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Days Three, Four, and Five

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You're going to spend three days in the vicinity of Geneva, because there is just so much to see and do here! Following is a list of some of the most famous attractions in Geneva. You can choose which ones best suit you and your family, and do them at your leisure.

• Jet d'Eau - The Jet d'Eau is the tallest water fountain in the world. At 140 meters, this spectacular sight is the hallmark of the city and one of the most famous Swiss attractions. It is even more beautiful at night when it is drenched in lights. Be careful not to get too close or you'll get sprayed!

• L'Horloge Fleurie - It is a well-known fact that one of Switzerland's major industries is watch making, and the L'Horloge Fleurie is a living tribute to this trade. This colorful clock, built in 1955, is 5 meters in diameter and 15.7 meter in circumference with the world's longest second hand at 2.5 meters. The L'Horloge Fleurie is elaborate in design. It is located in the Jardin Anglais and contains 6,500 plants. Each season the clock's design is changed. This is one of Geneva's most photographed attractions.

• Monument Brunswick - This architecturally beautiful monument is situated on the right bank of Lake Geneva. It is intricate in design and serves as the tomb of Charles II, Duke of Brunswick. Charles spent his final years in Geneva and died in 1873. He had made a deal with Geneva that he would leave the city his fortune if they would bury him in a vault that replicated the Scaligeri family Mausoleum in Verona.

• Musee d'Art Moderne et Contemporain (MAMCO) - The MAMCO opened in 1994, making it the newest museum in Geneva. One interesting thing about this museum is that it is in an old factory that is 4000 square meters in area and is divided into 70 sections. The MAMCO has artwork on exhibit from both public and private collections, with work from famous artists as well as up-and-coming artists. This museum has a multitude of permanent exhibits, and it also features numerous temporary exhibits that are changed throughout the year. There is a small fee to enter this museum.

• The Maison Tavel - The Maison Tavel is a private house that is the oldest in Geneva. It was burnt down in 1334, and upon its immediate rebuilding, was named a historical monument. The cellar holds interesting archaeological ruins, and the ground floor tells the story of Geneva from the Middle Ages to the Restoration. The evolution of the city is shown through the paintings, engravings and pictures on the first floor, and 17th and 18th century woodwork, locksmithing, and ironwork are to be seen in the main hall. The Maison Tavel is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday through Sunday.

• Promenade de Bastiones - Formerly a botanical garden, the Promenade de Bastions is a beautiful park that has some interesting features. Upon entrance, you will see giant chess boards where you can play a game, or watch local experts play. The Reformation Monument, or Mur des Reformateurs, is located here. A word to the wise: avoid this park at night.

• Skiing and Winter Sports – There are some ski resorts in close proximity to Geneva, so you may want to take advantage of this unique skiing opportunity while you are here! Listed here are a few choices:

1. Champery – Less than 90 minutes from Geneva is this beautiful resort, high in the Alps, where you can ski and snowboard. The Village of Champery has a new sports center, the Palladium, that offers ice skating, curling, indoor sports, swimming, tennis, fitness, and more.

2. Leysin – The closest resort to Geneva, Leysin offers a wide selection of sports all year round. The village is cosmopolitan and filled with chalets, apartments, and hotels. Not to be missed here is the panoramic, revolving restaurant at the top of the Berneuse Mountain.

3. Villars-Gryon – This spectacular mountain resort is located in the Lake Geneva Region. Like other ski resorts, the Villars-Gryon has many sporting activities available. The village is also home to several cozy cafes and colorful festivals. This is a great place to enjoy Swiss night life.

Some restaurants you might want to try in Geneva are Cafe du Soleil and La Trattoria. Cafe du Soleil is an old bistro and one of the only remaining ones of its kind. It is internationally known for its delicious cuisine. La Trattoria is known as one of the best Italian restaurants in Geneva. The menu offers a huge selection of pizza and pasta. A famous favorite dish is its penne maison, pasta with a scrumptious sauce.

A recommended hotel for your stay in Geneva is the Hotel Beau-Rivage in downtown. This hotel features a few different restaurants and also a piano bar. Amenities include nightly turn-down service and a relaxing whirlpool in your room. If you want to sleep in in the mornings, simply order a delicious meal from room service and enjoy breakfast in bed.

Next Page: Days Six and Seven

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