Jacques Lameloise, Burgundy

Hotel. For almost 100 years the Lameloise family has run this quaint hotel in Chagny, France. Before the Lameloises took custody of the hotel this 16th century building acted as a mail relay station around the time of Louis XI. Lameloise has since emerged as one of the premiere hotels in Burgundy noted for its excellent cuisine and unmatched hospitality. Today chef Jacques Lamelois continues this tradition that was set forth by his grandfather, Pierre Lameloise back in 1920. Hopefully Jacques’ children will continue to follow suite, for this hotel is truly remarkable and an absolute joy to visit.

Wine. Bernard Pivot once said, “even the water is delicious in Burgundy!” Lameloise may actually prove him right. However, Burgundy’s fame comes from the vines. Rich red wines produced here have captured the world’s attention, and more specifically their senses. It is no wonder that Lameloise has built up a wine cellar filled with rare, fine vintages from both Burgundy and the world. Lameloise’s central location makes it ideal for wine lovers to visit Burgundy’s best vineyards and wineries nearby.

Dining. Since 1979, Lameloise has had a three star rating in the Michelin Guide and much of this restaurant’s success is owed to current “grand chef cuisinier” Jacques Lameloise. Delicate French cuisine is at its pinnacle when Lameloise gets involved. The restaurant’s most famous dishes include “raviolis d’escargots de Bourgogne dans leur bouillon d’ail doux” and “pigeonneau rôti à l’émiettée de truffes.”

La Villa Gallici, Provence

Hotel. La Villa Gallici’s 4-star rating attests to the brilliance of this hotel. Overlooking the city of Aix-en-Provence, guests enjoy the view of this medieval town from their terrace or the private pool. Secluded in a Florentine garden under only the sun and the cypress trees, La Villa Gallici’s privacy is utterly peaceful. Staying in one of the eleven personalized rooms or one of the eight elegant apartments, guests will be living a true Provencal experience. It will not be complete without unbelievable French cuisine and a bottle of the best Bordeaux, Burgundy or Aix wines from a vineyard nearby.

Wine. The Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence makes up the second largest region of Provencal wines, which is exactly where La Villa Gallici sits. Most of the vineyards in this winemaking region produce red wine, however the rosés of Aix-en-Provence are also reputable. La Villa Gallici’s location makes it a perfect place for wine tourists to set their bags down before tasting their way through southern France.

Dining. The large sofas and cozy wingback chairs greet you at your table. Sitting in a plush chair makes your meal just that much more enjoyable. La Villa Gallici’s restaurant is quaint and rather small, however the kitchen produces some unique and large dishes for family and friends to share.

Le Côte Saint Jacques, Burgundy

Hotel. In the heart of a small town on the Yonne River, famed chef Jean-Michel Lorain’s epicenter of exceptional cuisine, Le Côte Saint Jacques, awaits your arrival. Snuggled up on the banks of the river, the rooms overlook the beautiful Burgundy region of France and the property’s exquisite gardens. Jean-Michel Lorain and the personable staff members devote themselves to making your stay the most luxurious while still maintaining distance to ensure an intimate experience. Between the private boat tours, cooking classes, vineyard tours, spa and 3-starred (Michelin) restaurant, Le Côte Saint Jacques has created a haven for food lovers looking to sit back, relax, and enjoy life.

Wine. To truly make a memorable meal in the gastronomic tradition, wine must be complementary to the chef’s creation. Therefore, Jean-Michel Lorain has surrounded himself with wine stewards that have combed through the best wine regions of the world to come up with a wine list and cellar filled with 800 diverse labels that all have high quality in common. Although guests of the hotel can explore the cellar below, Le Côte Saint Jacques is completely surrounded by villages and vineyards of Burgundy that date back as far as the 4th century A.D. Today the Chablis, Beaune and Côte de Nuits regions cultivate some of the best labels in France.

