Nestled among the vines of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, Grand Cru Classé de Graves, Les Sources de Caudalie emerged in 1999 as something completely unique: the world’s first vinotherapy spa. This isn’t just a clever marketing concept. It’s a revolutionary approach to wellness that harnesses the powerful antioxidants found in grapes and wine for genuine therapeutic benefits.

The property ranks #1 of 1 hotel in Martillac on Tripadvisor with a rating of 4 of 5 based on 1,589 traveler reviews. But numbers only tell part of the story. What makes Les Sources de Caudalie genuinely special is how it combines luxury hospitality, cutting-edge spa treatments, world-class dining, and the romance of Bordeaux wine country into one extraordinary experience.

The establishment features 61 bedrooms and suites, three restaurants including the Two Michelin Stars La Grand’Vigne, and the Vinothérapie® spa that pioneered using hot spring water combined with vine and grape extracts for therapeutic treatments. Experiencing a Caudalie treatment ritual at the Vinotherapie Spa is a unique experience in a place of rare beauty, set in the heart of the vineyards.

This comprehensive review explores why Les Sources de Caudalie has earned an international reputation as the temple of vinotherapy, and whether this enchanting vineyard retreat delivers on its promises of wine-infused wellness.

Quick Take: Why Les Sources de Caudalie Captivates

Les Sources de Caudalie is a truly exceptional property that has made the “French Paradox” its motto. The concept celebrates how the French manage to enjoy rich food and wine while maintaining health and wellbeing, attributing this partially to the powerful antioxidants found in red wine.

The Highlights:

The hotel establishment features 61 bedrooms and suites, three restaurants and the Vinothérapie® spa, which represents a therapeutic combination of hot spring water and vine and grape extracts. This pioneering concept launched the entire vinotherapy movement that has since spread worldwide.

La Grand’Vigne is a Two Stars: Excellent cooking restaurant in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide France, with acclaimed Chef Nicolas Masse taking guests on a gastronomic journey through the Aquitaine region.

Located amid the vineyards of Château Smith Haut Lafitte in Bordeaux, the property combines the latest developments in grape and wine benefits with an extensive spa and unique gastronomic experience in the midst of French vineyards.

Alice and Jérôme Tourbier have continued to develop this charming 5-star hotel, providing the site with the warmth of a family home while cultivating the attention to detail of the greatest luxury hotels.

Skip it if: Not interested in wine culture, prefer urban hotels over countryside retreats, or skeptical about wellness concepts based on wine and grape extracts.

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Location: In the Heart of Bordeaux Wine Country

Les Sources de Caudalie sits in Martillac, a small commune in the Bordeaux wine region, specifically within the grounds of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious wine estates.

The Château Smith Haut Lafitte Setting

The property is located among the vines of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, Grand Cru Classé de Graves, one of only 16 estates to hold this prestigious classification. The vineyard dates back to 1365, and today produces exceptional red and white wines under the guidance of the Cathiard family.

Staying at Les Sources de Caudalie means waking up surrounded by neat rows of grapevines, with the château’s historic buildings visible across the estate. The vineyard setting provides the peaceful, natural atmosphere essential for wellness while immersing guests in authentic wine culture.

Distance from Bordeaux City

The hotel is located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) southwest of Bordeaux city center, about a 20-minute drive depending on traffic. This proximity allows easy access to Bordeaux’s urban attractions while maintaining the tranquil countryside atmosphere.

The location works perfectly for travelers wanting to experience both Bordeaux city culture and wine country serenity during a single trip. Many guests combine several nights at Les Sources with nights in central Bordeaux.

Getting There

Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport sits about 20 kilometers away, roughly 25-30 minutes by car. The hotel can arrange private transfers, or guests can rent cars for exploring the wider Bordeaux wine region.

Having a car provides flexibility for visiting other châteaux, wine villages, and attractions throughout the Bordeaux area. However, guests planning to stay primarily at the property and focus on spa treatments can manage without a vehicle using taxis or hotel arrangements.

The Vineyard Landscape

The surrounding landscape epitomizes the Bordeaux wine region: endless rows of grapevines, charming stone buildings, forests, and the gentle Graves terroir. Walking paths wind through the estate, and the countryside invites exploration on foot or bicycle.

The natural hot spring that feeds the spa facilities was discovered on the property, adding another element of place-based authenticity to the wellness experience.

