Geneva is the capital of life quality and tranquility, the perfect place to get away from the world. The promised land of the fondue, cheese and chocolates that make our mouth water. But it is not only in regional products that it is special, from exquisite flavors to the art, Geneva has everything, and the nature that surrounds the city, frames it perfectly. The inhabitants are extremely friendly and outgoing, which adds more charm to the city.
1. In the heart of Geneva
The heart of the city is just a short walk from Lake Lèman and the Old Town.
Climb the 500 steps of the north tower of Saint Pierre Cathedral. The view really worth it! The cathedral, has a Protestant origin, with a sober architecture; but when you enter it, you will come across superb paintings.
Walk a few minutes to the great lake Lèman that offers incredible experiences! The mere fact of looking at it is already a delight, but sitting on the margins talking and eating a typical Swiss bread, can be a really fantastic and relaxing experience.
If you want to enjoy the beauty of this lake even better, embark on the Savoie, where you will have an absolutely incredible view, while having a fantastic typical Swiss lunch. If you want to have another gastronomic experience to remember, go to Le Flacon, a Michelin-starred restaurant where the atmosphere is simple and you will pay an affordable price for an amazing taste.
2. Experiences not to be missed
A visit I recommend is CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research.
In it, some of the world’s best scientists work in the international particle physics laboratory, where the largest particle accelerator in the world was developed. From this project, the existence of Higgs boson was confirmed, the “God particle” that brings us back to the Origin of the Universe. Inside the accelerator, scientists trigger small explosions simulating the Big Bang. This is how scientists are trying to explain the formation of the universe, through the investigation of base particles that created life.
There are two permanent and free exhibitions. The first explains the research carried out by CERN and the daily life’s of the scientists. The second shows a film about the origin of the universe. You should consider an experience at Initium, they make workshops to watch lovers, here each student builds his own watch, and can stay with it at the end of the experience. They say that it is fun to build your own watch.
3. A Bohemian Neighborhood
Carouge is famous for its interior gardens inside their buildings, some open to the public. It is a neighborhood where much of the city’s entertainment takes place, this also includes restaurants, creative studios and shops. There is a street market, the ‘food market’, full of small houses that sell flowers and regional products, so typical of Switzerland. From cheeses to jams, to delicious chocolate, bread and typical dishes, a little of everything is sold. The Market Square is where you should go, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, to discover this picturesque space. Here, you can visit the factory of Philippe Pascoet, an award-winning chocolatier, which controls the production of 18 tons of chocolate. Impressive, considering the small space where everything happens.
4. United Nations and Red Cross: Improbable Experiences
Go visit the imposing UN building, here it is only possible to circulate with a guided tour that happens every hour. This is the second largest of the organization’s four main headquarters in the world, the first is in New York.
And if there is a museum that I recommend is the Red Cross, it has an interactive technology exhibition that reports on the humanitarian work of this organization in the context of war and catastrophes. Here you can watch testimonials from people affected in these contexts and feel the dimension of the problems. Missing people are another approach of the museum, where you can search for names and ancestors, a very interesting research hypothesis.
5. Gstaad
I went to the Swiss Alps, Gstaad, a village with about 2,500 inhabitants located 1,050 meters above sea level, in the German-speaking part of the canton Bern, in southwestern Switzerland. Gstaad, is part of the municipality of Saanen and is known for being one of the most famous ski resorts in the world. But, until you get there, the landscapes that come across in front of us are some of the most wonderful I’ve ever seen. The Swiss Alps are blessed by nature, with a luminous green color, framed by imposing mountains that seem to swallow us up, as we follow the sinuous roads.
The arrival is even more vibrant, when we see a village with small wooden houses, that look like they were taken from a Christmas movie. I bet that with snow, it would have been even more magical.
Here you can also see an old palace that resembles the ones from fairy tales, with pointed domes and incredible windows. I would have stayed here for a long time if I could. I particularly remember the lightness and purity of the air. I felt it. It seems we breath easily.
6. Eaux-Vives Events: An Expression of Culture
Ateliers, schools and art galleries open their doors to the public and offer small shows and exhibitions, where you will also have the opportunity to snack.
Between painting, photography and even furniture, there is everything in this place so steeped in culture.
7. Mount Salève
Be sure to climb Mount Salève, one of the beautiful mountains that adorn the city’s landscape. It is in a rural area in the middle of nature, 30 minutes from Geneva. To climb it, you will have to cross the border with France.
Use the chair lift and then venture out on one of the many trails in the middle of nature. Melt into the flavors and landscapes of Geneva. You will love it!
