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Located north of Lyon in Beaujolais and constructed in 1217 by Lord Guichard d’Oingt, Château de Bagnols has a storied history that spans centuries. The moated castle has been artfully transformed into one of the most impressive hotels in the region retaining its historic character and appearance but offering all modern comforts and amenities.
Step inside and you’re transported back in time with ornate plasterwork and wall hangings, enormous fireplaces, antique furniture, beamed ceilings and impressive trompe l’oeil (trick of the eye) wall paintings.
The 27 suites are divided between three categories. The Château Suites feature antique furniture, four-poster beds, and original 12th to 18th-century wall murals. The large Chai Suites are styled in a contemporary manner with decor in cool tones of gray, blue, and beige, while the Jardin Suites are in the original outbuildings, many of which boast vaulted ceilings with original wood beams and ground floor terraces with views of the vineyards.
One of the jewels of Château de Bagnols is its Michelin-starred restaurant 1217, which serves a menu that revolves around traditional local fare made with immense care and ambition. The hotel also has a large outdoor pool, a spa and a gym.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our France specialists
Rooms are spread across three buildings, each with their own distinct style. For aristocratic glamour and ornate historic detailing, the Château Suites offer the chance to luxuriate in regal surroundings. The Chai Suites are far more contemporary and set in the chateau’s former cellar, while the Jardin Suites in the former outbuildings have a slightly more rustic charm with grand proportions and French windows opening onto the gardens. All rooms have a flat-screen TV and DVD player, and large bathrooms with modern fixtures. The Chai and Jardin Suites also have air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
Located just 40 minutes northwest of Lyon and situated in the middle of the bucolic Beaujolais wine region, Château de Bagnols is an enviable spot for visitors looking for the best of both worlds. Given its proximity, you can enjoy the gastronomic hub of Lyon as well as relaxing days tasting the region’s best wines.
Matching the majestic surroundings with heavenly food, Château de Bagnols’ restaurant, 1217, is a gastronomic delight. The menu offers an innovative take on Lyonnais classics, and the creative flare here has been awarded a Michelin star. The menu changes frequently with the seasons and the availability of local produce, with many ingredients coming from the castle’s own aromatic gardens. Smart dress is requested whether you sit in the elegant interior dining room or on the panoramic terrace.
Surrounded by cherry trees and lounge chairs, the large outdoor swimming pool is a highlight. There is also an extensive spa with an indoor pool, steam room and four treatment rooms, as well as a gym and formal gardens. Guests can explore the Beaujolais wine route, play golf, hike or visit a variety of museums nearby.
Château de Bagnols is one of our preferred properties in the region and offers the chance to combine wine country discovery with big city exploration in Lyon while at the same time indulging in five-star amenities.
Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favorite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can’t be bettered.
Located in Talloires on Lac d’Annecy, Beau-Site Talloires offers easy access to Annecy, the lake and the mountains yet enjoys the serenity of a village setting. Its timeless elegance and warm welcome makes it a difficult place to leave.
Conveniently located in historic Vieux Lyon within walking distance of many of the city sights, Collège Hotel is a novel property with a light-hearted school theme. Contemporary design, unconventional detailing and good value for money make it a rewarding base.
Centrally located in Vieux Lyon is Cour des Loges, a distinctive five-star property whose historic premises, individual design and Michelin-starred restaurant make it a memorable place to stay. In addition you’ll get a spa, hanging gardens and an indoor pool.
Centrally located in Chamonix, Hameau Albert 1er is an indulgent Alpine retreat that prides itself on its rich history, fine dining and comfortable rooms. Guests also benefit from a large pool and easy access to all the town’s attractions.
A small boutique property offering easy access to Annecy’s old town, the lake, and many restaurants and shops, Hôtel des Alpes has a warm, contemporary style that combines the best of the region’s traditions with modern comforts and amenities.
Located in fashionable Chamonix, Hôtel l’Héliopic is a comfortable, modern property with chic interiors and spacious rooms. With a convenient location and large spa and pool, it offers a great mountain base.
Located in the heart of the Presqu’île, Hotel Silky is a convenient spot for visitors looking to explore Lyon on foot. The hotel combines simple, contemporary design with local heritage and warm and friendly service.
A storied history, serene and scenic setting, and long tradition of fine food and unobtrusive service make Abbaye de Talloires, one of Lac d’Annecy's most prestigious hotels and a fine base for exploring the region
Constructed in 1903, Relais & Chateaux property Auberge du Père Bise has long been a destination of choice for fine food, scenic views and relaxed indulgence. It offers a complete retreat but all the sophistication of an urban bolthole.
A winding five-minute drive uphill from Lyon’s old town, the grand Villa Florentine sits above the city and offers sweeping views of Lyon, spacious rooms, a poolside terrace and gourmet dining.
The following activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences of the area where you’re staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident’s eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can also suggest outdoor pursuits and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the traditions of the area’s inhabitants.
Annecy walking tour
A medieval city built around a hilltop castle and riddled with canals, Annecy is best explored on foot. On this walking tour, your private guide will reveal the history behind the rickety old buildings, fortifications and characterful cobbled lanes.
Beaujolais and Mâconnais wine regions
This full-day tour gives you the chance to explore the Beaujolais and Mâconnais wine regions. With your private driver-guide, visit the Côte Dorée and sample gamay wines before enjoying an indulgent lunch. In the afternoon, sample white Burgundies in Mâconnais.
Burgundy, the Côte de Beaune and the Côte de Nuits
Explore the Côte d’Or region of Burgundy on this private, full-day tour. Your driver-guide will take you through the storied vineyards and prestigious appellations of the region, with pauses for tastings, lunch and a chance to explore an 11th-century wine cellar.
Geneva walking tour
A short hop from France lies the historic city of Geneva on the edge of its namesake lake. On this private guided walking tour, you’ll hear about Geneva’s international significance and its importance during the Protestant Reformation as you take in its old town on foot.
Gourmet walking tour of Lyon and Les Halles covered market
Discover why Lyon is known as the culinary capital of France on this private tour of its bakeries, markets, restaurants and delis. Learn about its renowned chefs past and present and sample some local delicacies such as praline brioche and coussin de Lyon.
Hiking near Mont Blanc with picnic lunch
Get out onto the trails and into the mountains around Chamonix on a full-day privately guided hike. You’ll ascend into the high meadows for panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks, and return via another route passing a quiet mountain lake.
Mountains and glacier tour with cable car ascent
The alpine scenery of Chamonix is unveiled on this tour of the mountains and glaciers with a local guide. You’ll take in the views from the summit of the Aiguille du Midi and visit the ice cave in the Mer de Glace, France’s largest glacier.
Private boat tour of Lac d'Annecy with apéritif
Cruise along the scenic shores of Lac d’Annecy on a private boat on this evening cruise. Visit a smuggler’s cave and admire the turquoise waters then sip an apéritif as you watch the sun set behind Annecy.
