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September 21, 2022

The Best Wine Hotels in The World

From the rolling hills of Napa to the lavender fields of Provence, these hotels are a wine lover's paradise.

By Sophie Killip, Samantha Coles and Serina Tatham

Whether it’s the coastal mountains of Big Sur, the rich lavender fields of Provence or the rolling hills of Tuscany, there’s something magical about spending time in wine country. These incredible hotels allow guests to combine the delicate art of wine tasting and vineyard visits with five-star accommodations.

Picture yourself gazing over a verdant vineyard in late summer from the comfort of your own suite and a visit to a wine-centric hotel will soon be at the top of your bucket list.

In the words of Benjamin Franklin: “Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried, with fewer tensions and more tolerance.” So slow down and sip to your heart’s content at these remarkable wine hotels and resorts from the rolling vineyards of Argentina to South Africa and beyond.

[See also: The Most Beautiful Wineries to Visit in Italy]

The Vines Resort & Spa, Mendoza, Argentina

Incredible views from the Two-bedroom Deluxe Villa / ©The Vines Resort & Spa

Roughly an hour’s drive from southern Mendoza in Argentina is where you’ll find the Uco Valley. Nestled at the base of the imposing Andes Mountains, it is home to Argentina’s top producers and considered one of the best wine regions in the country, as well as producing the finest Malbec. Back in 2005, experienced wine producer Pablo Gimenez Riili teamed up with Michael Evans (who had previously worked on the Clinton and Kerry presidential campaigns) to invest in 650 acres of land. What started as a shared dream of owning a vineyard grew to become the ultimate retreat for wine lovers and outdoor adventurers, with guests invited to experience the high-quality wine that the region produces, while giving them the chance to own a slice of it for themselves.

Since opening, they have sold private vineyards to more than 230 owners from around the globe, expanding the property to 1,500 acres, all while producing some of the highest-quality wine. The hotel on the estate — The Vines Resort & Spa — is a rustic sanctuary inspired by its locale: think stone walls, porches with firepits and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the vineyard vistas. While the resort centers around its exemplary wine offerings, there are so many other activities to enjoy: Explore the sprawling countryside on horseback, take a fly-fishing excursion on the Rio Mendoza, or stargaze from your private deck.

With a total of 21 villas ranging from 1,000 to 2,700 sq ft — and all boasting breathtaking views — opt for a Two-bedroom Deluxe Villa. With over 2,700 sq ft of indoor and outdoor living space, you will feel completely immersed in your surroundings. Inside, the natural decor mirrors that of the main resort, but it is outside where this villa shines. An expansive private deck with fireplace, lounge chairs and an outside tub provide ample space for enjoying the views of the lake, the vineyard and the Andes.

Grape escapes

The Vines beckons oenophiles with its array of wine-inspired activities and treatments. From wine-making classes and grape-infused spa treatments to its restaurant, Siete Fuegos, which pairs Argentina’s famous beef with local wine, there’s something for everyone. Those seriously dedicated to the craft can visit the Private Vineyards, where they can work alongside the expert team. From harvesting and blending to tasting and bottling, make your own custom small-batch wine for a truly meaningful souvenir.

Two-bedroom Deluxe Villa from $1,780 per night. Contact Josefina Rivas, sales manager, josefina.rivas@vinesofmendoza.com, +1 707 737 0222, vinesresortandspa.com

Meadowood, Napa Valley, USA

meadowood swimming pool
The Meadowood Estate is deeply respectful of the community and maintains a close symbiosis with nature and the seasons / ©Steven Rothfield

Set among 250 acres, Meadowood Estate is an intimate country hotel and gathering place for Napa Valley locals and wine enthusiasts. Rooted in Napa Valley culture and heritage, the estate is deeply respectful of the community and maintains a close symbiosis with nature and the seasons. A total of 36 suites and rooms make up Meadowood’s accommodations; all are located amid the trees of the estate.

