Elegance personified

Located on the shore of radiantly blue Lake Zurich, at the far end of one of Europe's most famous shopping streets the Bahnhofstrasse the hotel guest book reads like a compendium of the worlds most famous who's who. Kings and generals have rubbed shoulders with great composers, artist and movie stars here. General Ulysses Grant was a guest , as was Israel's Premier David Ben-Gurion, King Edward VIII, Indira Gandhi, Margaret Thatcher and former President George H. Bush. Richard Wagner gave the world premiere of the first act of his opera, "Die Walkuere," at the hotel, singing himself and being accompanied on the piano by his famous father-in-law, Franz Liszt. Thomas Mann and his wife came to the hotel on their honeymoon. The grand musicians Arthur Rubinstein, Yehudi Menuhin, Zubin Mehta, Placido Domingo and Elton John have resided within its walls. Marc Chagall stayed there, and his famous stained windows can be seen at the nearby Fraumuenster Church. Movie stars galore from Audrey Hepburn to Richard Gere are frequent guests. The world's greatest dancers, Dame Margot Foneyn and Rudolf Nureyev also stayed here. Walt Disney was so taken by the hotel, he created an original cartoon with Donald Duck having lunch at the Baur au Lac. Having tea in the glamorous lobby while people watching is a favorite pastime and an affordable pleasure for anyone. Little known is the fact that during World War II the Baur au Lac was a secret meeting place where the heads of NATO and the Nazi Regime repeatedly held negotiations. If Zurich is on your vacation plan, a visit to the Baur au Lac is a must, even if your budget does not include staying there. Just to wander through the famed halls, admiring the most gorgeous fresh flower arrangements everywhere is a treat. High tea in the beautiful garden restaurant with views on the lake and the Alps in the distance is a special and affordable experience. The Sunday brunch buffet is sumptuous and well known make reservations early! For a taste of royal treatment, dining at the Restaurant Fran ais is an elegant event. Should you choose to stay, enjoy the beautifully decorated rooms and baths. The word 'pampered' takes on a new meaning. A long list of facilities and people are at your beck and call, from the rooftop fitness to complimentary access to the internet. If you want to dance the night away, there's a super cool night club. Before turning in, leave your shoes in front of your door. You find them freshly polished in the morning. The hotel operator, concierge or reception manager will address you by your name.