Basel, Switzerland and the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois

For our two-night stay in Basel, we chose a hotel whose history is long and colorful, just as the city itself, and where the food is extraordinary, Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois.  This award-winning, five-star luxury property is in the heart of the city and situated on the banks of the Rhine River.  Les Trois Rois was a recent addition to the Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List (2014) and was a winner of the Reader’s Choice for Top Central Europe Hotels by Condé Nast Traveler (2013).  They also placed No. 4 in the Top 50 City Hotels in Switzerland by Bilanz Hotel Rating (2013).  Their gourmet restaurant, Cheval Blanc, under Chef Peter Knogl’s direction, was just awarded 2 Michelin stars for the 6th consecutive year (2014) and earned 18 Gault Millau points for the 5th time in a row.  The hotel’s French inspired Brasserie earned 14 Gault Millau points and for Italian inspired cuisine, the property offers Chez Donati, which is a short stroll from the property.

Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois

Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois

* Dining Room at Cheval Blanc

* Dining Room at Cheval Blanc

The Brasserie at Les Trois Rois

The Brasserie at Les Trois Rois with gorgeous views of the Rhine River

The origins of Les Trois Rois, (which means “The Three Kings” in French) dates back to 1681.  Referencing the three wise men from the Orient, this was a popular name at the time for taverns and inns located near the water and trade routes.  Over its 333 year history, Les Trois Rois has traditionally been a place for the nobility and aristocracy to meet and stay.  The hotel has been host to many heads of state, famous traders, and great leaders in science and culture from around the world.  Much of the façade of the front of the building that exists today was designed and built between 1841 and 1844 when the hotel opened its doors as Des Trois Rois.

Public spaces, entrance hall, and one of the rooms at Les Trois Rois

* The foyer, library, reception area, and one of the rooms at Les Trois Rois

A tribute to one of the hotel's most famous guests, the Napoleonic Bee is a symbol of Napoleonic Rule of General Napoleon Bonaparte

A tribute to one of the hotel’s most famous guests, the Napoleonic Bee is a symbol of the Napoleonic Rule under General Napoleon Bonaparte – the inn hosted a state reception for him in 1797

Elegance, sophistication, and tradition best describe this stunning property.  Preferring to learn and write about older hotels with a unique history and story, this hotel was a perfect choice.  The food and experience at Cheval Blanc was also exceptional and the service impeccable.  Waking up to views of the Rhine River from our window as well as the views looking back at the hotel at night were magical.

Our room at Les Trois Rois with a view of the Rhine River

Our room at Les Trois Rois with a view of the Rhine River

The bar, Salle Belle Epoque, and lobby

* The bar, Salle Belle Epoque, and lobby

Our morning view of the river

Our morning view of the river

If you are considering a trip to Switzerland, consider Basel as a location to see the sights of neighboring countries (France and Germany) and then take a short train ride to the beautiful cities of Bern and Lucerne, Swizerland.  There are numerous festivals and markets throughout the year, beautiful scenery, and wonderful regional specialties to try, such as some of the wines, cheeses, meats, and pastries. Pick a season, plan your travels, and go!

Another view from our window

Another view of the Rhine from our window

We had the privilege of meeting with Chef Peter Knogl of Cheval Blanc during our stay at Les Trois Rois.  The next article will feature our interview with him and our memorable lunch at this incredible 2 Michelin Star restaurant.

Guet Nacht Basel

Gute Nacht, Basel

* These photographs are courtesy of Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois.

Disclosure – Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois provided a media package for our visit.  I was not asked to write any articles about my stay and have in no way been compensated.  The opinions expressed regarding our experience are my own.

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