The DNA: Originally opened in 1909, Zurich’s venerable Eden au Lac has had a complete makeover and reopened as the La Réserve Eden au Lac, part of Michel Reybier’s portfolio of luxury hotels. The overall aesthetic is difficult to characterize – something like French Empire meets mid-century modern but with a woody, chromey, nautical twist – designer Philippe Starck claims to have been inspired by “an imaginary yacht club.” Despite its grand status, the Eden au Lac classifies as a boutique hotel with just 40 rooms. All different in size, but the larger ones (with) balconies overlook Lake Zürich with the Alps in the not-too-far distance. Views can also be enjoyed from the beds, which are placed in the middle of the room. The Versailles-style mirrored bathrooms are almost as large in size as the bedrooms and come equipped with rain showers and large standalone tubs. Almost the entire ground floor has been given over to the restaurant and bar. There is a DJ booth and a sneaky little fumoir off to one side behind an unmarked door. On the top floor, under the original dome, is the Japanese-Peruvian La Muña restaurant with its two terraces overlooking the lake. Service is provided all day long from 11:30 to midnight, at the bar as well as in the restaurants.

Seen: archilovers, Top Hotel Design

Accolades: Condé Nast Traveler Hot List 2020

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 40 rooms & suites (22-79m2) (237-850 sq ft) • hotel opened: January 2020 • interior design: Philippe Starck • private parking possible on-site (charged) • pets allowed • 24-hour front desk • wheelchair accessible