My city: Geneva

Stéphane Marie-Françoise, Director, Trading, Equities, Unigestion SA

What is special about Geneva?

Imagine a city that blends the vibe and diversity of London and Paris, for example, with the charm and accessibility of a human-scale town. That’s Geneva. This picturesque city offers a large mix of nationalities, where you can explore every corner by bike or on foot.

But what truly sets Geneva apart is its exceptional quality of life. Imagine living in a place with minimal stress, low crime rates, and fantastic weather – Geneva offers all this and more. It’s a city where you can truly enjoy every moment, surrounded by a stunning natural backdrop and a cosmopolitan community.

What are your favourite bars?

As a DJ, I’m definitely involved in Geneva’s nightlife, so I have plenty of recommendations. The “Eaux-Vives” area is my favourite, the atmosphere is really good and the people are cool and friendly. It’s the perfect spot to find great bars, whether you’re looking to have a drink after work, pre-dinner, or continue into the night.

Of course in the summertime I prefer the beach clubs on the lake! My two favourite are La Potinière and Le Blanc Valet. These places hold a special place in my heart as they are where I kickstarted my DJ career.

Where do the locals go to eat?

It’s funny, but genuine locals born and raised in Geneva can be hard to find – I think I only know about ten myself! So, telling you their exact dining spots is a bit of a mystery. However, the restaurant scene in Geneva has exploded over the past decade, offering a real variety of cuisines.

For a great meal, again the Eaux-Vives, Pâquis, and Plainpalais areas are top choices. Regardless of the season, my personal favourites are “Le Bologne” and “Eat Me.” Le Bologne is a charming vintage bistro that emphasises high-quality, seasonal ingredients in its dishes. Eat Me, on the other hand, serves a delightful mix of international cuisine in small plates designed for sharing. Both places also boast impressive wine lists. I recommend giving them a try!

What’s your favourite ski slope?

That’s a tough question! Ask ten people, and you’ll get ten different answers. Geneva’s location is perfect, with the first ski resorts just a 35-minute drive away. You have the luxury of choosing between the Alps and the Jura, and skiing in France, Switzerland, or Italy. Your choice depends on your skill level, available time, and budget.

For a quick day trip, I love heading to resorts like Les Gets or Flaine, which are just a 50-minute drive away. These smaller resorts retain a natural charm. If I have more time, I prefer to go to the Valais region, where resorts like Zermatt, Nendaz, and Crans-Montana offer spectacular skiing experiences. However, these destinations require a bit more travel time – at least two hours.

Best watchmaker in Geneva?

When it comes to watchmaking in Geneva, there’s no definitive answer. Watches are undoubtedly a significant topic in Geneva.

My favourite brand has always been Swatch – it’s a nostalgic choice from my childhood. However, I’m also exploring other brands and who knows, maybe my preference will change in the future.

Does anyone swim in the lake?

Absolutely, swimming in the lake is in Geneva’s DNA. People swim all year round. In the warmer months, Geneva’s beaches are really busy. Personally, I love taking a refreshing swim during lunch breaks or right after work in the summer.

The lake is also the place for various water sport activities. If you visit Geneva, experiencing the lake is a must.