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The Vinotherapy Revolution: How Wine Became Wellness

Understanding the science and story behind vinotherapy helps appreciate what makes Les Sources de Caudalie genuinely innovative rather than just cleverly themed.

The Discovery

The vinotherapy concept was born from a chance encounter in 1993 when Mathilde Thomas, daughter of Château Smith Haut Lafitte owners, met Professor Joseph Vercauteren, a researcher studying grape polyphenols. His research revealed that grape seeds and vine contain powerful antioxidants with genuine therapeutic properties.

This scientific validation of wine’s health benefits inspired the creation of both the Caudalie skincare line and the spa treatments that would become vinotherapy. The approach combines centuries-old understanding of wine’s benefits with modern scientific knowledge of antioxidants and their effects on skin and body.

The Science Behind Vinotherapy

Grape polyphenols are powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals, which cause aging and cellular damage. Red wine grapes contain particularly high concentrations of these beneficial compounds, especially in seeds and skins.

When applied topically or absorbed through thermal waters, these polyphenols provide genuine benefits including:

• Neutralizing free radicals that cause aging
• Improving circulation and lymphatic drainage
• Reducing inflammation
• Supporting collagen production
• Protecting skin from environmental damage
• Promoting cellular regeneration

The treatments aren’t just pleasant indulgences that happen to involve wine. They represent scientifically-backed wellness protocols that harness genuine therapeutic properties.

The Caudalie Skincare Connection

Les Sources de Caudalie and Caudalie skincare are intrinsically connected. The hotel property serves as both luxury retreat and living laboratory where the effectiveness of grape-based formulations can be demonstrated through comprehensive spa treatments.

Guests experience Caudalie products in their most intensive applications, from professional spa treatments to in-room amenities. The results speak for themselves, with many guests becoming devoted Caudalie product users after experiencing the spa.

Hot Spring Water Element

Beyond grape extracts, the spa utilizes natural hot spring water discovered on the property. This mineral-rich thermal water combines with vine and grape extracts to create the unique vinotherapy treatment base.

The thermal water provides additional therapeutic benefits including relaxation, improved circulation, and mineral absorption. The combination of healing water and grape polyphenols creates synergistic effects greater than either element alone.

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The Vinothérapie® Spa: Signature Treatments & Wine Barrel Baths

The spa is where vinotherapy theory becomes transformative reality. Experiencing a Caudalie treatment ritual at the Vinotherapie Spa is a unique experience in a place of rare beauty.

Spa Facilities

The Vinothérapie® Spa offers comprehensive facilities designed around the wine wellness concept:

Treatment Rooms: Multiple treatment rooms allow for various therapies from massages to specialized vinotherapy protocols. The rooms feature vineyard views and calming French countryside aesthetics.

Thermal Bath Circuit: Indoor and outdoor areas feature various water experiences including:

• Hot spring thermal pool
• Barrel baths (the signature experience)
• Hamam (steam room)
• Sauna
• Cold plunge pools
• Relaxation areas with vineyard views

Beauty & Fitness: Hair salon, beauty treatments, and fitness facilities complement the spa offerings, creating comprehensive wellness options.

The Famous Barrel Baths

Perhaps the most iconic vinotherapy experience involves soaking in actual wine barrels filled with thermal water infused with grape extracts. These traditional oak wine barrels have been converted into private bathtubs, creating an experience that’s both photogenic and genuinely therapeutic.

The barrel bath experience typically includes:

• Private oak barrel filled with hot spring water
• Infusion of grape seed extracts and essential oils
• Candlelight ambiance
• Vineyard views through windows
• Complete relaxation in this uniquely wine-country experience

The barrel baths have become Instagram-famous, but the experience transcends photo opportunities. Soaking in these barrels while surrounded by vineyards creates magical connection between wine culture and wellness that defines the entire property.

Signature Vinotherapy Treatments

Crushed Cabernet Scrub: Full-body exfoliation using crushed grape seeds and vine extracts removes dead skin while delivering powerful antioxidants. The treatment leaves skin incredibly soft and glowing.

Red Vine Leaf Wrap: Body wrap utilizing red vine leaves and grape extracts to detoxify, firm, and improve circulation. Particularly effective for reducing water retention and improving skin tone.

Merlot Wrap: Another signature body treatment using grape marc (the pulp remaining after wine pressing) combined with thermal water. The warm wrap detoxifies while antioxidants penetrate deeply.

Vinoperfect Radiance Facial: Facial treatment using Caudalie’s brightening products and specialized techniques to reduce dark spots, even skin tone, and create radiant complexion.

