“History is written in the past and never forgotten”.
In the heart of the Alpine Riviera is located the sumptuous Château Brachet, a luxurious 5-star hotel that is both modern and historic. This was the aim of Jean-Michel Belin, the owner-manager, passionate about history, who in 2010, after falling in love with this residence, decided to breathe new life into the former home of Léon Brachet, a famous 19th-century Aix-les-Bains doctor.
After 10 years of hard work, Château Brachet opened its doors to the public in 2021.
This boutique-hotel is located just 45 minutes away from Geneva, Switzerland, nestled between France’s largest lake (Lac du Bourget), and the beautiful city of Annecy. Perched on the heights of the commune of Grésy-sur-Aix, Château Brachet offers a breathtaking view of the mountains bordered by a sea of clouds and, on the other side, overlooks its 6-hectare landscaped park.
Echoes of Elegance: Reviving Château Brachet’s Historic Splendor
Although luxurious and modern, this residence is distinguished by its deep historic character. Indeed, Château Brachet, whose past is deeply linked to the history Aix-les-Bains, was once the home of Dr Léon Brachet, renowned as “the doctor of kings“. His influence extended far beyond the castle walls, shaping the development of Aix-les-Bains into a most renowned thermal destination. Dr Brachet is indeed remembered for having cared for, welcomed and housed the greatest figures of the time, such as King George of Greece, Elisabeth ‘Sissi’ of Austria, the Coquelin Brothers, Princess Beatrice of England (soon to be joined by her mother Queen Victoria), and was tirelessly promoting his home town as well as the health benefits of its thermal baths.
Chateau Brachet therefore decided to base the themes of its 15 rooms and suites on these prominent figures and related topics of the era.
Today, every nook of Château Brachet whispers through its corridors the anecdotes and stories of its past, capturing the essence of its distinguished guests through time. Meticulous details, knick-knacks, period furniture and authentic engravings are displayed in this unique place that has been reinvented without losing its original soul.
50+ craftsmen were called on to carry out this major renovation project, and the result is worthy of the efforts that have been made over the last 10 years. From the carrara marble bathrooms to the library containing more than 4,000 period books and the private wellness area with sauna and hammam, guests at Château Brachet are able to discover and enjoy a variety of services and amenities.
The Château Brachet’s Serene Retreat
Outdoors, Château Brachet offers a majestic setting in the midst of its vast gardens, where one can find a 18-metre long outdoor swimming pool nestling in the heart of carefully tended grounds, “La table du Jardinier” set in the heart of an organic vegetable garden, a Cigar Lounge, a giant Chessboard and a Solarium. All invite guests to relax and recharge their batteries in this haven of peace.
And for the more sporty visitors, there is a tennis court, 2 padel courts, badminton, volleyball, and an “Executive golf” training area to enjoy!
Sustainable innovation: Château Brachet’s green vision
Constantly looking to the future, Jean-Michel Belin is fully committed to sustainable development and has equipped the estate with all the facilities needed to adopt an eco-conception approach. This includes solar panels to supply the Château with hot water, a geothermal / geocooling system for heating the premises, and a rainwater recovery system that perfectly encapsulates the concern Château Brachet has for the environment.
Artistry on the Plate: Culinary Wonders at
“La Table du Château”
“La Table du Château” is Château Brachet’s gastronomic restaurant.
It comprises a dining room that can seat 45 installed under an impressive ship’s hull framework or a glass roof conservatory-style area, and the outside terrace “La Broderie” accommodating up to 55 guests.
The materials, finishes and details that surround the restaurant underline the beauty of the place and reinforce the historic dimension of the address.
The kitchen is currently run by Bertrand Jeanson, an experienced chef who has worked for major international hotels such as the very select “Brando resort” in Tahiti. You can also enjoy a tea-time full of flavours thanks to the work of our Pastry Chef Francesco Catanzaro, who does his utmost to leave customers with a delicious last sweet bite.
