Here is a cure like no other, to live in a hotel nestled in the middle of the vineyards and with undeniable charm. Welcome to Sources de Caudalie, an address that has acquired a international reputation for having pushed back the boundaries of wine tourism by creating the concept of Vinotherapy within its prestigious spa. Add to this a two-star chefyoga classes and forest baths, and you have all the ingredients to enjoy a great time as a couple or family.
A 5-star hotel nicknamed “le Palace des Vignes”
Les Sources de Caudalie is a 5-star hotel next to Château Smith Haut Lafitte, producer of Grand Cru Classé wine. Located only thirty minutes from the center of Bordeaux, the 78-hectare wine estate includes vines as far as the eye can see as well as plots of forest. It is not for nothing that it is nicknamed the Palace of the Vines.
The estate also includes a 2-star restaurant “La Grand’Vigne”, a country inn “La Table du Lavoir”, and a gourmet grocery store “Rouge”. The whole looks more like a charming hamlet than a historic palace, as it includes 40 rooms and 21 suites divided into 6 houses, some of which are on stilts. Open since 1999, the hotel run by Alice and Jérome Tourbier and its Spa Vinothérapie have become famous for having invented a concept centered around the vine and the art of living.
This atypical hotel has succeeded in marrying the charm of the buildings of yesteryear with contemporary design, with a decoration where second-hand objects are next to antiques from the local heritage. All this gives the hotel an atmosphere of family houseand customers flock from everywhere to take advantage of this bucolic and relaxing setting while enjoying exceptional service.
The Comfort rooms have an area of approximately 25m². They each offer a unique decoration made up of antiques, antique furniture and precious hangings. The 30m² Prestige rooms may have even more charm and cachet.
The Junior Suites offer space, comfort and elegance. All different, they have a cozy and warm lounge area, and balconies. All rooms have large bathrooms with 2 sinks, bath and shower.
The Vinothérapie Spa: a grape cure to relax and rejuvenate
Wine therapy is a unique concept in the world created by Caudalie. A little history: In 1995, Mathilde and Bertrand Thomas launched the Caudalie brand by developing a range of cosmetics containing polyphenols from grape seeds, following research proving that they would be very effective against free radicals, responsible for ageing. In 1999, they created the first “Spa Vinothérapie” on the grounds of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, which actually belongs to the parents of Mathilde Thomas.
This unique concept in the world is based on thecombination of hot spring water, drawn from more than 540 meters below the estate, and extracts from the vine and grapes. It’s a bit like a thalassotherapy, but the sea water is replaced here by this water impregnated with grapes which has unique properties. Since then, other “Vinothérapie by Caudalie” spas have spread to the four corners of the globe, but if you want to discover the concept, know that the original is here!
The architecture of the spa, which combines wood and stone, gives it a lot of cachet, as evidenced by the splendid indoor swimming pool and the baths within wooden barrels in which customers immerse themselves with delight. The spa is open to nature, which allows you to daydream while contemplating the vines.
The treatment menu is rich and varied. In cabins with carefully thought-out decoration, the Vinotherapists handle grapes with grace to allow customers to let go, while applying products to them anti-aging and antioxidant properties.
All massages are performed with essential oils andgrape seed oil known for its nourishing and softening properties. Recommended packages include, for example, the “Caudalie Ritual of Exception” over half a day, which includes a facial treatment, massage, bath or wrap, or the “Sarmments Amoureux” ritual designed for couples, which includes also a barrel bath.
Baths and wraps with extracts of grapes, red vine and essential oils help to unclog the tissues by draining and activating the circulation. Guests can also take advantage of the hammam and rest rooms, where they can sample fresh grapes and drink herbal teas.
Wellness continues outside the spa
The hotel evolves with the times, and it now offers yoga class every Saturday noon, with a renowned teacher from the Satnam Club, the temple of yoga in Bordeaux. It also offers forest bathsa introduction to meditation which allows you to discover the woods and feel the connection to nature.
José le Piez, arborist, and Patricia Chatelain, artist, accompany clients and help them work on breathing and practice different fundamental postures inspired by Qi Gong and yoga, such as the tree posture. This experience continues with a light and vegetable lunch at the Sources de Caudalie gourmet grocery store, with, for example, a nettle velouté with white daisies and a stuffed zucchini flower.
The hotel regularly hosts retreats led by Marion Sebih, of Tigre Yoga Club, with tailor-made Kundalini yoga sessions for a maximum reconnection between parents and children. We literally fall for this family yoga retreat at reasonable prices, because retreats of this type are very rare, and yet, what a joy to be able to practice with your children!
Award-winning gourmet cuisine
La Grand’Vigne is the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, which has been awarded two stars in the Michelin guide. Nicolas Masse is the chef of a cuisine that combines flavors, balance and creativity. Among the recipes that have made it famous: grilled white asparagus, served with sliced blue lobster and orange sabayon, or smoked mature beef with vine shoots, celery and herbaceous root. We obviously find in the glass great wines from Château Smith Haut Lafitte, and inventive desserts from pastry chef Jordane Stiée. Know that it is possible to participate in a cooking class on Saturday morning. This is an opportunity to learn the recipes of a starred chef!
La Table du Lavoir is the hotel’s bistro, which revisits regional Aquitaine cuisine according to the seasons. The warm decoration of the place contributes to the relaxed atmosphere. Finally, the Epicerie Gourmande offers tastings of Bordeaux wines and discovering products from the South-West at the counter or seated in comfortable armchairs.
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Prices : From around 280 euros per night in low season. Spa rituals from 275 euros for half a day, cure over three days from around 700 euros. Enjoy exclusive benefits through Family Wellness : room upgrade subject to availability, personalized welcome in the room.
Information request
Call us at + 33 1 77 77 77 77 to discuss your project of stay, or +41 22 777 77 77 from Switzerland.
