Château Grande Hotel
What if we told you that you don’t need to jet off to the French countryside to enjoy an authentic chateau stay? Instead, just head to New Jersey’s Château Grande Hotel, an upscale oasis set amid 15 lush acres. With its lavish formal gardens and ornate architecture, this property — less than 50 miles outside of Manhattan — is sure to impress Francophiles and lovers or refined stays alike. Here’s our full review of this chic retreat.
What You Need to Know
The Look of the Château Grande Hotel
Château Grande Hotel’s classic French-style architecture alone will lead you to believe that you're at an elegant hideaway in the French countryside. The cream-hued exterior features Mansard roofs, arched windows, and is flanked by formal manicured gardens: interiors boast opulent touches like dazzling chandeliers and grand staircases. There’s also a sophisticated sun-drenched ballroom and a swanky on-site restaurant outfitted with classic and midcentury-modern design elements such as tufted chairs, round booths, plush sofas, and retro-esque lighting fixtures, as well as a pink Himalayan-salt brick wall.
Rooms and suites have a more contemporary — albeit equally glamorous — look and feel with a neutral color palette of grays and creams, patterned accent walls, tufted headboards, and elegant drapery. Arched windows let in plenty of natural light, while crown molding adds an extra-special touch. For a true treat, spring on one of the suites, which have pedestal soaking tubs, hardwood floors, kitchenettes, and, depending on the category, spacious private terraces and living rooms.
The Vibe at Château Grande Hotel
There’s no doubt about it: This très chic French-inspired hotel exudes elegance in every sense. The refined ambiance can be felt just about anywhere on the property, from the aptly named grab-and-go Le Petit Cafe, which serves fresh coffee and fresh-baked pastries (croissants and café au lait, anyone?) to the manicured gardens and the tony Orchard Park restaurant.
Who Will Love Château Grande Hotel
Couples will especially love the hotel for its swoon-worthy gardens and all-around romantic feel.
Who Might Not Love Château Grande Hotel
While the hotel welcomes children, there are no specifically family-friendly amenities or programming.
Best Amenity at Château Grande Hotel
Helmed by celebrity chef David Burke, Orchard Park stands out for its diverse menu offerings — including Himalayan salt-aged steaks, pizzas, and seafood dishes — and stylish setting. The full-service spa and salon, which is currently in the process of being built, will come in at a close second (however, in-room services can be booked for the time being) followed by the property’s lush gardens that are ideal for strolling.