10 Epic Hotels to Book in Europe Before Summer Ends

Where To Stay In Lake Geneva

There are so many hotels to stay at in Lake Geneva, but there are definitely a few that really standout properties you should consider during your visit!

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa

The Grand Geneva Resort & Spa is luxurious — yet somehow wonderfully quaint — property located an hour from Chicago that's great for your fall getaway. You'll find standard rooms and suites alongside a plethora of dining options and amenities to utilize during your stay including an indoor and outdoor pool, golf courses, a fitness center, a spa, and an on-site trolley. Plus, the resort has packages for the fall available where you can receive free rounds of golf during your stay on The Brute or The Highlands courses. Might I suggest sending the boys on a golfing spree while you and the girls savor the spa? 😉

Maxwell Mansion

Book lovers, this one's for you! The Maxwell Mansion is a boutique hotel that's two blocks away from Geneva Lake. The historic mansion has 28 rooms, some of which are inspired by historic figures such Emily Bronte, Charlotte Bronte, Louisa May Alcott, Jane Austen, General Grant, and Virginia Woolf. You'll also find a hidden speakeasy that's open to resort guests, and it's definitely worth checking out if you have some free time. Otherwise, you can find an indoor bar or grab a drink at the seasonally open tiki bar by the pool!

Warning: This hotel is adults only, so it's best suited for a romantic getaway or a girls' trip!

The Abbey Resort

For a more full-service experience, The Abbey Resort is a great option for families and solo travelers. Aside from spacious rooms, the property has indoor and outdoor pools, live music, an entertainment center, and a 35,000 square-foot spa. The Avani spa is absolutely a highlight at this property, too — you can book a massage, manicure, pedicure, hair and makeup services depending on what you're interested in. Outside of all that, the resort is simply stunning, making it an even better spot to enjoy the fall foliage and take some totally Instagram-worthy photos.

Where To Eat In Lake Geneva

While you'll eat lots of cheese curds (and cheese in general, let's be real) in Lake Geneva, you'll probably want to swing by a restaurant for a more hearty meal. Here are some top options to add to your reservations!

Pier 290

You can't visit Lake Geneva without dining alongside Geneva Lake, and Pier 290 is the city's only lakeside restaurant! While the view alone has plenty of allure, the menu loaded with familiar favorites from cheese curds to lobster rolls. Plus, if you stop by on the weekend, you'll be able to enjoy some awesome live music as you eat!

Sopra

If you're craving Italian food, then you'll definitely want to head on over to Sopra. This Italian-American bistro located on main street is home to scrumptious eats including fish, pastas, salads, and more. A majority of the menu items have unique names — I'm looking at you, "donald from delhi" — adding a little extra fun and flair to your dining experience. So grab a "b positive" cocktail (blood orange vodka, club soda, splash of blood orange juice), and enjoy your evening!

240 West

Chow down on locally sourced ingredients at The Abbey Resort's 240 West Restaurant. Chef Noah Gumustekin curated a selection of dishes from pappardelle to a grilled ribeye that'll get your mouth watering at the thought. Plus, if you're staying on the property, you can eat to your heart's content and make your way to a lovely night's sleep in no time!

What To Do In Lake Geneva

Go On A Mail Cruise

Looking to actually get out on the lake itself? Lake Geneva Cruise Line hosts a US mailboat tour where you can sit on a boat as employees deliver mail to over 75 homes around the lake. During the two hour tour you'll learn all about the different mansions on the lake, plus some fun facts about Lake Geneva in general! This is a must-do for first-time visitors!

Visit Yerkes Observatory

Science lovers will want to take a trip over to Yerkes Observatoryfor all things space. The historic building is home to the world's largest refracting telescope (wow!), alongside plenty of other exhibits which you can browse at your own leisure. If you're looking for a more guided experience, the observatory offers tours to help you understand what the heck you're actually observing.

Walk Along The Shore Path

You should totally take some time out of your busy itinerary to walk the shore path around Geneva Lake. The entire path is over 20 miles — which would take you almost all day to complete in its entirety — but you can just start and end wherever you'd like to get a gorgeous view of the lake and the larger-than-life mansions. The best part? It's free and open to the public, so you can stroll around at any time.

Take A Cooking Class

If you're looking to spend time like a local in Lake Geneva, then you'll want to register for a class at Lake Geneva School of Cooking. Join Chef John Bogan and his team as you participate in a hands-on cooking class alongside other locals and vacation go-ers. You can browse the classes offered online and pick one that suits your palate, whether that's a meat-driven dinner or a perfect pasta dish. Classes are priced at $150 per person, so it's a bit on the expensive side, but think of it this way: this experience goes beyond the class! You can cook this menu over and over again at home, remembering the fabulous time you had in Lake Geneva.

