At The Inn, In Our Shops
The Fearrington InnSider – Celebrating 40 Years with Relais & Châteaux
This year, Fearrington is honored to celebrate 40 years of membership with Relais & Châteaux, a global collection of the world’s most exceptional hotels and restaurants, each one independently owned and deeply rooted in its sense of place.
What makes this milestone especially meaningful to me is that my journey with Relais & Châteaux began long before I came to Fearrington Village. In the 1980s, as a college student with a love for hospitality and travel, I began working for Meadowood in Napa Valley—a Relais & Châteaux property that set the tone for what would become a lifelong passion. That early experience led me to the Hospiz in Arlberg, Austria, then to Heinz Winkler’s legendary Hotel & Restaurant in Germany, and finally to the elegant Rafael Hotel in Munich. Each of these places taught me something unique, but the thread that tied them all together was the Relais & Châteaux philosophy: a commitment to exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality, and a deep respect for local culture and community. These are the very values I brought with me to Fearrington—and the same ones that continue to guide everything we do here.
Most recently, I had the opportunity to attend our Relais & Châteaux North American meeting at Mii Amo in Sedona, Arizona. Being surrounded by such a thoughtful and inspiring group of hoteliers and chefs reminded me just how special this organization truly is. The networking, shared stories, and mutual support feel less like a professional gathering and more like a family reunion. There’s a genuine camaraderie among members—an unspoken understanding of the passion and purpose that drive us all.
On May 12th we also marked the 71st anniversary of Relais & Châteaux by a small group of hoteliers and chefs in France. What began as eight charming properties between Paris and the Riviera has grown into a global collection defined by a warm welcome, exceptional gastronomy, and expertise in l’art de vivre—the art of living well. R.B. and Jenny Fitch, who founded The Fearrington House Inn, Restaurant & Spa, were so inspired by the Relais properties they visited on their own travels, they dreamed of making Fearrington part of the collection. Today, I’m proud to carry that vision forward—and always happy to offer recommendations if you’re planning to visit another Relais property around the world!
At its heart, Relais & Châteaux is about creating unforgettable experiences through personalized service, authenticity, and beauty. It’s not about being the biggest or flashiest—it’s about being thoughtful, intentional, and true to your story. At Fearrington, that means lovingly tended gardens, rooms that reflect the charm of the village, and dishes that celebrate rich culinary traditions while honoring the seasonal rhythms of the land. It means greeting guests like old friends and creating spaces that invite you to slow down, savor, and connect.
To be part of Relais & Châteaux for four decades is no small thing. It’s a mark of trust and consistency—something earned, not given. It means that Fearrington has upheld the highest standards of hospitality, cuisine, and character, year after year, while still evolving and growing.
As someone who has come full circle—from college intern to Innkeeper—I can honestly say that this organization has shaped not only my career, but the soul of Fearrington Village.
Here’s to 40 years of excellence, and to the many meaningful moments yet to come. Trust me, you need to experience more of them for yourself.
Theresa Chiettini