CHAMBÉSY. Founded in 1902, this botanical garden is a sight to see. The grounds are lush and include over 65 acres of property. Visitors can see an arboretum with trees that are over 300 years old as well as a rose garden. The Conservatoire et Jardin Botaniques also has an exotic hothouse, deer park and small zoo area. BUS: Jardin Botanique 4, 44, and 18

Best known for his 18th century works on education, politics and liberalism, Jean-Jacque Rousseau was considered by some to be a visionary. As a native of Geneva, however, he was mostly shunned because of the city's strict conservatism. Ile Rousseau, an island where the writer spent time and which once served as a city bastion, sits in the center of the Rhône River, is now home to a variety of wildlife and a statue honoring Rousseau.

Overlooking the quai Général-Guisan, this charming English-styled garden is a nice spot for a leisurely stroll. The Jardin Anglais has terrace areas that provide a stunning view of the harbor. There is also a memorial statue located near the Mont-Blanc Bridge that honors Geneva joining the Confederation in 1814. The gardens were founded in 1854 and feature a number of fountains. There is also a fabulous floral clock tower that is eye-catching.

Part of a series of three landscaped parks, La Perle du Lac provides a tranquil setting. Located off of rue de Lausanne, the park offers scenic views of the Mont-Blanc and the city. This park features an intimate restaurant that sits in an enclosed pavilion. La Perle du Lac is connected to the Parc Mon Repos and the Parc Villa Barton.

Located off of avenue de France, this park is also part of a series of three landscaped recreational areas. Parc Mon Repos provides idyllic views of the city, planned walkways and lush greenery, as well as several elegant mansions that are part of the property. It is connected to Parc Villa Barton and La Perle du Lac.