The Best Auberge Resorts

Image courtesy of Hacienda AltaGracia

When it comes to luxury travel, Auberge Resorts Collection knows what it’s doing. They've thought of everything — from farm-to-table dining to expert-led wellness programs. And not only have they thought of everything; they deliver.

No detail is left unturned. In fact, Auberge is obsessed with design (in the best way). Their stylish hotels include thoughtful details and delightful touches crafted by local artisans (a hyper-local ethos permeates everything they do). Speaking of celebrating all things local, expect dining venues serving seasonal, locally sourced food in a warm setting (or on a picnic, the beach, a hike...).

Auberge resorts are also distinct in their strong sense of place. They immerse guests in the local culture, history and traditions of their vibrant locales, from Telluride to France. Learn about the art of avocado in Costa Rica, partake in a cacao ceremony in Punta de Mita, watch silent films from a garden in Newport...and that's just a taste. Auberge's intentional experiences are authentic reflections of each hotel’s surroundings.

And because Auberge resorts are wellness-focused (many of their properties collaborate with The Well, a holistic spa and wellness center based in New York City), you’ll leave feeling rejuvenated, grounded and thoroughly nourished.

Needless to say, I'm in love with all things Auberge. You can’t go wrong when choosing one of their luxury hotels, but there a few properties that stand out. (I can help you decide which Auberge property is best for you.) I’ve put together a list of some of the best Auberge resorts, but in a perfect world, I’d visit them all.

Wildflower Farms - Hudson Valley, New York

This peaceful escape in New York’s idyllic Hudson Valley (Gardiner, New York, to be exact) is the perfect destination for nature lovers, foodies and anyone seeking a reset. It's especially well suited for honeymoons and minimoons. In fact, Fora's very own editorial manager planned her post-wedding trip here.

Rustic-chic cabins, cottages and suites overlook wildflower fields and farmland. The floor-to-ceiling windows allow guests to really take it all in, and handsome wood floors, outdoor showers and serene earth tones blend seamlessly with the property’s natural environs. Even the amenities are A+. The mini-bars are stocked with local, nourishing goodies. The towels and soaps are locally made. The book collection was curated in partnership with Phaidon.

Food is top of mind at Wildflower Farms. Ingredients are sourced from the onsite farm (!) and the best Hudson Valley producers. Their signature restaurant, Clay, focuses on seasonal, sustainable New American cuisine (think expertly prepared vegetables and responsibly sourced meats and fish). Chef Rob Lawson can lead guests in a cooking workshop, where they’ll prepare a meal from produce they harvested that very day. It doesn’t get more farm-to-table than that.

But no trip to Wildflower would be complete without visiting Thistle, the hotel’s nature-inspired spa. Hand-blended products, small-batch oils and fresh-harvested remedies rejuvenate body and mind. Craving something even more personalized? There are numerous bespoke treatments to choose from, from nutrition counseling to personal training to a guided nature walk that concludes with a reiki session. I can help you plan the best itinerary based on your taste and interests.

Fora Perks:

• $100 hotel / resort credit.

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

Hacienda AltaGracia - Costa Rica

Image courtesy of Hacienda AltaGracia

This wellness-focused luxury resort sits on 180 acres of lush greenery amid the Talamanca Mountains, in central Costa Rica. The hotel’s 50 casitas are chic and inviting, and come equipped with heated plunge pools, oversized bathrooms, artisan-made decor and other delightful surprises (glass jars filled with chocolate date balls, a mini-fridge stocked with local kombucha, loose-leaf tea and a Scandinavian-chic Stagg Stovetop Kettle).

As cozy as the casitas are, however, the spa, helmed by The Well, is not to be missed. The stunning glass-walled oasis at the top of the resort features heated marble slabs on which guests can laze after applying a full-body mud mask mixed with botanicals of their choosing. The ritual is best done after a steam and sauna session (so cleansing), and before a facial or full-body massage. For a supremely special treatment, opt for the river bath, where your aura is cleansed before you wash off an invigorating, handmade coffee scrub in El Rio. The experience concludes with a soak in a river-side stone pool, filled with river water heated by a stove.

And it must be said that the food is to die for. Chef Liezl Odendaal and her team are masters at creating nourishing, delicious food crafted from locally sourced ingredients. (Chef Odendaal has alllll the local connections.) I love the arugula salad, dressed in a zippy parsley vinaigrette and crowned with walnuts and local goat manchego; the citrusy cocktails (and mocktails!) infused with herbs picked from the hotel’s organic garden; the heirloom blue-corn tortilla layered with the creamiest avocado; the earthy hot cacao made from 100% cacao powder sourced from a local cacao farm...I could go on. The hyper-local cuisine is a celebration of Costa Rica’s bounty. And did I mention it’s all included? (Minus the alcohol, that is.)

The most special aspect of Hacienda AltaGracia, though, is the kind, warm, funny, ultra-attentive staff. From the moment you arrive on the hotel’s private airstrip, it feels as though you’re being welcomed into someone’s home. And in a sense, you are. Guests are paired with “Compas,” who cater to just about every need and want and who quickly become dear friends. Need your daily crossword printed? No problem. Want to schedule a last-minute sunrise hike amidst the clouds? (The answer is yes.) Consider it done. Don’t be surprised if you shed a tear as you reluctantly wave goodbye.

Fora Perks:

• $100 hotel / resort credit.

• Breakfast daily.

• Extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

Esperanza - Los Cabos, Mexico

Imagine lounging on a private terrace, sipping a margarita as you take in views of the Sea of Cortez. Sound like paradise? Welcome to Esperanza, an Auberge resort in Cabo San Lucas. The resort's 59 rooms and suites (all with ocean views) are decorated in a contemporary Mexican style, with handcrafted wood furnishings and colorful accents. (Yucatán more your style? Etéreo, on the Riviera Maya, is another fantastic Auberge property in Mexico.)

The spa at Esperanza is a must-visit. Decompress in the steam room, sauna and hot tub, or opt for a full-body treatment using organic and locally sourced ingredients. (The desert arnica muscle therapy treatment is a dream — perfect after a day of surfing.) Craving even more wellness? Optimize your sleep with an expert, as part of a program curated by none other than The Well.

The full-body nourishment extends to the cuisine. Mexican City chef Alexis Palacios excels at sourcing organic, sustainable, local ingredients for Esperanza’s four restaurants. From casual poolside dining to a romantic dinner on a cliff overlooking the sea (a must), there’s something to suit every taste and palate.

Play tennis, take a tequila tasting class, make pottery, learn to paint...the numerous activities are immersive and fun. And they’re great for groups and families. Another highlight: a deep-sea fishing excursion followed by a dinner enjoying your fresh catch — an unforgettable “sea-to-table” meal.

And if you want to extend your trip to Mexico, complement your Esperanza stay with one at Chileno Bay Resorts & Residences, also in Los Cabos. This escape rests on one of Cabo’s only swimmable beaches, and is ideal for group getaways. A 12-person oceanfront villa with butler service? Say no more. (I can help match you with the best Auberge hotel for your style.)

Fora Perks:

• $100 hotel / resort credit.

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

Mauna Lani - Island of Hawaiʻi

Image courtesy of Mauna Lani

This oceanfront luxury hotel, on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast, has the kind of laid-back island vibe I love. It’s also my go-to stay to make the most of your trip to the Big Island.

Golf enthusiasts will rejoice over the world-class golf courses, set among ancient lava fields with ocean views. Guests can also take a lesson with a PGA-certified instructor or practice their swing at the driving range. Those looking to stay active can take advantage of the resort's tennis courts, hiking trails and fitness center. (Check out more of the best hotel gyms.)

Wellness lover? Me too. Spa treatments include massages, facials (don’t miss the signature goopGLOW facial), body wraps and more. And if you're looking to cool off, head to the private beach, where you can swim, snorkel or paddleboard. The Surf Shack, a breezy hangout spot with food, activities and good vibes, will hook you up with any necessary equipment.

Mauna Lani also offers several excursions and activities such as whale-watching tours, helicopter rides and visits to nearby attractions like Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Cultural programs like hula lessons and lei-making help immerse guests in the island's history and traditions. Plus, with easy access to nearby attractions like Waimea Canyon and the Mauna Kea Observatory, there's no shortage of things to see and do.

End your day at CanoeHouse, where you’ll be treated to a Japanese-inspired, farm-to-table meal — along with views of the Pacific, of course.

Fora Perks:

• $100 food / beverage credit.

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

Grace Hotel - Santorini, Greece

Image courtesy of Grace Hotel

Visiting Santorini is like traveling back in time. The small island in the Aegean Sea is in fact a caldera rim, the remnant of ancient volcanic eruptions. This setting makes for a dreamy island getaway, and few properties can compare to the Grace Hotel, a luxurious boutique gem.

Grace Hotel is a welcome respite from the more touristy parts of Santorini. The cliffside oasis consists entirely of indoor-outdoor rooms and suites, all with heated plunge pools and views of the sparkling sea below.

Want to visit Mykonos for the day? Guests can charter a private yacht to sail around the Aegean. Or if you’d prefer to explore Santorini’s finest beaches, private sailing adventures are available, too. Back at the hotel, take a sunrise or sunset yoga class (or both!), lounge by the infinity pool and sample Greek wine before dinner at Varoulko Santorini, helmed by Michelin-Starred chef Lefteris Lazarou. Cap off the perfect day at 363 Bar for a craft cocktail accompanied by sweeping Mediterranean views.

Fora Perks:

• Complimentary one-way private airport transfer.

• Complimentary Champagne cocktail and canapes for two.

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

Auberge du Soleil - Napa Valley

Auberge du Soleil’s reputation precedes it, and for good reason. This world-renowned resort sits on a verdant hill in Napa Valley, California, among olive and oak trees.

Auberge du Soleil (“Inn of the Sun”) evokes the beauty and sophistication of the South of France. Its 50 guest rooms and suites feature custom furnishings and original artwork, and many come equipped with private terraces and outdoor tubs. And with views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains from every room, you can’t go wrong.

But it's the food that sets Auberge du Soleil apart. (The hotel began as a restaurant, after all. The inn was added later.) The Michelin-Starred restaurant is a culinary destination in and of itself, offering innovative dishes made with the freshest locally sourced ingredients. And the 15,000-bottle cellar (really) ensures there’s a bottle perfect for every dish and preference. For more casual (but no less delicious) dining, head to The Bar, where you can nurse a cocktail or glass of wine over cheese & charcuterie and other seasonal plates.

In between all the wining and dining, guests can explore the surrounding hills and vineyards on a hike or bike ride, stroll around the property’s sculpture garden, indulge in a spa treatment or simply relax by the uber-stylish pool, cocktail in hand. And if you’re wanting to explore more Auberge Resorts Collection properties in Napa Valley (I don’t blame you), extend your California vacation at Solage, in the charming town of Calistoga. (I'm also dreaming of visiting the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, in Los Olivos, California, one of Auberge’s newest openings.)

Ready to travel? Connect with me to plan and book your perfect Auberge getaway today.