Bastion Promenade, Geneva

The Genevese are particularly fond of the Promenade des Bastions, previously a botanical garden. Amble through the gates and you will come across the giant chess boards where you may either watch or challenge a colorful crowd of regulars. The park is famous for its Reformation Monument [over 100 meters (330 feet) long] which commemorates the role of Swiss and European Protestant reformers and reminds the visitor that the city remains under the influence of Calvin's doctrines. The park, however, is best avoided at night.