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.
Hotel and restaurant in the country (Amberley) After 900 years standing proud in the unspoilt county of West Sussex, known as “the garden of England”, this Medieval Castle with a working portcullis, 18 meters high walls and storybook battlement towers, has weathered the attacks of enemies and of time itself. Today, the battles of the past have made way for an enchanted peace, but certain historic traditions remain. Every night, just before midnight, the impressive portcullis is lowered ever so silently, as if to protect slumber that little bit more. The suites are princely, with four-poster beds, and windows overlook gardens full of blossoming trees. The food is also fit for a king and is served in a dining room with vaulted ceilings and walls decorated with tapestries and suits of armour. Take a journey back in time in this uniquely romantic setting.
Gravetye Manor
Hotel and restaurant in the woods (Near East Grinstead) Gravetye Manor is a truly enchanting place; both close to the pleasures of London, yet far from its hustle and bustle. This beautiful Elizabethan manor sits proudly amongst the winding pathways and abundant flower beds in the English natural and wild gardens created by William Robinson, the father of the English natural garden. This quintessential English country house’s charm is evident in the wood panelled restaurant with crackling log fires. All year round, the sweeping countryside views, first-class cuisine and attentive yet unobtrusive service ensure an unforgettable experience.
The Vineyard
Hotel and restaurant in the country (Newbury) The Vineyard has been described as a temple to Californian Wine. Just outside Newbury, about an hour from London, it certainly lives up to its reputation and more. The cellar holds over 30,000 wines from both the New and Old Worlds, as well as the unique and award-winning estate wines of the owner, Sir Peter Michael. It is also celebrated for its contemporary French cooking with a Mediterranean touch, using seasonal sustainable produce prepared by the executive chef. A destination restaurant deserves a great hotel and again The Vineyard does not disappoint. Traditional bedrooms, spacious contemporary suites, spa and a private art collection to die for, make it a delightful retreat for gourmands and the curious alike.
Gilpin Hotel & Lake House
Hotel and restaurant in the country (Windermere) Gilpin is a charming hotel in an extraordinary place: the Lake District National Park. In the main hotel the rooms are exquisitely designed and six have their own private gardens and cedarwood hot tubs. At the beautiful Lake House (a mile from the main hotel) there are just six suites, exclusively sharing 40 hectares of grounds including a private lake, swimming pool, sauna and cedarwood hot tub. Make time for the simple pleasures of the stunning surroundings, between soothing body treatments and invigorating sporting activities.
Farlam Hall
Hotel and restaurant in the country (Brampton) This beautiful 17th century manor house stands in grounds populated by 100 year-old trees and the experimental track for the first steam engine locomotive, “The Rocket”, invented by the “Father of Railways”, George Stephenson, once ran through the garden. The house is a chameleon of sorts. Covered in ivy and climbing vines that change colour with each passing season, it blends marvellously into its surroundings. Its presence is only occasionally betrayed when the little lake reveals the house’s reflection. The interior design reflects that of a traditional country house. A local flying club is on hand to teach the basics of flying above the many historical sites in the area. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of abbeys and castles and be sure to watch out for Hadrian’s Wall, the stone fortifications crossing the width of England.
Glenapp Castle
Hotel and restaurant in the country (Ballantrae) Standing high above a dramatic coastline overlooking the Irish sea, in the south west of Scotland’s historic lowlands, Glenapp is a family owned and occupied baronial castle set in an area of outstanding and unspoiled natural beauty. Underneath its fairytale turrets and towers there are oak-panelled rooms, rich fabrics and fine antiques, as well as modern award winning cuisine and impeccable service. The castle is hidden from the rugged landscape by 15 hectares of magical gardens filled with specimen trees and plants, including a fine collection of rare and unusual rhododendrons.
