Geneva car hire, French or Swiss side?

felthorpe wrote:Didn't hire companies used to make a bit of a fuss about taking their cars up mountains? Or have they accepted the inevitable now?

i.e. arrive Geneva with skis = likely to want to drive to ski resort = almost certain to be up a mountain!!

I have never come across that one yet :shock:

Swiss - chains will also be provided.

If you think you will need them then practice in a nice dry/warm place first!

Watch out for the 'winterization' charges that seem to have crept in with some operators (something like 25 quid extra for a week). Last season I complained to Expedia about this extra charge that was levied at the point of pick up. I explained that nowhere in the booking process is this stated, that it was unreasonable for the hire company to level an additional charge when they know exactly what date you are booking for at the time of booking (e.g. winter) and that Expedia should use their influence to stop their suppliers essentially 'pulling a fast one'. (given that Expedia are normally very good at stating all of the costs up front). They agreed and refunded me the winterization fee.

This is one reason why I would recommend booking with Expedia.

Also, watch out for additional insurance that excludes the car underside, tires, roof and windows (i kid you not), but that is a separate issue.

Have flown to geneva many times and always used french sector cars, they do not have winter tyres true but in Dec the access routes to your resort will probably be clear.we have never had problems at that time. The real beauty of the french side is that cars are just downstairs from the hire desk.The desk staff from all hire companies are very good at explaining the route back to the airport and will give you a map,just follow signs for Ferney rather than airport until you see Secture Francais. Once you get back the keys are dropped off quickly and you can book in at the quite desk there that never has a queue for most airlines allowing you to go thru to the swiss side internally with just hand luggage its much easier. The food on French side is very expensive tho wait till you get over for better selection hope this helps

Thanks for all the replies, I can hire a car far cheaper on the French side so I reckon I will do.

Gareth Fair wrote:Thanks for all the replies, I can hire a car far cheaper on the French side so I reckon I will do.

On the Swiss side I paid £197 pounds for the week medium car Seat of some kind enough room for skis and cases. Plus included Winter tyres. What price have you been quoted on the French side ????

€122 for four days for a focus. There is only two of us so t should be grand.

Gareth Fair wrote:€122 for four days for a focus. There is only two of us so t should be grand.

Who is that with Gareth ??

Prices work out for seven days roughly £177, for another £20 I think I would have the winter tyres, but thats only me :thumbup:

Carhire 3000