A Michelin-starred meal or a tête-à-tête with a maki roll? A romantic cruise or a purifying sweat session overlooking the lake? As 14 February approaches, Lausanne isn’t taking sides. Whether you’re part of a close-knit couple or happily single, here’s how to navigate between luxury, culture and the great outdoors.
Discover our three suggestions for romantic (or sensual) getaways in Lausanne!
1. The ‘Palace & Pyjama’ Option: Five-star pampering
For those who want to love each other (or themselves) without ever putting their shoes back on…
The setting: Why rush around town when you have a temple of refinement? With its 2 Michelin keys and Anne-Sophie Pic’s restaurant (2 Michelin stars), the Beau-Rivage is not just a hotel, it’s a timeless retreat with breathtaking views of Lake Geneva.
For couples: It’s time to pull out all the stops and never leave your bubble. After an afternoon at the Guerlin Spa, opt for the ultimate luxury: the special Valentine’s Day menu served directly to your room. Nothing is more romantic than enjoying exceptional dishes tête-à-tête, without the noise of other tables. Between bites, you can whisper to your other half: ‘You are my Beau-Rivage, the calm after the storm. Like the M2, you have turned my life upside down.’
Single: Begin your quest for well-being with a spa treatment to relieve the stress of your colleagues. And who said you need to be a couple to treat yourself to a feast fit for a king? Take the opposite approach to depression by booking a table for one (the most important person: you). Indulge in the 8-course gourmet menu, including the iconic Berlingots ASP ©. The highlight of the show? Returning to your room and taking up all the space in a king-size bed, with the absolute certainty that you won’t be elbowed at 3 a.m.
2. The ‘Arty & Sushi’ Option: Culture in the heart of the city
For those who prefer to feed their minds (and stomachs) in style.
The setting: We start with the clean lines of Plateforme 10, Lausanne’s arts district, before gliding over to the Montbenon esplanade for a zen break at Myo Sushi Bar.
As a couple: Strolling between museums (Photo Elysée, mudac or MCBA) allows you to see if you have the same aesthetic tastes before committing further. After admiring the masterpieces, head to Myo Sushi Bar in Montbenon. Opt for the large Chef’s Sushi platter for two. Between two melt-in-the-mouth maki rolls, savour the refined atmosphere of this restaurant, which has been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand. To finish in style, let yourself be carried away by the captivating notes of a jazz club such as Chorus or Les Jumeaux: the sensory journey will be complete.
Single: Culture is the best defence against melancholy. At Platform 10, no one will blame you for spending 20 minutes in front of a minimalist photo. For dinner, Myo is perfect for solo diners. Sashimi, nigiri or maki? That’s your only dilemma. Be sure to save room for dessert: the infused Japanese pear or Yuzu sorbet are a treat for the palate.
Once your mind and palate have been satisfied, move from contemplation to action. Head to MAD or D! Club to keep the night going. It’s there, under the flashing lights, that the script could take a turn: if someone accidentally bumps into you on the dance floor, keep smiling. Between the confused apology and the beat of the bass, it could be the start of a romantic comedy.
3. The ‘H2O’ Option: Love in all its forms
For those who think Valentine’s Day is best enjoyed at 100°C (or -5°C).
The setting: Why choose just one atmosphere when you can explore the three physical states of water? Start with snow-capped peaks, continue with the steam of a sauna, and finish in the liquid calm of Lake Geneva. A complete sensory journey to test your endurance… or your serenity.
As a couple: Start with an immersion in the immaculate white of Les Diablerets, less than two hours by train from Lausanne. Put on your snowshoes for the route from Le Rard to Lake Retaud: a walk suspended in time, perfect for whispering sweet nothings far from the hustle and bustle of the slopes. After the cold of the peaks, enjoy the luxurious warmth of the Royal Savoy. Treat yourselves to their private spa for two: with a sauna, hammam and jacuzzi all to yourselves, it’s the ideal setting to prolong your intimacy in complete privacy. To prolong the magic the next day, embark on a CGN Lausanne-Lausanne cruise (3 hours and 20 minutes of pure bliss). The boat glides to the Château de Chillon, offering a setting worthy of the greatest films. It’s the perfect moment to re-enact the iconic scene from Titanic at the bow of the ship (without the ice cubes this time).
Single: Skiing solo means total freedom: no need to wait for anyone at the bottom of the lifts. Whether you choose Leysin or Les Portes du Soleil – less than two hours from Lausanne by train – enjoy hitting the slopes at your own pace. Once back in town, Le Bain des Rives offers a complete reset. Moving from the intense heat of the sauna to a dip in the icy lake is the best way to wash away the worries of everyday life. You’ll come out feeling light-hearted and ready to face Cupid’s arrow. The next day, to end the weekend on a high note, head to the Olympic Museum for its famous brunch. Take the opportunity to soak up the electric energy of the place, as we will be in the midst of the Olympic Games!
