Edged by Lake Hallwil in Switzerland’s stunning Canton of Aargau, the elegant Seerose Resort & Spa is a veritable waterside oasis, with five suites and 91 charmingly appointed guestrooms. The resort opened in 1880, but today’s cool, contemporary design aesthetic is divided into three room types: Classic, Elements and Cocon. Classic rooms have wooden floors and balconies overlooking the lake. Chic, modern design and balconies overlooking an atrium are features of Elements; while Cocon Suites include steam baths, separate lounge and views of the lake. Nespresso coffee stations, complimentary WiFi, flat-screen televisions, iPod docks and balconies are standard in all rooms.

Slip into the lake water from the hotel’s private dock for an early morning swim, and then enjoy a sumptuous breakfast in Restaurant Cocon, where you can nestle into one of the cozy, high-backed woven cocoon chairs beneath a ceiling covered in painted flowers. A gourmet dinner menu and choice of dining venues round out the culinary choices, while the Seerose Cocon Thai Spa provides authentic Thai therapies and spa treatments based on traditional Thai medical philosophy. The space itself is amazing, with interconnected waterways for swimming that lead to the main pool, and a wet area that includes the Temple Sauna, Tropical Rainforest, Water Jet Seating and Salt Cocon. Deep relaxation and natural elements feature prominently in treatments, including serenity rituals and a selection of indulgent baths that include a Honey Ginger Bath and Honey Blossom Bath.