Hill House, tucked into the wooded hillside next to the spa, is an expansive one-bedroom retreat. Inside, there is a living area with a wood-burning fireplace and a generous bedroom with views over the forested slopes. Outside, two furnished terraces with firepits make the most of the locale and the warm climate; soak in the deep tub, freshen up in the outdoor shower, or spend long evenings stargazing. And since it’s right next door, make sure to carve out some time at the award-winning spa.

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The focus on nature that is evident throughout Meadowood extends to the spa: From the treatment menu and the food to the architecture and interiors, every inch of the spa has been designed in such a way to bring you closer to the environment — earthy colors and textures like wood and stone dress the inside, with the natural products largely originating from its own gardens.

Spend a quiet moment reflecting in said gardens before a seasonal massage using essential oils and herbs that change depending on the time of year, then head to one of the culinary outlets where the idea of seasonality is reflected in the dishes, celebrating the bounty of Napa Valley with the freshest ingredients. The kitchen gardens are bountiful, with crops of zucchini, tomatoes and carrots. To round out dinner, the strawberry shortcake showcases the local berries.

Grape escapes

Enjoy an afternoon at Meadowood’s Wine Center, where you will explore wine’s rich history and all aspects of wine growing. Trained professionals in the field (writers, wine growers, vineyard managers, sommeliers and culinary professionals) will share their wisdom in classroom-style experiences, private-cellar consultations, cooking classes and pairing consultations — before, of course, sampling some of Napa Valley’s finest wines.

Hill House from $2,800 per night. Contact Tim Sousa, reservations manager, reservations@meadowood.com, +1 707 531 4788, meadowood.com

Les Sources de Caudalíe, Martillac, France

Les Sources de Caudalíe feels more akin to a chic French hamlet than a hotel, with multiple wooden-beamed buildings / ©Roberta Valerio

Even though Les Sources de Caudalíe is just 15 minutes from the center of Bordeaux, it’s unlikely that you’ll feel the need to leave this magnificent hotel and its bucolic surroundings. It feels more akin to a chic French hamlet than a hotel, with multiple wooden-beamed buildings, a small farm, lake, vegetable garden and vineyards that are plowed by horses. The charmingly rustic hotel and spa embodies ‘The French Paradox;’ a study that showed how the French diet and lifestyle can help to fight cardiovascular diseases — and that includes wine consumption.

Les Sources sits among the Grand Cru vineyards of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, of which Le Sources’ story is closely entwined — Caudalíe, the famed French skincare brand, was born from the discarded grape seeds from Château Smith Haut Lafitte’s harvest. The grape seeds contain polyphenols, which are one of the most powerful antioxidants. So, at Les Sources de Caudalíe, wine is the star of the show in more ways than one — most notably at the Spa Vinothérapie, where treatments include such wine-centric wonders as the Crushed Cabernet scrub and the Honey and Wine wrap. There’s even a barrel-shaped outdoor hot tub.

Suites are connected via wooden walkways, and each one is unique; many feature antique furnishings and select artwork. The most spectacular, however, is the signature suite: L’Île aux Oiseaux (The Bird Island). It hovers above the largest pond and from the outside, it resembles a fishing lodge thanks to the repurposed wood used in its design. But inside is a different story — the dazzling white suite is the work of couturier Rabih Kayrouz (Les Sources owner Alice Tourbier partners with a prominent designer to completely overhaul the suite’s interiors every few years).

The all-white abode is punctuated with select furnishings such as vibrant glass bottles that sit atop a 1960s Eastern-inspired Guillerme et Chambron wooden wardrobe; tin-plated copper tables; and a claw-foot, roll-top bath with a calming painting of Mount Lebanon hanging above it.

Grape escapes

Saint-Emilion, a beguiling Unesco World Heritage village, is just 45 minutes from the hotel. It has a long history of winemaking (dating back to Roman times) and the incredibly diverse terroirs make for tremendous variety. Borrow Les Source’s electric BMW i3 for the day and explore at your own pace.

