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 in townView details
Founded in 1967 by Albert and Michel Roux, Le Gavroche quickly became a benchmark for fine dining à la française in London’s ever so exclusive Mayfair. To perpetuate the family tradition, Michel Roux Jr. took over in the kitchen in 1991. A new look, a fresh take, a new burst of creativity, combined with the incomparable recipes of his father and uncle - such as the Soufflé Suissesse -, all further cemented the restaurant’s international renown. A seasonal cuisine in which he doesn’t hesitate to showcase the very best of French produce - Challans duck, lamb from the Pyrenees - and the finest vintages. A truly unique diner experience in London.
Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux in a villageView details
Snail Porridge, Mock Turtle Soup, Nitro-scrambled Egg and Bacon Ice Cream, “Sound of the sea”… As you might have guessed by now, Heston Blumenthal’s cooking is unique. His restaurant, The Fat Duck, is located in the English countryside just a few miles outside London in a building dating back 450 years with an updated minimalist décor. From a very young age, this “culinary alchemist” has had a modern approach to his cooking – the study of the physical phenomena that effect the taste and flavour of a dish – and he likes nothing better than to develop new possibilities including his current research into historic British gastronomy in a bid to recreate dishes inspired by the past. One of his multi-sensory creations is a seafood dish with a twist. For those who like creativity and imagination when they go out for a meal, this is definitely the place to go…
Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux and hotel on a riverView details
While Michel Roux, the father, now takes the time to “inhale the sweet aroma of grapes and write books”, Alain - the son - has brilliantly taken over at the helm of the Waterside Inn. Resolutely creative French cuisine like roasted scallops on sliced baby artichokes, infused with honey, orange and lemon and sprinkled with crab meat; or the salmon en papillote with pine needles and a star aniseed sauce. On the terrace, in the shade of a willow tree, or in the inn's cosy rooms, let yourself be soothed by the calm of the River Thames… And if you feel a desire to explore the surrounding area, you can visit Windsor castle or stroll around Savill Garden, one of the finest in England.
It was on the Island of Jersey that exiled French author Victor Hugo wrote some of his most beautiful poems and you will understand why when you visit this magical island edged by wild beaches. And a poetic atmosphere envelops you the moment you pass through the gates of this 14th century manor house. Majestic fountains and little wooden bridges on the grounds, silky soft fabrics and old-style baths in the suites - here there is no lack of those delightful little details that really count. You will appreciate your own exile between a game of lawn tennis and a stroll through the forest amongst hundred-year old sycamores and oaks.
The cheerful sage green shutters and immaculate sweeping lawns are a welcome sight for visitors to Chewton Glen. This sets the tone for what is certain to be a pleasant and relaxing stay in an elegant and modern setting where you instantly feel at home. Captain Marryat, the legendary Englishman of letters wrote his most famous novel “The Children of the New Forest” here. It was the charm of Chewton Glen that inspired this wonderful story and that continues today to permeate the hotel rooms, lounges and the exceptional fitness centre - the fame of its' spa has long since spread beyond the borders of the United Kingdom.
Situated in the secluded heart of the New Forest National Park, only 90 minutes from London, the Lime Wood look is the emblematic English country house of your dreams but with a dynamic and contemporary approach. On the site of a former 13th century hunting lodge, the classic Regency building has been carefully refurbished and a new wing added. The décor gives pride of place to local materials, combining antiques with individual design pieces. Sculptures in the garden, game and mushrooms from the forest on the menu all add up to the charm of an aristocratic residence combined with modern laid-back luxury.
Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux and hotel in the countryView details
This beautiful Tudor style country house hotel is set in an idyllic location within Dartmoor National Park on the banks of the North Teign River. Gidleigh Park is a magnificent 107 acre estate of mature woodland and grounds. From here you may enjoy walks on the moors, horseback riding, guided tours, or venture further afield and visit Cornwall and Dorset by car. Savour the culinary delights prepared by award-winning, Executive Head Chef Michael Caines MBE, using the finest local produce. The wine cellar accommodates some 1,200 wines from around the world.
Deep in the heart of the rolling Wessex countryside, little changed from the days it was immortalised in the novels of Thomas Hardy, and only a short drive from the dramatic rocks and fossils of the world renowned Jurassic Coast, Summer Lodge affords a magical escape from the prosaic realities of the 21st century. Set in four acres of idyllic gardens, with a croquet lawn, indoor pool, health spa, and a collection of richly furnished guest rooms and suites, it’s a small world into itself - and one you won’t want to leave. Add in a restaurant of international repute, one of the best Cellar Masters in the world, a sommelier who garnered two ‘Young Sommelier of the Year’ Awards in 2010, plus service that manages to be wonderfully discreet yet impressively thoughtful, and it’s easy to see why guests come from so far and wide.
