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.
Relais Il Falconiere voted the best hotel in Italy by the readers of Travel + Leisure! Il Pellicano and Il San Pietro were also voted among the top hotels in the country.
Travel + Leisure has just unveiled its annual list of the most beautiful properties in the world, selected by its readers. As every year, Relais & Châteaux dominated this prestigious selection with no fewer than 27 properties making the list.
Ranked among the top hotels in Italy was Relais Il Falconiere in Cortona, voted the best property in Italy and the sixth in the world! Pellicano in Porto Ercole and San Pietro di Positano in Positano were among the leading properties on this prestigious list.
This listing was compiled by Travel + Leisure Magazine between January and March 2007 with the expert support of Harris Interactive. 930,000 of the magazine’s subscribers awarded the hotels a score out of 100 in a secure questionnaire.
Relais Il Falconiere & Spa Hotel and restaurant in the country Amongst the vineyards and olive trees that surround the small Etruscan city of Cortona, this superb 17th century family residence of Silvia and Riccardo Baracchi is a delight. The rooms, located all around the estate, reflect the elegant simplicity of the most authentic Tuscany. In the former lemon tree greenhouse, with its terrace extension surrounded by fragrant rose bushes, enjoy a superb view of the countryside. A sophisticated restaurant serves sunny cuisine, closely associated with the region’s fragrances and flavours. The Thesan Etruscan Spa offers intimacy, relaxation and well-being, with luxurious and exclusive treatments and rituals. You will discover the cellar and great wines and will attend a cookery course that Silvia will organize. Their invitation to share the magic and culture of their region will make your stay unforgettable. ...Read more Italy, Cortona (Arezzo)
Il Pellicano Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux and hotel on the seafront Born from a love story in the early 1960s, Il Pellicano is one of the most romantic hideaways in the world. Cocooned by the beauty of nature, it lies tucked away between the blue sea and the lush Mediterranean vegetation on the Argentario coast of Tuscany. The French poet Charles Baudelaire’s words “There all is harmony and beauty, luxury, calm and delight” will gain new meaning at this secluded resort, with its heated salt-water pool overlooking the sea, private beach, panoramic terraces, tennis court, gym and wellness centre. The décor is elegant but understated and guests can choose between fine dining at the acclaimed Il Pellicano restaurant or a more casual meal at the Pelligrill. Attention to detail and impeccable service delivered with a warm smile are the hallmark of the hotel, and will make you feel like being at home, away from home. ...Read more Italy, Porto Ercole
Il San Pietro di Positano Hotel and restaurant on the seafront This hotel is the dream child of Carlino Cinque who was passionately in love with this place and commissioned a villa on a promontory with breathtaking views. In the course of time, this dream grew, as did the hotel. Today, it comprises many rooms, each with a private terrace and a wonderful sea view. The interior details include fine terracotta floors with ceramic decoration and doors adorned with frescoes as well as other marvels. From the terrace, the view of Praiano, Positano, the coast and the rock formations of Capri are spectacular. An elevator built into the rocks leads down to a private beach and to the Carlino restaurant. The spa and tennis court between the cliffs are also not to be missed. ...Read more Italy, Positano