Relax and Unwind in Bordeaux’s Vineyard Spa

Wine lovers are renowned for making pilgrimages to famous wine regions like Bordeaux, charting their sacred terroirs up and down the D2. But what happens once you get sick of barrel cellars and tasting rooms? Set amongst the vines in Bordeaux’s Pessac-Leognan is Chateau Smith Haut Laffitte – a renowned wine estate that produces world class reds and whites – but that also offers visitors an altogether different experience of Bordeaux’s vinous offerings. What sets it apart from its neighbouring properties is its little taste of luxury – namely first rate leisure and spa facilities. Owned by former Olympic skier Daniel Cathiard, the property boasts a Vinothérapie spa, billed as an oasis in which to relax and restore skin, body and mind by indulging in a variety of treatments centering around grapes grown on the estate, from fresh grape manicures to crushed Cabernet scrubs. As well as grape treatments, guests can continue to wallow in the luxurious settings of the complex, which boasts a five star hotel, Les Sources de Caudalie, home to the estate’s Michelin starred restaurant. House wine in hand, the Smith-Haut-Lafitte complex is the perfect respite from a hard day’s trudging around Bordeaux’s vineyards.