Philippe Starck calls the Eden au Lac his ‘imaginary yacht club’. The classic Belle Epoque exterior was built in 1909. It is beautiful; classified as a cultural monument. A Zurich landmark noted for its views over the lake. The ‘new’ interior is contemporary and fun. Starck has retained the high ceilings, grand staircase and some original moldings. But he has added twists that are so him…leather chairs, hammered silver tables, wood stacked beside marble walls. Like a luxury yacht’s cabin, the rooms are beautiful and efficient, more style than space. There are other nautical touches. It took me a few minutes to “get” that my room number was the number on the sail in the photo beside the door. The beds (with great reading lamps) are placed in the middle of the room, looking out over the lake. Perfect for breakfast in bed. The bathrooms, on the other hand, are huge with glorious tubs, big sinks and fluffy towels you wish fit in your suitcase. Mine also had a balcony and more amazing views. The minibar is more of a wall… and includes a jar full of house toffees. So delicious. As are the two restaurants. A meal at La Muna is a must even if you are staying somewhere else. Pure Magic. Like every Michel Reybier hotel the service is top notch yet friendly.
Number of Rooms: 40
Sweet Suite: The Eden Suites, there are actually two of them. One facing south east, the other south west. They are large and meticulously designed (as are all the rooms) but it is the plethora of balconies that make the rooms a Wow! That said, I stayed in a Prestige Balcony Room which came with two balconies and a view from the bed that was to die for!
Favorite Thing: La Muna’s tree lined roof terrace… the Japanese/Peruvian food is amazing, the cocktails creative and tasty and the service perfect. Yet, oddly, it is the views over the lake that take your breath away. Sit here, order a drink, some nibble and watch the sun set. You will feel like the luckiest person in the world!
Near By: Opera House, Grossmunster, The Lake, Fraumunster (with Chagall’s stained glass windows), the famous shopping street Bahnhofstrasse, Pavillion Le Corbusier, China Gardens
Amenities: Le Muna Restaurant (Japanese Peruvian food), smoking/cigar room, gym, The Eden Kitchen Restaurant, complementary bikes, bar
