La Collection, the Australian-based luxury representation brand headed by Léa Seguier and Craig Farrell, has been appointed as the exclusive Australian and New Zealand representative of Cognac’s only five-star property, Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa.
Located in the heart of the French city, Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa is one of the most impressive industrial sites in the country. Established in 1830 on a parcel of land more than two hectares in size, and in the city centre, the property has been a rich part of France’s history.
Subscribe to LATTE’s free eNewsletter to keep up to date with everything in the luxury travel industry.
From its past history as a trading house to the rebirth of this majestic hotel, Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa represents the perfect ‘à la Française’ lifestyle. The outpost is a unique place, combining rich heritage and modernity.
Close to some of the most beautiful cognac houses and the historical heart of the city, the hotel promises a wonderfully authentic French experience.

Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and Virtuoso Preferred, and houses 92 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, the Michelin-starred restaurant ‘Les Foundres’, a contemporary brasserie, and a jazz bar housing over 200 varieties of Cognac.
The appeal of Cognac…the region
The city of Cognac is in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of Western France, just 1.5 hours north of Bordeaux, or 2.5 hours by fast train from Paris. According to Farrell, Co-Director of La Collection, there is much more to Cognac than its famous distilled spirit.

“Of course, tours and tastings at cognac houses such as Remy Martin and Hennessy are a must – visitors will love the small village atmosphere of the town. Foodies can choose from Michelin-starred restaurants, or pick up farm fresh local produce from the central market for a picnic along the banks of the Charente River.
“Visitors may also choose to travel on the river, one of the prettiest in France to view ancient vineyards and Roman ruins,” he explained.
Having returned from a reconnaissance of the property just a few days ago, Farrell said the was stuck by the extravagant rooms, beautiful architecture and volume of space.

“It’s so rare to find a property on this size of land in the heart of a town – anywhere in Europe. More than anything though it was the friendly and personal service that is the most memorable. The team will make sure every interest is catered for – whether onsite or in the surrounding area,” Farrell told LATTE.
He said Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa, with its unique history, is an exemplary property to join the La Collection stable.
“Service and gastronomy is paramount, traits that Australian and New Zealand clients are looking for, so it was a perfect addition to the La Collection portfolio.”

“Cognac is an ideal stopover on a self-drive holiday in Western France, or a destination in itself. For clients embarking on a holiday out of Bordeaux (such as on a river cruise), Cognac is a great alternative to its much larger and busier neighbour,” Farrell noted.
Nightly rates at Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa start at approximately €350 per room.
La Collection can facilitate bookings on behalf of travel partners, or advisors can book the property through The Leading Hotels of the World, direct, or via their preferred channel.

What is La Collection?
Formally introduced to the travel trade in May, La Collection is a growing portfolio of pure luxury properties around the world. Founding members include Domaine de Murtoli, Myconian Collection, The Belles Rives, the Domaine de Fontenille, the Alpina Gstaad, le Domaine des Etangs, along with preferred partners: Hotel du Cap Eden Roc and Château St Martin.
Find out more about Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa online at chaismonnethotel.com/en/ or contact Farrell via email at craig@leaseguier.com.