Relais & Châteaux United States, luxury hotels United States

Built three centuries ago, the city of Charleston is one of the best-preserved architectural treasures in the United States. The colonial houses lining its narrow streets are an eloquent reminder of its joyous and tormented story, like a condensed history of America. The birthplace of swing and the Charleston dance - made famous by Josephine Baker - the city still has all the charm that it owes to its multi-ethnic origins. Entering the Planters Inn, overlooking the Old City Market and the many art galleries, is like stepping back in time. On the patios full of tropical flowers and fountains, you will relax to a serenade of jazz. As well as sipping delicious cocktails and tasting the generous American cuisine, you can discover the nearby sites of Cypress Gardens, Middleton Place and other famous old cotton and tobacco plantations.

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Within the green valleys and pristine lakes of the bucolic Litchfield Hills, Winvian is a unique hotel complex nestled in 45 hectares of lush grounds bordered by centuries-old maple trees. A team of 15 architects was called upon to create the 19 original chalets, each with its own special design and atmosphere. You may choose to stay in a 2 story treehouse perched 10 meters off the ground, in a lighthouse located in the midst of the forest, or perhaps a lodge built around a hundred year old oak tree. On the agenda: relaxing in the romantic spa adjacent to the White Memorial nature preserve and Charles's pond, hot air ballooning, bike riding, croquet, bocce, horseback riding, fly fishing, race car driving and other unforgettable experiences just two hours away from the buzz of New York and Boston.

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Deep in Tennessee, this traditional farm is a chance to return to nature and rediscover life's simple pleasures. Part of the 1 ,700 hectares of land is set aside for farming, which ensures a steady flow of deliciously fresh produce all year round. Cheese, vegetables, herbs, honey, cider and much more are all produced right here. Blackberry Farm's team of Chefs has established ties with local gardeners and tradespeople to offer a menu that respects the authenticity of the flavours and the integrity of the products. The result is simple and delicious recipes accompanied by excellent wines. If you want to, as well as doing a spot of gardening and cheese making, you can become really involved in life at the farm. Or you can just go fly fishing, explore the region on a Harley-Davidson or by horse-drawn carriage, or try the variety of beauty treatments on offer…

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The 2nd oldest town in the US, Santa Fe is still very much influenced by its Indian and Spanish heritage. It possesses that true "Pueblo" charm, with its narrow streets, patios and typical ochre-coloured houses. Located in the historic district, The Inn of the Five Graces combines luxury with an aura of mystery. With an ethnic décor enhanced by East Indian and Tibetan antiques, oriental carpets and nomadic textiles combined with Southwest architecture, the interiors feature many handcrafted pieces as well as spectacular tile mosaics. Passionate about this land with its wealth of Indian legends, the owners invite you to embark on a sensory voyage to fully savour this melting pot of cultures and colours. One of the possibilities: take lessons with a professional photographer and capture the incredible beauty of the landscapes. Santa Fe is above all a town of art and culture where you can also enjoy a private concert at the opera house or discover the works of numerous painters and sculptors.

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It was in front of the stunning scenery of Big Sur that Henry Miller said that he learnt to pray. To take the time to meditate in front of the immensity of these cliffs which seem to plunge down into the ocean, the little village of artists of Carmel-by-the-Sea is the ideal base. Halfway between San Francisco and the coast of Santa Barbara, inhabited by seals, whales and other marine mammals, the village - where Clint Eastwood was once mayor - will charm you with its many art galleries and pebble beaches. You will drop your bags at a romantic hotel built in 1929. The interior designer Kathleen Fink has decorated it with the most beautiful antiques and fabrics from Europe. Delicious cuisine, a wine cellar with over 4,500 bottles, massages, tennis and windsurfing will give this address a special place in your heart, in the footsteps of the author.

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The Mediterranean climate and extremely fertile soil of Napa Valley make it one of the most prestigious wine producing areas in the United States, with a viticultural heritage dating back to the 19th century. At Meadowood, you will find yourself at the heart of a unique tasting journey, starting with the estate's very own wine educator. The cosy lodges, guestrooms or suites with patios and views of the trees or fairways guarantee a good night's sleep. And The Restaurant at Meadowood is one of the best places to eat in the region.

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In a gorgeously green and unspoilt part of Pennsylvania, halfway between Pittsburgh and Buffalo, this inn owned by the Dorn family has been handed down from one generation to the next. Built in the 1920s, it has kept all its original charm and authenticity. The main lodge and individual chalets are built with sequoia wood and blend perfectly into the breathtaking natural surroundings: a forest of hemlock spruces where it is not rare to spot foxes, deer or beavers, and you will be lulled by the soothing murmur of bubbling streams. On the programme: walks in the fresh air, fly fishing at Lake Bondieu (just a few minutes away), Pennsylvanian clay pigeon shooting, snooker… And total rest.

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Inspired by their travels abroad, R.B. Fitch and his late wife transformed a central North Carolina farm into a charming, elegant village, replete with shops, restaurants and the award-winning Fearrington House Inn and Restaurant. Near one of the country's most dynamic research and venture capital hubs - the Research Triangle region encompassing Raleigh and Durham - the farm-like setting with white facades, rocking chairs, lush landscaping and intimate courtyards will transport you to a place far away from the ordinary. Between author readings, spa treatments, shopping and customized wine dinners, you can discover the Jordan Lake nature preserve and nearby Chapel Hill, home to the nation's oldest state university. A made-to-measure retreat for lovers of good food, fine wine and gracious hospitality.

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The Lake Placid Lodge is a beautifully handcrafted Lodge nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, situated on the shores of Lake Placid. The new Main Lodge, opening in October 2008, is a remarkable Arts and Crafts style lodge. The Lodge will offer among the finest accommodations and dining in a truly comfortable, rustic, yet refined setting. Pamper yourself in the new Main Lodge, the private cabins or the newly remodelled Lakeside suites, offering gorgeous views of Lake Placid and Whiteface Mountain. The guest rooms, suites and cabins feature comfortable featherbeds, wood burning fireplaces, rustic furnishings, and deep soaking baths. The Dining Room offers a prix-fixe menu with dining available on the deck overlooking Lake Placid and Whiteface Mountain. The Pub offers a relaxed setting serving lunch, dinner and an all day menu, and also offers outside dining on the deck.

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Welcome to the island of Nantucket and its tranquil harbours, endless stretches of beach, old manor houses, and beautiful gardens, just fifty kilometres off the coast of Massachusetts… On the birthplace of Arthur Gordon Pym - hero of the novel of the same name by Edgar Allan Poe - stands The Wauwinet, a charming house covered in patinaed grey shingles, built in 1860 and with the distinction of being one of the first hotels on the island. The freshly picked bunches of flowers in your room are characteristic of the attentiveness of the staff. The programme is relaxation or water sports at the hotel's two private beaches, massages inspired by local plants and contemplating the splendid sunsets over Nantucket bay.

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As a young boy, Jonathan Cartwright wanted to be a cyclist and "win the Tour de France". But, at the age of 15, he discovered cooking and became more interested in wearing a white apron than the yellow jersey. These days he is a respected and dedicated chef, who has turned the White Barn Inn into a great place to eat as well as a peaceful, elegant place to stay and a unique centre of relaxation. In the words of this passionate perfectionist "Cooking requires the same determination as cycling, the same effort and the same team spirit". Above all, Jonathan values the quality of his products and he can tell you the life story of the fresh Kennebunkport lobster, star of his menu, from its birth to the moment it arrives in his kitchen. To be savoured as it is or in a bisque or a cognac sauce, among the other creations inspired by local produce.

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