Wine Travel Destinations

Wine can be more than an enjoyable drink with dinner or dessert.  It can also be a destination, a vacation in and of itself.  Planning a vacation around the best wine spots can take a little extra planning, but will result in a unique experience that combines wine, relaxation, and adventure.

The top five best vacation spots and hotels for wine lovers range from boutique hotels in the California hills to a guest house on a South African farm.  Begin at the Calistoga Ranch in Napa Valley, California.  This collection of wooden lodges sits among the forested hills of California’s wine country and offers a casual romantic atmosphere.  Calistoga owns it’s own vineyard and label and offers a tasting cave for visitors.  Guests are given the opportunity to take part in harvesting, pruning, and crushing the wine grapes and are offered the use of the amazing spa services in the Bathhouse’s mineral waters.  The hotel restaurant, Lakehouse, is among the most celebrated eateries in the Napa Valley.

For a change of pace from the typical California wine country vacation, head to South Africa.  In Cape Winelands, South Africa, the Hawksmoor House guest house is situated on a wine farm just outside of Cape Town.  The relaxed breakfasts on the veranda, dinners enjoyed in the 18^th century dining room, and sunset vineyard walks create an elegant and timeless atmosphere in a comfortable, casual environment.  Though the farm owns it’s own wine label, it is also surrounded by several other top South African vineyards open for touring. 

From South Africa, head to the storied shores of the Mediterranean to visit Billa Bordoni in Tuscany.  This Italian villa has been restored to provide ten guest rooms and some of the best examples of Chianti in the world.  Situated among lush cypress groves, olive trees, vineyards, and ruins, this fantastic place offers a chance to explore a bit of Italy.  Nearby wine spots include Montepulciano and Montalcino, popular tourist attractions abound in close by Siena and Florence, and fantastic Italian food is everywhere. 

The amazing offerings of the Mediterranean continue at Le Relais du Franc Mayne in Bordeaux, France.  This 16^th century home is situated in the center of seven acres of vineyard land.  It is a working winery and an upscale hotel with renovated rooms where guests can increase their wine education and free tasting sessions for guests.

Old World splendor is best complimented by a journey to experience New World wines.  One of the best places to explore this new generation of top wines is at The Louise, located in the Barossa Valley of Australia.  This fifteen suite hotel offers all the best of modern comforts in the midst of a rustic wine region that is home to more than one hundred of Australia’s top winemakers.

If destinations aren’t in the budget, make a wine vacation of your own with your favorite food and wine in your own home.