Signature Suite from $1,000 per night. Contact Alice Tourbier, owner, reservations@sources-caudalie.com, ++33 557 838 383, sources-caudalie.com

Hotel Marqués de Riscal, Álava, Spain

Hotel Marqués de Risca
The dramatic architecture is the creative work of renowned architect Frank Gehry / Courtesy of Hotel Marqués de Riscal

Located in northern Spain and a historical territory of the Basque Country, Hotel Marqués de Riscal is much, much more than a hotel. It’s an icon for myriad reasons. The dramatic, instantly recognizable architecture with its swirling titanium ribbons is the creative work of renowned architect Frank Gehry. The Marqués de Riscal Winery, the oldest winery in the Rioja region (dating back to 1858), commissioned Gehry to create the hotel — now, the winery and the hotel together comprise ‘The City of Wine.’

Within the avant-garde hotel, you’ll find the Michelin-starred Restaurante Marqués de Riscal; the laid-back 1860 Tradición Bistro Restaurant; wine bar (of course); a Caudalie Vinothérapie spa (soak in the barrel bath in grape pomace); a handsome library with bookcases filled to the rafters with books about the region, its wine production and history; an indoor swimming pool; a 24-hour gym; and a rooftop lounge.

It’s worth noting that not all of the guest rooms are in the main Gehry-designed building, so be sure to book the one-bedroom Gehry Suite. With undulating shapes, asymmetrical design and 12-ft-high ceilings, the loft-like abode comes with a sizable terrace overlooking the terra-cotta roofs of the medieval Elciego village below, the majestic Cantabrian Mountains in the distance, and the vineyards.

Learn more about the historic vineyard and the art of wine-making on one of the daily tours. Roam from grapevine to bottle as you tour the fermenting and aging rooms, then on to the gigantic cellar that is home to some eight million bottles of wine, some of which date back to 1862.

Grape escapes

Hop on one of the hotel’s bicycles and meander through winding pathways, through the vines, past ancient stone chapels along the Ebro River. Request a picnic hamper and stop off for a refuel — with rehydration courtesy of a bottle of Marqués de Riscal wine, naturally.

Gehry Suite from $1,120 per night. Contact Stefan Friedl, general manager, reservations.marquesderiscal@marriott.com, +34 945 180 880, marriott.com

The Yeatman, Porto, Portugal

The Yeatman wine hotel
The Presidential Suite at The Yeatman / ©numo.pt

A member of Relais & Châteaux, The Yeatman is one of Europe’s leading wine hotels. A haven for wine lovers, it is located within the city of Porto in the north of Portugal. Porto gave its name to Port wine and, ever since, it has been home to British wine shippers — for the past three centuries. Drawing on this history, the hotel seamlessly blends Portuguese tradition with British sensibilities to create a timeless and stylish atmosphere.

You can find more of this marriage — classic Portuguese elements with contemporary flair — in the hotel’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant. Helmed by chef Ricardo Costa, the restaurant showcases the country’s exquisite seafood in its imaginative cuisine, alongside some regional specialties. The hotel sits on a hillside on the south bank of the River Douro, and every room at The Yeatman enjoys views of Porto’s historic center.

For a unique experience, be sure to book The Presidential Suite. This 1,800-sq-ft, two-bedroom abode reflects the city’s heritage, most notably through its Port wine barrel-shaped bed. The suite has a private swimming pool and garden with panoramic views over the river and Porto’s skyline (there is also a telescope to marvel at the historic city from afar). The living areas are the perfect gathering spot, with a fireplace for colder days and the panoramic views from the sliding glass doors providing an unbeatable backdrop.

Grape escapes

A dream locale for oenophiles, The Yeatman has one of the most comprehensive collections of Portuguese wines within its cellars. Partnering with some of Portugal’s finest producers, the hotel has a wide program of tastings, seminars and wine dinners for those looking to sample the best the country has to offer. Found a grape you like? The hotel can arrange visits to local vineyards in the Douro Valley, Minho, Dão and Bairrada wine regions so you can explore further. After a long day of wine tasting, unwind in the Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa and choose from a selection of skincare products and therapies that use extracts from the vine.