Dining. With 3 stars from the Michelin Guide, there is no doubt that Jean-Michel Lorain’s cuisine is absolutely paramount. Despite emerging from a family of cooks, Jean-Michel has honed his own skills by focusing on the power of each ingredient. In effect, he has become one of the most acclaimed and praised gastronomic chefs of this generation. During a stay at Le Côte Saint Jacques you must reserve a table in one of the dining rooms facing the river in order to have the privilege of experiencing these heavenly plates.

Chateau des Salles, Gironde

Hotel. Each decorated in the French country style, the six rooms of Chateau Des Salles invite you to put down your bags, unwind and take in the surroundings. Half a century ago the Couillaud family restored this charming chateau to its original beauty and elegance. Today the chateau is surrounded by gardens where guests can go enjoy their breakfast or just sit and relax. The estate produces its own wine and cognac that guests tend to enjoy in the traditional salon of the chateau. Furthermore, Chateau Des Salles is nestled in the countryside of Saint-Fort-sur-Gironde in the Bordeaux region.

Wine. The nearby vineyards of Saint-Emilion, Médoc and Bordeaux invite the guests of Chateau Des Salles to visit the vines and taste the wines. However, alongside the Cognac that is produced on the chateau’s estate is a fortified wine called “Pineau des Charentes.” Another, “Domaine des Salles,” appears on the wine list as well.

Dining. The small dining room of the hotel fits provides a cozy space for a delectable meal of traditional local foods. With emphasis on fresh garden vegetables grown on the estate and seafood, the plates that come out of the kitchen are always crisp and refreshing. Good regional wines from the wine list flatter the dishes.

Les Sources de Caudalie, Bordeaux

Hotel. Do you want to discover the Grands Crus Classes of Bordeaux? Whether you know what that even means or not, Les Sources de Caudalie is a Mecca for anyone looking to escape this world and transport into another. The country inn style of this 49 room, nine-suite hotel provides an at-home feel in the French countryside. Unwind in the Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa located next door in the vineyards of Château Smith Hout Lafitte with these unique treatments that combine natural springs and grape extracts. And choose from the two restaurants where you will enjoy the most refined and tasty cuisine.

Wine. If the cellar full of 15,000 bottles is not enough, head out into the Bordeaux countryside and explore some of the most famous varieties in the world. With over 700 million bottles of wine coming out of the Bordeaux region each year, it has become the leading contributor to this area’s economy. Ranging from inexpensive to absurdly high-priced, these are some of the most prestigious wines of the world, not just of France. Les Sources de Caudalie offers its guests wine tasting lessons along with a day trip to a wine school at St. Emilion and a private château visit.

Dining. Both restaurants of Les Sources de Caudalie present dishes rich in flavor that can be accompanied by wines from the hotel’s cellar. However for a more country-style cuisine head to “La Table du Lavoir.” And for the gourmet gastronomic experience, “La Grand Vigne” has a menu filled with refined and classic dishes that exude the best in French cuisine.

Relais Bernard Loiseau, Burgundy

Hotel. Le Relais Bernard Loiseau is an oasis of gastronomy and opulent living in the idyllic setting of Burgundy. Close to the Chablis winemaking region and the Morvan, the vineyards surrounding Le Relais Bernard Loiseau have greatly influenced its existence. Each detail of your stay at this hotel will exude relaxation and luxury of the highest quality. The stunning estate includes a spa, beauty salon, boutique, swimming pool and beautiful, sprawling gardens. But of course following the legacy of Bernard Loiseau, the hotel’s cuisine is paramount.

Wine. As one of the best cellar hotels in Burgundy, it is no wonder that one of the best sommeliers in the world tends to the bottles. Cellarmaster Eric Goettelmann, who has worked at Le Relais Bernard Loiseau for seven years, has combed through countless varieties and vintages to create a wine list that will blow your mind. Composed of over 20,000 vineyard-bottled wines and 1,000 different varieties, the hotel’s wine cellars are home to the cream of the crop of wines. If you plan ahead, Mr. Goettelmann will prepare an out-of-this-world tasting experience and leave behind his highest recommendations that are specifically catered to your own personal likes and dislikes. Aside from the cellars, the hotel’s location in the heart of Burgundy furthers your wine education by allowing access to various vineyards and winemaking regions.

