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.
Enjoy a Classic Adventure on the plains of the Serengeti
Experience a camp ambiance reminiscent of a bygone era. Take an extraordinary journey back in time, staying in the protected Grumeti reserve, on the edge of Serengeti National Park. The camp is ideally located at the very spot through which the great annual wildlife migration passes, with a landscape that stretches for as far as the eye can see. The tents boast a colonial style décor; Persian carpets, silk curtains and mahogany furniture in the heart of the savannah add a touch of spectacular sophistication. Gaze with awe at the sunrise while sitting at the edge of the pool, or savour gourmet meals in the middle of the plain. When night falls, just imagine dining beneath the acacias, under starlit skies.
Experience the magnificent spectacle and emotional experience of being immersed in the luxuriant vegetation and miraculous environment surrounding the lodge.–. From the terrace of your suite, elevated on stilts, you commune with the lush green forest and animals in the wild. This lodge, in the heart of Kruger Park on the banks of Sweni River, is a diamond in the rough, a true gem with an authentic soul. It is ultra-sophisticated and boasts a contemporary designer décor with attention given to every detail. It is built of wood and glass throughout and carefully designed to pay tribute to an indigenous Africa, one that is truly exceptional. The pool, the spa treatments and the sports facilities offer an open invitation to rest and relax in the open air and to take-in all the natural beauty. All this to do before setting off on safari into the spectacular landscape.
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and situated in the heart of one of the most exclusive suburbs, Bantry Bay, this elegant mansion is just ten minutes away from the V&A Waterfront and walking distance to Clifton and Camps Bay beaches. Whether you choose the opulent atmosphere of Ellerman House or the modern art gallery style of its annex, Ellerman Villa, you too will fall under the spell of this address that combines all the pleasures of Cape Town. Enjoy the gourmet cuisine, tasting fine vintage wines and surveying the impressive private art collection, plus a view of the Atlantic that is quite simply spectacular.
Only 270 km from Cape Town, this natural haven of tranquility allows one to surrender one’s senses, while reconnecting with nature. This retreat is recognised for its splendid accommodation and facilities, world-class service, exceptional spa treatments, authentic South African cuisine and generous hospitality. With one hundred thirty ancient bushman paintings dating from ten thousands years ago, and abundant flora and fauna, this malaria and predator-free wilderness sanctuary is a magical playground in which to interact with nature. Activities include hiking, canoeing, mountain biking, fishing, archery, meditation, picnics, nature drives, and swimming in rock pools.
Ambassador to the finer things in life, Kurland is the ideal family and couples retreat close to Plettenberg Bay along South Africa’s spectacular Garden Route. Situated in the foothills of the Western Cape Mountains within a vast and beautiful estate, this family-run hotel offers splendid rooms in manicured garden settings, within a pristine seven hundred hectare polo estate. Glorious vistas are enjoyed from all rooms, which overlook the Tsitsikamma Mountains, paddocks, pool and gardens. The area enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it the ideal year round destination. Kurland is within reach of secluded beaches and a great variety of activities, is full of character, has fine cuisine and staff that know the true meaning of the word “hospitality”.
The Serengeti plain is a 60 000 km2 savannah between Kenya and Tanzania. Every year, it becomes the theatre for the migration of thousands of animals including zebras, gazelles and black wildebeest from the Northern hills to the Southern plains and back. At Singita Grumeti Reserves, you will have front row seats for this breathtaking spectacle. You will succumb to the charm and elegance of this lodge set on the hillside, and its ten private cottages each with its own lawn and a private infinity plunge pool overlooking the plains below. As well as the 4WD safari option for a close up view of the wildlife, you can also float above the plain in a hot air balloon, or gallop on horseback alongside the zebras.
Enjoy the unique sensation of being in the heart of the savannah - protected and serene. The suites of Singita Faru Faru Lodge, situated on a slope, offer spectacular views over Serengeti National Park. Glazed viewing decks allow you to observe herds of elephants, wildebeest and zebra who come within eyesight to drink at their watering hole in Grumeti River, soon to be followed by leopards and hyenas.This is just a foretaste of the safaris in four-wheel drives or on foot to come. And upon return from these expeditions, each cottage offers the traveller a light-filled exclusive cocoon-like haven, and the lodge’s terraces, pools and spa are the ideal spot to rest and relax in perfect harmony with nature.