Presidential Suite from $2,495 per night. Contact Jan-Erik Ringertz, general manager, reservations@theyeatman.com, +351 220 133 128, the-yeatman-hotel.com

Hôtel Beau-Rivage Genève, Geneva, Switzerland

The Royal Residence at Hôtel Beau-Rivage / ©John Athimaritis

Grande dame Hôtel Beau-Rivage, located on the Quai du Mont-Blanc overlooking Lake Geneva and the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain, has been a landmark hotel in Geneva since 1865. Dominique Gauthier, chef of the property’s Michelin-starred Le Chat-Botté, is celebrating his 30th anniversary at the hotel this year. With 52 rooms and 43 suites, it is large yet still feels intimate. From the moment you walk through the hotel doors, you are met by an old-fashioned elegance and extravagance, where soaring pillars and antique-style furniture in the lobby set the tone.

The most prestigious abode here is the Royal Residence. Spanning 2,600 sq ft, this suite is adorned with works of art and ornaments; the classical and baroque furnishings create a regal vibe. From the sizable bedroom to the walk-in wardrobe and resplendent spa bathroom, you will not be left wanting. For large parties, this wing of the hotel can be reserved for exclusive use, and this suite connects with adjoining rooms and suites, as well as a kitchenette, to enjoy Geneva with your brood.

Grape escapes

While wine has been growing in Switzerland for over 2,000 years, little is known about its wines outside of the country (the Swiss drink most of it themselves). With a cellar filled with some of the rarest vintages and a 77-page wine list, the Beau-Rivage is perhaps the best place to sample some of the finest Swiss wine. Embark on a tasting session with the sommelier to discover some of the best, and enjoy food and wine pairings as you taste some of the most exciting bottles in the cellar alongside exquisite complementary dishes from Le Chat-Botté.

Royal Residence from $13,800 per night. Contact Margot Hemery, sales manager, reservation@beau-rivage.ch, +41 227 166 666, beau-rivage.ch

Delaire Graff Lodges & Spa, Stellenbosch, South Africa

Dealire Graff Estate on Helshoogte Pass
Dealire Graff Estate on Helshoogte Pass / ©Eric Gachet

Delaire Graff Lodges & Spa is set in a remarkable location. Perched on the slopes of the imposing Stellenbosch Mountain in the Western Cape region of South Africa, it sits atop the Helshoogte Pass (also known as Hell’s Heights Pass), one of the Cape’s most beloved routes thanks to the steep and winding path through lush vineyards. As a result of the lodge’s coveted spot, the views are immense — dine on Afro-Asian cuisine at Indochine Restaurant with Table Mountain as a backdrop, or marvel at the relatively undiscovered but jaw-droppingly beautiful Banghoek Valley while enjoying seasonal cuisine at Delaire Graff Restaurant.

To have those delicious views all to yourself, book the Owner’s Villa. The four-bedroom, 7,100-sq-ft villa has marvelous views of False Bay, Botmaskop Peak, Table Mountain and the rolling vineyards. A passion project for Laurence Graff, the billionaire founder of Graff Diamonds and owner of the estate, the villa also serves as your own personal art gallery. There are over 400 artworks on display throughout the estate (every piece you see on the walls and in the exquisite gardens has been selected by Graff, including one of the world’s most famous paintings, Chinese Girl — also known as The Green Lady — by Vladimir Tretchikoff), and the villa is also home to over 70 pieces of art from contemporary African and international artists.

Graff began his impressive collection with the purchase of a small Renoir in the 1970s, which he kept in a safe with his diamonds. Elsewhere in the villa, you’ll find a 45-ft infinity pool, hot tub, pergola-shaded terrace, terraced gardens, living area with a central double-sided fireplace, Assirelli kitchen, walk-in wine cellar, gym and staff quarters.

Grape escapes

Head to the sumptuous Wine Lounge for a tutored wine experience and try some of South Africa’s finest vintages. Like what you taste? The invite-only Delaire Graff Icon Wine Club has a prestigious portfolio — members have access to limited-edition vintage releases and pre-releases from the Graff Icon Range, as well as access to the online cellar.

