Founded in 1954 as a non-profit association, Relais & Chatêaux brings together more than 580 exceptional hotels and restaurants across the globe. The name itself evokes its spirit: relais meaning a welcoming stopover, châteaux symbolising timeless hospitality and character. Each property is independently owned, often by families, whose passion and craft create an authentic sense of place.
Route du Bonheur
In 1954, Relais & Châteaux began as a handful of family-run hotels and restaurants linked along the scenic road from Paris to the French Riviera. This first “Route du Bonheur” translated as the ‘Road to Happiness’ invited travellers to savour life’s finest pleasures from one charming stop to the next.
Today, that founding spirit lives on in more than 150 curated Routes du Bonheur itineraries worldwide, and they’re ready to use. Each itinerary is a hand-picked journey across extraordinary landscapes, weaving together member hotels, celebrated chefs, and authentic local experiences.
Perfect for travel advisors and tour planners, these Routes du Bonheur can be booked as they are, or adapted to clients’ needs, providing a seamless, story-driven way to showcase Relais & Châteaux properties and create unforgettable multi-stop journeys.
Contact Debra & Tamara
For any Relais & Chatêaux enquiries, please contact Tamara Kobiolke & Debra Chalmers