The Passage ★★★★

Basel, Switzerland’s third largest city, combines beautiful old pedestrian walkways interspersed with calming views of the Rhine and a rich cultural life. It was the latter that drew me in in the first place, but it was a combination of all three that put me under the city’s spell. With a whopping 36 museums and internationally renowned art festivals held throughout the year, it is a no-brainer for anyone who loves creativity as much as I do. Its tri-national location between France, Germany, and Switzerland injects it with a cosmopolitan, eclectic population brimming with a colourful array of backgrounds and languages, and the natural areas are some of the most breath-taking in Europe.

I had my sights set on The Passage for accommodation, which takes its name from its high location on the old city walls which marks the crossover point between the old and the new city. It is a location that allows visitors to pass between the ages, but also to easily access the city and all it has to offer. The central train station, the bustling shopping streets, and many of the museums are just a stone’s throw from the hotel, but this doesn’t mean it soaks up the sound of city life. In fact, The Passage has been dubbed an “urban oasis”, promising serene calm in the eye of Basel. Its contemporary façade with geometric shapes and modern lines tie in neatly with the idea of the perfect city break – new-age design, high quality services, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Inside, my room was a cosy nest. The king size bed and triple-glazed windows beckoned me to sleep for an eternity, whilst the paintings added a splash of colour to the otherwise white walls. Elsewhere, little details adorned the window frame and the vibrant cushions screamed a certain kind of classy European style. Then there were the luxurious amenities, from the iPod dock, the LED TV, Nespresso machines, great WiFi, and a sumptuous bathroom bursting with designer products.

Walking around the hotel itself, you would be easily mistaken for thinking it is a natural retreat tucked away in the foothills of the Swiss mountains. The interior patio provides a picturesque bubble from which guests can enjoy the sun, a drink, and an afternoon snack, whilst the expansive fitness centre offers all the goods, like a Finnish sauna and an ultra-modern fitness room. For breakfast, I lapped up the organic flavours, from the homemade breads and jams, to the delicious local meats and cheeses, and for dinner it was a tasty selection of dishes served alongside a fruity cocktail menu.

Though it might seem like a beautiful nature retreat, The Passage is actually well and truly a part of Basel city life. I just had to step outside and explore Market Square, marvel at Basel Cathedral, and duck into the many museums dotted around to see that Basel is an up-and-coming city perfect for a stylish, relaxing city break. And, with its contemporary décor, apt selection of luxurious services, and its close proximity to the city centre, The Passage is the ideal place to drop your bags.