Owner’s Villa price on request, two-night minimum. Contact Mari Duvenhage, reservations manager, lodge.reservations@delaire.co.za, +27 218 858 160, delaire.co.za

Babylonstoren, Franschhoek, South Africa

Babylonstoren at sunset
This rambling Cape Dutch-style farm estate dates back to the 17th century / Courtesy of Babylonstoren

South Africa produces some exemplary wine — the unique climate makes for prime growing conditions for the fruity reds and refreshing whites that the region is known for. While most visitors to the Cape Winelands in the Western Cape gravitate towards Stellenbosch, you shouldn’t overlook the smaller Franschhoek. With beautiful mountain scenery and some of South Africa’s best hotels and restaurants, this little part of the Cape is a must-visit.

Within Franschhoek, you will find Babylonstoren. This rambling Cape Dutch-style farm estate dates back to the 17th century but was rehabilitated by Afrikaans designer-owner Karen Roo, former editor of South African Elle Decor and wife of media mogul Koos Bekker. Purchasing the property in 2005, they added guest accommodation in the form of one- and two-bedroom cottages and opened them to the public in 2010.

Babylonstoren pays homage to the storied past of the site while bringing in modern touches: The original buildings have been lovingly restored with furnishings in keeping with their heritage, while 21st-century comforts like Wi-Fi and TVs have been added, with the newer buildings designed to mirror the old.

Accommodations come in the form of cottages and houses — all with whitewashed walls, swaths of glass and mid-century furniture in earthy tones. For the ultimate vacation, the Fynbos Family House is sure to fit your whole gang. Nestled at the foot of the Simonsberg and Franschhoek mountains, the house sleeps up to 10 in five bedrooms boasting fireplaces and spacious en suites. With a rustic, albeit modern and chic feel, the main living area is expansive and leads to a fully equipped kitchen housed in a glass cube. The house is arranged around a private central courtyard with a pool at the heart, designed to give friends and family a shared gathering space.

Grape escapes

Babylonstoren has well over 200 acres to explore — do so by bike, passing Chenin blanc and Chardonnay grapes hanging on the vines, as well as the meticulously landscaped kitchen garden (the vines have been growing on the farm since its inception in 1652). Then, head to the tasting room, where you will be taken through a captivating history of each glass as you sip. The views of the Babylonstoren hill, Simonsberg and the Banghoek Peak make for a truly remarkable backdrop.

Fynbos Family House from $4,142 per night. Contact Dalené Claassens, general hotel manager, reservations@babylonstoren.com, +27 218 633 852, babylonstoren.com

Mona Pavilions, Tasmania, Australia

Mona Pavilions is made up of eight oh-so-unique riverside lodges / ©Rémi Chauvin/Mona

Located around seven miles from Hobart, the Tasmanian capital, Mona Pavilions is perched on an eight-and-a-half-acre private peninsula overlooking the crystal waters of the Derwent River. (Tip: Sail up the river on board a catamaran and arrive at the pavilions’ private jetty.) Mona Pavilions is made up of eight oh-so-unique riverside lodges; each one is theatrical with bold, linear architecture.

The original four are named after eminent Australian artists — Sidney (named for Sir Sidney Nolan); Brett (named for Brett Whiteley); Arthur (named for Arthur Boyd); and Charles (named for Charles Blackman). The four newer pavilions are named for famed architects, the most spectacular of which is the Roy (named for Sir Roy Grounds). The three-story structure casts a striking silhouette, and inside you’ll find two bedrooms, a kitchen and a wine bar — all illuminated by natural light thanks to the enormous windows.

Outside, there’s an alfresco dining space and a sunken spa bath on the deck — grab one of the many art and architecture books to read while you soak. The pavilions are next to Mona (Museum of Old and New Art), which is Australia’s largest private museum. Arranged over three underground levels, the museum is carved right into the cliffside next to the pavilions and is well worth a visit.

