The Location:

Hôtel Chais Monnet & Spa is a converted cognac distillery on the banks of the River Charente. Combing contemporary French chic interior with a modern edge, with light and bright rooms. What was once an old cooperage is now a lively jazz bar serving up expertly crafted cocktails, and architect Didier Poignant masterfully reimagined the space, opening up perspectives and creating a sense of volume by connecting the four cellars with a striking glass structure. This innovative design now houses the hotel’s main reception area, seamlessly blending functionality with architectural elegance.

The Room

The hotel boasts 92 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, spread across four stunning buildings, each exuding classic French chic. With harmonious natural materials, the interiors are designed to offer not only visual sophistication but also an exceptional level of sensory comfort, ensuring a truly memorable stay. We stayed in a Junior Suite with balcony doors running along the entire wall of the suite, giving beautiful light and sunset views.

The suite offered a generously sized living area, complete with a cosy lounge and a luxurious bath, making it an ideal retreat for a relaxing getaway. A standout moment for me was enjoying breakfast in the room - a delicious selection of dishes paired with serene morning balcony views and the comfort of the plushest bed, creating an unforgettable start to the day.

The Food

The hotel is a culinary destination in its own right, boasting two prestigious Michelin keys, while its signature restaurant, Le Foudres, proudly holds a Michelin star. Dining here ensures you’re in the best of gastronomic hands!

For breakfast we chose classic French Crêpes, omelettes and pastries with coffee and hot chocolate - it did not disappoint!

A moment for the pastries . . . layers and layers of the most perfect French pastries I have ever had. The croissants were absolutely wonderful and I could have eaten a plateful!

Dining at La Distillerie

From a delightful breakfast to a classic French dinner, La Distillerie invites guests to experience the flavours of French cuisine. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it’s a warm and inviting space where traditional dishes are crafted with care, perfect for sharing and enjoying together.

Whilst the menu doesn't look very vegetarian or vegan friendly at first glance, the restaurant is very accommodating with creating dishes inspired by components of the main menu. Everything was exceptional and beautifully presented, the highlight being the Crêpe Suzette flambéed in front of us by the table.

In the morning, the restaurant transforms into a bright and inviting space perfect for enjoying breakfast. A generous buffet offers plenty of options, complemented by freshly prepared dishes made to order.

The 1838 Bar

With beautiful decor and high ceilings, at "Le 1838," guests can explore an impressive selection of around 300 cognac varieties from over 40 different houses, alongside a curated collection of fine spirits and champagne handpicked by our team. We delved into the art of mixology during a private cocktail masterclass, crafting our own signature creations along the way. It was a fascinating experience, and we even learned the finer details - including the proper technique for shaking a pitcher!

Things to do:

A Cognac & Cocktail Masterclass: Uncover the secrets behind cognac production and dive into its rich history. Pick up intriguing tips and refine your skills as you master the art of tasting. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience!

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2CV Rental: Explore the picturesque Cognac vineyards from the seat of our iconic 2CVs, winding through charming villages dotted with Romanesque churches. Take in the rolling hills of the Grande Champagne vineyards, where every turn offers a new view. For the perfect finishing touch, add a picnic and make it a truly unforgettable experience. We visited in Winter and sadly it was too cold to try this one but it would be a beautiful summer experience.

Along with yoga, swimming a gym and golf on site, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy your time whilst staying at Hôtel Chais Monnet & Spa:

Sports Car Hire: Discover the local area with the thrill of a supercar!

Hot Air Balloon Hire: Imagine exploring the Charente Valley via hot air balloon, with breath taking views you couldn't enjoy from the ground.

A River Trip or Kayak Canoe: Another way to explore the Charente Valley is on one of the water excursions.

Chateau De Cognac: On our final day we had the pleasure of exploring Chateau De Cognac. The Château Royal de Cognac, a historic monument and the birthplace of François I, is also home to the renowned Baron Otard cognacs. Step inside and immerse yourself in experiences that blend French history with the rich heritage of Baron Otard cognacs. We explored the Chateau, including some stunning archtcture suspected to be by Leonardo Da Vinci, and sampled some of the Cognacs in a tasting room made from hammered oak - like a cask!

Chateau De Bouteville: Nestled in the heart of the Grande Champagne region, the Château de Bouteville, a historic monument since 1984, has reopened its doors following extensive renovations. This remarkable site invites visitors to explore its thousand-year-old history through an engaging and interactive scenography, offering a captivating journey through time. With its stunning architecture and sweeping views of the countryside, the château stands as a proud symbol of regional heritage and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the rich history and charm of this iconic landmark.

If you’re exploring the Cognac region, a visit to Le Baume de Bouteville is an absolute must. This charming spot offers an immersive experience where you can stroll through the vineyards and learn why the unique conditions in Cognac mirror those of Modena, Italy - perfect for creating exceptional balsamic vinegar. The highlight, of course, is sampling their range of exquisite products, from their classic vinegars to their honey vinegar and even a delightful soy sauce (my personal favourite discovery!). It’s no wonder their creations are a staple in the kitchens of Michelin-starred chefs in the region. Before you leave, don’t miss the on-site shop to stock up on your favourites. We couldn’t resist bringing home a selection, but sadly, due to EU shipping regulations, these treasures aren’t available in the UK - so be sure to grab them while you can!

In Summary

Hôtel Chais Monnet is a luxurious five-star retreat in the heart of Cognac, France, offering the perfect getaway at any time of year. We visited in December and found it absolutely beautiful, even in winter. During the warmer months, the hotel comes alive with culinary experiences, including visits to nearby vineyards, al fresco dining, and picturesque picnics. Late summer and early autumn bring the walnut and grape harvests, along with pleasant weather that’s perfect for exploring. The hotel’s menus and amenities cater beautifully to a wellness-inspired escape, while the tranquil local surroundings offer a true sense of serenity - all just a quick one-hour flight from London. With a variety of room sizes to suit most budgets, I highly recommend Hôtel Chais Monnet for a couple’s retreat at any time of year.

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Wilst this was a press stay all reviews and opinions are my own. You can find out more at https://www.chaismonnethotel.com/en