Imperial Palace

Set in a historic building dating back to 1913, L'Imperial Palace has a secluded setting that's surrounded by lush gardens right along stunning Lake Annecy. This serene location befits the majestic belle epoque architecture of the hotel, and visitors can regularly be seen outside taking photographs of the building. The interiors are modern, but have a business-hotel style that isn't necessarily congruous with the idyllic (and romantic) lakeside setting. Toward the bar area, the fixtures and decor are a little more stylish, as impressive chrome light fixtures and vintage black-and-white photography are spread across the walls. La Voile restaurant offers seating on the terrace, where guests can take in the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Annecy and the Alps. Given its lovely exteriors and impeccably kept -- if bland -- interiors, it's no surprise that couples make up most of the guests here, but groups and conference-goers are also frequent visitors. 

L'Imperial Palace's secluded lakeside location means that getting to the center of Annecy on foot takes around 20 minutes. While that's a bit long for many travelers, several past guests find it to be pleasant walk. Alternatively, guests can drive into the old town in just five minutes, where all the main attractions, bars, and restaurants can be found. The stunning bridge, Pont Des Amours, is also a five-minute drive away, while the Jardins de l'Europe are also right next to the historic bridge. Palais de l'Ile -- the medieval castle that's now open to the public as a museum -- is a six-minute drive from the hotel. Annecy train station is 10 minutes away by car, while the closest airport can be found in Geneva, which is a 40-minute drive from the hotel.

Just like most of the hotel's interiors, its quiet rooms are modern and a little generic, which is slightly disappointing given the property's historic nature. Decor is uniform across all room types, and includes oak-veneer furniture, gray carpets, and red armchairs, though there's no art work to disrupt the abundance of neutral tones and surfaces. Leather upholstered headboards, thick blankets, and white linens on beds do add a cozy quality. Standard features include minibars, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, electronic safes, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi -- although the speed is not great. Executive Suites are more spacious, with additional seating options -- including a taupe sofa -- and espresso machines. Some rooms have large terraces overlooking Lake Annecy, where guests can relax on sun-loungers. Bathrooms are clean and fresh, with light marble accents and upscale toiletries plus separate water closets, heated towel racks, and separate bathtubs and walk-in showers in all rooms. 

There are a number of features on-site at this hotel, which is helpful as there isn't too much right nearby. A fine breakfast buffet features hot and cold options, and there's also room service, although neither are included with room rates. The hotel has three different restaurants -- with La Voile being the most frequented by guests -- and has a number of traditional French dishes on the menu. A casino is handy for passing time on cold, snowy afternoons, and it includes a range of different games and slot machines. There's also a gym with weights and cardio equipment that's free for all guests. Unfortunately, the spa -- which includes a nice glass indoor pool -- isn't free to access. The hotel's grounds lead to La Plage d'Annecy, which includes a private beach that's accessible by using vouchers handed out at the hotel. For those with a car, the hotel offers free parking at all times. Wi-Fi is free for up to two devices, although the internet speed isn't great. Events and seminars regularly take place in the large conference hall.