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.
Saint-Martin de Ré registered as a French UNESCO World Heritage Site
Since the 7th of July 2008, the town of Saint-Martin-de-Ré on the North Coast of the Ile de Ré, joins 11 other French Unesco World Heritage Sites.
In 1861 Vauban was responsible for the construction of a large citadel to protect the islanders. Saint-Martin now features on the Unesco World Heritage Listing amongst such other marvels as the Great Wall of China, Mont Saint Michel, Château de Versailles.
Situated at the entrance to the port town, this 17th century property, with its 16th century tower, was once the home of a ship owner. It has now been beautifully restored as a 20 room hotel offering sumptuous luxury. The Hotel offers the possibility of half board, private dining, bespoke meals and every Monday and Tuesday an opportunity to savour the “cuisine” of Christopher Coutanceau (2 star Michelin).
Restaurant Richard et Christopher Coutanceau Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux on the seafront “It seems that being born a Coutanceau means being born to cook”, remarked chef Joël Robuchon one day. At the La Rochelle restaurant, father and son form a pair of unequalled chefs. Christopher, the son, absorbed the culinary rigor of his father and added his own wizardry. But the “Coutanceau touch” remains: incredible sea food, purchased that same morning at the port market. Don’t forget to ask for the secret of the Breton lobster stew braised in crustacean butter, or tips for preparing a crusty sea bass in a shellfish froth, accompanied by gnocchi “Mona Lisa”. What’s more,there’s a cellar with more than one thousand labels totalling more than 20,000 bottles. A full programme in itself... ...Read more France, La Rochelle
Le Richelieu Hotel and restaurant on the seafront The old harbour of La Flotte still bears the traces of the bustling activity that used to reign over this now tranquil island in its golden age, during the 19th century. One of the best illustrations of this is the old covered market, a must-see between two dives in the sea. Just outside the village, right on the beach, your private pavilion awaits you. The view of the ocean and the very best in thalassotherapy treatments make this the perfect place to recharge your batteries. ...Read more France, La Flotte-en-Ré
L’Hôtel de Toiras Hotel and restaurant in a village The beautiful island of Ré is itself really worth a visit. Among the charming ports linked by a network of pathways to be explored by bike paths crisscrossing the sandy earth, Saint Martin de Ré, surrounded by the Vauban fortifications, is the best place to stay. Your base: a 17th century shipbuilder’s residence with windows overlooking the port or starting from May 2011 the Villa Clarisse, just a stone’s throw away, with its gardens, its views of the old town and its spa with swimming pool. The mast of a fishing boat may perhaps disturb your views of the setting sun, but would that really bother you? ...Read more France, Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux on the seafront
France, La Rochelle 
