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.
Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux and hotel in a village
Bespoke innovative cooking classes, watching movies in the comfort of a plush in-house cinema, wine tasting on horseback, indulgent facials and discovering contemporary South African Art. This vibrant luxurious retreat in the centre of Franschhoek offers a variety of available activities or simply the opportunity to relax and enjoy the superbly-appointed accommodation with a warmth and romantic charm unmatched in the region. In the restaurant, located in a charming inn, Chef extraordinaire Margot Janse is renowned for her innovative African-inspired cuisine. This culminates in unexpected dishes like Dalewood Huguenot Cheddar, fig baobab and honey and seasonal treats such as Jerusalem Artichoke Veloute with Kalahari truffle and “!Nara” oil.
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 12 elephants from Zimbabwe. Since then, this lodge has become a sanctuary for endangered species and a marvellous refuge for travellers in search of an authentic experience. The 6 deluxe suites and the presidential Zindoga Villa open onto their own private terrace with shower and outdoor pool. Go on safari on the back of an elephant to spot the “big five” (lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo and elephants), explore the bush on foot, or ride in a hot air balloon. Experience unforgettably unique moments, enhanced by attentive service and sophisticated cuisine.
This private Game Reserve, located within the six million acre Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park, is everything Africa ought to be - pulsing with the deep rhythm of the untamed Bushveld. The Reserve has been family run for 85 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 iselegant andchic with the class of history. The cuisine highlights fresh, local ingredients and is served with flair surrounded by nature.
On the banks of the Great Fish River, in the Eastern Cape region, Kwandwe private game reserve is home to rhinos, elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, springboks, impalas and giraffes. This area was the scene of many battles between the first Boer settlers and the Xhosa tribes and lends its historic charm to these modern, yet intimate lodges. The reserve will also delight bird watchers who will be able to observe protected species such as the Martial Eagle or the Blue Crane. After enjoying a massage in your suite and going on safari in search of the big five, it is only a two-hour journey to visit the beaches of Port-Elizabeth.
At the beginning of the last century, after falling under the spell of this bay “at the ends of the earth”, the ship owner Sir John Ellerman decided to build an elegant mansion facing the ocean, dominating Bantry Bay, just 10 minutes from the centre of Cape Town and Clifton 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 stunning!
Garden Route is one of the most striking regions in South Africa with its lush greenery, flower-filled prairies, huge trees, and long white sandy beaches from which you can often spot whales and dolphins. Kurland is situated in this beautiful setting at the heart of an estate where everything revolves around another of mankind’s favourite animals: the horse. The many activities available at this elegant Dutch address include learning to play polo and tournaments for the most enthusiastic players. In the words of Winston Churchill «The best passport into this world is a good polo handicap». But in this part of the world where ocean, forests and mountains meet, the world welcomes you with open arms however you may play polo.
Welcome to Singita Ebony & Boulders, 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.
Only 270 km from Cape Town, this natural haven of tranquility and holistic healing allows one to surrender your senses while reconnecting with nature. Recognised as one of the best hotels in the world for its splendid accommodation and facilities, world class service, exceptional spa treatments, authentic South African cuisine and generous hospitality. With over 130 ancient San rock art sites and abundant flora and fauna, this malaria and predator free wilderness sanctuary offers a magical playground to interact with nature. Activities include hiking, canoeing, mountain biking, fishing, archery, meditation, picnics, nature drives, and swimming in rock pools.
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.
