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 Christopher Coutanceau Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux on the seafront Concurrence beach stretches out at the foot of this veritable beacon of gastronomy in the Charente. Nothing is left to chance here. Just imagine a truly exceptional moment, where time stands still, and where your pleasure comes first. The clocks have stopped on this Relais & Châteaux Route du Bonheur letting you share a memorable experience. Today Christopher, the son, is in sole command. He has been strongly influenced by his father's legendary culinary rigour on which he puts his own personal stamp. However, the “hallmark signature” of the restaurant has not changed: superb seafood, sourced that very morning at the harbour market, creativity and passion for fine dining. Dare to ask for the secret behind that Breton lobster stew in shellfish butter, or for tips on how to recreate in your own home a crispy line-caught sea bass in a shellfish foam. Added to that there is a cellar with more than one thousand different labels and 20,000 bottles. ...Read more France, La Rochelle
Le Richelieu Hotel and restaurant on the seafront Situated right on the beach, in the middle of the beautiful bay of La Flotte, Le Richelieu invites you to relax and regenerate. From here, guests can explore the charming île de Ré, which offers a perfect balance between historical sights and beautiful nature. After a refreshing swim in the ocean, head to the town of La Flotte to visit its medieval market and get lost in its narrow streets. Back at the hotel, recharge your batteries with an exceptional Thalassotherapy treatment at the spa, and cap off your day with a delectable dinner at the hotel’s restaurant with its panoramic views of one of the most beautiful bays of the Atlantic. ...Read more France, La Flotte-en-Ré
L’Hôtel de Toiras & Villa Clarisse Hotel and restaurant in a village The beautiful island of Ré is really worth a visit. Among the charming ports linked by a network of pathways to be explored by bike, crisscrossing the sandy earth, Saint-Martin-de-Ré, surrounded by the Vauban fortifications, is the best place to stay. The hotel is a 17th century shipbuilder’s residence with windows overlooking the port, near the fortress by Vauban, a Unesco World Heritage site with spectacular views of the Atlantic. There is also the option to stay in the Villa Clarisse – 18th century private mansion – just a stone’s throw away. Both hotels boast gardens, views of the old town and heated swimming pool. Here, the mast of a passing fishing boat may perhaps be the only thing to disturb your view of the setting sun. ...Read more France, Saint-Martin-de-Ré