Explore these extraordinary destinations to fully enjoy the mountains. From South Africa to Japan, via the French Alps and the Norwegian fjords, each location offers a unique experience with breathtaking landscapes.
Mountain safari at the heart of a private reserve
Relais & Châteaux Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge, Ladysmith, Nambiti Private Reserve, South Africa.
Perched over 1000 meters above sea level near the Drakensberg mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge lies at the heart of the Nambiti Private Reserve. Known for hosting the “Big Five,” the reserve is also home to forty other species such as cheetahs and more than 280 species of birds. This intimate retreat offers five cliffside suites open to the outdoors, overlooking the Sunday River and the savannah. Each morning, your guide will reveal secret spots for wildlife encounters. You can also opt for a hot air balloon flight over the reserve or hike the Drakensberg peaks, reaching heights of over 3400 meters.
Zen retreat
Relais & Châteaux Tenku-no-Mori, Kagoshima, Kirishima mountains, Japan
The owner spent over thirty years shaping the forest and hills to create this rare retreat. Nestled in the volcanic Kirishima mountains, Tenku no Mori (“celestial forest” in Japanese) offers an exclusive sanctuary surrounded by nature. Five discreet villas blend seamlessly into dense forests and misty ridges. Isolated from each other, they give the impression that the entire natural landscape is reserved for each guest. Each terrace features a private onsen (hot spring bath) filled with naturally heated water from nearby underground sources. Leave behind the hustle of daily life and reconnect with nature in this serene green haven.
Authentic Savoyard spirit
Relais & Châteaux La Bouitte, Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, France
Shaped by the passion of René and Maxime Meilleur, the father-son duo now joined by the third generation, this 15-room and suite chalet in the hamlet of Saint-Marcel exudes Savoyard authenticity. Every room features carefully curated antique furniture, and shelves are filled with pottery and cowbells. Far from crowded resorts, the hotel is a peaceful haven just minutes from the 3 Vallées ski slopes. A shuttle is available, and skilled skiers can even return directly to the hotel on skis. More than just a hotel, La Bouitte is a family home where every detail tells a story.
Mountain art and design
Relais & Châteaux Les Barmes de l’Ours, Val d’Isère, France
A true natural haven, Les Barmes de l’Ours offers 76 rooms and suites, each reflecting a different aspect of the mountains: Scandinavian spirit, Grand North American lodge, alpine chalet, or contemporary style. No matter the style you choose, breathtaking views of the Bellevarde face or the village of Val d’Isère await you every morning. At the heart of the hotel, the Barmes gallery hosts a contemporary artist for a unique, seasonal exhibition each winter. Numerous art pieces also enhance the hotel’s spaces, adorned with mirrors, wood, and stone, inviting visitors to enjoy a cultural journey in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Well-being and dolce vita
Relais & Châteaux Gardena Grödnerhof, Ortisei – Val Gardena, Dolomites, Italy
Nestled in the heart of the stunning Dolomites, Gardena Grödnerhof has been run by the same family for three generations. Located in the famous ski resort of Ortisei, this 64-room and suite haven offers privileged access to the spectacular landscapes of Val Gardena, surrounded by forests, meadows, and rugged peaks. Summer or winter, outdoor enthusiasts come to explore the trails, race down the slopes, or simply soak in the ever-changing mountain scenery. After a day of adventure, relax in the hotel’s exceptional 2000-square-meter spa, featuring an indoor pool, outdoor whirlpool, cold pool, saunas, steam baths, a spacious fitness center, and a refined treatment area.
Nordic immersion
Relais & Châteaux Storfjord, Glomset, Norway
With the majestic Sunnmøre Alps as a backdrop, Storfjord Hotel, with its grass-covered roof, is inspired by traditional Norwegian dwellings. Behind its timbered walls, the hotel offers 30 rooms and suites blending Norwegian traditions with contemporary elegance: roaring fireplaces, soft blankets, and stunning alpine views. After a day of skiing in search of the best powder or kayaking along the fjord in warmer months, return to the warmth of the fireplace for a convivial aperitif followed by a dinner inspired by local flavors. An ideal place to recharge in complete tranquility.
