Some 20 per cent of Geneva is covered in parks, of which the most popular is the Jardin Anglais, boasting a superb position on Lake Geneva. Since 1854 it has been a meeting point for locals and tourists alike, its grand established trees, stately fountains and sculptures of the city’s noteworthy artists evoking the elegance of an unhurried age. A bandstand hosts concerts in the warmer months.
Other highlights include a national monument commemorating Geneva joining the Swiss Confederation in 1814, but for over 50 years the star attraction has been the floral clock, one of the city’s best-known symbols. These days it’s a delightfully eccentric display, with most of the numerals lying outside the “clock”. Here the passing of time isn’t just marked by the hands but also by seasonal flowers which make up the arrangement. And at around 2.5 yards, the second hand is the longest in the world.
As central as it gets, the Jardin Anglais is situated where the Pont du Mont Blanc alights on the southern shore. It’s a short downhill walk from the Old Town.
