In Hotel Palafitte, Europe’s Best Take On the Tropical Bungalow

"Set on Lake Neuchâtel about 45 minutes from Bern, this lakeside escape brings the spirit of overwater bungalows to Switzerland with stilted “Lake” pavilions whose private terraces have ladders for morning swims in glass‑green water, plus 14 nearly identical “Shore” pavilions set back from the lake that add views of the Alps. Open all year except December, it’s high‑tech and contemporary rather than a Maldivian replica, its concept inspired by the region’s prehistoric stilt dwellings and originally built to draw stares at the 2002 Swiss National Exhibition; steel stilts hold futuristic boxes with unobstructed lake views, developed in collaboration with students from the EHL Hospitality Business School. In summer, guests take to kayaks, paddle boards, water‑skis, and boats; in winter, they enjoy a MICHELIN restaurant, glittering views, and in‑room spa treatments, with a permanent spa and more tech upgrades on the way. Regulars even request specific pavilions for sunset angles or a favored bird‑landing spot, and with only two room categories—Lake and Shore—choosing is straightforward; couples come to unwind, while business travelers use it as a refined base near the watch factories. Sustainability runs deep: 100% renewable hydropower, herbs grown on site for the restaurant and bar, and kitchen waste converted into renewable energy. Ultimately, it’s location, location, location—one of Europe’s most architecturally creative hotels making spectacular use of its setting and introducing travelers to the joys of Lake Neuchâtel." - Mitchell Friedman