GENÈVE 2024

Geneva in the summer is like an alpine version of a seaside resort. It’s chic yet relaxed, with long walks through gorgeous countryside and along the water that inspire taking deep breaths of fresh air. Where else can you have the lake, beach, mountains, and vineyards all in the same place? Spending time in Geneva is a privilege... and everyone here knows it.

One of the world’s smallest big cities, it hides its international status discreetly behind its elegant warmth. When the people of the world gather here to discuss key issues, they do it amongst opulent décor and a prevailing aura of the “good life”. In Geneva, the pace is slowed down — there’s no point in running, here we walk (nothing is that far away). We swim and sunbathe, too. And not just a little! With 30 beaches, a wild river, an abundance of spas, and a wide variety of nautical activities, the city that’s famous for the Jet d’Eau knows how to take advantage of its lakeside location. Summer here is dazzling.

We sail here, too, of course. Far from the ocean, the landlocked waters of Lake Geneva have long been (85 years!) the epicentre of the world’s largest inland lake regatta: the Bol d’Or. A Swiss sailing saga that captured the world’s attention with Team Alinghi, who compete again this fall in the 37th America’s Cup. It’s yet another chance for Swiss naval engineering to shine. 

On water or on land, there are many ways to express yourself here. History has shown that Geneva is a land of opportunity, where time is cherished and celebrated. It’s a breeding ground for brilliant minds, some of which are reflected in these pages. Did you know Siri’s co-founder hails from the region? Or that the online bank Swissquote was born on the shores of Lake Geneva? Or that Dior opened one of its most architecturally iconic boutiques — a blooming flower — here on Rue de Rhône? Or that Watch Valley (Vallée de Joux), the heart of Swiss Watchmaking, is a mere hour away?

That’s Geneva — all of it. A window display that invites you to push open the door, a temple of confidence, sure and serene, a stockpile of talented people and redeemable energy.