Relais & Châteaux is an association of individually owned and operated luxury hotels and restaurants.[1] As of November 2023[update], the group has about 580 members in 64 countries on five continents.[2] Predominantly represented in Europe, the association is growing in North America, Asia and Africa.[3] The current president is Laurent Gardinier.[4]
History and attributes
editThe association was established in France in 1954.[5]
The group is known for its strict admission standards. In addition to luxurious facilities, members must have special features distinguishing them from chain hotels.[6] Most of them are historic landmarks such as castles, manor houses, or townhouses in idyllic settings and offering exquisite haute cuisine.[7]
Prospective and current members are evaluated by the group's traditional "five C" motto: Caractère, Courtoisie, Calme, Charme et Cuisine (Character, Courtesy, Calm, Charm and Cuisine).[8]
Presidents
edit- 2023–present: Laurent Gardinier
- 2013–2022: Philippe Gombert
- 2005–2013: Jaume Tapies
- 1986–2005: Régis Bulot
- 1971–1986: Joseph Olivereau
References
edit- ^ Oseid, John (December 20, 2022). "Relais & Châteaux Guides Its Members Toward Greater Ecological And Social Goals". Forbes. Retrieved 2023-04-16.
- ^ Zhekova, Dobrina (November 13, 2023). "Relais & Châteaux Just Added 9 Incredible New Properties — Including a North Carolina Ranch and a St. Lucia Resort With a Private Beach". Travel + Leisure. Retrieved 2024-02-08.
- ^ Seno, Alexandra (August 23, 2012). "Luxury hotel group sets big _target for Asia]". The Globe and Mail. Archived from the original on 2017-04-17.
- ^ Daly, Linda (2024-03-05). "Relais & Chateaux boss on how luxury has rebounded". ISSN 0140-0460. Retrieved 2024-03-05.
- ^ "About Us – Relais & Châteaux", archive.vn, retrieved 14 August 2020
- ^ "Celebrate the Holidays Across North America at a Relais & Châteaux". www.luxurytravelmagazine.com. Retrieved 2023-04-16.
- ^ "This Château in France's Loire Valley Dates Back to the 13th Century — and Just Opened As a Luxury Hotel". Travel + Leisure. Retrieved 2023-04-16.
- ^ "Inside the Secret Application Process to Become a Relais & Châteaux Hotel". Town & Country. 2019-01-31. Retrieved 2023-04-16.