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Hotel Chais Monnet and Spa: french elegance meets slick modernity | Travel News | Travel
Published
4 years agoon
By
Isabel Rosas
This luxurious lodge opened in 2018. (Picture: Resort Chais Monnet and Spa)
The Vibe
At first look, my arrival on the Resort Chais Monnet and Spa doesn’t look like notably welcoming. Thick imposing partitions conceal what was as soon as a Nineteenth-century buying and selling home and cellars owned by Jean-Gabriel Monnet in 1898. When you’ve swept by the gates, you’ve entered an immaculately landscaped backyard of garden and decorative grasses neglected by two grand mansions – one a categorised monument. Past sit two arresting, up to date glass sq. buildings adorned with metal tendrils which resemble vines.
As a reminder you’re in France, two pristine iconic Citroen 2CVs (which visitors can use to pootle across the vineyards) sit on the entrance.
A couple of 90-minute prepare trip away from Bordeaux or La Rochelle, sitting simply exterior the city, the property is now within the succesful fingers of Javad Marandi (proprietor of movie star hangout Soho Farmhouse within the Cotswolds). He enlisted architect Didier Poignant to rework this industrial property right into a luxurious lodge which opened in 2018.
Many of the 92 rooms are reached by way of the huge glass atrium with authentic beams, a circular-glass elevator and a sweeping Hollywood-style staircase. It’s all been sensitively designed across the outdated buildings and adorned with dramatic trendy sculptural items. Regardless of its slick look, Chais Monnet is sublimely enjoyable.
Maybe it’s the sunshine streaming by the glass roof, the extremely discreet workers who hover silently, showing simply whenever you want them, or the pure pleasure of being on this quintessential a part of rural France, nevertheless it’s a heady mixture.
The lodge has 92 refined and cosy rooms. (Picture: Resort Chais Monnet and Spa)
Rooms are available 4 classes. There’s additionally a further 4 flats for bigger teams and an exquisite suite. All typify French magnificence and are available within the colors of the Cognac ageing course of – from warming ambers to deep tobacco tones.
Textured materials from Pierre Frey sit superbly towards pale oak furnishings with leather-based tops and herringbone flooring are topped with lovely rugs.
Rooms are refined and cosy sanctuaries with little out of doors seating areas. There are cabinets galore, lovely sofas and chairs, mini bars, even monogrammed writing paper. Nothing has been neglected and the luxurious bogs include toiletries from Grasse perfumer, Fragonard.
Meals and Drink
You’ll be dizzy earlier than you even strive a sip of one of many 220 completely different Cognacs on the elevated bar in Le 1838, the previous cooperage. It has a gents’s club-meets grandcountry-house vibe with chesterfields, brass devices and cowskincovered ottomans.
If the climate’s positive, there’s additionally a rooftop bar with sweeping views throughout city. Chais Monnet’s fine-dining restaurant, Les Foudres, has simply been awarded a Michelin star and this 12 months, for the primary time exterior Paris, the Michelin information will likely be launched in Cognac. That’s some recognition.
Trendy Le 1838 cocktail bar is about within the outdated cooperage. (Picture: Resort Chais Monnet and Spa)
Chais Monnet’s Head Chef Marc-Antoine Lepage is a grasp at creating culinary masterpieces but additionally artistically visible creations. The elegant restaurant sits within the ageing cellars below 100-year-old barrels.
A taster of the menu consists of artichoke cream ravioli, line-caught wild turbot and veal cooked in a crust of bread. The five-course tasting menu prices €135.
For one thing slightly extra relaxed, La Distillery, with its closely beamed roof, picket tables and tiled flooring, affords all of the French classics, from snails and oysters, to steaks, duck and guinea fowl. Starters from €14, mains, €22. And for a fast pick-me-up after touring the Cognac distillers, the Angelique cafe does a depraved afternoon tea served by the completely charming Brit, David.
Spa
Housed in one of many glass buildings, start your wellness journey within the spa both within the inviting indoor/out of doors pool, Jacuzzi or the array of “bathe experiences” which features a tranquil waterfall full with tropical birdsong and heat waters, earlier than the heavens open and a monster storm with lightning and thunder rains down. 5 rooms supply all the pieces from salt scrubs to deep massages. In case you fancy one thing extra intense, there’s a gymnasium with all you want. Physique exfoliation from €130.
Calm down within the spa with a remedy or two. (Picture: Resort Chais Monnet and Spa)
THE DEAL: Double rooms at Chais Monnet Resort & Spa begin from £220, room solely, chaismonnethotel.com. Excursions might be aranged by way of the lodge.
Extra to see and do
There’s a lot extra to Cognac than Cognac. Right here’s a taster of issues and locations to not miss:
Chais Monnet sits minutes from the city. Meander by the winding streets, lined with lovely shuttered buildings, Twelfth-century church buildings and boutiques. Seize a bicycle on the lodge for a pootle alongside the riverside promenade, residence to traditional Cognac homes, Martell, Hennessy and, additional on the town, Remy Martin.
Sail alongside the waters of the Charente River on a reproduction of a picket crusing boat, the Gabarre. The boats sailed within the 18th and Nineteenth centuries transporting items reminiscent of wine, stone and salt. Today, you’ll have the river nearly to your self as you glide alongside.
Cognac is residence to fifteen cognac homes and there are additionally greater than 4,000 winegrowers within the area, and its greatest export market is the US due to their love of a cocktail. The Queen sources her cognac from Thomas Hine and Co based in 1763 the place Cellar Grasp Eric has been mixing cognacs for 20 years. There are extra variations than you would possibly suppose, and with older ones, reminiscent of VSOP (very particular outdated pale), the richer and smoother it turns into. Unsurprisingly a tour culminates in a marathon tasting of six varieties.
The smaller, fourth-generation Cognac Home, Painturaud Freres, within the fairly city of Segonzac, has an cute distillery and you may even take pleasure in a picnic within the winery earlier than taking a tour of its “engine room”. Proper now it’s harvest time and they’re busy beginning the distillation course of.
The breakfast of French champions is oysters with balsamic vinegar, washed down with a crisp white wine. The tiny hilltop village of Bouteville, round a 20-minute drive from Cognac, is residence to France’s solely balsamic vinegar producer, Le Baume de Bouteville. Teaming up with Huitres Cocollos run by French- Irishman, Jacques Cocollos, they provide tastings with each French and Irish oysters, of their distillery.
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Travel
British Museum to focus on Hawaiian tradition in new exhibition
Published
2 months agoon
04/10/2025By
Isabel Rosas
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
Travel
20 Greatest-Preserved Medieval Cities in France You Ought to See!
Published
2 months agoon
04/10/2025By
Isabel Rosas
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.


These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace


Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.


Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace


Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.


Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie


One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne


Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany


Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy


Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes


Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie


Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence


Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany


Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie


Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy


Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.


Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie


Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine


Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur


Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie


Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie


Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie


Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté


Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur


Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
Travel
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04/10/2025By
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