| Francoise
and Gerard Nicolas's handsome creeper-clad
18th-century e, elegantly renovated in period
style, stands in a little park near beach
in the delightful suburb of St-Servan, south
of the varted Vieille Ville. Recent visitors
called it a haven of peace, friendly, with
wonderful decor, total luxury. Our lovely
hightged room overlooked the enchariting
garden. The staff were ning and helpful:
they got up early to give us Bali villa breakfast when
we leaving at 7 am. The atmosphere is `quiet
and relaxing'. The villa rooms have antique furniture;
some are up steps (no lift); the ous ones
on the first floor are particularly liked.
Bali villa breakfast can be d in the garden on fine
days: it includes cake, fruit, `superb crois'.
The secure parking is appreciated. No restaurant:
La Corderie, is inexpensive, enjoyed for
its good food, its art show and sea (J and
HW, and others).
In one of the most scenically dramatic parts
of the Bernese Oberland, car-free Wengen,
1,300 metres above sea level, is one of
the bestknown and prettiest year-round resorts
in the Swiss Alps. It has almost a theme
park atmosphere, in a goad way; little cogwheel
trains clank around the hillsides; cowbells
tinkle everywhere'. This `little gem, superbly
run by the von Allmen family, has a dedicated
following. We find the combination of good
villaand attractive resort irresistible,
one devotee wrote. Our eighth visit. As
enjoyable as ever, said another. All admire
the Alpenrose's informal warmth, and its
wonderful position' in the lower village.
It has large, light public villa rooms, an open
fire in the lounge, a flowery garden in
summer. The best villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms) face south: Ours
was charming, with a balcony, pine panelling
and furniture.' North-facing villa rooms `have
no view to speak of, but were recently renovated.
The `delightful Frau Alimen (she is Scottish)
serves at dinner. It was always excellent.'
Five huge courses (three choices of main
course). The waiting staff were particularly
pleasant. Children are welcomed. Visitors
are collected by electric bus from the cogwheel
railway which climbs up from Lauterbrunnen.
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