Évian-les-Bains, France is located on the scenic shores of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman in French). Evian is famous for its mineral water which is available in almost all stores around the world. It was my wife Diane’s favorite water, so we were destined to experience it up close.
In the very early 1800’s, the local springs were discovered and then Evian flourished as a spa town for the rich and famous. Evian has had a history of hosting royalty and celebrities on holiday. Luxurious villas then sprang up along the hillsides and shore. In addition to boat cruises around Lake Geneva, there is a famous casino in the town for those inclined to games of chance.
(Buvette Cachat)
On the Rue Nationale is the masterpiece of Art Nouveau built in 1826 -- the Buvette Cachat with its stained-glass windows and glazed tiles. Once a mineral bath using Cachat spring water, is now a refreshment bar and listed as an historic monument. We had lunch at the umbrellaed café in the top photo, along the promenade, which has a great view of the lake.
(Hotel des Princes)
We stayed a couple nights at the beautiful Hotel des Princes which served up spectacular meals. It began operation in 1806 and we had a balcony room overlooking Lake Geneva and the hotel’s small marina.
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