Hotel and restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux in town
“Cape Town’s heritage: beautifully preserved buildings, gardens and local culinary experiences in South Africa’s oldest, most famous city and wine region”
Located in Cape Town’s historical Constantia Valley, on the breathtaking slopes of Table Mountain, all the rooms and suites of The Cellars-Hohenort boast panoramic views of the impressive mountain and the beautiful grounds. Set in nearly 9.5 acres of world renowned gardens, this historic and beautiful country escape in the city offers guests far more than just incomparable scenery. A fifteen minute drive will take you to the centre of Cape Town, South Africa’s oldest city, famous for its natural beauty, cuisine and wine. Back at the hotel there are three award-winning dining experiences, including The Greenhouse, where cuisine focuses on regional flavours with modern interpretations. All of this is the result of owner Liz McGrath’s more than twenty years of hard work, love and endless inspiration.
Welcome to Singita Ebony Lodges, situated in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, one of the most reputed and beautiful in South Africa. Singita offers two superb lodges: the colonial-style Ebony and the Boulders, a contemporary model of African elegance. Each lodge has 12 suites, all with their own swimming pool. Guests delight in the abundant wildlife and the exceptional cuisine. By day or by night you can set off on the trail of lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos. After your safari, take the time to unwind in the spa where you can experience African massages with hot stones and body wraps.
A vast wilderness flanking the banks of the Great Fish River in South Africa's Eastern Cape region, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife including the Big Five, as well as cheetah, hippo, springbok and giraffe. The soul-stirring beauty of the landscape lends its charm to all four of its modern, yet intimate lodges. The reserve is a delight to travellers young and old and provides superb game and bird viewing as well as providing habitat for protected species such as the Black Rhino and Blue Crane. After a day out on a safari vehicle or boat cruise, enjoy an in-suite massage or refreshing cocktail. Visit Kwandwe’s community centre to see first-hand how responsible tourism is enriching the lives of everyone touched by Kwandwe.
Your suite raised on stilts overlooks the stunning scenery of Kruger National Park and its extraordinary variety of wildlife. Located on the border with Mozambique, this part of South Africa is one of the most blessed in terms of biodiversity. A pane of glass is the only thing between the foot of your bed and the wild so that you fall asleep looking at the stars and listening to the roar of the lions… in total safety! These beautifully elegant lodges offer something that you won’t find anywhere else: complete immersion in one of the planet’s most pure and wild demonstrations of the beauty of nature. A sensational experience is guaranteed.
Singita Boulders Lodge offers you luxuriant nature on the doorstep of the Sabi Sand wildlife reserve, which is one of the finest in all of South Africa. Its twelve sumptuous, authentic and refined suites offer stunning views of the banks of the river Sand. Each boasts its own pool and private terrace, guaranteeing you total harmony with nature. You can set off to track leopards, lions and elephants by night or by day. And when you get back from your safari, you will find a delicious meal waiting for you to enjoy in the shade of centuries-old trees. Then you might want to take some time out to recharge your batteries at the spa, and pamper yourself with traditional African treatments and hot stone massages.
Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux and hotel in a village
This vibrant, luxurious retreat in the centre of Franschhoek is superbly furnished, with oversized beds, understated quirkiness and lots of warmth, with a dollop of romantic charm that is unmatched in the region. There is an in-house private cinema and a variety of extraordinary experiences with an African influence to select from. Choose from innovative culinary experiences, wandering round the contemporary art gallery, an indigenous and unusual herb and sculpture garden as well as other sensational, tailor-made adventures. In the restaurant, Grand Chef Margot Janse and her team serve African-inspired dinners in the award-winning Tasting Room. Here they create acclaimed, cutting-edge cuisine using rare indigenous ingredients.
Deep in the heart of the private reserve, this camp is named after the first baby elephant which was abandoned and brought to the owners for rehabilitation. He was subsequently adopted, along with another twelve elephants from Zimbabwe. This lodge is also a sanctuary for endangered species and a marvelous refuge for travellers in search of an authentic experience. The deluxe suites and the presidential Zindoga Villa open onto their own private terrace and outdoor pool overlooking the dry riverbed. Go on safari on the back of an elephant to spot the Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinos, buffaloes and elephants –, explore the bush on foot or safari vehicle. Experience unforgettably unique moments, enhanced by attentive service and sophisticated cuisine.
This Private Game Reserve, endorsed by Nelson Mandela is situated in the heart of the Sabi Sand game reserve. It is everything Africa ought to be – pulsing with the deep rhythm of the untamed Bushveld. The Reserve has been family run for eighty-six years where the fourth generation of the Varty Family welcomes you to this lodge situated in perfect harmony with the environment. It consists of three camps – Tree, Pioneer and The Private Granite Suites on the banks of the Sand River. The style is elegant and chic with the class of history. The cuisine highlights fresh, local ingredients and is served with flair surrounded by nature.