Dining. At the passing of legendary master chef Bernard Loiseau, his protégé, Patrick Bertron, promised to continue his legacy and preserve his excellence. The restaurant at Le Relais Bernard Loiseau has since evolved with Patrick. Although Bertron’s own unique style shines through these complex dishes, the traditional delicacies of Loiseau’s recipes are constants. Staying true to both the Loiseau legacy and the integrity of fresh ingredients, the restaurant has proven to be an absolute delight.

Oustau de Baumaniere, Provence

Hotel. Although many people would never consider visiting the “Valley of Hell,” the Oustau de Baumaniere gastronomic inn makes it worthwhile. Located in Les Baux-de-Provence, a small village in southern France, amidst the Alpilles Mountains, it is believed that the rocky terrain and steep cliffs of the village inspired Dante Alighieri’s vision of Purgatory. But today, it is the beauty and uniqueness of this village and the amazing hotels like Oustau de Baumaniere that attract hundreds of tourists year-round. A 17th century farmhouse run by Jean-André and Geneviève Charial rests against the mountains providing a tranquil sanctuary filled with gardens and antique guest rooms to rest your head.

Wine. Owner and executive chef, Jean-André Charial, learned the art of winemaking from his grandfather and father. Always expecting to go into the family business and continue the tradition of excellence at Oustau de Baumaniere, Jean-Andre fostered a passion for the vines and toady he produces his own version, L’Affectif, from old Grenache stock. But besides having its own house wine, the cellar at Oustau de Baumaniere astounds even the critics. Comprised of a collection of rare vintages and labels as well as lesser-known glories, over the years the “100,000 flagon” cellar has become the heart of the property.

Dining. With a philosophy of “perfection and simplicity” it is no wonder that the dishes created by Jean-André are clean, classic and utterly to-die-for. One classic dish that has become Jean-André’s trademark is truffle and leek raviolis. Of course the chef has mastered all of the local delicacies, but above-all Jean-André makes sure to stay true to the produce of Les Baux-de-Provence’s purity

Villa Florentine, Lyon

Hotel. Located at the top of old Lyon, impressive views of the city and country are one of many reasons to stop at Villa Florentine. The Renaissance appeal stems from the traditionally designed guest rooms and buildings all of which are comfortable and refined. The swimming pool’s tranquil ambiance is the perfect setting to overlook Lyon. Even at night, sitting on the patio is the best location for surveying the twinkling lights below. The four-star charmer has every luxury and amenity needed for a comfortable and elegant stay.

Wine. Villa Florentine sits between the famed wine regions of Beaujolais in the North and the Côtes du Rhône region in the South giving the hotel access to hundreds of prominent labels. Lyon’s reputation for gastronomy comes from the leading chefs of the world and their ability to craft food that pairs well with French wines. Villa Florentine’s sommelier compiled a cellar and wine list of the best labels and vintages.

Dining. Take in all the savory flavors of “Les Terrasses de Lyon’s” cuisine either in the dining room or outside under the stars of the sky and over the city lights. The gastronomy of Lyon captures all of the refined and splendid factors of cooking, and Villa Floretine’s restaurant does not stray from this reputation.

Hotel Crillon le Brave, Provence

Hotel. Vogue has called Hotel Crillon le Brave “a hotel of great charm and tranquility.” And it has definitely lived up to the title. Perched on the hill of an antique Provencal village, seven houses have been transformed and combined to form this incredibly luxurious retreat. Whet your palate with the beautiful cuisine, or the breathtaking view, or maybe the rich wine country. Whichever you choose, Hotel Crillon le Brave ensures a marvelous stay in the Provencal countryside with a list of favorite things to do including wine tasting routes, bicycle tours, and a relaxing hour at the mini-spa. Or you can stay in the comfort of the hotel and have your very own cooking class with executive Chef Philippe Monti. Decisions, decisions, decisions.

Wine. The wines of the Rhone valley and Provence lie at your fingertips during a stay at Hotel Crillon le Brave. The varieties of Gigondas, Vacqueyras and Chateauneuf-du-Pape await your enjoyment nearby or at the dinner table. With a wine list of over 500 local and international labels, wine connoisseurs will be pleased. The hotel’s sommelier, Cedric Demeneix, arranges vineyard visits and tastings, while at the same time he shares his immense wine knowledge with each and every guest.

