London,
21
August
2017
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12:00
Europe/Amsterdam

The Grape Escape: Top Wine Destinations for True Wine Lovers

The Grape Escape: Top Wine Destinations for True Wine Lovers

A wine holiday is a bucket-list experience for any wine lover and over 30% of global travellers said they were likely to take a winery tour at some point in 2017*. So whether you know your Chardonnays from your Zinfandels or are a complete wine novice, there's no need to worry. Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travellers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, delved into its more than 1.4 million properties and analysed its over 126 million trusted reviews to present seven beautiful destinations highly endorsed for vineyards and to the best places to stay for all varieties of wine lovers. In these destinations you can sample the local produce, learn what makes a top quality vintage, and impress your guests at your next dinner party with some choice souvenirs from your new favourite vineyard.

Beaune, France

Beaune was once at the bottom of a tropical sea, and the rich soil it left is the secret behind the flavour of Burgundy wines. For a real taste of what the region has to offer, visit the third weekend in November for Hospice de Beaune Wine Auction and the festival which takes place in the area.

Where to stay: Located in the historical centre of Beaune, Barbary Lane House Rental offers self-catering apartments with a fireplace and overlooks the inner courtyard dating back to the 17th century.

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Given that there are over 150 tasting rooms along the way, you definitely won't have a dull moment on the Stellenbosch Wine Route. Highly endorsed by Booking.com travellers for vineyards, wine, food and scenery, this beautiful destination hosts regular wine festivals and events.

Where to stay: Nestled amongst vineyards at the foot of Helderberg Mountain, near Stellenbosch, the Eikendal Lodge features lush gardens and a pool. Cucina di Giovanni Restaurant @ Eikendal serves lunch and dinner in a wine cellar, which is a charming 15-minute walk from the main lodge.

 

Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany

The picturesque town of Rüdesheim am Rhein, in the Rhine Valley, is a popular winemaking destination and home to the Rheingau Wine Museum, presenting a collection of exhibits from the ancient times until today.

Where to stay: Surrounded by the pretty streets of the Old Town, the family-run Breuer's Rüdesheimer Schloss is located within an 18th-century building in Rüdesheim. The hotel’s traditional restaurant offers a variety of wines from its own winery that can be tasted and purchased.

 

Mendoza, Argentina

While Malbec originated in France, it's thrived in Mendoza's climate. It's no wonder that wine from this region is known for its lush fruitiness: the grapes in this region get to sunbathe for 300 days a year!

Where to stay: Featuring a homely atmosphere, Bed And Breakfast Plaza Italia is a small guest house is in a central location, just 300 meters from Rivadavia Street and Independencia Square. It’sopular amongst Booking.com travellers who endorse Mendoza for vineyards, scenery and gourmet food. The property can also arrange various wine tasting tours for you.

 

Napa Valley, USA

Stretching out across endless green hills, Napa vineyards pride themselves on producing first-rate grapes. Wander through the endless vineyards and meet the people behind the wines while enjoying a relaxing holiday, even during winter when you get to savour every last drop of your favourite wine away from the crowds.

Where to stay: Milliken Creek Inn is a luxury, adult only hotel in Napa Valley, situated within a 15 minute drive from Francis Ford Coppola Winery, Renteria Wines and Rocca Family Vineyards. A complementary wine and cheese reception is available daily at the hotel’s main house.

 

Pokolbin, Australia

Surrounded by numerous wineries of the Hunter Valley, the rural area of Pokobin is set in Australia’s oldest wine regions and is home to a great variety of accommodations and restaurants serving local wines and seasonal, gourmet food.

Where to stay: Set on 12 acres in Pokolbin in the Hunter Valley, Berenbell Vineyard Retreat offers self-contained accommodation with stunning views of the vineyard and the Brokenback Mountain Range. The property is just 5 minutes’ walk from a number of restaurants and wineries.

 

*According to data collected by Booking.com with 12,781 respondents across 13 markets in September 2016. Respondents had to be 18 years of age or older, had to have travelled at least once in 2016 and had to be planning at least one trip for 2017. All respondents had to consider themselves part of their travel decision-making process.