A French-Inspired Hotel In Napa Valley Offers Michelin Dining And Personalized Wine Tours

Halfway between St. Helena and Yountville in Napa Valley is the beautiful little town of Rutherford. Although wine lovers tend to overlook this town, this 164-resident destination attracts oenophiles from all over looking to sample the distinct spicy undertone in the wine this region produces known as "Rutherford Dust."

But that's not the only thing that keeps visitors coming back to Rutherford for more. It's also home to one of the most unique and luxurious five-star resorts in the world –– Auberge du Soliel. This chic wine country resort got its start in 1981 as the area's first fine-dining restaurant created by French-born restaurateur Claude Rouas who desired to bring the ambience of Provence to Northern California. It quickly became such a sought-after dining experience, so much so that guests urged him to open a hotel in the scenic spot as well. With the help of Rouas' partner, Robert Harmon, the totally splurge-worthy luxury hotel was added in 1985 and the iconic destination began to take shape.

Perched on Rutherford Hill amongst 33 acres of olive and oak trees, guests at Auberge du Soleil not only have excellent wine to look forward to, but also spectacular views of Napa Valley. The adults-only hotel consists of 50 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites as well as two private "maisons" –– each with its own private terrace. Accommodations start at around $1,100 per night for a classic room and range up to $5,100 per night for a private maison.

After 40 years, the restaurant that started it all is still carrying on the legacy of excellent wine country fine dining. It has managed to secure its Michelin star for 17 consecutive years, as well as earn three Michelin keys, a Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence, and a four-star rating in Forbes Travel Guide. Executive Chef Robert Curry prides himself on producing local, distinctive fare that is perfect to the last detail. Meanwhile, the expert sommeliers select from the restaurant's award-winning 15,000-bottle wine cellar to pair the perfect wine with each course. Guests can enjoy their meal in the intimate dining room or dine al fresco on the terrace overlooking the vineyard.

In addition to stellar accommodations and Michelin-star dining, guests have a variety of world-class amenities and experiences available to them during their stay. The resort offers guests access to their team of experienced sommeliers to help map out a custom wine-tasting tour. Have you always wanted to ride in a hot air balloon? Contact the concierge to schedule a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the vineyards for a one-in-a-lifetime adventure. You can also take advantage of the Mercedes-Benz Drive Program and take one of the resort's cars for a spin while you explore wine country in style.

Work up a sweat with a complimentary morning fitness class or get a workout in at the 24-hour fitness center. Schedule a stroll through the outdoor sculpture garden featuring more than 100 works of art by over 60 California artists. Afterward, you can cool off with a glass of rosé and a dip in the gorgeous pool perched on the hillside with sweeping views. Then, relax and unwind at the 7,000-square-foot spa with three soaking pools, steam rooms, and an infrared sauna. With an extensive menu of services for both individuals and couples, many treatments can be customized to give guests a truly unique experience.