1 Best Hotel in Fribourg and Neuchâtel, Switzerland

Unique in Europe, this one-level hotel is partly built on piles on Lac de Neuchâtel, giving it unbeatable clear-day views that include the distant Alps. Located 3 km (1½ miles) from Neuchâtel's city center in outlying Monruz, this design-centric complex has 40 "pavillions," some on the shore and some over water. A wide array of room amenities even include a ladder from which occupants can descend into the lake for a swim. Many consider the hotel's restaurant, La Table de Palafitte, to be one of the best in the area. Terrace dining is spectacular here.