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
Daniel Boulud, a native of Lyon, has become one of America’s most celebrated chef-restaurateurs. Boulud’s reputation may be international, but his warm and welcoming style remains very personal. His mantra is to “prepare the finest American produce according to French culinary tradition”. Fine ingredients are magically combined with sophisticated flavours, elevating rustic dishes to new levels of refinement, sophistication and pleasure. In Grand Chef Boulud’s masterful hands the finest American regional ingredients, such as Nantucket Bay scallops and Montana beef, are cooked to perfection in a restaurant where contemporary décor is elegantly juxtaposed with striking neo-classical architecture.
Restaurant of a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux in townView details
Jean-Georges Vongerichten has been described as both a “genius” and a “great master of gastronomy”. In Manhattan, the Jean Georges restaurant has become legendary. The interior design is Zen-inspired, revealing the Grand Chef’s love of streamlined elegance and Asia. This Frenchman is famous for his “Thai-French cuisine”. This fusion of two great culinary traditions produces breathtaking results like yellowfin tuna ribbons, avocado, spicy radish and ginger marinade, foie gras, sour cherry granola, aged balsamic and sorrel and Jean-Georges’ chocolate cake and vanilla bean ice cream. It is impossible to tell you anything more about the menu, as Jean-Georges reinvents it every three months. Every dish is given the finishing touches at your table. This final personal touch inspires the senses and brings the dinner that little bit closer to the secrets of the chef.
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After the success of his California restaurant, The French Laundry, Grand Chef Thomas Keller brought his distinctive hands-on approach from Napa Valley to New York City. Keller works with remarkable attention to detail, which extends not only to his cuisine but also to presentation, mood and surroundings. In the elegant dining room with a view of Central Park, chef de cuisine Eli Kaimeh interprets modern American recipes with a touch of French influence. Representative dishes include Oysters and Pearls, a sabayon of pearl tapioca with poached oysters and caviar, and Calotte de Bœuf Grillée. The culinary delights at Per Se will convince you perfection does indeed exist.
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A superb, light-flooded art deco dining room with soaring ten metre high ceilings and a view of historic Madison Square Park, this restaurant is the perfect backdrop for the sumptuous, modern cooking of Grand Chef Daniel Humm. The sophisticated French cuisine emphasizes purity, simplicity and seasonal ingredients and the glazed Muscovy duck with honey and lavender is a treat not to be missed.
Bedford Post, a genuine country inn located just an hour outside of Manhattan, is the ideal setting for a tranquil getaway. In the middle of pristine woodlands, this historic residence dating back to the 1860s now belongs to Richard Gere, his wife Carey Lowell and their partner Russell Hernandez. It treats its guests to a genuinely warm atmosphere and hospitality, an absolutely essential part of any stay at the Bedford Post. The pleasures of body and mind are attended to here with unremitting care. The Bedford Post offers infinite ways to relax, including yoga courses in the Yoga Loft, as well as more terrestrial delights in the property’s two restaurants. During the summer months, guests can enjoy alfresco dining at The Farmhouse which serves flavorful contemporary American cuisine while The Barn offers delicious brunches and breakfasts with homemade bread and cakes.
This magnificent 150 acres estate sits in rolling farmlands overlooking the Catskill Mountains and Glenmere Lake. One hour from New York City, the sumptuous hotel and newly-opened Spa boasts the finest linens, furniture, a private modern art collection and spectacular gardens designed by landscape architect Beatrix Farrand. In the two restaurants, chefs offer a wealth of dishes featuring local farm produce. The picturesque gardens, pool, tennis, bocce and croquet courts make this the ultimate romantic Hudson Valley getaway… though you might think you are in Tuscany!