After nine hundred years standing proud in the unspoilt county of West Sussex, known as “the garden of England”, this fortress with its 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 your slumber that little bit more. Indeed you will be sleeping in a princely suite with a four-poster bed and mullioned windows overlooking gardens full of blossoming trees. The food is also fit for a king and is served in a dining room with vaulted ceilings and decorated with tapestries and suits of armour. Take a journey back in time in this uniquely romantic setting.
Gravetye Manor is a truly enchanting place. 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 of William Robinson’s own garden, the grandfather of the English natural garden. From the hushed quiet of the wood panelled restaurant to the crackle of log fires, guests cannot fail to be charmed by this most quintessential English country house. Summer or winter, the sweeping countryside views, first class cuisine and attentive yet unobtrusive service will ensure an unforgettable experience
A haven for food and wine lovers, this property, owned by Sir Peter Michael, located just outside Newbury (Berkshire) and one hour from central London, boasts traditional bedrooms and contemporary and spacious atrium suites. Apart from the food, which has won an array of awards and the fine wine cellar (23,000 unique wines and an impressive wine list), it offers one of the most highly rated spas in the UK. Art lovers will appreciate the wonderful display of original art and sculpture. The privacy at The Vineyard provides a unique setting for events, including weddings and other family celebrations.
Renowned for its hot spring baths dating back to Roman times, Bath is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating towns in Europe. The equally impressive Royal Crescent Hotel invites you to journey back in time to the 18th century. This majestic residence is one of the major works of the architect John Wood who in 1767 was commissioned by the Queen to give the medieval town a facelift. With its splendid manicured gardens and its chic, opulent interiors, staying at The Royal Crescent Hotel is like stepping straight into the pages of a novel by the famous local writer Jane Austen. The hotel has a highly reputed spa of its own and charming, supremely elegant rooms. Venture out and explore this fascinating Georgian town, with marvels like the fan vaulting in Bath Abbey, the temple of the Goddess Sulis Minerva, the arcades of Union Passage, and the typical charm of George Street, Milsom Street and Queen Street. On your return, retire to the Spa for the very best in pampering and relaxation!
The Bath Priory offers a serene base from which to explore the city of Bath. Proud of a long held reputation offering genuinely warm hospitality, reminiscent of a wonderful country home where you would be welcomed by the gentleman host. Linger in the delightful gardens and muse over our fascinating Art Collection. Under the direction of Michael Caines MBE, the culinary experience is a truly memorable part of your stay. Why not spend some time unwinding in our contemporary Spa, enjoying totally relaxing and sumptuous treatments.
Country house living at its very best. The very name conjures up images of trees and tranquility, of stately nature and magnificent settings. A country retreat where five-star luxury invites and indulges with sumptuous bedrooms and outstanding cuisine. The grand ambience of The Park restaurant to the contemporary and stylish all day dining of The Brasserie. Luxuriate in The Spa now regarded as one of the finest in the UK. Enjoy a beautiful horse ride over the estate, all levels of riders from beginners to advanced are catered for or simply enjoy the 500 acres of gardens and walking trails and perhaps a tour of Bath just 6 miles away. You will leave wanting to return very soon….
Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux and hotel in the countryView details
Two hours from London, a visit to the Cotswolds will make you feel as if you have stumbled into an enchanted world, of wide open countryside and honey-colored stone buildings. It is known as “the Heart of England”, not because of its geographical situation - it is in the Southwest - but because of the emotion that it inspires amongst its visitors. It is here that you will find Whatley Manor, a beautiful private manor house hotel set within 12 acres of English country gardens with a contemporary spa. A place to restore and revive.
Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux and hotel in the countryView details
It is in a sumptuous manor, just outside of Oxford, that the chef Raymond Blanc displays his sensory universe. For him, “if the work itself is transient, the memory of the flavour remains”. In his vast garden abounding with lavender, he grows almost ninety varieties of vegetables and more than seventy aromatic herbs which you are bound to find on your plate, in one way or another. If he swears only by “bio” and organic, it is because “good doesn’t interest him, but sublime does”. Sublime like the suites of this hotel, small lofts with evocative names: The exoticism of Opium, the haven of tranquillity of Blanc de Blanc, the sobriety of Vettriano... Let yourself be enchanted, in the native land of Lewis Carroll and of J.R.R Tolkien.