Refinement and responsible commitment
Relais & Châteaux The Little Nell, Aspen, Colorado, United States
The Little Nell epitomizes alpine elegance at the heart of Aspen, attracting ski enthusiasts and lovers of refined living. It is the only five-star hotel in the United States certified with ISO 14001 for environmental management through its innovative Eco-Luxe Program. With a warm atmosphere, its 92 rooms and suites offer all the comforts of a contemporary chalet, featuring crackling fireplaces and curated artworks. Famous for its après-ski scene, guests gather at the Ajax Tavern terrace or the cozy Wine Bar before indulging in the inventive cuisine of Element 47, the Michelin-recommended restaurant, paired with a legendary wine cellar awarded the World’s Best Hotel Wine List by The World of Fine Wine.
Grand panoramic views
Relais & Châteaux Post Hotel & Spa, Banff National Park, Lake Louise, Canada
Set against a postcard-perfect backdrop of the Banff National Park mountains, the Post Hotel & Spa at Lake Louise, recently honored with a Michelin Key, enjoys a truly unique location. Nestled in the Bow River Valley, this former 1940s ski lodge has been fully renovated, offering Canadian lodge charm. Most of the 61 rooms and 29 suites feature stone fireplaces and jacuzzi tubs overlooking snowy peaks. After a day of skiing or hiking, guests can unwind at the Temple Mountain Spa before savoring refined cuisine in the famous restaurant dining room. Wine lovers will be thrilled: the hotel’s wine cellar houses 22,000 bottles and has earned Wine Spectator’s prestigious Grand Award for 23 consecutive years.
Tyrolean tradition
Relais & Châteaux Hotel Tennerhof, Kitzbühel, Austria
Facing the legendary Streif downhill run that hosts the world’s best skiers each winter, Hotel Tennerhof offers an ideal location overlooking Kitzbühel. Family-owned since 1929, this traditional Tyrolean chalet features 39 rooms decorated with authentic family antiques. Renowned guests such as Ian Fleming have stayed here—the James Bond suite is named in his honor. Beyond skiing, guests can discover local traditions like curling or enjoy hiking trails that start directly from the hotel’s doorstep.
Disconnect in Patagonia
Relais & Châteaux Awasi Patagonia, Torres del Paine, Chile
In one of Chile’s most remote regions, Awasi Patagonia features fourteen independent villas overlooking Torres del Paine National Park. Designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, the villas are clad in rustic wood yet offer warmth and comfort with cozy sofas, alpaca throws, and wood-burning stoves. Large windows open onto breathtaking views of surrounding mountains and glaciers. Each villa comes with its own vehicle and private guide, allowing guests to explore the region and observe condors, guanacos, and pumas at their own pace.
Transylvanian horizons
Relais & Châteaux Hôtel Matca, Transylvania, Bran, Romania
Near the legendary Bran Castle, Hôtel Matca is a peaceful retreat nestled between forests and meadows, offering stunning views of the Transylvanian mountains. This traditional farmhouse harmoniously blends into the rolling hills and wildflowers, framed by the peaks of the Piatra Craiului mountains and the Bucegi Natural Park. Guest rooms are located in shingle-roofed outbuildings inspired by regional architecture. Inside, light wood and large windows create understated elegance, capturing the ever-changing play of mountain light. Guests can explore scenic trails, swim in the indoor pool with panoramic views, or rejuvenate with massages and halotherapy. In the evening, enjoy convivial dining inspired by Romanian culinary traditions, reimagined by talented chef Mihai Necula.
The soul of the Himalayas
Relais & Châteaux Sitara Himalaya, Manali, India
Located at 2500 meters altitude overlooking the Kullu Valley, Sitara Himalaya is a true sanctuary, rich in nature and spiritual traditions. Nestled on a sacred hill where sage Rishi Ved Vyas once meditated, this intimate property offers just ten elegant rooms, each with panoramic Himalayan views. Combining traditional architecture and local craftsmanship—Tibetan rugs, hand-embroidered fabrics, and warm woods—every space is designed to welcome the light and silence of the mountains. At the estate’s summit, the Paro Svasthi wellness space offers a joyful path to harmony, based on the five elements of the universe. Guests reconnect body, mind, and spirit through fire rituals, guided meditations, and yoga sessions in the peaceful Shantih Yogshala, facing the vast Himalayan peaks.
