Can luxury and sustainability live in harmony? That’s the conundrum that has been puzzling the brightest minds in the hospitality industry for years. If you pay a visit to the spectacular resort of Bardessono in Napa Valley, you might appreciate the problem is easier to solve than the Rubik’s cube. It is situated in Yountville, the home of the most talked-about three-Michelin starred restaurant in the States, with picturesque vineyards and a thriving art scene.
Hotel
Only a handful of hotels can claim to have Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design’s (LEED) platinum certification. Bardessono have achieved this and plenty more as they continue to innovate in their green initiatives. If you opt-out of housekeeping, you will be invited to plant a herb in their certified organic garden – all the herbs and plants help to supply their in-house restaurant, Lucy and lower its carbon footprint.
The décor focuses on using natural light and salvaged wood and even the artwork displayed, which is available for purchase, uses recycled material. Paper products used have a high recycled content and the hotel uses only organic bath and laundry products. Electric and hybrid vehicles are used to minimise air pollution, complimentary transport to and from venues in Yountville is offered, while complimentary bicycles are available for guests to use in and around the city.
Room
There is no such thing as an inferior room here, as they are all suites and villas. Only the very best of products are offered here from 100% Egyptian cotton Fili D’oro Linens to REN bath products to iPad compendiums for ordering in-house services. There is even a cosy fireplace, which you might not feel is needed when visiting California.
The stand-out feature in the suite is its bathroom. You can indulge in a 200 sq. ft. custom bathroom with a soaking tub that can fit a couple, a spacious shower that doubles up as a steam room and a secluded outdoor shower.
Villas and suites also double-up as a private spa, so you can get your relaxing massages and facials privately in the comfort of your own room. Treatments vary depending on the season, so in spring expect purifying options and in summer you can choose from a range of cooling treatments. Signature massages use aromatic oils that help to release muscle tension and promote deep relaxation – a perfect way to spend some time while on holiday.
Food and drink
The restaurant is lovingly named after the matriarch of the family, Lucy Bardessono. She instilled the culinary ethics that are still present in the restaurant today, so expect locally-sourced ingredients, organic food and a menu that changes regularly depending on the season. Highlights include the ahi tuna carpaccio, which is not only refreshing but has a marvellous textural variety using Asian pears, avocado and crispy wontons, while there are very decadent options like honey nut squash and risotto.
There’s a full breakfast menu at Lucy including chilaquiles and breakfast tagine or you can get a complimentary breakfast bar selection with pastries, fruit, juice, coffee and tea in the hotel’s bar area. If you plan well in advance, try to secure a booking at the world-renowned three-Michelin starred restaurant, The French Laundry. Their signature oysters and pearls dish is still enchanting diners as well as other creations such as delectable sweet butter-poached Nova Scotia lobster.
To do
Bardessono has a breath-taking rooftop pool with commanding views of the surrounding area and if you manage to wake up by sunrise, you might also catch the hot-balloon riders setting off next door. There is also a heated whirlpool tub and a fitness centre with Peloton bikes.
Winery visits must be high on your list of things to do, and the hotel can arrange them for you in Yountville without charge, as they have certain close partners they work with like Bell Wine Cellars. You will learn about the bold reds which the region specialises in whilst admiring the scenic countryside. There is also a strong art scene in Yountville with popular music festivals and they have the spacious 1,214-seater Lincoln theatre.
In a nutshell
Whether you are looking for luxury accommodation and restaurants, high-quality wineries or simply breath-taking scenery, Yountville has it all. And Bardessono is right at the heart of the action and the premier resort to consider when visiting the region.
Factbox
Bardessono offers suites from $1,600 per night.
Address: 6526 Yount St., Yountville, CA 94599
Phone: +1 707.204.6000
Email: info@bardessono.com
Website: bardessono.com