Dining. Whether sitting in the dinning room or on the garden terrace, Chef Philippe Monti ensures gorgeous meals in an equally charming atmosphere. The chef’s love of food comes through in every plate, but it goes further. Every October he holds a cooking school session for eight lucky guests to learn his technique and special Provencal recipes. With a resume as impressive as Chef Philippe’s (chef at l’Esperance, l’Auberge de I’Ill and sous-chef at Chewton Glen) the cuisine at Hotel Crillon le Brave is a real delicacy.

Château de La Grave, Bordeaux

Hotel. This magical turreted chateau sits amongst rolling hills of vines and vast panoramic views of the Bordeaux region. Since 1900 the Bassereau family has lived at Château de La Grave, running both the hotel and winery, making sure each entity maintains its excellent reputation. In other words, the Bassereau’s certify that the wine pleases and the hotel feels like home. The hotel has only three guest rooms, and for a magnificent value. Past guests praise this hotel for its attention to detail and for ensuring a mystical wine experience.

Wine. The Château de La Grave winery is an exclusive AOC Vineyard recognized for its Côtes de Bourg, Dédicace. By blending Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot – classic Bordeaux grape varieties – the winemakers came up with the smooth richness of Dédicace. After being aged in oak barrels, the scent of vanilla lingers around the bouquet of blackberry. The name Dédicace stems from the utter dedication that the winemakers put into this blend. When staying at the chateau, guests have the opportunity to taste Dédicace and other winery treats in the cellar.

Hôtel d’Europe, Avignon

Hotel. In the heart of Provence, Avignon patiently awaits the next generation of visitors and there to greet them is the Hôtel d’Europe. It is safe to say that no other hotel in all of Europe has continuously been renowned for its luxury and in turn has hosted so many significant and influential figures. The hotel began in the 16th century as the city home of Marquess of Gravezon, but in 1799 when one of Napoleaon’s “ladyfriends” acquired the mansion, she transformed it into a luxury hotel. Since then Victor Hugo, Picasso, and Jaqueline Kennedy have passed through these brilliant hallways. To further recognize Hôtel d’Europe’s fame, when the first Michelin Guide to France was published in 1900, this hotel was the only one listed under Avignon’s heading.

Wine. Avignon’s surroundings are filled with remarkable vineyards that allow you to appreciate the Côtes du Rhône wines. The hotel’s staff has created itineraries that send you through the south of France soaking up the wine and the history. Of course the hotel’s restaurant does have a very selective wine list filled with local varieties and a range of vintages.

Dining. Expertly crafted food produced by Executive Chef Bruno d’Angelis has earned critical acclaim as well as praise from past patrons. Diners at Hôtel d’Europe are treated to the savory Mediterranean plates composed of the finest products and paramount flavors.

Le Relais de Franc Mayne, Sant-Emilion

Hotel. Le Relais de Franc Mayne sits in the middle of a vineyard in Saint-Emilion, one of Bordeaux’s most charming and beautiful towns. It is believed that Romans began using the soil of Saint-Emilion to cultivate grapes as early as the 2nd century. For the wine tourist, Le Relais de Franc Mayne is the perfect place to rest your head after a full day of tasting and exploring this world-famous wine-region. An intimate hotel, with only 9 rooms, each decorated in its own unique theme, consists of a natural swimming pool, a beautiful setting, and scenery of medieval bell towers and sprawling vineyards.

Wine. Le Relais de Franc Mayne makes sure that every guest takes in as much of the wine culture as possible, starting with a free tour of the wine estate, followed by free tasting of Grand Cru Classe wines. As a principal producer of red wines, Saint-Emilion vineyards primarily grow the Merlot and Cabernet Franc grape varieties.

