the evening relaxing at Carouge.Try Café des Amis on rue Ancienne, one of the oldest?nd generally packed with reminiscing locals.
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In spite of its wealthy image, Geneva does have a wide selection of mid-priced and budget hotels as well as providing for the whims of diplomats, politicians and the jet-set. However it's essential to book in advance if youfre chasing a good rate. Itfs also worth asking about week-end deals.
The Novotel Geneve Centre is an ideal four-star choice for convenience and comfort, perfectly situated near the beautiful Lake Geneva, the Old Town and minutes' walk from the train station. Three-star options from Flybefs partner Travel Extras include the Drake, Cristal, Savoy and Suisse Geneve. Book any of these on +44 (0) 871 900 8297. www.flybehotels.com
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By car: Explore the city and the countryside in comfort and style at great prices! Get the best deal by checking Flybe's partner Avis for the best available car hire rates at www.flybe.com/avis
By road: Just 4.5kms (3 miles) from the airport, Geneva city centre is well signposted. Contact Flybefs car rental partner Avis for best available car hire rates. www.flybe.com/avis
By bus or coach: Bus no. 10 leaves every 10 minutes for the city centre while bus no. 18 leaves for the UN Building every 30 minutes.
By rail: The airport rail station is just 300m from the arrivals/departure levels. Numerous trains serve Geneva-Cornavin (city centre) and destinations all over Europe. Journey time to the city centre is just seven minutes.
By taxi: Taxi fare airport/city centre is CHF 30/35.
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Walking is easy enough in the centre of town even to the outskirts, Carouge is only about a 25 minute walk.
But trams and buses are a great alternative and typically Swiss - efficient, clean and safe.Theyfre also fast and affordable. www.tpg.ch
If you're just on a short visit, invest in a Keypass, see What's Hot above. Trams and buses serving the centre are marked with numbers, those for the suburbs have letters. www.tpg.ch
Tickets must be bought before you travel from machines, use Swiss francs or Euros. Small ferries, mouettes, shuttle passengers across the lake on three routes. Hiring a bike is another sensible option, the tourist office has details. Donft bother with a taxi unless youfre rich. www.swissboat.com
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Golf: The Geneva golf club is a 27-hole championship course that involves three sets of nine-hole courses which can be mixed and matched. The course can be easily played be novices but also provides a stern challenge for those driving from harder tees. The cost is around $32 for 18 holes, $18 for 9 holes and $69 for 27 holes including a buggy. www.genevagolfclub.com
Mount Saleve: If you are feeling energetic and want some fresh air for the day, the best place to be is Mount Saleve, which is the chain of hills which run along the border between France and Geneva. With many different trails to follow your breath will be taken away by the beautiful panoramic scenery seen from the hikes. Or for the less energetic, there is also a cable car which runs to the top of the hill range.
www.geneve-tourisme.ch
Winter Sports: Geneva is very close to big winter sports resorts such as Chamonix and Megeve. Just a short drive away there you can ski and snowboard down the many slopes and trails. Also being very high up, you are almost guaranteed snow in the winter months. At the resorts there are also may ice skating rinks, bowling alleys, and other entertainment to enjoy.
www.geneve-tourisme.ch
Lake Geneva: The main lake around which the city is built provides many different kinds of activities and is easily accessible from all over the city. Swimming is allowed from May through to September whilst water skiing and wakeboarding are also run throughout most of the year. The Geneva water sports company is one of the best at the lake and provides lessons for many different water sports. www.genevawatersports.com
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Mount Saleve: In less than an hour you can reach the Mount Saleve from where you can admire Geneva from above. You can visit Divonne, a famous thermal centre below the Jura mountains, or Annecy which has an old town certainly meriting a trip. Or drive along the lake to Lausanne, the Olympic capital and worth a visit for its wonderful galleries and trendy waterfront, or head further to Montreux.
Cháteau de Chillon: But the pinnacle of any visit around Lake Geneva has to be to the breath-taking 13th century Cháteau de Chillon, one of the best preserved castles in Europe, clinging to the edge of the lake with a backdrop of rugged mountains. Although Chillon dates back to Roman and even Bronze Age times, it was the counts of Savoy in 1203 that made Chillon into a royal residence. The poets Byron and Shelley visited the castle on a tour of the lake, prompting Byron to pen his lengthy Prisoner of Chillon poem. www.chillon.ch
You can visit the dungeons, Grand kitchen, bedchambers, Hall of Arms and a chapel. As it's only one and a half hours from Geneva, don't miss it.
Vevey: To get to Cháteau de Chillon, take the train to Vevey and then change to bus number 1. But you might want to stop at Vevey. This is the setting for Anita Brookner's Hotel du Lac and, somewhat earlier, Henry James' inspiration for Daisy Miller. A lovely small town with flowery walkways, Belle-Epoque ships, bountiful shops, a handful of museums, but, above all, itfs a snapshot of genteel, local Swiss life without the glitz of the bigger cities. Or go to Gruye'res, a magnificent small market town, the centre of gruye'res cheese production.
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Geneva's lakefront: A stroll down the lakeside quays takes you past beautiful flowerbeds filled with exotic flora and on the water swans, ducks and diving birds play beside brightly coloured sailing boats. Behind the banks on Rive Gauche, (left bank), is the main thoroughfare of les Rues-Basses, Geneva's smartest shopping district. The view at Mont-Blanc Bridge is spectacular, lying beneath Europe's highest peak, Mont Blanc (4,807m) amidst the Savoy Alps and beside the sparkling blue lake.
