Bordeaux is one of the most renowned winemaking regions in France and, at Les Sources de Caudalie, wine-lovers can not only immerse themselves in the winemaking process, but can also treat their subsequent "wine face" at a spa founded by the creators of "vinotherapy" (the beauty treatment in which the residue of winemaking is rubbed into the skin).
The key to the hotel's character is its commitment to the French Paradox, a lifestyle based on the suggested benefits of French living, including a study on the positive effects of wine consumption in fighting cardiovascular disease. The atmosphere is consequently one of simultaneous revelry and relaxation; it's likely to be a rare opportunity to eat, drink and be pampered with the tranquil beauty of a vineyard as an inviting backdrop.
Les Sources de Caudalie
What to do
For anyone looking to enrich their knowledge of wine, the first step is to ask your sommelier who will expertly guide you through the region’s fantastic wine offering. But for those seeking a more interactive experience, the complex offers a comprehensive wine-tasting tour of Château Smith Haut Lafitte – including a sneak peek at the awe-inspiring wine cellars. You’ll sample a range of vintages grown by the château and brush up on the history and process of winemaking – all within walking distance from your room.
In nearby Bordeaux, there is also the Cité du Vin, a museum and exhibition space dedicated to oenology – the study of wine and winemaking, which is the perfect way to complete your holiday. Head to one of the interactive experiences (it would make the perfect gift for a wine aficionado), where your senses will be transported to different locations and time periods as you learn more about specific wines and wine regions. If you haven’t drunk your fill by then, there is also the opportunity to have a wine tasting in the belvedere, as you drinking in the magnificent views of Bordeaux a final time.
Les Sources de Caudalie