Château de Marçay, Loire Valley

Hotel. The 21st century meets the 15th century at the Château de Marçay. Inside this preserved fortress there is a 4-star hotel with 32 rooms, 4 apartments, a wine cellar of over 700 labels and a restaurant you will never forget. All this and more in a palace surrounded by a private vineyard, a beautiful pool and the charm of the Loire Valley. Relax and take in the splendor and romance of the hotel’s vast estate with the ones you love.

Wine. With one of the largest (and oldest) wine cellars in the region, the Château de Marçay is sure to have a label that will tickle your fancy. Underneath the massive fortress, the wine cellar houses a selection of more than 700 references. The chef works alongside the cellar master to highlight the strongest vintages from the Loire Valley. But to really see the tradition of wine making, take a tour through “Le Château de Marçay” vineyard and see first-hand the grapes that eventually evolve into complex flavors in a bottle.

Dining. Colorful and skillfully crafted dishes make up this kingdom of food at the hotel’s restaurant. The bright yellow décor of the dining room contrasts the dark hues of Loire’s reds, adding to the rainbows made by the food itself. The goal of the restaurant is to bring out the flavors of wine with each and every dish.

Chateau de Bagnols, Lyon

Hotel. In 1987 when Lady Hamlyn crossed the drawbridge of the Chateau de Bagnols, her imagination ran wild with possibilities. After lovingly restoring the Chateau to its Renaissance beauty, it became quite clear that this historic, luxurious hotel would be unparalleled. Complete with a dry moat, gardens, towers and turrets, this one of a kind castle overlooks its vineyards as well as the rest of the Beaujolais countryside of southeastern France. Only a short drive from Lyon, the 13th century chateau eagerly awaits its guests, wanting to welcome them to one of 21 elegant rooms or suites. A five star hotel with one-of-a-kind experiences is exactly what you should expect from Chateau de Bagnols.

Wine. In the cellar and cave of Chateau de Bagnols, it is almost as if the wine is hibernating. The utter calm of the long hallway lined with casks is haunting, but a private wine tasting amidst this atmosphere reminds one that the wine is very much alive. The hotel’s sommelier happily serves and recommends only the best of French wines, specifically those from the local Beaujolais region and neighboring Burgundy. Chateau de Bagnols’ impressive wine list compliments the decorated dishes of Matthieu Fontaine.

Dining. Executive chef Matthieu Fontaine joined Chateau de Bagnols in 2003 to lead the kitchen of the hotel’s gastronomic pleasure, La Salle des Gardes. Sitting under a French coat of arms, patrons experience the unique style of Fontaine’s slow cooking and combinations of freshest local produce. With one Michelin star proclaiming its excellence, La Salle des Gardes boasts traditional Beaujolais cuisine that satisfies each and every taste bud. Or for a more intimate experience Le Cuvage allows guests to dine where the wine is made directly above the cellar. And finely, enjoy the outdoors and beautiful French climate by dinning at Le Salon d’Ombrage under the estate’s 100-year-old lime trees.

Grand Hotel du Lion d'Or, Sologne

Hotel. Straight out of a fairytale, the Grand Hotel du Lion d’Or’s castle surely treats every guest like royalty. Located in the secluded region of Sologne, this spectacular structure has suited kings and princes who traveled here hunting for wild game and enjoying the hospitality of the Loire Valley castles. Today’s owners continue that tradition of hospitality by creating an inviting atmosphere filled with any luxury imaginable. The critically acclaimed restaurant tickles the tongue, the wine list of local Loire Valley vintages awakens the mind, and for the athlete, four beautiful golf courses await.

Wine. The wine list compiles the best of France’s Loire Valley. From the red wines of Chinon and Saint-Nicolas-de-Bougueil to the whites of Sancerre and Anjou, the range clearly defines classic Loire Valley taste. The restaurant chef makes sure that only the best wines complete the 5-star meal he prepares and occasionally, the hotel hosts wine dinners to honor Saint Vincent - the patron saint of wine makers of course.

Dining. The beautiful dinning room decorated in classical Renaissance style, sets the mood for the culinary treat to come. Chef Didier Clement has captivated his audience with his harmonious style of blending food and art. The unparalleled respect for food that Clement has earned him the title of auteur of cuisine. With his own gardeners growing and harvesting only the freshest organic fruits and vegetables, his dishes come alive with crisp, clean flavors. Almost like a dance, Didier Clement’s lines are flawless.

