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 (Franschhoek) 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.
The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel
Hotel and restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux in town (Cape 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.
Lys offer valid in low season from 1 November to 31 March – except for mountain properties: from 1 May to 30 November
The Marine Hermanus
Hotel and restaurant on the seafront (Hermanus) The Marine is one of the southern hemisphere's most spectacular seaside Relais & Châteaux properties. Perched on the cliffs, overlooking Hermanus' Walker Bay, The Marine boasts 42 individually decorated bedrooms and suites. This unforgettable property overlooks South Africa's most pristine whale sanctuary, and it is just a stone's throw from one of the greatest densities of the endangered Great White Shark, and selection of fynbos species in the Cape. The Marine offers guests the unique opportunity to experience the finest land-based whale watching in the world. From June to September guests are able to view these majestic creatures from the comfort of their beautiful sea view room. The attention to detail is apparent in every aspect of this remarkable owner managed property - from the personal service to the exceptional cuisine which is overseen by The Collection by Liz McGrath's Grand Chef, Peter Tempelhoff, the perfect-for-sundowners Sun Lounge and the in-house Carchele Beauty Spa. Each piece of The Marine story adds another element to an unforgettable stay.
Lys offer valid in low season from 1 November to 31 March – except for mountain properties: from 1 May to 30 November
The Plettenberg
Hotel and restaurant on the seafront (Plettenberg Bay) The Plettenberg, situated on a rocky headland in Africa’s most spectacular coastal resort town, is the ultimate escape. The rooms, suites and villas showcase some of the most breathtaking vistas in Southern Africa. With views of the ocean, mountains and endless stretches of golden beach, The Plettenberg is situated in the heart of the adventure-rich Garden Route. This region is world-renowned for its excellent selection of outdoor activities, from dolphin and whale sightings to bungee jumping, treetop canopy tours and other exhilarating pursuits. The Plettenberg is the ideal place to both relax and unwind, or recharge and reinvigorate, through a series of sensational endeavours. The charming service, superb cuisine and the setting of this hotel combine to create the ultimate story, one of a South African seaside property unlike any other.
Lys offer valid in low season from 1 November to 31 March – except for mountain properties: from 1 May to 30 November