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]
The 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]
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]
The 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]