The Perfect Country Retreat: Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons

Photography by Paul Wilkinson Photography Ltd.

Set amongst the idyllic scenery of rural Oxfordshire, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons is part of the Belmond group and offers guests a picturesque retreat alongside the gastronomic delights under the direction of Chef Patron, Raymond Blanc OBE.

Situated just 8 miles from the heart of Oxford and within easy reach of London, Le Manoir is an intimate hotel comprising of 32 rooms and suites, each decadently decorated and savouring the world-class hospitality the property is so well-renowned for.

One is instantly immersed into the Japanese and orchard gardens surrounding this stunning hotel upon arrival, and the serenity of this family-friendly countryside retreat is conveyed through small personal touches from presenting children with a chef teddy bear to ensure rooms are prepared to the exacting preferences of guests.

Acting as a key characteristic of Belmond Le Manoir, the gardens are complemented by eye-catching water features adorning the English Water Garden and the seasonal produce grown in the Organic Kitchen Garden.  Daily tours are offered of the eleven gardens as well as the chance for guests to participate in the Gardening School, a hands-on chance to learn how to grow their own plants in a relaxed, informal atmosphere.

Championing the culinary delights of two-Michelin starred Raymond Blanc, the restaurant at Le Manoir has retained its reputation for gastronomic excellence for more than 30 years and stands as one of the finest dining experiences in the world.

Open to both residents and guests, the restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner serving a seasonally changing menu of local produce with the innovative flair of Blanc and his team at the heart of the experience. A variety of menus catering to all tastes, Le Manoir offers menus ranging from three to seven courses and also features five and seven-course vegetarian menus as well as an extensive wine list designed to complement the food served.

Enhancing the journey of exquisite gourmand discovery, Le Manoir is also home to the legendary Raymond Blanc Cookery School giving guests an insight into the extraordinary cooking techniques and delicacies Blanc continues to be inspired by.

Opulently furnished rooms and suites set the tone for the 15th-Century Townhouse Manor – come hotel, with most of the rooms boasting the scenic views of the courtyard or gardens. Plush bedding and deep tones of rouge evoke the romanticism of Le Manoir; suites come with Victorian free-standing baths and residencies are on the larger size with Deluxe Rooms spanning over 22m2 and larger suites with up to a generous 75m2 of floor space.

Over the coming months, as we reach the height of the festive season, Le Manoir has an array of events making it the perfect time to plan your stay. Highlights include The Raymond Blanc Festival of Music featuring star-studded performances from the likes of Imelda May, Hannah Stone and Sir Bryn Terfek accompanied by an exclusive champagne reception and celebration dinner running at the beginning of October. Other noteworthy dates in the diary include a Winter Floral & Wrapping Masterclass with Gerald Dickens, Christmas Carol Concerts and the spectacular New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and Dance.

Upcoming offers such as The Art of Gastronomy package also make combining cooking classes with a stay ideal; the package includes accommodation, daily breakfast, dinner and a cooking class as well as a glass of Laurent-Perrier Rose champagne and macarons.

Book your luxury country retreat at Le Manoir with Berkeley Travel to receive the following benefits:

* Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
* Daily Buffet breakfast, for up to two in-room guests
* $100 USD Equivalent Food & Beverage credit, to be utilised during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
* Early check-in & late check-out, subject to availability
* Complimentary Wi-Fi

To find out more and make a booking, please get in touch with one of our team by calling +44 (0) 207 099 0777 or emailing us.

Visit the Belmond website.