Auberge des Templiers, Sologne

Hotel. The Auberge des Templiers stands in an original Sologne architecture-style building dating all the way back to 1960, and was brilliantly restored to craft the inn 60 years ago by the Dépée family. The property resides in a peaceful French countryside, just a short distance from the eventful city life in Paris. Take advantage of exploring the secluded forests of Sologne, the Sancerre and Pouilly vineyards, or relax in the garden which the seven buildings of the inn set in.

Wine. Surrounded by vineyards on the French countryside, of course Auberge des Templiers is going to have a cellar of only the best wine in the area. Wines from all over France, including Loire Valley, can be found at the lodge. The gorgeous cellar and variety of labels add to the beauty of Auberge des Templiers presence to help make each guest’s stay unique.

Dining. The dining room at The Templiers Restaurant is a traditional lodge setting transformed into an elegant dining space. An authentic feel is presented to anyone keeping company in the restaurant because of its high oak beams and fancy linens. Dishes are especially exceptional at the beginning of hunting season, when the chef prepares recipes with game like pheasant, grey partridge, Sologne mallard, and venison as well fish caught fresh from nearby rivers and streams.

Abbaye de Sainte Croix, Salon-de-Provence

Hotel. With plans specifically geared towards exploring the vineyards of Provence, Abbaye de Sainte Croix’s staff goes above and beyond to make sure the wine lover in you gets all it can out of France’s famous wine region. With such personalized service and attention to detail, any guest feels like royalty; there is even a helicopter pad to cut out the drive to the hotel. Once an abbey, the monks’ cells have been converted into luxurious guest rooms with views overlooking the beautiful French countryside. The Provencal cuisine is at its finest at the hotel’s restaurant. Just be sure to enjoy it alongside a glass of wine and on the hotel terrace.

Wine. Having been a wine region since approximately 600 B.C., Provence is known around the world for its exceptional wines. Abbaye de Sainte Croix plans excursions for its guests to experience these amazing flavors by setting up visits at surrounding vineyards and wineries as well as planning wine tasting sessions. There is no excuse for missing out on the full body and structure of Provence’s wines while visiting the Abbaye. These labels and vintages promise not to disappoint.

Dining. The only way to dine at the Abbaye is in style. Take a seat on the hotel’s terrace and take in the breathtaking view of Provence and the French countryside. With a glass of wine in one hand and a plate of utter bliss resting in front of your eyes, this restaurant will give your senses one very large feast. Led by the young executive chef Jeremy Picanol, the kitchen crafts meals with such powerful flavors it will leave the mouth watering. Take advantage of the wine waiters’ knowledge of local wines. They will surely steer you in the right direction.

Abbaye de La Bussiere, Cote d'Or

Hotel. Even though the Cistercian monks have long gone, the Abbaye de La Bussiere maintains a tranquil setting across its great lawns and inside the guestrooms – once the monks’ cells. After the Cummings family acquired the abbey in 2005, the hotel has come into full bloom. Beautifully restored frescoes and moldings capture the essence of the abbey’s deep history with the region while at the same time making it one of the most breathtaking homes in the French countryside. Exploring this region is a must, especially since the Abbaye’s close relationship with local vineyards allows guests to tour these wineries and enjoy a wine tasting or two.

Wine. Located in Cote d’Or, a premier wine-growing region of France provides the Abbaye de La Bussiere with many wonderful local labels to choose from. Taking advantage of the location allows the executive chef, along with the Cummings family, to foster a very impressive wine list. Besides the hotel’s cellar, the close proximity of vineyards and other cellars in the area provide a great opportunity for guests to explore and taste many of France’s most respected wines.

Dining. Following traditions of Burgundy, executive chef Olivier Elzer, directs the kitchens of the hotel’s gastronomic restaurant as well as the bistro. Using only the freshest of local produce, Elzer’s cuisine is refined and classic with a touch of originality – a mirror image of the restaurants ambiance and décor.