For a wellness-focused getaway with a distinct French flair, look no further than Evian-les-Bains. Located a stone’s throw from the Swiss border, this picturesque lake town is known for its thermal spas, water activities and beautiful Belle Epoque architecture, making it the perfect place for a restorative getaway.
Seeking a much-needed reset, I headed to the town earlier this year from Paris, though accessing Evian-les-Bains is actually much easier from Geneva, Switzerland — just an hour by car or train.
Here’s where clients can eat, sleep and play in Evian-les-Bains.
Where to Eat
The majority of restaurants in Evian-les-Bains lean into the classic French bistro vibe, with no shortage of cocktails, great local wine and picturesque views of Lake Geneva. In the spirit of keeping it simple, I enjoyed numerous meals at La Veranda, the relaxed-yet-sophisticated eatery located inside Hotel Royal, where I was staying. The sun-drenched space and scenic views of the Alps created the perfect backdrop for enjoying long, slow lunches.
La Veranda offers scenic views of the Alps.
Credit: 2026 Evian ResortI personally loved the caramelized onion tart made with local reblochon cheese — so much so that I ordered it two days in a row. For heartier dishes, the cod with creamy polenta and caviar pasta served with a Champagne sauce are equally not to be missed. La Veranda also offers outdoor seating on an expansive outdoor terrace (though it was sadly too cold outside for me to experience it firsthand).
A short walk away, La Table at Hotel Ermitage is a great option for lunch, Sunday brunch or dinner. In the evening, both a la carte and a tasting menu du marche (seasonal menu) are available, the latter offered at a very reasonable 59 euros. In hope of not overindulging, I stuck with the a la carte option and ordered escargots to start, followed by perfectly cooked scallops served in a Savoie wine sauce. The venue also has an adjoining cozy bar with a fireplace, where I ended my meal with a pour of whiskey and a cheese course for dessert. Regardless of restaurant, if clients are looking for a glass of wine or two, recommend they ask for something local — the crisp, Jacquere-based whites of Chignin are simply delightful.
Where to Sleep
When in Evian-les-Bains, there’s truly no better place to stay than the revered Hotel Royal. Located in a stunning palace overlooking Lake Geneva, this five-star property brims with Belle Epoque charm and features an on-site spa and the Michelin-starred Les Fresques restaurant. The 150-room Hotel Royal first opened its doors in 1909, and over the past century, it has hosted some of Hollywood's most pivotal figures, including Ringo Starr and Rita Hayworth. Most notably, the property hosted the international G8 Summit in June 2003.
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Hotel Royal is a five-star property that overlooks Lake Geneva, features an on-site spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Credit: 2026 Edouard GuibaudBeyond the glitz and glamour, walking into Hotel Royal immediately brings one's heart rate down. The scenic lake and Alps views — coupled with the property’s signature Evian-branded spa and its indoor pool, heated outdoor pool, sauna and snow cave — bring an instant sense of calm and relaxation. Even the oversize armchairs and 19th-century wood furniture offer a sense of elegant comfort.
In short, it’s one of those properties that makes it really, really hard to venture off-site. Above all, it immediately makes clients feel at home.
Where to Play
Wellness-focused visitors can continue their journey at Les Thermes Evian, situated in the heart of Evian-les-Bains. Here, treatments are executed using Evian’s natural mineral water, which is regarded for its pure and therapeutic nature. The reason? This special water undergoes a 15-year journey through the rocks of the French Alps, resulting in a low-sodium, low-mineral structure (namely, calcium and magnesium) that’s known to hydrate skin and encourage recovery. All treatments at Les Thermes Evian utilize this special water, with saunas, steam rooms and hydrotherapy circuits also available (reservations are required).
Beyond the spa, travelers to Evian-les-Bains can enjoy a number of activities on the crystalline waters of Lake Geneva, including paddleboarding, sailing and kayaking. A relaxing two-hour cruise around the lake’s shoreline is a great way to maximize views, as well as take in the local scenery.
Those looking to press their luck can venture over to Casino Evian, built in the former Chateau de Blonay by J.A. Hebrard in 1911. Home to tables, slot machines and three bar/restaurant concepts, the casino offers a fun and exciting contrast to the town’s overall wellness focus.
After all, the most crucial component of well-being is balance.
