With the founding of the Relais & Châteaux association, its member establishments became the place to stay for those seeking fine dining and exceptional surroundings. In the mid 1950s the so-called ‘Blue’ train from Paris’ Gare de Lyon lead passengers along the route from Paris to the Côte d’Azur. A road was built in parallel to the train, and along the corridor from Paris to Lyon and Marseille outposts began to emerge where fine French taste flourished.

As the owners of one of these establishments, Marcel and Nelly Tilloy saw an opportunity to band together with other locales sharing the same unflagging passion for hospitality and excellent cuisine. Together with seven other establishments, all referred to as “relais de campagne”, they could offer an enticing gastronomic itinerary, encouraging travellers to explore all eight spots. Soon this itinerary acquired the moniker “La Route du Bonheur” or “Road of Happiness”.

Today “La Route du Bonheur” stretches well beyond the borders of France and extends to all five continents of the globe.