Try Some Local Cheese

You can't visit Wisconsin without trying some local cheese. Head on over to Hill Valley Dairy to get your hands — and taste buds — on locally produced cheeses. Once you figure out what you like, you can buy them to take home with you, so you can enjoy them even after you leave Lake Geneva! And who doesn't want more cheese in their lives?

Why is Lake Geneva so famous?

Lake Geneva is famous given all its fine dining, larger-than-life mansions, and absolutely beautiful body of water. Additionally, this quaint town is also in a pristine location located only an hour away from Chicago, making it an easy way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and be a little more in tune with nature.

On top of that, plenty of travelers compare Lake Geneva to more expensive destinations across the globe, from Lake Comoto Newport. This lets you get all the beauty and luxury of those bucket list towns without the high price tags!

How do I spend a day in Lake Geneva?

When it comes to activities, Lake Geneva has plenty to offer! Whether you're simply walking the shore path, indulging in delicious locally grown dinners, or taking a cruise around the lake, you'll find fun everywhere you turn! And just because this is a lake town, doesn't mean you have to be outdoorsy. You can cater your experience based on your interests, including relaxing in one of the lovely luxury hotels.

Mendocino, CA

Mendocino is a hidden gem on California’s northern coast that should top every ocean lover's bucket list. This charming village is a blend of charming Victorian architecture, modern eco-friendly boutiques, and breathtaking Pacific views. Take the journey through majestic redwoods to this cozy town in November when you might spot whales spouting off the rugged coast, and when the Mushroom Festival takes place (Nov. 16-17) , as part of the larger Harvest Mendocino. Stay at the centrally located MacCallum House for beautiful accommodations, from rooms in the historic mansion to private cottages, suites, a converted barn, and even a standalone home. Many rooms come with private hot tubs or jetted spa tubs, and stunning ocean views—plus, it's dog-friendly! Don't miss dining at the MacCallum House Restaurant, where farm-to-table dishes like Pan-Seared Scallops or Wild Mushroom Risotto pair perfectly with local Anderson Valley pinot or a refreshing Elderflower Martini. Unwind by the lush gardens or near the fire pit, then head to Catch-a-Canoe & Bicycles, Too (located at Stanford Inn & Resort) for an unforgettable paddle experience on the beautiful scenic Big River Estuary. Whether by canoe, kayak, or SUP, you'll have the chance to spot harbor seals, sea otters, and many bird species. There's wine tasting too! Visit Lula Cellars in Anderson Valley for a taste of world-class California wines and toast a perfect weekend getaway.

Athens, Greece

With iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, Athens offers a glimpse into ancient Greece, but it’s also a hip metropolis with bustling markets, lively cafes, and a thriving arts scene. November is cool enough to wander around and still experience clear blue skies. Explore world-class museums, enjoy fresh and delightful Mediterranean cuisine, and wander through charming neighborhoods like the Plaka and Monastiraki. With a unique mix of ancient ruins and modern life, Athens is the perfect destination for history buffs and adventure seekers.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires blends the best of my three favorite cities: the Parisian elegance in the Recoleta neighborhood, the bustling energy of NYC in Palermo Soho, and a touch of Roman charm that permeates the rest of the city. November springtime is the best time to explore this beautiful South American city. Food lovers will enjoy amazing Argentine steaks (paired with a glass of malbec, ofc), while those in search of culture can explore museums, theaters, and cool street art. Tango your way through the city’s traditional dance halls, admire the diverse architecture, and walk the colorful streets of La Boca (shown above). Even catch a football match!

Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca is a stunning place to experience Día de Muertos (Nov. 1-2), where families build ofrendas, or altars, at home and decorate the city in colorful marigolds. The city hosts festivals, costumed parades and candlelit vigils in honor of loved ones lost. Visit markets full of handmade treasures, and explore historic landmarks like the Santo Domingo Church and ancient Zapotec ruins at Monte Albán. The city is also a foodie paradise, offering traditional dishes like mole and tlayudas, a toasted tortilla covered with refried beans, cabbage, avocado, meat, Oaxaca cheese, and salsa. Home to mezcal, Oaxaca has many places to sip tequila's tastier cousin. Tour the Montelobos distillery or sip it poolside at The Hotel Parador de Alcala, an 18th-century mansion in the city's historic center.