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Thomas Henkelmann is the most French of German chefs. Born in the Black Forest, this devotee of French gastronomy learnt his trade in Alsace before moving his pots and pans to Connecticut, and this beautiful 18th century farmhouse near the coast. Inspired by his travels, Grand Chef Henkelmann likes to break down boundaries and create surprising combinations, such as his champagne sauerkraut accompanied by a seafood mousseline. Each of his recipes makes a subtle reference to his origins. Thomas’s partner, Theresa, is an interior designer and has ensured that the hotel’s décor is worthy of his cooking and the recognition as one of Greenwich’s most tasteful addresses.
Louis Fauchère was master chef at the Delmonico's, one of the most famous restaurants in New-York, when, in the 19th century, he founded his eponymous hotel in the charming town of Milford. He was a French-speaking Swiss-born man who imprinted it with a stamp of Europe and a spirit which its new owners have endeavoured to revive. Its elegant and welcoming décor is enhanced by a fine collection of paintings by artists of the Hudson River School, and the two restaurants maintain Hotel Fauchère’s reputation for providing gourmet cuisine. The Delmonico Room serves the nec plus ultra of fine dining, serves creative traditional cuisine, while the more casual and ultra-modern ambiance of Bar Louis attracts a lively lunch and dinner crowd.
Less than two hours from the Big Apple, nestled in lush grounds, this property boasts a highly-acclaimed spa. The gardens feature 24 hectares of specimen trees, manicured lawns and the famous Shakespeare garden and maze. The spa, with its stunning décor in a calming palette of blue and white, offers an amazing array of treatments, as well as classes in dream interpretation, dance, painting, writing, yoga and tai chi. Workshops on topics such as marriage, sleep and stress, are led by renowned experts in their respective fields. The guest rooms reflect the tranquil elegance evident throughout the property, while culinary offerings include the healthy and delicious cuisine of the spa as well as the fine dining experience available at the inn.
Within the green valleys and pristine lakes of the bucolic Litchfield Hills, Winvian is a unique hotel complex nestled in 45 hectares of lush grounds bordered by centuries-old maple trees. A team of 15 architects designed the 18 original chalets and one suite, each with its own special design and atmosphere. You may choose to stay in a two-floor treehouse perched 10 metres off the ground, a lighthouse located in the midst of the forest, or perhaps a lodge built around a hundred year-old oak tree. Relax in the spa opposite the White Memorial Conservation Center and the pond. Hot air balloon rides, croquet, horse riding, fly-fishing, race car driving and other unforgettable experiences are also available, all just two hours away from the buzz of New York and Boston.
Blantyre is a beautiful country house built amidst 46 hectares of lawn and woodlands, ideally located halfway between Boston and New York City. The Main House, Carriage House and three cottages are reminiscent of a gentler time of elegance and romance. Built in 1902, this stately mock-Tudor house boasts sumptuous guestrooms, an exceptional wine cellar, renowned cuisine and a delicious hot chocolate menu. The spa is connected to the Carriage House, a few minutes walk from the Main House. This enchanting resort has activities galore, with tennis and croquet in the summer. When the seasons change, the property transforms into a romantic winter wonderland, with ice skating, snowshoeing, sleigh riding and a 34m high Christmas tree.
This magnificent inn on an exclusive sixteen hectare peninsula bordering the ocean is a romantic haven. Whether you are in a cottage on Castle Hill’s private beach, relaxing on the terrace or sitting at a table in the restaurant, you will be guaranteed panoramic views of the Atlantic and its many maritime activities including sailing, fishing and regattas. The menu features local and regional dishes, with a focus on organic ingredients paired with exceptional wines. Castle Hill is the perfect base from which to explore the beauty of Newport with its Gilded Age mansions, sandy beaches and rich history.
At the heart of Martha’s Vineyard, the former haunt of whale hunters, you’ll find a captain’s house in the traditional British style. Built in 1864 for Samuel Osborne, a famous merchant, The Charlotte Inn transports you to another time, and you can’t help but be swept away by its romantic atmosphere. The staff are courteous and alert to even the smallest detail. There is a new kind of luxury here, no computers or mobile phones are allowed except in guest rooms. The suites have been exquisitely decorated with antique lamps and silk or linen fabrics. Between one iced tea and the next on the flower-filled patio, discover the beautiful island and explore its famous lighthouses and beaches, which are ideal for water-sport and sailing.
