Bardessono

Low-slung roof lines and an interesting mix of brick, steel, reclaimed wood, and stone contribute to the industrial chic feel of the two-story hotel. Its edginess is softened somewhat by organic touches that include driftwood sculptures, tall grasses, and native trees. The lobby is furnished with high-end contemporary furniture in tones of cream, white, and taupe. The pampering begins with a free glass of wine at check-in; guests can continue to indulge during their stay with activities that include gourmet dining and spa treatments. Children are welcome here, but the atmosphere is more suited to grown-ups.

Yountville is considered the culinary capital of the Napa Valley. Some of the best dining in Northern California is located in this small village. Make reservations well ahead of time for The French Laundry (3 Michelin stars), Bouchon, Étoile, and Redd. There are 10 wineries within walking distance but should you desire a ride, four hotel cars stand at the ready. Oakland, San Francisco International, and Sonoma County Airport are each within a one-to-two-hour drive of the hotel, depending on traffic.

Rooms are filled with generous amounts of natural light and have many high-end extras: fireplaces; large, flat-screen TVs; Egyptian cotton Fili D'oro Linens; and private, furnished balconies or patios. Wired and wireless Internet access is free and iPod docking stations are provided. Coffeemakers are only available upon request, however. Each bathroom is outfitted with a separate, deep soaking tub placed in front of a large picture window. Upgrading to a Steam Spa-Suite gets you both an indoor dual shower-steam room and an outdoor shower. Accessible rooms have roll-in showers, wheelchair accessible doors, grab bars, shower benches, and portable hearing assistance devices.

At Bardessono, the amenities add to the property's chic, indulgent ambience with a focus on sustainability. Lucy Restaurant and Bar offers field-to-fork cuisine, while the Spa Therapy Center features a full range of face and body treatments (from vinotherapy to Thai massage). The rooftop pool deck offers pretty mountain views, shaded sun beds, and a hot tub -- though the pool itself is a tiny lap pool. Free activities include yoga (limited amount of classes), cycling (with loaner bikes available for guests), and hiking. Adding to the "responsible luxury" theme, the Bardessono partners with Lexus to offer a three hour-test drive in a hybrid Lexus. Free local rides are also offered.