The latest five-strong expansion for Relais & Château encompasses the collection’s first properties in both the Barossa Valley and the Maldives, as well as new additions in Croatia, Italy and Patagonia. The brand’s first-ever South Australian addition is the 15-suite vineyard retreat The Louise. The hotel upholds the renowned collection’s esteem for high-end culinary delights through its restaurant, Appellation. Hotel owner Jim Carreker has been named the new regional director for the 13 Relais & Châteaux destinations in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Tahiti, and he is looking forward to expanding the membership and range of guest experiences available throughout the region.
About the five new additions:
The Louise – Barossa Valley, Australia
In the legendary Barossa Valley wine region, The Louise provides unsurpassed panoramic views over the vineyards from the folds of its contemporary secluded delights. It also boasts an inspiring collection of 500 wines from Australia and beyond. Appellation, its 48-seat restaurant, serves the area’s finest produce, with the hotel offering a number of other memorable experiences for its guests such as wine blending, cooking classes, and visits to a selection of the 150 local wineries.
Hotel Bevanda – Croatia
From the Opatija coast, home of the Hotel Bevanda, the Adriatic and its islands stretch out as far as the eye can see. This contemporary, designer hotel, located in the heart of the ‘Croatian Monte Carlo’ offers mesmerising views from the terraces of its 10 guest rooms. Enjoy a feast of delights, right on the water’s edge.
Restaurant Agli Amici – Italy
The Restaurant was founded in 1887 and has belonged to the Scarello family for three generations. The chefs source fresh, locally produced ingredients from farmers in the region, all around the town of Udine just a few kilometres from Venice. Here tradition is everything, and makes more an extremely memorable dining experience.
Awasi Patagonia – Chile
Nestled amid a private reserve next to Torres del Paine National Park in Southern Patagoni, this property encourages guests to explore Sarmiento Lake, the virgin forests and its plentiful wildlife surrounds. After guided tours, travellers return to the divine comforts of their warm and cosy villas, constructed of local wood and with stunning views through huge picture windows.
Soneva Fushi – Maldives
The Baa Atoll is the Maldives’ only UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. On the large private island of Kunfunadhoo, the eco delights of Soneva Fushi sit among 40 hectares of protected tropical forest, bordered by white-sand beaches. Guests relax with meditation, savour organic produce and fine wines, and gaze at the stars from the astronomical observatory.