In one room, the decor is a deluge of crystals. In another, a sea of cushions. Opulent, gently lit, with wall hangings and sofas everywhere, Lower Slaughter Manor envelops you in its warmth and romanticism. An address that is all about elegant hedonism, with cooking lessons, tennis, beauty treatments, fishing, horseback riding or bike rides in one of the most beautiful and untouched parts of England. Hope that it rains and that the earth exhales the perfumes that make this country so bewitching.
One of the finest Manor houses in the Cotswolds, set next to a 13th Century church, amidst beautiful, mature gardens which create an oasis of tranquillity. Perfect for relaxation with horseback riding, golf, tennis, hunting and walks. Crackling log fires warm the cozy lounges. Bedrooms with ample bathrooms have a country house feel; you will have the impression that you’re spending some quiet, relaxing days in your home.
Not far from Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, Mallory Court will charm you with its understated beauty and the dedication of its staff. This country manor house cultivates British elegance down to the slightest detail, as you will immediately notice on seeing the perfectly cut lawns. This is an ideal place to recharge your batteries among games of croquet and in room beauty treatments. Another must is a visit to the house where Shakespeare was born. And you never know, perhaps a woodland creature will even whisper into your ear a verse composed by the great man himself– “With this field-dew consecrate, Every fairy take his gait” - so that your time here will forever remain in your mind like a midsummer night’s dream…
A Victorian House, elegantly converted into a prestigious hotel, Hambleton Hall is hidden away in the heart of the Midlands, in the county of Rutland. England’s smallest county is also home to the largest artificial lake in Europe. A geographical detail which further enhances the seductive powers of this hotel perched on a hill overlooking the water. You will appreciate the incomparable hospitality of Tim and Stefa Hart. You will succumb to the charms of the sumptuous interior decor and savour the cuisine that is quite simply unique. When departing this magnificent setting, each guest has only one thing in mind… to return as soon as possible for another interlude of calm and well-being!
This imposing white manor house used to belong to Queen Victoria who left her imprint on the decor and gardens and loved this part of the kingdom because of the abundance of birds flying in from the nearby estuary and beaches. Located in Machynlleth, ancient capital of Wales, the house is now run by Joan Reen and her husband, the painter Rob Reen. They have made it their own without losing sight of the influence of Her Royal Highness Queen Victoria, whose favourite trees still stand where she planted them. And now it is your turn to enjoy a royal welcome…
Animated by the hospitality of the Cunliffe family, Gilpin exerts its natural charms in an extraordinary setting: the Lake District national park. Drop your bags in the modern suites - some with their own private gardens and cedar wood hot tubs - or perhaps one of the 6 Lake House suites set on the shore of a private lake with spa. Make time for the simple pleasures of the stunning surroundings, between soothing body treatments and invigorating sporting activities.
Sharrow Bay was originally a little fisherman’s house but since it was converted into a hotel, it is one of the most sought after and welcoming addresses around. Nestled on the banks of Lake Ullswater, this pioneering English countryside hotel will offer you many a delightful hour of escapism whether you choose the “champagne cruise” on a Vintage Steamer or, for those who prefer livelier waters, rock climbing in the surrounding mountains or canoeing. Horseback riding, fishing, golf and cooking lessons complete this relaxation programme for the mind and body.
Set on grounds populated by hundred-year-old trees, this beautiful 17th century manor 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, and only the little lake occasionally betrays its presence by revealing its reflection. You will love the traditional country house interiors. For fans of extreme sensations, a local aero-club will teach you the basics of flying above the many historical sites in the area. Enjoy the bird’s eye views of abbeys and castles and be sure to watch out for Hadrian’s Wall, the stone fortifications crossing the width of England.
Standing high above a dramatic coastline overlooking the Irish Sea, in the south west of Scotland’s historic lowlands, Glenapp is the perfect example of a Scottish Baronial castle set in an area of outstanding and unspoiled natural beauty. Its fairytale turrets and towers shelter a timeless world of oak panelled rooms, rich fabrics and fine antiques, as well as the modern luxuries of fine cuisine and service. The castle is hidden from the rugged landscape by 36 acres of magical gardens filled with specimen trees and plants, including a fine collection of rare and unusual rhododendrons.
