1. Relais & Châteaux Relais Christine, Paris, France
It’s rare to find somewhere that so perfectly embodies the soul of a city, or that somehow represents a flawless interpretation of everything you expect from it. But that is exactly the case with Relais Christine, an exceptional boutique hotel located on the Left Bank in Paris. In the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this famed district, steeped in history, is ideal for soaking up the essence of the French capital. Most of its 48 rooms and suites are characterized by their remarkable ceiling heights, magnificent wallpapers and original fabrics carefully chosen by interior designer Laura Gonzalez. Some of them also offer a terrace directly overlooking its gardens, making the Relais Christine a unique green setting in the heart of Paris. For an exclusive well-being break, the Guerlain spa offers treatments in the evocative atmosphere of a former 13th century abbey.
2. Relais & Châteaux Château Louise de La Vallière, Reugny, France
A new jewel of the Loire Valley, Château Louise de La Vallière invites guests to enjoy a sensorially rich stay immersed in history. The hotel, located near Tours, channels the culture and heritage of Louis XIV – and, in fact, the history of France – and is cradled within a nearly 40 acre (16 hectare) ancient forest, home to protected animal species. Nestled within this wild nature and set amid formal gardens, stays are enriched by this elegant haven of peace, while guests also benefit from musical entertainment hosted on site. Famed architect Jacques Garcia conceived the castle’s splendid interiors, including its 9 rooms and 11 suites, and the enchantment continues at Spa La Rosée, offering countless benefits for mind, body and soul. In terms of gastronomy, guests have the privilege of tasting reinterpretations of historical cuisine, prepared in collaboration with a culinary historian, and using local and seasonal produce that embodies the responsible and sustainable approach of Relais & Châteaux.
About Relais & Châteaux
Relais & Châteaux, established in 1954, is an association of 580 unique hotels and restaurants throughout the world, owned and operated by independent entrepreneurs – most often families – who are passionate about their craft and deeply committed to forging warm, lasting relationships with their guests. Established on five continents, from the Napa Valley vineyards to Provence to the beaches of the Indian Ocean, Relais & Châteaux invites people across the globe to savour delicious journeys, to discover the inimitable art de vivre engrained in each local culture and to share an incomparable, unforgettable experience. Relais & Châteaux members protect and promote the wealth and diversity of the world’s culinary and hospitality traditions, to ensure they continue to thrive. They are equally dedicated to preserving local heritage and the environment, as articulated in the association’s Vision presented to UNESCO in November 2014.