The Wauwinet is a quaint, elegant retreat built in 1860 and situated on the northeast end of the island of Nantucket, at the edge of the Great Point Wildlife Sanctuary. It boasts a beautiful private bay and ocean beaches where guests can enjoy either the lively surf of the ocean or the calm warmer waters bayside. Spend time just relaxing, or going on lobstering excursions, taking surfcasting lessons or cooking classes. Drive the scenic backroads to Great Point, or tour nearby Siasconset in the hotel’s prized 1948 Woody (a vintage Chevy Fleetmaster station wagon). There is of course also the opportunity for whale spotting, as whales have played an integral part in Nantucket’s history. The inn is private and serene yet easily reached being only nine miles outside Nantucket Town. The Wauwinet’s restaurant, TOPPER’S, features expansive bay views and is accessible from Nantucket Town by land or by sea aboard the inn’s very own Wauwinet Lady.
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When he was a young boy, Jonathan Cartwright wanted to be a cyclist and win the Tour de France. But at the age of fifteen he discovered cooking and became more interested in wearing a white apron than the yellow jersey. These days he is a respected and dedicated Grand Chef, who has turned the White Barn Inn into a great place to eat, as well as a peaceful, elegant place to stay and relax. The restaurant is housed in an authentic New England barn dating back to the early 1800s. In the words of this passionate perfectionist “cooking requires the same determination as cycling, the same effort and the same team spirit”. Above all, Jonathan values the quality of his products and he can recount the life story of the fresh Kennebunkport lobster, star of his menu. Savour this lobster as it is, or in a bisque or cognac sauce, alongside the other creations inspired by local produce.
Stroll amongst the pine and maple trees, watch the fireflies when night falls in the prairies of Vermont, admire the star-filled skies in the moonlight. Welcome to Windham Hill, a romantic place where the summer nights offer up a magical spectacle and autumn reveals all the glorious colours of nature. At the end of a country road, in the heart of 160 hectares of unspoilt nature, this elegant inn has exceptional views of the green mountains and a luxurious, meticulously tended flower garden. The elegant rooms and suites provide a haven of peace and the cuisine showcases seasonal produce from the garden that is sure to delight the most discerning of gourmets.
Above your bed is a blackboard covered in chalk-written algebraic formulae. In another suite, a chessboard painted on an old chest serving as a coffee table invites you to commence a strategic duel by the fireside. The walls of the library are lined with beautiful books. Set among Vermont’s Green Mountains, The Pitcher Inn is a delightfully distinctive and elegant hotel where each room has a Vermont theme but has been designed and decorated to be distinctly different. Intellectual curiosity is celebrated, as is culinary excellence, with a delicious menu influenced by French and Italian cuisine. There are in-room massages and lots of sport is on offer at the foot of the Sugarbush ski and golf resort.
On the shores of spectacular Lake Placid, its mirror-like waters reflecting the majestic Adirondack Mountains, sits Lake Placid Lodge. The distinctive Arts and Crafts style of the Main Lodge and the craftsmanship evident in every detail of the Lodge is extraordinary. Everything from the beds to the great stone fireplaces, have been built by hand by local artisans. From the ample porches and sprawling lawns, enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. A stay at the Lodge revolves around nature and the outdoors; hiking, biking, boating, paddle boarding, skiing and many more. Of course, relaxation is always available as is the excellent farm-to-table cuisine in the Lodge’s restaurants. Meals can be savored on the deck, made even more enjoyable by the spectacular lake and mountain views.
