Relais & Châteaux is an exclusive collection of 500 of the finest charming hotels and gourmet restaurants in 60 countries. From the vineyards in Napa valley to the beaches in Bali, from the olive trees in Provence to the lodges in South Africa, Relais & Châteaux offers all the stops on the finest route for discovering each special place and country.
In all our properties, each maître de maison draws upon his unique experience and passion to share the authentic culture and tastes of his region with every guest.
Magical places and memories of a lifetime: whether it be a romantic weekend or to celebrate the important moments of life such as birthdays, anniversaries, honeymoon or family reunions.
Established in France more than 50 years ago, Relais & Châteaux has become a renowned reference of excellence in the hotel and restaurant world. The Association's mission is to spread its unique art de vivre across the globe by selecting outstanding properties with a truly unique character.
Owner and Grand Chef of the Inn at Little Washington My route from Washington DC to the plantations of South Carolina
More than 50 years ago Relais & Châteaux was first conceived as a travel itinerary from Paris to the South of France with stops at charming and unique properties along the way. This travel route was affectionately known as La Route de Bonheur – the route of happiness.
For the first time we are proud to introduce our own East Coast Relais & Châteaux Travel Route from The Jefferson to Planters Inn. This journey will take you to some of the most unique and fascinating properties in the world—each offering an unforgettable sense of place, inspired by the history and culture of its region. May our American Route of Happiness stimulate all of your senses and provide you with enchanting memories to last a lifetime.
Bon Voyage and welcome to the magical world of Relais & Châteaux.
Relais & Châteaux proposes its Routes du Bonheur for your inspiration: they are suggestions of itineraries that you can adapt to your preferences and desired experiences. Our advisors are at your disposal to individualise your routes and help you make reservations at our properties. Example for a five-night stay from $1550* * Minimum indicative rate per person, subject to availability, on the basis of a double room with double occupancy, including accommodation, breakfast and dinner (menu, without beverages) in the properties suggested for the itinerary. Activities on site and nearby must be reserved by you.
An experience you may not be able to find anywhere else in the world
The Inn at Little Washington is as close to a storybook destination as you can imagine. The country oasis is a romantic getaway that sheds all chaos and concerns from everyday life, and makes guests feel as if they have stepped back in time (with all the modern-day conveniences) to a more simpler way of living. Historians will love being in Washington, Virginia, one of America’s most preserved villages, and today’s workaholic will enjoy the fresh air and calm breezes that waft through the Inn. If you have a few spare moments, spend them on the porch enjoying the sunset over one of America’s great landscapes.
One word of advice: check your voice mail and call home before you hit the road. Once you get to Washington, Virginia, you will have little to no cell phone reception.
Close to the property...
1.The Inn Shops
Every good vacation needs a good shopping excursion. Located within walking distance from the Inn at Little Washington are the Inn Shops, part of the Old Tavern. Built in 1740, the Colonial building features a series of five decorated period rooms that showcase one-of-a-kind tableware, jewelry, antiques, and home furnishings from the 1800s.
Dinner at The Inn
A private dining experience unlike anything else. With only 30 tables, we treat every diner to an intimate and luxurious dining experience. Our staff can help choose a wine from our 14,000-bottle wine cellar to accompany your dinner. Dining is the perfect way to wind down a long day of travel and sightseeing, and a great way to reconnect with your travel partner and plan the next day s events.
On the route...
National Mall
Washington’s National Mall is where it all takes place. The Mall is home to years of protests, events, exhibits and leads the way to some of Washington’s most famous monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian Museums (I can never pass up an opportunity to walk through the Air and Space Museum). As you walk the grassy Mall, stop at the Washington Monument, walk through the Vietnam and Korean Memorials, and end near the Capitol Building.
Smithsonian American History Museum
Along your walk you’ll pass the Smithsonian Museums. From American Art to Air and Space, history knows no limits in these buildings. Stop off at the American History Museum to view the first flag our nation flew, George Washington’s uniform, Dorothy’s ruby slippers and the leather jacket worn by "The Fonz".
