Cognac’s first ever five-star hotel is due to open its doors in early September in an exceptional location: the old Chais Monnet, dating from 1838. This exclusive address has been included in the Leading Hotels of the World and is the perfect base from which to explore the charms of the town, which languishes on the banks of the Charente. We head behind the scenes of one of the most intoxicating hotel projects going on right now…
In the old buildings of this two-hectare ‘wasteland’, labelled as Industrial Heritage of France – comprising a mansion, ageing and unloading cellars and an assembly cellar – architect Didier Poignant has added modern buildings in glass. Here, the reception hall is cleverly illuminated by the soft light off the surface of the river.
The guest room decoration combines classic elegance with contemporary comfort, incorporating some rustic touches, such as old beams that emphasise character.
Control barrels
Where there’s cognac there are oak barrels. Entirely renovated by a local tonnellerie, these enormous wooden casks, originally used for the ageing of the famous spirits, now watch over the guests as they had the witnesses of Chais Monnet’s prestigious past. Some have been split in two and are purely decorative, while others have been kept as is.
Chosen nectars
Fruity, floral, woody or spicy: the hotel bar is stocked with the largest selection of cognac in the world, in a cosy atmosphere where the strains of jazz float through the air.
Comfortably ensconced in discreet alcoves, guests of the gourmet restaurant are invited to enjoy fine cuisine prepared by two-Michelin-starred chef Sébastien Broda. Wedged between land and sea, the terroir of the Charente is the inspiration behind his elegant dishes.
The spa plays the hotel’s purity card, using products by Codage. Indoor and outdoor pools, a steam room, hot tub, gym and 7 treatment rooms are available to recharge batteries and instil well-being.
Beneath an impressive network of ceiling beams, the main cellar space has been converted into a light-filled brasserie perfect for socialising.
The hotel boasts 71 rooms, 21 suites and 13 apartments in the heart of town, close to vineyards, famous cognac houses and the River Charente.
An ultra-modern building next door, with décor evoking the vines, is dedicated to events.
Find out more: - Explore the Hôtel Chais Monnet - Plan your trip to Cognac and its region (French only)
By France.fr
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