When one enters the lobby of the Hotel de la Paix, an 1880s structure overlooking the lake, the sight is impressive: a six-story high lobby with a grand staircase and a giant chandelier. Too bad one had to shlep his heavy luggage up six steps to get to the lobby because it is not level with the street, and there is neither a ramp nor doorman to eliminate the need for such a carry.

So it is with the de la Paix, a quirky old building. I found most of the quirks charming, but there were a few irritating aspects. Take my room -- one of the less expensive ones at the back of the hotel. Nevertheless, it has a pleasant view of a park. The room itself is reminiscent of the type well-heeled Americans frequent in Europe in movie comedies: high ceilings, dark furnishings, a chandelier over the bed, and tapestries on the wall. The room is comfortable, tasteful, and perhaps the quietest I've ever had in a hotel in an urban center. Yet there is no chest and no drawers in which one can hang clothes -- only a shelf in a small closet, and that shelf is dominated by the room safe. Rooms are well-configured for working, and wi-fi is free and reliable.

The hotel staff was a big plus: accommodating, helpful, and much friendlier than usual for Geneva. I've stayed in nine different properties in Geneva over the years; this was the first one where staff members would regularly greet me when I entered. That's not unusual in a top American hotel, but in Geneva such treatment is usually reserved for much bigger spenders than me.

Another great stay at Hotel de la Paix in Geneva. The location is superb. The staff is professional, attentive, helpful and recalls your name. The rooms and bathrooms are large and extremely comfortable. The bar during the day has great views of the lake and during the evening is very intimate. Hotel de la Paix, while expensive, represents much better value than many of the other hotels in Geneva. I was last there three years ago with my son, age 10 at the time, and he definitely wanted to stay at Hotel de la Paix again. Hotel de la Paix did not disappoint!

Wanted a 5 star experience with a lakeview. This hotel is really a 4 star and over priced at over 500 CHF per night. The location is outstanding. On the lake with incredible shopping and Old Town within walking distance. Close to the tram to the United Nations. I was disappointed that the hotel was not more elegant. It is a wonderful hotel with a great staff. Both Chiek and Baxter were extremely helpful and exceeded my expectations. The lakeview room was larger than most European hotels. The beds were comfortable, great shower with plently of pressure and hot water. The lakeview room balcony with the lake and the Jet D'eau outside your doors was the greatest experience. The Breakfast staff told me that breakfast was included so I eat there both days. Had to pay 199 CHF for 5 breakfasts that were not worth the cost.

I go to this hotel 4-5 times a year for business and always get an excellent service. Staff is consistently trying to anticipate the needs of its guests. Location is also excellent, close to station, lake and shops. Yes on the expensive side but so much worth it. I would recommend the hotel without any doubts!