Fodor's Expert Review Hôtel des Trois Couronnes

Honeycombed by dramatic atrium stairwells that look down on marble columns and gleaming floors inlaid with golden coronets, this regal landmark was Henry James's home base when he wrote (and set here) the novella Daisy Miller. Burgundy brocade with floral swags and coverlets contrast boldly with striped wallpaper in generously sized guest rooms. The spa, called Puressens (Pure Senses), offers a full range of restorative services that are a relaxing extension to time spent in the lower-level pool. A vast lakefront terrace overlooks the pollards, the promenade, and the steamers plying the lake.