Location
Montreaux, Switzerland
Steeped in authentic Swiss ambiance, this family-owned-and-operated hotel is the Montreaux-Vevey region’s most historic accommodation. Located minutes from Chateau Chillion and built by the winemaker Jean-Francois Masson, it was constructed as a typical vintner’s house (and still includes the stunning original wine cave). Once converted, it became Montreux’s first hotel—a pension that served a changing clientele, including French historian Jules Michelet, Russian aristocrats and long-term English and the German guests. The 1875 wrought-iron balcony, laced with wisteria, entices you feel the nostalgia of Elise Masson, the hotel's first owner. Constructed at the start of the Belle Epoque, the property survived two world wars and has persisted as a shining example of regional architectural heritage.

As a witness to almost 200 years of history, Hotel Masson was honored by the International Council on Monuments and Sites for its outstanding conservation and hospitality. Rooms offer a delightful retreat in time, along with all the comforts and contemporary upgrades one expects of a modern boutique hotel. Individually decorated double rooms have views over Lake Geneva, with balconies and decor that sustain an evocative sense of the past with substantial wooden furniture, parquet floors, rich upholstery and an airy sense of bringing the outdoors in. Free WiFi is included, and en suite bathrooms include deep soaking tubs. The hotel is surrounded by a peaceful garden filled with gnarled old trees, roses and lavender that wafts through the rooms, plus a breathtaking view over the lake and the Swiss Alps. A small wellness area includes a Jacuzzi and sauna. Daily breakfast in the cozy dining area features homemade breads and jams sourced from the fruits of the hotel’s own garden.