The Best Way To Enjoy Lake Geneva Is A Vintage Boat Locals Still Use, Per Samantha Brown

Switzerland is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and scenic countries in the world. The majestic snow capped peaks of the Swiss Alps offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Europe placing them high on many travelers' winter bucket lists. The verdant valleys scattered with traditional wooden chalets provide picture-perfect views. Adventurers hope to explore Switzerland's iconic Matterhorn, while famous cities like Zurich and Bern are favorites amongst lovers of art and historic architecture. There's no shortage of places to explore in the culturally rich central European nation, but no trip is complete without a visit to one of the most beautiful lakes in the world — Lake Geneva. 

Samantha Brown, a television host and travel expert known for her work on The Travel Channel and PBS, considers the lake a must-visit destination. On her website she wrote, "When it comes to where to go in Switzerland, nowhere encapsulates its beauty quite like Lake Geneva." Having visited more than 250 cities and 62 countries, it's safe to say she knows a thing or two when it comes to travel, and her advice is to experience Lake Geneva aboard a historic Belle Epoque Boat. The refurbished ships are over a hundred years old, offering a one-of-a-kind way to explore all the beauty of Lake Geneva.

Taking a ride on a Belle Epoque boat feels like traveling back in time to one of the most fascinating periods of European history. "These boats have been at work since the early 1900s," wrote Brown, and they're still one of the best ways to get around for both locals and tourists.

During the Belle Epoque, which stretched from 1871 to 1914, Switzerland flourished. The Belle Epoque began just after the Franco-Prussian War and continued until the onset of World War One. It is sometimes referred to as Europe's Golden Age and the translation actually means "the beautiful era." Throughout Europe it was a time of positive change. Architectural marvels like the Eiffel Tower were built. Art and ingenuity thrived. Social norms shifted and a spirit of progress spread throughout the continent.

Tourism began to explode throughout Switzerland. The breathtakingly beautiful Lake Geneva, which is bordered by both Switzerland and France, was no exception. Many Europeans found themselves suddenly wealthy during the industrious period, and with that wealth came the freedom to travel. Some of the world's most beautiful hotels were constructed during that time to accommodate the luxury travelers. Glamorous paddle-wheel steamboats were built to transport tourists around the lake.

"What's the best way to enjoy Lake Geneva? On the water, of course," Brown wrote on her website — and she's exactly right. From the decks of the boat you can experience unforgettable panoramic views of the sparkling blue water and the picturesque towns along its shores all of which are silhouetted by the majestic Alps.

The Belle Epoque boats have been renovated and refurbished while meticulously preserving the beautiful historic details. From the dining rooms with their ornate woodwork and gorgeous decor, to the spacious decks with amazing views the boats offer an authentic experience that has been enjoyed by Europe's most elegant travelers for generations. They accommodate up to 850 people, and make daily trips around Lake Geneva, stopping at various towns along the way.

You can book an affordable passage between towns, but Brown recommends booking a cruise experience. "They offer everything from wine tasting to a proper grand tour," she wrote. Lunch on the Lake cruises include a three course meal. There's also a Fondue cruise, and a wine tasting option. All passengers can also order food and drinks from the bar aboard the upper deck. If you plan exploring multiple destinations around Lake Geneva, the Daily Pass is an excellent option. For around $100 you can enjoy unlimited rides.