Design-led coaching inn
An eighteenth-century coaching inn has been reimagined as a country house hotel, setting crisp modern design against historic stone architecture.
What it’s good at
Notable
The cylindrical Lumipod suite frames the surrounding parkland through vast curved glass.
Listed
An eighteenth-century stone coaching inn preserved along the historic road to Geneva.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
This 17th-century house in the Jura village of Barretaine looks from the outside like a strict historical classic, but once you’re inside Maison Zugna you’ll see the liberties taken by owners Nicolas and Laurence.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
The grounds sit in Les Monts de Vaux, a short drive from the historic town of Poligny.
The rooms
Bedrooms in the main house set handmade tapestries and walnut furniture against original eighteenth-century stone.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The outdoor swimming pool is heated to 26 degrees, bordered by shaded cabanas and green lawns across the park.
Sauna and hot tub
A cylindrical timber sauna looks out through curved glass, and an outdoor mosaic whirlpool bath sits on the garden terrace.
The spa
Massages draw on Baija botanicals, and the indoor relaxation room is laid with gravel flooring and hanging rattan chairs.
At the table
Dinners are entirely gluten-free, shaped by ingredients from the on-site permaculture garden. The cellar pours regional Jura wines.
How it began
Built as a coaching inn in 1773, the property stood shuttered until its young owners auctioned off the old contents to fund renovations.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.