Best known for Art Basel and Baselworld exhibitions, this charming Swiss city on the French/Swiss/German border is also home to one of the most prestigious hotels in Europe, the five-star Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois.
Superbly located on the Rhine next to the 13th-century Middle Bridge, many luminaries have enjoyed this Grande Dame’s largesse: Napoleon, the Dalai Lama, Charles Dickens, Queen Elizabeth II, Pablo Picasso and more recently the Rolling Stones.
The first Les Trois Rois hotel on this site is recorded as far back as 1681. Today’s grand buildings adjacent the 13th-century Middle Bridge are far more impressive. Stately covered arches above wide stone entrance steps lead into a generous Belle Epoque lobby.
Here the main attraction is two cascading chandeliers suspended from the light-filled atrium. Open landings on four sides boast wrought iron balustrades and generous bustle landings on the wide staircase. Marble, lush fabrics, gilt; the feeling is opulent, timeless and very impressive.
The lobby, in turn, leads into a refined yet relaxed lounge area with grand piano, and the famous Cheval Blanc Restaurant holder of an impressive 3 Michelin Stars and helmed by Peter Knogl.
The lounge extends into a bar with access to the welcome outside riverside terrace. Perfect for watching the small ferry boats taking passengers across the Rhine.
My deluxe junior room was small, yet cosy and comfortable. Not all rooms have baths at the Trois. My shower was powerful though and I had a good view of the Rhine.
Bang & Olufsen flatscreen TVs are standard in all rooms and suites, and I especially enjoyed the free minibar with non-alcoholic drinks, beer and snacks, replenished each day. Internet is also free of charge.