The Point was built by the Rockefellers as a woodland retreat, during the heyday of the Adirondack Great Camps. Today it is a marvellous marriage of rustic simplicity and extraordinary luxury. Set on the wooded shore of Upper Saranac Lake, The Point’s magnificent guest rooms are spread among four log buildings; here the silence and peace of the Great North Woods reign supreme. The Point is a study in delicious contrasts: the exceptional meals, the blaze of the campfire on the edge of the dark lake, the fine art and antiques, most of which are original to the camp, and the supply of snowshoes and skis for exploring the magical white forest. Enjoy gourmet picnic excursions, journeys through the rippling waters in gleaming mahogany boats, and a staff that organizes each day according to the pleasure of the guests.
In a gorgeously green and unspoilt part of Pennsylvania, halfway between Pittsburgh and Buffalo, lies this charming inn. Built in the 1920s and handed down from one generation of the Dorn family to the next, the inn is now owned by J. Cliff Forrest who ensures it retains all its original charm and authenticity. The main lodge and individual chalets are built with sequoia wood and blend perfectly into the breathtaking natural surroundings. In the forest of hemlock spruces it is not uncommon to spot foxes, deer, bear or beavers and there are 5 km of privately owned banks along Fuller Brook for fly fishing, accompanied by experienced guides.
Behind the sleek doors of The Surrey’s New York townhouse façade hides a unique hotel and home-away-from-home for travelers staying in Manhattan. Built as a residence hotel in 1926 on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, The Surrey has won the hearts of style-icons, tastemakers and art aficionados the world over. In recent renovation works, interior designer Lauren Rottet sought to retain the nostalgic allure of the original Beaux-Arts design. Part of the modernization included the installation of a magnificent collection of 31 original modern art works and the opening of a seasonal Private Roof Garden with stunning views of the iconic skyline. Most recently, The Surrey has reopened its spa as Cornelia Spa at The Surrey; offering carefully curated treatments paired with botanical tastings. Highlights of the hotel include Bar Pleiades and Café Boulud, directed by Grand Chef Daniel Boulud, which also provides in-room dining.
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On the westerly edge of New York’s Meatpacking District, Del Posto’s owners, Joseph and Lidia Bastianich and Mario Batali have, along with Grand Chef Mark Ladner, created a temple to Italian cuisine in this palazzo of mahogany and marble devoted to the pleasures of the palate. In a darkly glowing dining room with towering columns and long plush curtains, Mark Ladner’s signature is the combination of his creativity and contemporary sensibilities with the draw of classic Italian dishes, from Sicily to the Alto Adige. This chef has become renowned for his original culinary combinations that surprise and delight. Highlights include beef carpaccio with sunchoke spuma, sage grissini & sunflowers, and spaghetti with dungeness crab, sliced jalapeno & minced scallion. For dessert, the dolce mela with an intense basil gelato and grilled lemon cake and the chocolate ricotta tortino, with toasted Sicilian pistachios and extra virgin olive oil gelato are both uniquely delicious. Songs by Gershwin are played on the elegant piano near the bar and the talented sommelier shares his knowledge with rum and amaro tastings.
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Patrick O’Connell abandoned his dream of becoming an actor for cooking and the “living theatre” of the restaurant world. Just an hour’s drive from Washington DC, this sumptuous hideaway nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains is a world-renowned destination for gourmet connoisseurs. The menu spotlights Grand Chef O’Connell’s spectacular Refined American Cuisine, such as the Carpaccio of Herb Crusted Baby Lamb with Caesar Salad Ice Cream. The Inn’s rooms and suites are aptly named after America’s Culinary Pioneers and opulent lounges complete the transformation to an idyllic fantasy world.
