MET Rooftop Lounge in Geneva

MET Rooftop Lounge: the Jet d'Eau opposite, at the top of the Métropole

A balcony over the harbour

A grand hotel on the left bank, the Métropole lines the Quai du Général-Guisan, directly opposite the Jardin anglais. Its roof, on the 5th floor, is home to an open-air lounge: wooden deck, grey sofas, armchairs, potted olive trees, parasols and a pergola. Above the treetops of the garden, the view takes in Lake Geneva, the harbour, its sailing boats and the Jet d'Eau; on the other side, the roofs of the Old Town and Saint-Pierre Cathedral come into view. Sunset is the most sought-after moment.

Spritzes, gins and tapas

The fine-weather menu gives pride of place to spritzes, with limoncello, lychee or violet, at CHF 24. Short cocktails cost CHF 22 to 26, long drinks CHF 26, and a champagne creation goes up to CHF 34; mocktails cost CHF 16. Gin lovers are spoilt for choice between Swiss distilleries and labels from all over the world, served with the tonic of their choice. As for food, sharing tapas range from Grisons dried meat and mini raclette burgers to meze, sea bream ceviche or beef gyozas, with charcuterie and cheese boards for two.

Practical information

The rooftop opens in the warmer months, from Tuesday to Saturday in the late afternoon and evening; some winters, a sheltered version under a heated pergola has taken over. No table reservations: on summer evenings, it is best to arrive early. In strong winds or bad weather, the terrace may close. Smart, elegant dress. Bus to the Métropole stop, in front of the hotel, or tram 12 or 17 to Rive, a few minutes' walk away.