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 (Les Baux-de-Provence) The deep blue Provence sky casts a fond eye on this marvel crafted by Jean-André and Geneviève Charial, a more pastoral but equally exceptional version of the Oustau de Baumanière (see previous page). La Cabro d’Or is a temple to tranquillity with its clear, spacious interiors and windows opening onto an intimate, quiet garden. An experience awaits which is sure to secure your enthusiasm for the colourful, sophisticated universe of this couple who show an equally creative flair for both the culinary and decorative arts. Dinners - disturbed only by the chirping of the crickets – are accompanied, of course, by the Charial’s own wine. Named “L’Affectif”, it has woody notes and is silky-smooth on the palate. (Lys offer valid in low season from 1 November to 31 March – except for mountain properties: from 1 May to 30 November)
Oustau de Baumanière
Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux and hotel in the country (Les Baux-de-Provence) “Everything is magical and generous here: the light, the rocks, the landscape, the crickets, the olive trees…”. In love with “his” Provence, Jean-André Charial talks about it and makes it speak like a person, through the cuisine of his chef, Sylvestre Wahid, who enhances and elevates traditional ingredients. Hen’s eggs in fine jelly, red mullet, basil and thyme flower… the flavours sing, burst open, surprise… An exceptional restaurant in an elegant artist’s house in the heart of one of the most beautiful villages in France. (Lys offer valid in low season from 1 November to 31 March – except for mountain properties: from 1 May to 30 November)
Le Phébus & Spa
Hotel and restaurant in the country (Gordes) Located between Roussillon and Gordes, Le Phébus is a dry-stone walled farmhouse where the rooms overlook the tranquil waters of their private swimming pools. It is a jewel of a hotel and the perfect place to take shelter when the mistral is blowing across the prairie of southern France. This is the ideal base to explore the Luberon and then recharge your batteries in the Carita spa. The traditional cuisine breathes new life into ancient Provencal recipes and offers a superb “soupe au pistou”, a regional vegetable soup with garlic and basil.
Le Couvent des Minimes Hôtel & Spa
Hotel and restaurant in a park (Mane) Nestled on the hillside and drenched in Provençal sunshine, the Minimes convent was first home to nuns before being converted into an upscale hotel. Protected from the Mistral wind by the Volx Rock, this building, dating back to 1613, is a successful fusion of medieval architecture and contemporary design. Period facades, terraced gardens with hundreds of botanical species, and contemporary interior decor are created by a perfect alchemy. The rooms decorated with great attention to detail have a gentle Mediterranean touch, as does the Couvent des Minimes Spa by L’Occitane, a temple to wellness and a promise of “renewed well-being”.