It was in Charlottesville’s Blue Ridge Mountains that three early presidents and founding fathers of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and James Monroe, built their homes. Many others have fallen under the spell of this part of the world after a stay in this lovely historic hotel built in 1799. Originally owned by Thomas Jefferson’s son-in-law, Thomas Mann Randolph, the property is said to have been the hideaway of the “Grey Ghost of the Confederacy”, Colonel John Singleton Mosby, during the Civil War. Set in forty hectares of woods, Clifton is all understated elegance, with its charming interior design and the warm beauty of its rooms and suites. The murmur of the nearby Rivanna River, the gentle gurgle of the fountains and the soothing sounds of nature provide the soundtrack. On the programme are visits to historical residences such as Thomas Jefferson’s residence, Monticello, renowned vineyards, a culinary cabaret at the chef’s counter, a game of croquet and refreshing dips in the infinity pool.
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As locations go, it would be difficult to find better. Marea, situated on the south side of New York’s Central Park, attracts gourmets from around the world thanks to its exquisite Italian-inspired seafood, served in an elegant but relaxed setting. Grand Chef Michael White is the culinary force behind Marea, which means tide in Italian, and is a tribute to the bounty of the sea. The menu starts off with a mouth-watering selection of crudo (raw fish), and continues with delectable pasta dishes such as spaghetti with crab and Santa Barbara sea urchin and then offers a selection of composed fish courses as well as fresh whole fish. Limited meat dishes are also available. Part of the joy of Marea is its stunning ambience. Crisp white table clothes meet warm lighting and design features including a dramatic bar made from Egyptian onyx, wall panelling fashioned out of lacquered Indonesian rosewood and hand-dipped silver seashells as window ornaments.
Westglow Resort and Spa is an elegantly restored Greek Revival Mansion in the heart of a fabulous, 42 acre estate, with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the former residence of the famous artist and author Elliott Daingerfield. The exquisite accommodation comprises impeccably decorated guest rooms and the award-winning spa provides an extensive array of indulgent treatments. In the restaurant, Rowland’s, the cuisine is sophisticated and the atmosphere delightful.
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A visit to this traditional farm, deep in Tennessee, is a chance to return to nature and rediscover life’s simple pleasures. Some of the 1,700 hectares of land are set aside for farming, which ensures a steady flow of deliciously fresh produce all year round. Cheese, vegetables, herbs, honey and cider are all produced right here. Grand Chef Joseph Lenn has created a menu that respects the integrity of local products and flavours. The result is simple and delicious recipes accompanied by excellent wines from a collection of 180,000 bottles. Get involved in life at the farm, whether through gardening, cheesemaking or one of the unique cooking classes in the farm and garden and the adventure weekends, which take place here. Or, if you prefer, go fly-fishing, explore the region on a Harley-Davidson or by horse-drawn carriage, and sample an array of beauty treatments on offer.
Built three centuries ago, the city of Charleston is one of the best preserved architectural treasures in the U.S. The meticulously restored colonial homes lining its charming streets are a reminder of the city’s long and colourful history. The birthplace of the Charleston dance – made famous by Josephine Baker – the city still has all the charm that it owes to its multi-ethnic European origins. Originally built in 1844, the Planters Inn is located in the very heart of Charleston’s famed Historic District. All guest rooms feature the Baker Historic Charleston furniture collection. The courtyard and verandas, with their ornate landscaping and fountains, create an urban oasis in which to relax, sip delicious cocktails and taste the generous regional American cuisine of the acclaimed Peninsula Grill.
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Grand Chef Joho embodies the American dream. Since coming to the United States 25 years ago, this Frenchman has become one of the most respected chefs on the continent. Everest, his restaurant, is on the 40th floor of the Chicago Stock Exchange, and has large bay windows with breathtaking views of the city below. Joho endlessly reinvents the great classics of French cuisine. He combines products like foie gras or caviar with the humble potato and turnip to create delicious surprises. In honour of Joho’s homeland, wines from Alsace star in many of his recipes, such as Maine scallops with Belgian chicory, Melfor and Gewurztraminer. The restaurant is also home to a remarkable collection of works by contemporary artists.
