Calistoga Ranch, Napa Valley

Calistoga Ranch is pure luxury deep in Napa's countryside, ranked among the world’s top 5 resorts in the Travel and Leisure World’s Best Awards in 2017. In a private canyon surrounded by acres of trickling creeks, moss-covered oaks and grandiose hills, it’s Calistoga’s location that truly sets it apart. Private individual lodges dot the area, each featuring an outdoor shower, fireplace, and sun deck. Rooms are bright and airy with natural stone and woods creating a seamless blend between unpretentious luxury and nature's delights. For complete seclusion, there's the Hillside or Estate Lodges in creekside settings, featuring indoor and outdoor living areas both with fireplaces, private hot tubs, outdoor showers, concierge service and a fully equipped kitchen – just send your shopping list and the team will buy and deliver it all. Guests needn’t worry about getting around the expansive resort – a member of the team is always on hand with a golf buggy to drive guests.

Meals are enjoyed in the stunning Lakehouse Lodge, wonderfully set surrounded by oak groves and expansive decks. This being green California, the lodge is truly built around the landscape, with enormous oak trees sprouting sporadically among the tables. Expect ultra-fresh delicacies, created with ingredients from several farm partners, with the likes of charred octopus, kale and ricotta ravioli, scallops with chorizo and prime fillet of beef on the menu. For something extra special, dine in a secluded nook by the onsite wine cave or under the stars by the outdoor fireplace of your lodge.

There’s a luxury spa which, overlooking the creek and forest, couldn’t be more serene. It features a Watsu pool, bubbling hot tub and relaxation area with fireplace, and there’s also a fitness centre overlooking the vineyards. Enjoy the choice of two pools – a cabana-lined offering with a poolside bar, and a serene rooftop pool. There’s even the use of a Mercedes if you can tear yourself away from the delights of the hotel to explore the 300 wineries that lie near Calistoga. There’s also wine blending experiences, hiking trails, yoga classes, biking routes, hot air balloon rides and a spectacular nearby golf course.