The Newseum
One of the most powerful new museums in Washington, and a personal favorite for retelling the stories of the past, is the Newseum - a 250,000-square-foot museum of news from five centuries. Here we’re reminded of the most news breaking events in our history, from Watergate to the attacks on 9/11, and how reporters and photojournalists covered every event that shaped our nation.
The White House
A few blocks from the Newseum on Pennsylvania Avenue is The White House, which is currently open for tours. If you want to tour the grand home, make sure to contact your member of Congress’s Washington, DC office about a month before your trip to secure White House tour passes.
Visit Old Town Alexandria...
Head out of Washington DC toward Old Town Alexandria, where the 18th century meets modern day tourism. Stroll the 250-year-old cobblestone and brick streets that lead you past boutiques, antique shops and endless cuisine options. The Hard Times Cafe is home to world famous chili and the famous Chili Mac plates.
Skyline Drive
As you leave The Inn at Little Washington, head south for a Skyline Drive, where you’ll view the grounds of the Shenandoah Valley. Located just 12 miles from the Inn, the drive was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Depression and offers 75 scenic overlooks to stop and take photos, picnic and enjoy the views.
We can advise you on booking your route. Contact central reservations :
Celebrated cuisine and a relaxing spa in an elegant village of charm
North Carolina’s award-winning Inn is everything you would expect from Relais & Châteaux, with a little bit of southern charm thrown in. The little retreat in Fearrington Village is the perfect getaway for those who appreciate good food, good wine, and good southern hospitality. Every time we’re there, we somehow fall back in love with Fearrington House and its quaint, but luxurious, charm.
Close to the property...
1.The Gardens
What better way to unwind than with a walk through one of the country’s most lush and lovely gardens?
Start at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, often referred to as the "Crown Jewel of Duke University." The gardens span a stunning 55 acres and is widely recognized as one of the best public gardens in the United States. Continue your drive to the North Carolina Botanical Garden, where you’ll be invited to walk the nearly 1,000 acres of lush landscape and green gardens. The Botanical Garden hosts various "theme" gardens throughout the year. Since the Botanical Gardens are a part of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, you can walk the campus while you’re here.
The Beer Garden and restaurant
After your walk through the south’s most stunning gardens, enjoy the English Afternoon Tea at the Inn or if you are in the mood for more casual atmosphere, head over to Roost, the Beer Garden. Don’t worry if brew isn’t meant for your palette — Roost offers a selection of wines by Fearrington sommelier Max Kast. For an exceptional dining experience, savor acclaimed Chef Colin Bedford’s farm-to-fork cuisine at the Fearrington House Restaurant
NC Museum of Art
After a light lunch at the Belted Goat, visit the stunning new NC Museum of Art in Raleigh - In 2010, this important Southern art institution reopened in a new home - a 65,000 square foot modernist marvel that has gotten rave reviews. The wide ranging collection includes the Southeast’s finest collection of Old Master paintings, works by 20th century African American artists and an African art gallery
On the route...
Lafayette’s Tour
As you make your way south toward Planters Inn, head along the Lafayette’s Tour Scenic Byway, where you’ll see some of North Carolina’s oldest and most historic plantations and southern architecture. Named for General Lafayette of France who followed the route during his tour of the country in 1825, you’ll enjoy picnics at state parks and find yourself transported back in time when plantations were the main form of economic survival in the South.
We can advise you on booking your route. Contact central reservations :
Located in Charleston’s historic district, Planters Inn is a charming hotel that welcomes guests with all the grace and style one would expect from a southern belle. With only 64 rooms, this luxury Inn makes every guest feel as if they’re family, whether you’re home to southern roots or not. Planters Inn embodies the historical significance of the south with all the luxury and lavishness of today. Your long drive on day five will be well rewarded with dinner at the Inn’s four-star Peninsula Grill.
Close to the property...
Boone Hill Plantation
The Boone Hill Plantation is one of the country’s still working plantations. Take a walk through the gardens, explore what was once the slave cabins in the south.
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Before leaving Charleston, stop by the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, a pre-Revolutionary War plantation house where history comes to life in the vast gardens, antebellum cabin and outdoor trails that wind through the 17th century plantation.
We can advise you on booking your route. Contact central reservations :