The Berkshires

November in the Berkshires is ideal if you're looking for a slower pace surrounded by New England’s stunning fall foliage (for the best views head up to Mount Greylock, shown above). Located in western Massachusetts and part of the Appalachian Mountains, the Berkshires offers natural beauty plus antique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and luxury spas. Explore the scenic trails and visit historic sites like Edith Wharton's home, Ventfort Hall Mansion and the Gilded Age Museum, which is just five minutes away from Life House, a charming stay in the town of Lenox (decor lovers will swoon).

Aspen, CO

You can still catch breathtaking fall views around the Rocky Mountains in early November, even as snow starts to blanket the mountain landscape. Popular trails like Rio Grande and Smuggler are quieter this time of year and make for a peaceful respite before the holiday rush. Known for its world-class ski resorts, Aspen becomes a winter wonderland as the ski (and après-ski) season kicks off in late November. Beyond the slopes, enjoy the town’s luxe hotels, sumptuous dining options like Mawa's Kitchen and Acquolina, and charming boutiques. Aspen also has an impressive arts scene, with galleries and music and film events around the area to enjoy.

Maui, HI

Visiting Maui in November is the perfect serene escape with fewer crowds and more affordable stays. Wailea’s Restaurant Week (Nov. 5-11) offers gourmet dining at a fraction of the cost, and the Made in Maui Festival on the first of the month provides the perfect opportunity to find unique Hawaiian souvenirs. Catch a sunrise at Haleakalā, pop by Maui's delicious food trucks, or relax under swaying palms. November also marks the start of whale watching season. Catch a glimpse of migrating humpback whales along the peaceful shores.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon in November offers the best blend of mild weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices. Explore the city’s landmarks, like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and hop the iconic canary-yellow Tram 28 through historic neighborhoods like Alfama and St. George's Castle. November is also an excellent time to enjoy Lisbon’s vibrant café culture and sample traditional pastries like pastéis de nata. Experience local festivals and events, such as St. Martin’s Day on November 11, which celebrates the end of the harvest. Lisbon’s charming cobblestoned streets, tiled hilltop homes, and relaxed pace make it a perfect crowd-free autumn getaway.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

In November, Chiang Mai transforms into a magical city with its Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festivals. Thousands of floating lanterns light up the sky during Yi Peng, while candle-lit boats, or krathongs, glide down rivers as part of Loy Krathong, both coinciding with the full moon. The city enjoys dry days and highs in the mid-80s, making it perfect for exploring over 300 temples, including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. Escape to the peaceful Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest peak, and after, head over to the bustling Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.

Key West, Florida

Catch the perfect Key West weather in November with warm temperatures and low humidity. Enjoy outdoor activities like snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, sailing, or strolling around this charming city. Stop by historical sites like Ernest Hemingway’s homeand the iconic Southernmost Point. November also brings fewer tourists and fun events like the Key West Film Festival (November 18-22) and the Annual Stone Crab Eating Contest on November 4. With stunning sunsets, fresh seafood, and a laid-back vibe, Key West in November is the tropical paradise calling your name.

Palm Springs, CA

The November temperatures in Palm Springs hover around 78 degrees, making it an ideal time to explore the area. Stay at the Saguaro Palm Springs (shown) for a colorful yet affordable option (under $200/night). Hike scenic trails in nearby Joshua Tree National Park or take a short drive to Borrego Springs for amazing stargazing under the clear desert skies. The city’s gorgeous mid-century architecture shines this time of year, as does its lively arts scene. Bring the girls for a spa trip and enjoy gourmet dining for a luxe desert retreat during the more comfortable fall season.

Canary Islands

The Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the coast of northwestern Africa, is a dreamy destination in November. Tenerife, the largest island, offers famous beaches and some of the best stargazing in the world. Explore the colonial architecture of La Laguna and La Orotava, or enjoy fresh seafood in the quiet fishing village of Garachico. The island’s volcanic interior provides stunning landscapes perfect for hiking, while Santa Cruz offers a taste of modern art and architecture. November is also ideal for whale watching, but make sure to seek tours with certifications, like Whale Wise Eco Tours, which use solar-powered boats.

New Zealand

November in New Zealand kicks off the beginning of spring, making it the perfect time to explore its natural beauty, from the vibrant green hills of Hobbiton to the dramatic fjords of Milford Sound to the big cities like Auckland and Queenstown. Enjoy hiking, cycling, and water sports, and wine tasting. Just a short ferry ride away from Auckland is Waiheke Island, known for its vineyards, beaches, and art galleries. Hike up Mount Eden too, anextinct volcano for stunning views of the city.

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Home decor enthusiast Elena Lohse and her handyman husband have been renovating their 1935 home in Toronto’s west end, the Junction, for the past 4+ years. Her style is clean, fresh, and never boring. I love her DIY videos, and her blog follows their travels too through a unique design lens.

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