It is possible that your next summer vacation will be spent closer to home than you previously thought! We've decided to take a virtual trip around Switzerland to help you get some ideas before you book your next hotel or Airbnb. The second in our series is the Valais region.
We tend to think that Valais is only about skiing, but think again! Valais has a lot more to offer:
Valais Thermal Baths
What better way to ease the mind and body than a soak in bubbling hot water naturally sourced from the beautiful Valais mountains? And what a view as these pools are outdoors! The Valais thermal baths offer rest and relaxation (R&R) for many tourists and Swiss residents alike. The thermal water relaxes muscles, stimulates the circulation, and its mineral content alleviates chronic joint pain.
Monte San Salvatore-1 © Milo Zanecchia 2017
It is possible that your next summer vacation will be spent closer to home than you previously thought! We've decided to take a virtual trip around Switzerland to help you get some ideas before you book your next hotel or Airbnb. The first in our series is the Lugano region.
Alessandra De Stefano, Media Relations Manager from Ente Turistico del Luganese, sent us an enthusiastic letter detailing many tempting activities and ideas for your next trip.
Here are a few insider tips for Lisa’s favorite Geneva locations. Do you have some that you can send along? Maybe for Lausanne, Evian, Annecy, Montreux, Lyon, Nyon? Whatever you want to send in but at least 4 items of varying interest. Why not give some more on Geneva that are not included here! Just write to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with some ideas!
One of Lisa's favorite Geneva restaurants:
Buvette des Bains
30, quai du Mont-Blanc
1201 Genève
022 738 16 16
In the evenings, you must try their cheese fondue made with sparkling wine. It’s deliciously creamy and only Fr. 22.-/person including a bowl of fresh fruit salad! In winter, don’t forget to wear layers as the windows are plastic (cold) or you might be next to a heater or fireplace (hot)! If you are up for it, you can try the steam baths next door, dip in the lake, and then come over to the restaurant to warm up. Place your order for the food at the counter and then carry your own drinks over to your table. Reservations highly recommended! Be forewarned that this place is not fancy and your conversation might be drowned out by the table next to yours singing Joyeux Anniversaire at the top of their lungs! The place closes around 21h30 so if you have room you can mosey over to the Kempinski's Floor Two for a coffee with a view!
Do you want to do something unusual with your family, a group of friends, or guest visiting for the nth time? We have a great day out just at your doorstep.
If you like the idea of a hike without too much denivelation, then read on! Take the télépherique to 1,100m then walk 20 minutes to the restaurant de l’observatoire where you will be greeted with a 360° view of the Alps and Mont Blanc as well as the best spit-fired chicken around! The specialty of this restaurant comes with French fries and family-style salad (one bowl for the whole table). It is a real bargain for only €18.-! The restaurant is built on the site of an observatory that was destroyed in WWI. Open Saturday to Tuesday from 11h-18h. Vegetarian or fish menu with prior 24-hour notice.
Tourist Office
01220 Divonne-les-Bains
France
0033/450 20 01 22
www.divonnelesbains.com
www.divonnelesbains.fr 
Fantastic park in center of town with lots of climbing frames and swings. Shady. Note: Pick-up some freshly baked crusty bread, a chunk of local cheese, some sun-ripened tomatoes, and some fresh or dried fruit at the Sunday morning farmer’s market and stroll over the the park for a picnic. Some of the shops that line the streets where the market is are open on Sunday morning until about 13h, so you might even be able to buy a picnic blanket and some sunblock too!
There is an active program of events throughout the Summer, many of which are free. Download this flyer to see the full list of exhibitions, concerts, performances and other events being organized this year.
— Casino de Divonne
Av. des Thermes
01220 Divonne-les-Bains
France
0033/450 40 34 00
Casino with roulette, blackjack, slot machines 10h-04h. Open year-round. Non-smoking Casino with a ventilated smoking room.
Note: Once a month there is a themed evening buffet. You must be age 18 with ID and dressed appropriately. Menu and à-la-carte too. Check the hotel (page 152) for the Sunday brunch en famille.
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