It is a world away from the typical museum vibe, though — visitors are encouraged to “drink beer, eat cheese, talk crap about art.” Inside, you’ll find an eclectic collection of rare antiquities and works by Damien Hirst, Sidney Nolan and Chris Ofili.

Grape escapes

On the grounds of the museum is the Moorilla Winery, where you can ‘drink the art’ with cellar-door tastings. But go the whole hog and book the ‘Posh-as Day.’ You’ll go on a guided private tour of the Moorilla vineyard (one of Tasmania’s oldest) and sample the goods (Praxis, Muse, Cloth Label) in an underground wine bunker before enjoying lunch with wine pairing in one of Mona’s restaurants.

Roy from $865 per night. Contact accommodation@mona.net.au, +61 362 779 911, mona.net.au

Bardessono, Napa Valley, USA

maple grove villas
The Maple Grove residence features several lounging and dining areas / ©Bardessono

Moments away from the scenic Mayacamas Mountains in the heart of Napa Valley, California, is the luxurious spa resort Bardessono. The property’s ethos is deeply rooted in positive wellbeing for both guests and the natural world; Bardessono has received LEED platinum certification, becoming the first resort in California to do so. This commitment to nature can also be seen across its culinary and wellness offerings, with seasonally inspired spa treatments and farm-to-fork dining.

To truly indulge at Bardessono, opt for The Maple Grove Villas as your accommodation of choice. Called Jasper, Flint and Quartole, the three one-bedroom Villas can be booked individually or, for the ultimate getaway, they can be combined to create an expansive three-bedroom countryside residence. When combined, the Maple Grove residence features several lounging and dining areas, as well as multiple cocktail pools, patios and courtyards. Across the villas, floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the impressive views of the natural landscape.

Borgo Pignano, Tuscany, Italy

borgo pignano wine hotel tuscany
Borgo Pignano is set within 750 acres of Tuscan countryside / ©Borgo Pignano

Nestled amongst 750 acres of picturesque Tuscan countryside is the grand country estate of Borgo Pignano. The estate and its elegant 18th-century villa are situated within easy reach of the medieval cities of Florence and Siena as well as the vineyards of Chianti. If you’re looking for the laidback Tuscan lifestyle, Borgo Pignano is the place to find it – think experiences including horse riding and wine tasting, visits to the on-site art gallery, alfresco dining and afternoons lounging by the pool.

While staying at Borgo Pignano, our favorite residence is the three-bedroom Casa del Borgo maisonette. Designed in the traditional Tuscan style, the property feels laid-back and welcoming with its timeless, simple décor and furnishings. In the center of the Casa is a large open plan living and dining space, ideal for groups of family and friends. For enjoying a coffee or aperitif al fresco, head to the maisonette’s delightful hidden courtyard.

Carneros Resort and Spa, Napa Valley, USA

Carneros Resort and Spa harvest suite
Split across two cottages, the Harvest Suite’s spaces are connected by a large deck in the private garden / ©Carneros Resort and Spa

Set amongst the beautiful rolling hills of Napa Valley, Carneros Resort and Spa offers guests a quintessentially Californian experience in wine country. Boasting three restaurants, a luxurious spa and fitness center, two pools and individual cottages, it’s easy to understand why guests fall in love with the hotel. As well as being perfectly situated to visit wineries, Carneros offers a wealth of experiences from kayaking to hot air balloon rides.

Though each of the cottages and homes within Carneros are private and exclusive in their own way, nothing beats a stay at the Harvest Suite. Split across two cottages, the Harvest Suite’s spaces are connected by a large deck in the private garden. Within one of the cottages lies a large bedroom and bathroom with an oversized tub. In the other cottage, guests will find a tastefully designed, open-plan living area. On cooler evenings, take a dip in the outdoor bathtub or enjoy a glass of wine by the modern firepit.