Forget cars and other modern modes of transport, here your vehicle is the canoe. At Canoe Bay there is a different rhythm, another way of looking at things, where you appreciate the time on your hands and feel at one with nature. Set in a well-preserved and enchanting part of Wisconsin, the property features Prairie-style cottages designed by a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. Simple pleasures, like strolling through the woods, swimming in the lake, and sampling great vintages from the wine cellar, will make your days memorable. The lakeside terraces invite you to gaze at the view, daydream, or read. Light floods into the cedarwood interiors and soothes the senses. This is a refuge for the most romantic souls.
Perched high up on the bluffs of Watch Hill, Ocean House is one of the last remaining oceanfront hotels in New England. This grand Victorian hotel was meticulously restored and its inviting porches and terraces overlook sweeping grounds leading down to a sun-drenched private beach. Enjoy leisurely days of tides and sun, teatime and cocktails, sailing regattas and walks on over 8 km of pristine Rhode Island beaches. Indulge in a variety of dining options, ranging from modern cuisine featuring produce from local farms, to American bistro fare. Relax at the spectacular spa or spend the day playing golf, tennis, or even croquet. Fishing and watersports are also on offer. Just steps away, the quintessential New England village of Watch Hill has seaside gardens and hydrangea-lined lawns as well as tasty seafood, charming antique shops and art galleries.
Twin Farms is a unique country estate in Vermont, situated on over 120 hectares of wildflower meadows, hardwood forests, ancient gardens and private ponds. The original 1795-era farmhouse and lodge have been converted into gracious living and dining rooms and six elegant guest suites. Ten freestanding guest cottages, each with their own interior design style, are dotted about the property, and The Farmhouse at Copper Hill provides an additional four suites. Since opening in 1993, Twin Farms has upheld a tradition of graceful hospitality and quiet beauty, offering simplicity and understated elegance throughout the year. Guests enjoy the use of a handsome pub, the fitness and wellness centres, lakeside cabana and a hot, Japanese-style bath house.
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Pristine ingredients and perfectly executed technique create exceptional dishes at Menton, Grand Chef Barbara Lynch’s restaurant. A blend of French discipline and Italian passion reflects the restaurant’s namesake, a French seaside town near the Italian border. Located in Boston’s Fort Point, with its historic buildings contrasted by futuristic constructions, the restaurant has been meticulously conceived in every detail. The carefully edited wine list includes great champagnes and rare vintages from lesser-known vineyards. For an unforgettable dining experience, Menton offers the Chef’s Table, which provides a brilliant vantage point from which to observe the kitchen.
R.B. Fitch and his wife drew inspiration from their travels abroad and transformed this farm in the middle of North Carolina into an elegant country village with, at its heart, Fearrington House Inn & Restaurant. The pastoral setting with its herds of Belted Galloway black and white cows grazing nearby, white-columned façades, rocking chairs and courtyard gardens make it an exceptional place, the perfect summer retreat. Guests can withdraw to comfortable rooms in the inn, relax at the bar, stroll around the delightful boutiques, and dine in the former farmhouse with its magnificent gardens. Grand Chef Colin Bedford serves a menu with Southern influences using vegetables from the kitchen garden and seasonal ingredients, for example a sweet potato risotto with truffles and wild mushrooms, baked monkfish with braised ox tail and traditional hot chocolate soufflé.
Weekapaug Inn was founded in 1899 and has been exquisitely restored. It remains faithful to its tradition of providing a warm family welcome. All the charm, peace and simplicity of a home caressed by the Atlantic breeze have been preserved, as has the magnificent surrounding countryside. Depending on the season, guests can enjoy invigorating swims or long walks on the private beach, kayak paddles on the lake and other nautical activities, bicycle trips along special tracks and the opportunity for spotting many different species of bird. The restaurant serves delicious traditional cuisine made from local farm-produced ingredients, adding the finishing touch to this perfect retreat for anyone who loves all that is authentic.
