The holiday was at the Les Grillons Hotel at Talloires, on Lake Annecy. An excellent Hotel with good –size rooms, most with fabulous views of the Lake, friendly and helpful staff for whom nothing was too much trouble, great atmosphere of a small establishment – family- run by Auriele and Sabastienne . Excellent Restaurant, worth 2 Michelin stars at least. A culinary extravaganza, with an explosion onto the taste buds. First chicken supreme, followed on successive days by Pork medallions, the 7-hour Lamb, the Duck, the Sea Bass, and the Beef . Everyone anticipated every course at every dinner. Every dish plated up identically, with signature and explanation. Highlight was delicious light 50th Anniversary Cake with fireworks on last night. Aurielle and staff came through coach as farewell.
Weather was variable and had a large impact, but itinerary was swopped around to match weather to destination. In respect of Excursions – The day trip to Annecy was sunny, the local market was rampant, and many Probians went on the Lake Boat trip. Geneva was raining and instead of a guided walking tour, we had to take the Tourist Train, in order to see the city. The International Centre tour was rushed and not very useful. The day trip to Chamonix was excellent, since we took the scenic mountain route with plenty of hairpin bends, a stop at the brow of the pass, and a run downhill to reach Chamonix. Four intrepid mountaineers went up Mont Blanc, and the rest went on the cog railway – Train de Montenvers to view the Glacier. Excellent safe driver, coach very comfortable but not ideal for sightseeing.
Overall, a very enjoyable stay at an excellent hotel.