HotelChatter

The resort, which is built on five acres of land once owned by the Bardessono family (hence the name), is spread across several smaller building complexes (only two stories high) arranged around quiet courtyards with fountains and other water features. Solar panels cover all the rooftops (though they’re mostly out of sight), providing much of the necessary electricity needs of the hotel, while the rooms and buildings are heated and cooled using a geothermal system (hence the tile floors in the rooms).

Almost all of the buildings were constructed using recycled and salvaged material—much of it sourced from within 100 miles of Yountville—like wine casks and even materials from the original Bardessono buildings.

But do-gooding can only bring you so much pleasure. With rates that start at $300 a night in low season (but usually $450 a night any time you’d actually want to visit Napa) you require a little pampering too. That’s why the rooms use plush though simple linens, have huge outdoor patios or balconies, romantic fireplaces, spacious bathrooms with custom tubs and steam showers, and his-and-hers sinks. Throw in the free wifi and a turbo-charged multimedia hub, and you’re wired to go.

The coolest amenity? In-room spa beds so that if you get a treatment in your room, you don’t have to wait for the spa attendant to set up or break down the bed, you just enjoy your treatment, and the next time you’re out of the room, they do it for you. Oh wait, maybe our favorite feature are the automated toilets with complicated control pads and a variety of functions like they have in Japan in the restrooms off the lobby. We can’t decide!

Can’t swing a night here? Don’t worry. Tomorrow we’ll tell you about their Wednesday night “Dive Bar” at the pool.