Breathtaking landscapes, incredible views down towards the loch… For all of those who want to soak up the beauty of Scotland, Airds Hotel is the perfect spot. This remote and peaceful setting epitomises classic west coast scenery. This exquisite lochside 18th century inn
with charmingly decorated rooms, exhibits the very best of Scottish
elegance and sophistication. The quality of service is combined with
the finest cuisine, reputed to be amongst the best in Scotland with
a wine list as impressive. The area is famous for its unparalleled
highland game and west coast seafood. A highlight of any stay at The
Airds is to enjoy lunch or dinner in the restaurant whilst admiring
the spectacular views of the atmospheric loch and iconic mountains
behind. The Airds is the perfect base from which to explore the
Hebrides, a group of Islands accessible by ferry, starting with Lismore, a remote and wild paradise, only a 5 minute boat trip away.
The mysterious waters of the lochs, surrounded by the misty mountains that rise out of the earth in this part of Scotland, never fail to plunge the visitor into a gentle dreaminess and an atmosphere of deep restfulness. With its very own loch, Inverlochy Castle offers one of the most stunning Scottish panoramas. Queen Victoria used to come here and she described it as “one of the loveliest and most romantic spots” that she had ever seen. At the foot of Ben Nevis – the highest peak in the United Kingdom – this charming castle with its snooker room and its princely interiors is also a great place to enjoy the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’, Fort William and the surrounding areas in the West Coast of Scotland.
Located in the heart of glorious Perthshire, famous for its stunningly beautiful countryside with lochs, rivers and trees, Kinloch House is the ideal base from which to explore the area while staying in a family run Scottish country house providing a warm, welcoming and friendly environment. Dating from 1840 the charming house offers bedrooms and public rooms individually appointed with fine fabrics and furnishings and a stunning entrance hall with log fire, oak panelled staircase and first floor portrait gallery, while the elegant dining room serves quality food using the finest local ingredients.
Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux and hotel in the countryView details
Greywalls Hotel and Chez Roux is situated on the edge of the Muirfield championship golf course with breathtaking views over East Lothian and the Firth of Forth in Scotland, just a short drive from Edinburgh city. Overlooking the world-famous greens of the ninth and 18th holes, and with 10 golf courses nearby, it is a golfer’s paradise. |Greywalls was originally designed by Edwardian architect Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1901 as a “dignified” holiday home for his clients and today is renowned for retaining its original charm|. Explore Greywalls’ grounds and Lutyen’s expert eye is immediately clear. The building still has all of its Arts and Crafts’ period charm. Guests can also explore the hotel’s historic walled gardens designed by Gertrude Jekyll, its tennis courts, croquet lawn and putting green or simply relax with an indulgent dinner at Chez Roux.
Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux in the countryView details
At the iconic Gleneagles Hotel in beautiful Perthshire, Grand Chef Andrew Fairlie operates his eponymous restaurant. Located an hour from the coast, and surrounded by many small farms, |Fairlie is in a unique position to source the very best local produce, whether wild salmon from the pure waters of the river Tay, red grouse from the local moors or world famous Aberdeen Angus Beef|. Restaurant staff can be found foraging on hotel grounds where they might discover morels or wild strawberries. The style of cooking combines classic French cuisine and techniques with contemporary ideas, such as the ‘Ballotine of Foie Gras with Rhubarb Carpaccio’. The restaurant provides an elegant yet intimate atmosphere for an exquisite fine dining experience. Elegant dark paneled walls are adorned with the artworks of renowned Scottish artist Archie Forrest. Floor to ceiling silk drapes add a sense of theatre, and the use of rich, textured fabrics lend the room a touch of tasteful opulence.
There is |a certain magic about staying on a private island and Eriska is no exception|. Located on the West Coast of Scotland, Eriska has gorgeous views overlooking Loch Linnhe and the Morvern Mountains. The island is solely dedicated to the guests of the hotel, offering a truly unique experience. With over 120 hectares of land, Eriska is a celebration of nature where Highland cattle graze, badgers visit, grey seals and otters swim in the surrounding waters and countless birds, including the Golden Eagle, can be observed. The hotel offers unique levels of personal service, with décor masterfully blending the old with the new. Distant islands form a stunning backdrop to Eriska's golf course and guests can enjoy a spot of sailing, shooting and many other activities during their stay. After an active day, visit the outstanding ESPA spa to be pampered, followed by an exceptional meal at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant.
