The World's 12 Best Vineyard Hotels
Published on: September 5th, 2017
Last modified: March 21st, 2024
Travel and wine are among the finest pleasures in life – and you can enjoy both at the world’s best vineyard hotels. These spectacular properties combine world-class winemaking with exquisite cuisine and exceptional luxury. They’re also set in stunning destinations, offering the total package for oenophiles and casual wine drinkers alike.
If you’re wondering where the world’s best place for wine is or which country has the best vineyards, there’s no simple answer. France is often considered the wine-tasting capital of the world, but other countries certainly shouldn’t be overlooked. From the fertile foothills of Argentina and Australia to the vast valleys of Chile and South Africa, the options are endless.
To help you discover the best of the best, we’ve asked our travel designers to share their favourite vineyard hotels across the globe. Each of the properties below stands out for its incredible location, first-rate service, superb design and, of course, excellent wines. Here’s our pick of the world’s top vineyard hotels, according to the experts.
1. Six Senses Douro Valley – Portugal
Set on the shores of the mighty Douro River, Six Senses Douro Valley is at the heart of Portugal’s winemaking culture. This renovated 19th-century manor house in the scenic Douro Valley perfectly fuses traditional architecture with contemporary style, and offers everything from vineyard tours and tastings to an extensive Wine Library and locally sourced cuisine.
2. Abadia Retuerta – Spain
Housed in a stately 12th-century monastery, Abadia Retuerta is an homage to the food and wine of northern Spain. Located in the Duero Valley Wine Region, this 700-hectare estate is beautifully restored and infused with ancient history. Tempranillo grapes are the specialty in this part of Spain, so fans of full-bodied reds will be especially pleased.
3. Relais San Maurizio – Italy
Over 400 years ago, a grand monastery was built in the Langhe hills of Italy’s Piedmont region. Today it’s been transformed into Relais San Maurizio, a wonderfully authentic and gorgeous hotel. Here you can gaze out at the vineyards from the swimming pool or a private balcony, enjoy the wine-themed spa and sample some of the most esteemed wines in Italy.
4. Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa – France
The Champagne region of France is one-of-a-kind, and if you love sparkling wine it’s especially worth a visit. The Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa offers unparalleled exclusivity and opulence, as well as fantastic cuisine to pair with the local wines. You can also unwind at its outstanding spa and take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
5. La Residence – South Africa
A clear favourite among our travel designers, La Residence is a world-renowned property in South Africa’s wine country. With just 16 suites and villas featuring carefully selected, eclectic decor, this is the ideal home base from which to explore the Winelands. Here the views are just as impressive as the hotel itself, and the level of service is truly unmatched.
6. Le Quartier Français – South Africa
Part of the fabulous Leeu Collection, Le Quartier Français is a lovely boutique hotel in the middle of Franschhoek: a charming town that reflects the Winelands’ Dutch influence. The hotel features two gourmet restaurants with delicious cocktails, a wine boutique and a modern art gallery. La Petite Colombe at the nearby Leeu Estates is also a must for fine dining.
7. Steenberg Hotel & Spa – South Africa
Just south of Cape Town, the Steenberg Hotel & Spa is a sparkling gem in the Constantia Valley, which is well known for its excellent wines. This incredibly luxurious property is located on the oldest farm in the valley, and it more than lives up to its distinguished history. The Steenberg also boasts two world-class restaurants and a private 18-hole golf course.
8. Cavas Wine Lodge – Argentina
Set at the foot of the Andes, Mendoza is world-famous for its Malbecs – and one of the best places to taste them is Cavas Wine Lodge. Enjoy a romantic stay in one of its standalone rooms or luxury villas with privileged views of the nearby peaks, plus private wine tastings, spa treatments, tango shows and authentic asados (Argentina‘s take on barbecues).
9. Vik Chile – Chile
Just a couple of hours south of Santiago, Vik Chile is a wine lodge that blends sophisticated luxury with avant-garde design. Set in the Millahue Valley’s Vik Vineyard, right in the centre of the wine regions of Chile, the entire lodge feels like it’s floating above the vines. We especially love the Puro Vik bungalows with floor-to-ceiling windows and private hot tubs.
10. Finca Narbona – Uruguay
It may not be as well known as neighbouring countries, but Uruguay is a worthy wine destination in its own right. In the tranquil town of Carmelo you’ll find Finca Narbona, a delightfully intimate farmstead with only five rooms. In addition to boasting one of the country’s oldest and most traditional wineries, it also has its own dairy farm and bakery.
11. The Louise – Australia
The pastoral paradise of South Australia’s Barossa Valley is the perfect place to relax with a riesling or shiraz in hand. At The Louise you can sample the best wines that Australia has to offer, plus seasonal cuisine to complement them. Its sumptuous suites, cosy fireplaces and private terraces make it ideal for a rejuvenating escape. There’s even a walk-in wine cellar.
12. The Marlborough Lodge – New Zealand
The Marlborough Sounds Wine Region on New Zealand’s South Island is known for its gourmet culinary scene, sun-drenched scenery and sauvignon blanc. Stay at the historic Marlborough Lodge to fully appreciate its natural splendours. You’ll be treated to local wines, fresh produce, contemporary comfort and outdoor adventures – if you’re in the mood.
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