Jardin Anglais: Sits at the foot of the bridge where you'll find the famous Flower Clock reflecting Geneva's watch-making pre-occupation. A national monument commemorates Geneva's unification with Switzerland in 1815.
The Jet d'eau: The city's iconic landmark - emblazoned on postcards, tourist information and publicity material - it features a jet 140m high, some 500 litres of water are pumped out of the nozzle every second, but beware, on windy days youfll get soaked. It's switched on May to mid-September daily 9.00-11.15pm, late March, April and mid-September to October Monday-Friday 10am-sunset, Saturday and Sunday 10am-10.30pm. It's floodlit after dark.
Cathédrale St-Pierre: (open June-September Monday-Saturday 9am-6.30pm, Sunday 12am-6.30pm, October-May Monday-Saturday 10am-5.30pm, Sunday noon-5.30 pm). Started in 1160, it took 72 years to build, and is an interesting mix of architectural styles.?he Chapelle des MacchabeLes was added in 1397 featuring a Neoclassical portico with two square towers stuck on at a later date and a green-coloured 19th century steeple to complete the additions. The Reformation stripped it of many ornate features, however the pulpit and stained glass in the chancel have endured. 'Calvin's chair' is at the back of the church and the Chapelle des MacchabeLes is a must-see, with its 15th century frescoes and lavish interior.
Place Neuve: A wonderfully grand square, surrounded by the high Old Town wall and lined with Neoclassical buildings while due south is Parc des Bastions, usually packed with students.?o the east is Reformation Wall featuring 5m-high statues of the four major Genevan reformers, Jean Calvin, leader of the Reformation, Guillaume Farel, the first to preach the Reformation in Geneva, Calvin's successor, TheLodore de Be`ze and John Knox, Scottish Presbyterianismfs founder.
Place du Bourg-de-Four: A marketplace since medieval times, houses a lovely fountain and teams with bustling cafeLs.
The United Nations Buildin: Avenue de la Paix, was built to house the League of Nations, (the Palais des Nations has since become the UNfs headquarters after the League was dissolved in 1946). An impressive building, the vast wooded park overlooks the lake and makes an enchanting walk. Over 25,000 delegates meet here annually in the continual search for world peace.
Carouge suburb: A bohemian contrast to Genevafs centre with a strong Italian feel, quiet streets and alleyways are packed with arty shops and cafe's and a great nightlife.
MuseLe d'Art et d'Histoire: Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm, entry free. Geneva's biggest museum and Switzerland's best collection of fine art, applied art and archaeological finds.
www.ville-ge.ch/musinfo/mahg/
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Le Baroque café (+41 (0) 22 311 0515), in the city centre, is open until 2am. Itfs both classy and trendy, and serves dinner as well as cocktails.
Also in the centre is Arthur's Rive Gauche (+41 (0) 22 810 3260), head here for dance music if you're under 30. All kinds of live music - acid jazz, blues, French chansons - are on the bill at Le Chat Noir, 13 rue vautier, Carouge. Jazz-lovers should spend at evening at Sud des Alpes, 10 rue des Alpes, particularly a Thursday, Friday or Saturday night.
The Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, often performs with big name soloists at the Victoria Hall. If youfre an opera buff, the Grand Theatre, has an impressive non-stop programme.
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Geneva is not only home to the United Nations' European Headquarters and the International Committee of the Red Cross, but to over 120 leading multi-national corporations and many off-shoot UN organisations. It's also the base for dozens of international banks, world famous high-tech firms, bio-tech companies and numerous banking-related - auditors, legal and insurance - corporations.
Its international character and the fact that English is the official language of business (over 100,000, a third of Genevafs population, are English speakers) is one of its major selling points. Some 30,000 French commuters travel to work in Geneva from French dormitory towns, reaping the benefits of a high Swiss salary. Geneva boasts one of the best skilled, pan-European labour pools worldwide and one of the most advanced telecommunications centres plus an unrivalled standard of living, an excellent education system and, above all, a safe, peaceful environment.
If youfre considering doing business here, the Department of Economy, Labour and Foreign Affairs couldnft be more helpful, contact the Economics Promotion Department, tel: +41 (0) 22 388 3434.
Or contact Geneva's Chamber of Commerce, Email: ccig@cci.ch
The Office for Promotion of Geneva Industry, tel: +41 (0) 22 717 84 00 or Email: adminpi.ch
www.opi.ch
www.geneva.ch
www.cci.ch/geneve
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Coming soon.
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Wine must be Switzerland's best-kept secret. It has an annual production of 200 million bottles but almost none of these are exported. So it can be heartily enjoyed in Geneva, even the simplest bars and restaurants serve wine, the most affordable ones are offene wein or vin ouvert - the half a dozen house whites and reds chalked up on a blackboard.
In spite of its Reformation and, no doubt, teetotal roots, Geneva is the third-largest wine producing region in Switzerland and Satigny is the biggest vineyard. Popular local wines include those from Chasselsas vines, Perlan and a number of Gamays. If you're interested you can tread the wine path to Dardagny, about nine kilometres, feasting in caverns and enjoying free tastings en-route. Dozens of vineyards also offer free tastings on Saturdays. www.geneve-tourisme.ch
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