Whether in a distant ocean or a crystalline lagoon, why not indulge in a spot of summer fantasy.
In no particular order, here are eight Relais & Châteaux properties to consider for that once-in-a-lifetime summer getaway.
All have one thing in common… these waterside escapes are firmly anchored in a sincere respect for nature and local heritage.
- Pointe aux Canonniers, Mauritius
Nestled in a coconut grove on the coast at the northern tip of Mauritius, Relais & Châteaux 20 Degrés Sud Boutique-hotel offers the perfect departure point for an exploration of the island’s underwater paradise.
Each day, experienced boatmen guide guests to some of the most breathtaking snorkeling and diving sites on the hotel’s boat.
Sheltered by the coral reef and near deserted islets, the Mauritian lagoons reveal their incredible biodiversity. Nearly 800 species of fish and 200 types of coral make up this vibrantly colored seascape. With mask and snorkel, you’ll witness an unforgettable choreography of parrotfish, sea urchins, starfish, and green turtles.
- Set course on an exclusive rout Have you ever felt the thrill of heading for a distant land on your own sailboat? Such is the bespoke eightday experience offered by Le Ponant, a graceful three-masted yacht. Aboard this Relais & Châteaux establishment, you’ll discover luxurious sun-drenched suites. This human-scale floating hotel sails the world’s seas, from secret islands to legendary harbors, upholding sustainable values and serving cuisine inspired by local ingredients. Whether stopping over in the Cape Verde islands or exploring the Caribbean, it offers idyllic vistas framed by turquoise waters. In the Mediterranean, the voyage invites you to unwind in the laid-back Greek isles or take in the rugged beauty of the Croatian coast. The dream destination is up to you.
- Delphin Amazon cruises, Peru
To discover the precious flora and fauna of Peru’s Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, step aboard one of the three vessels of the Relais & Châteaux Delfin Amazon Cruises fleet. In understated elegance, each of these three-deck boats offers complete immersion in the Amazon rainforest, through floor-to-ceiling windows in every cabin. The spectacle unfolds along this river cruise, whether you’re soaking in your private hot tub or sipping a pisco sour on the upper deck. The crew is attentive to every detail in their dedication to meeting guests’ wishes, from an onboard massage to a kayak excursion to explore the riverbanks and swim with freshwater dolphins. This plunge into wild nature, steeped in adventure, stirs the senses and the appetite. All the better to delight in South America’s finest wines and a refined cuisine prepared with local ingredients.
- Puerto Baquerizo Moreno – San Cristóbal, Galápagos, Ecuador
Here at the furthest reaches of the world, Relais & Châteaux Ecoventura offers two seven-night itineraries immersion in the volcanic archipelago of the Galápagos. Aboard one of three sleek expedition yachts – Origin, Theory, and Evolve –, each voyage welcomes some twenty guests for an intimate and exclusive experience. Live at the pace of wildlife, surrounded by rare birds as you explore lava flows or hike along cliff edges with a naturalist guide.
Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling among sea turtles, sea lions, and marine iguanas. Each adventure brings unforgettable encounters to share onboard over dinner, where the chef elevates fresh, local ingredients to new culinary heights
- Elounda, Greece
On the eastern shores of Crete, Elounda Mare nestles between fragrant gardens and the turquoise waters of Mirabello Bay.
To set sail for the day, the hotel welcomes its guests to the port of Elounda, where it moors the Eliana K IV, a Bermuda ketch designed by Steve Dalzell in 1982. With its classic marine hull, twin masts, teak deck, and mahogany-clad cabins, this elegant vessel evokes refined British charm while offering the promise of an unforgettable voyage through the Greek islands. Once the anchor is raised and the sails catch the breeze, the day unfolds under the midday sun: a dive into a secluded cove is followed by the taste of freshly grilled calamari. After a detour to Santorini, the skipper and first mate sweep guests gently back to harbor, as the sea and sun melt into one.
- Hotel Wailea, Hawaii, USA
Nestled in tropical greenery, Hotel Wailea commands sweeping views of three jewels of the Hawaiian archipelago: Moloka’i, Lāna’i, and Kaho’olawe.
This deep connection to nature is the heart of the Relais & Châteaux experience, inviting guests to explore the island’s spirit aboard a traditional outrigger canoe, or wa’a. As you paddle along Maui’s southern coastline to the rhythm of traditional oli chants, the distant silhouette of the Haleakalā volcano rises on the horizon. Closer to the surface, honu and honu’ea – majestic green and hawksbill turtles – glide gracefully past vibrant coral reefs. Led by an expert guide, this two-hour expedition reveals the natural richness of the area and the stories of Polynesian voyagers who once navigated the Pacific by the stars. A journey into the living heart of Hawaiian culture.
- Lonra Palace, Venice
Italy With over 170 years of history and past guests including Jules Verne and Tchaikovsky, Relais & Châteaux Londra Palace Venezia is nothing short of iconic. From one of its 100 windows, gaze out at the ballet of vaporettos crossing the lagoon, and watch as a bragozzo glides to the hotel’s dock to whisk you away for a day of exploration. The hull of this traditional 19th-century wooden fishing boat is adorned with handpainted motifs, and stepping aboard is like setting off on a journey through time. Along the lagoon, legendary islands like Murano and Burano appear, as well as more secluded ones where churches and monasteries rest in quiet solitude.
- Paje, Tanzania
On the beach at Paje, one-on-one with a lagoon that stretches as far as the eye can see, Relais & Châteaux Zanzibar White Sand abides in harmony with its lush natural surroundings. The hotel takes pride in highlighting local culture, especially through exclusive excursions aboard a ngalawa, a traditional outrigger canoe typical of East African and Swahili heritage.
The wondrous experience lasts for over an hour, as wind fills the timeworn cream-colored sail and the wooden hull glides across the crystal-clear waters. A mesmerizing aquatic world unfolds before your eyes, revealing clownfish, starfish, and sometimes even sea turtles. You might take a swim or simply soak in the views with a chilled drink in hand, before heading back to the soft sand and a glowing sunset.
Further info:https:www.relaischateaux.com
