Words by Theresa DeMaria
As I rounded the final curve of the winding lakeside road, The Abbey Resort’s iconic A-frame entrance came into view, silhouetted against the shimmering waters of Lake Geneva. I felt the tension in my shoulders begin to melt away. Just 90 minutes from Chicago but worlds away from city life, I had arrived at my sanctuary for the weekend. Walking through the doors of this historic resort, originally opened in 1963, I was immediately struck by how the recent renovations had preserved its classic charm while infusing modern luxury. The lobby’s warm wood tones and nautical accents created an inviting atmosphere that whispered, “Welcome home.”
Sprawling across 90 acres of pristine shoreline, The Abbey Resort felt both grand and intimate at the same time. My lake-view room, one of 334 guestrooms including 13 luxurious suites, offered a perfect balance of comfort and elegance. The nautical-inspired décor reminded me that I was in a true lakeside retreat.
The crown jewel of my stay had to be the Avani Spa. Spanning an impressive 35,000 square feet, this recently renovated wellness haven became my daily escape. On my first morning, I woke early for a swim in the indoor domed pool—a magical experience as sunlight filtered through the glass, creating dancing patterns on the water. In winter, I’m told, it transforms into a snow globe experience as flakes fall gently on the dome above swimmers.
After my swim, I indulged in one of their signature treatments. The therapist explained that “Avani” means “earth” in Sanskrit, and truly, the experience grounded me in ways I hadn’t felt in months. Between the sauna, salt room, and steam room, I emerged feeling renewed and centered.
What makes Lake Geneva special is the perfect balance of relaxation and activity. From The Abbey’s harbor, I rented a boat one afternoon and explored the 21-mile shoreline, marveling at the historic mansions that fringe the lake. These grand estates, many built by wealthy Chicago families after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, tell stories of a bygone era.
Back at the resort, I discovered there was never a shortage of things to do. The weekend brought live entertainment at the Waterfront restaurant, where I sipped a craft cocktail while watching the sunset paint the sky in spectacular oranges and pinks. For families visiting, I watched children delight in scavenger hunts, blacklight dancing, and even Mad Science shows. The resort truly comes alive with family Olympics and magic performances that had both children and adults gasping in amazement.
The dining options at The Abbey surprised me with their quality and variety. From casual lakeside fare at the Waterfront to more refined offerings at 240° West, each meal became an experience to savor. One evening, I joined a small cooking demonstration where the chef showcased local Wisconsin ingredients in innovative preparations.
“We try to capture the essence of the Midwest with our menu,” the chef explained as he plated a perfectly seared walleye. “It’s comfort food elevated.”
Over breakfast the next morning, I chatted with a family who had made The Abbey their Easter tradition. They described the resort’s Easter Brunch as legendary, followed by egg hunts on the Harbor Lawn and visits with baby animals that delighted their children. The mother confided that the special Abbey Easter delivery to their room—filled with toys, cookies and candy—had become the highlight of their children’s spring.
Lake Geneva: Beyond The Abbey
While I could have happily spent my entire stay within the resort grounds, Lake Geneva offers a wealth of attractions beyond The Abbey. I hiked a portion of the 21-mile Shore Path, a public walkway that has allowed access around the entire lake since the 19th century and explored the charming downtown area.
Must-See Attractions in Lake Geneva
Jet d’eau – The city’s iconic water fountain shooting 140 meters into the air, creating a spectacular backdrop for photos
Bains des Paquis – A beloved public bathhouse where you can swim, enjoy saunas, and dine at the waterfront café
Boat ride on Lake Leman – Experience the crystalline waters and gain a new perspective of the shoreline
The Riviera – An elegant promenade with Mediterranean-inspired architecture and sweeping lake views
Lake Geneva Cruise Line – Offers fascinating narrated tours about the historic mansions lining the shore
Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures – For thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline rush
Safari Lake Geneva – A unique wildlife experience right in Wisconsin
Restaurants Unique to Lake Geneva
Harbourside Pub & Grill – Waterfront dining with an expansive patio and impressive selection of local craft beers
Popeye’s – A Lake Geneva institution since 1972, known for rotisserie chicken and harbor views
Olympic Restaurant – Family-owned establishment offering Greek-inspired breakfast specialties
Oak Fire – Wood-fired pizza with locally-sourced toppings and perfectly crisp crusts
Lake Geneva Spice Company – Not just a restaurant but a culinary destination for exotic spice blends
The Geneva Stage and Tap House – Combines live music with craft beers and excellent pub fare
Shops Not to Miss
Genevieve Boutique – Carefully curated collection of women’s clothing and accessories
Edie Boutique – Beautiful lake-inspired jewelry and unique gifts
Pink Moon Bay – Boho-chic fashion capturing the relaxed elegance of lake living
Bangles & Bags – Dazzling selection of statement accessories and handbags
Queen Bee Artisan Market – Charming collective featuring works from local artists and craftspeople
Fat Cat’s – Vintage ice cream parlor offering generous scoops and nostalgic charm
Between The Abbey Resort’s comprehensive amenities and these local treasures, Lake Geneva offers something for every type of traveler, whether seeking relaxation, adventure, culinary delights, or unique shopping experiences.
The Magic of Mornings and Evenings
My favorite moments came at the edges of each day. Early mornings spent walking the resort’s grounds, coffee in hand, listening to migrating birds singing from ancient oak trees. And evenings watching the sun set over the marina, casting long shadows across the harbor as boats gently rocked at their moorings. One particularly memorable evening, I joined a lakeside bonfire where guests shared stories and roasted marshmallows. Under a canopy of stars, with the gentle lapping of waves as our soundtrack, I felt connected not just to the place but to the generations who had enjoyed this same simple pleasure over the resort’s nearly six decades of history.
As my weekend ended, I found myself already planning my return. Perhaps in summer to experience the full range of water activities, or during the holidays when I’m told the resort transforms into a winter wonderland. Or maybe during Easter weekend, to experience the family traditions I’d heard so much about—brunch, egg hunts, and special visits from the Easter Bunny.
Checking out, I took one last look at the lake from the resort’s perfectly manicured grounds. The deep breath I took felt different from the stressed inhale I’d arrived with just days before. Lake Geneva and The Abbey Resort had worked their magic, offering a perfect blend of luxury, activity, and natural beauty.
As I drove away, the iconic A-frame growing smaller in my rearview mirror, I carried with me not just memories but a renewed spirit. The Abbey Resort isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve returned to everyday life. And like the many generational visitors I’d met during my stay, I knew this wouldn’t be a one-time visit, but the beginning of my own tradition.