[See also: The Most Beautiful Vineyards to Visit in France]

Hotel Crillon le Brave, Provence, France

prestige ventoux hotel crillon le brave
Suite Prestige Ventoux boasts an incomparable view / ©Hotel Crillon le Brave

Hidden away in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, France is a labyrinth of 17th– and 18th-century buildings that make up the extraordinary Hotel Crillon le Brave. Made entirely of blonde Crillon stone, the resort faces the mountains of Ventoux and has a range of terraces and pavilions from which to admire the views. No matter your reason for visiting, Hotel Crillon le Brave is perfect for a relaxing getaway in France’s picturesque wine country.

One of Crillon le Brave’s most exclusive suites is the elegantly designed Suite Prestige Ventoux, which can be reached by following the twisting paths of Crillon le Brave to an old stone cottage. Natural materials have been used throughout to create a charming space that comprises a large bedroom, bathroom and an impressive living area for lounging and dining. What’s more, the Suite Prestige Ventoux boasts the best views of all the suites, looking directly out to Mont Ventoux.

Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California

post ranch inn hotel
Post Ranch Inn is a 100-acre luxury resort set on the wild coast of Big Sur, California / ©Post Ranch Inn

Surrounded by cliffs and mountains with panoramic views of the ocean, Post Ranch Inn is a 100-acre luxury resort set on the wild coast of Big Sur, California. Post Ranch Inn opened as a hotel in 1992, but its remarkable history goes much further than this; it was built as a working ranch, owned and run by one of Big Sur’s original pioneer families, the Posts. Nowadays, the resort is world-renowned for its sustainable architecture, fine dining, unbeatable location and of course, wine.

Blending rustic charm with sophistication and comfort, the guest accommodation across Post Ranch Inn has been designed to showcase either the ocean or mountains. The Cliff House, for example, is the ideal residence for taking in the endless ocean views. Free-standing on the edge of a cliff, the one-bedroom residence features an indoor spa tub and a wood-burning fireplace. The highlight of the suite is an expansive private deck that is perfect for watching the sun set over the horizon.

[See also: The Most Beautiful Wineries to Visit in California]

Castello di Vicarello, Tuscany, Italy

Castello di Vicarello suite torre
This one-of-a-kind suite occupies an entire floor at the top of the medieval castle / ©Castello di Vicarello

Located in a prime position between Rome and Florence, Castello di Vicarello is set amongst the wild countryside of Maremma, Tuscany. The hotel was set up by Carlo and Aurora Baccheschi Berti, who have restored a 900-year-old castle into the epitome of a contemporary five-star resort, complete with fine-dining restaurant options and wellness facilities. The 40 acres around Castello di Vicarello have also been transformed into organic farmland, olive groves and vineyards.

Castello di Vicarell has nine suites within the property, each with its own unique qualities. However, the most prestigious of these residences is the Suite Torre. This one-of-a-kind suite occupies an entire floor at the top of the medieval castle, allowing for 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. Suite Torre features a bedroom with a luxurious king-sized bed, a spacious living area with curated artwork and a private outdoor terrace that overlooks the castle’s central courtyard.

Chateau De Berne, Provence, France

Another wine hotel found in the scenic countryside of Provence, Chateau De Berne is set across an astonishing 2,471 acres of forests, organic vineyards and olive groves. Whether you’re interested in tasting the Chateau’s homegrown wines, trying out a cooking class or relaxing in the world-class spa, at Chateau De Berne there is something for every type of guest. The country resort is also home to a Michelin-starred restaurant well known for its environmentally friendly cuisine.

Though there are several suites worthy of attention at Chateau De Berne, our residence of choice, if you are visiting this beautiful wine hotel, is Le Chateau. Situated away from the main hotel, the secluded Chateau is a private family-friendly sanctuary where guests are guaranteed to make lasting memories. The residence has seven bedrooms but is capable of sleeping up to 20. For enjoying days under the Tuscan sun, head to the outdoor kitchen and dining area or take a dip in the pool.

[See also: The Most Expensive Wine Ever Sold at Auction]

This article appears in the 05 Sep 2022 issue of the New Statesman, Fall 2022

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