The Grand Cru Experience: The ultimate vinotherapy ritual combining multiple treatments over several hours. Includes exfoliation, barrel bath, wrap, massage, and facial for comprehensive wine-based wellness.

Treatment Packages & Pricing

The spa offers à la carte treatments and multi-day packages. Individual treatments typically range from €80-200 depending on duration and complexity. Day packages combining multiple treatments range from €250-500.

Multi-night wellness packages include accommodations, meals, and comprehensive treatment protocols, with pricing varying based on room category and program length.

Spa Temporar Note

From Saturday, November 8th, 2025, to Saturday, April 25th, 2026, therapists will welcome guests at the pop-up Spa located at La Chartreuse du Château Le Thil. Guests will find the same quality of treatments while enjoying the unique and sumptuous setting of an 18th-century mansion, with shuttle service provided between Les Sources de Caudalie and La Chartreuse.

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The Accommodations: Vineyard Views & French Elegance

The hotel features 61 bedrooms and suites that balance French country charm with modern comfort and luxury amenities.

Room Categories

Classic Rooms: Entry-level accommodations offering essential comforts in elegantly appointed spaces. These rooms capture the French country aesthetic with vineyard views and quality furnishings.

Deluxe Rooms: Larger rooms with enhanced amenities and better positioning for vineyard views. The additional space and upgraded features make these worthwhile for longer stays.

Suites: Various suite categories provide separate living areas, more space, and premium amenities. Perfect for special occasions or guests wanting extra room to relax.

Lily Pond Lodges: Unique accommodations situated around a private pond, offering maximum privacy and connection to nature. These standalone lodges provide the most intimate experience on property.

Room Design Aesthetic

The décor channels elegant French countryside style: soft color palettes, quality linens, antique and reproduction furnishings, and artistic touches throughout. Rooms feel like staying in a sophisticated French country home rather than a generic luxury hotel.

Floor-to-ceiling windows or French doors open onto private terraces or balconies, most offering vineyard views. The connection to the surrounding landscape is emphasized throughout.

Room Amenities

• Vineyard or garden views (most rooms)
• Private terraces or balconies
• King or twin bed configurations
• Luxury linens and towels
• Caudalie bath products (full-size, perfect for trying the range)
• Flat-screen televisions
• WiFi throughout
• Mini-bars
• Work desks
• Climate control
• Bathrobes and slippers
• Nespresso machines (select rooms)

The Vineyard View Factor

Waking up to grapevines stretching toward the horizon, watching morning mist lift from the vines, or enjoying evening wine on a terrace overlooking the vineyard creates the romantic wine country experience guests come seeking.

The vineyard views aren’t just pretty backdrops. They’re integral to the property’s identity and the wellness philosophy connecting guests to nature, terroir, and the source of the treatments they’re experiencing.

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La Grand’Vigne: Two Michelin Stars Among the Vines

La Grand’Vigne is a Two Stars: Excellent cooking restaurant in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide France, providing genuine fine dining excellence in the vineyard setting.

Chef Nicolas Masse’s Vision

Acclaimed Chef Nicolas Masse takes guests on a gastronomic journey through the Aquitaine region by artfully combining local produce sourced from the hotel’s organic vegetable gardens with sophisticated technique and creative presentation.

The cuisine celebrates regional ingredients, seasonal availability, and the connection between food and wine that defines French gastronomy. Masse’s cooking respects tradition while incorporating contemporary techniques and artistic vision.

The Restaurant Setting

Inspired by 18th-century glasshouses, the two-Michelin star restaurant La Grand’Vigne is undoubtedly reason enough to visit the hotel. The glass-walled dining room overlooks the vineyards, creating the sensation of dining within the landscape.

Natural light floods the space during lunch service, while evening brings romantic candlelight and views of illuminated vines. The atmosphere feels elegant yet relaxed, sophisticated without being stuffy.

The Dining Experience

The two Michelin stars are well deserved and the experience is memorable. Service is impeccable, with knowledgeable staff guiding guests through wine pairings and menu selections.

Tasting menus showcase Masse’s seasonal creativity, while à la carte options allow selecting individual courses. The pace allows proper appreciation of each dish without feeling rushed.

The Wine Program

The wine list is vast (naturally), featuring extensive Bordeaux selections including many from Château Smith Haut Lafitte itself, plus bottles from other regions and countries. The sommelier team provides expert guidance for pairing wines with each course.

Guests can opt for sommelier pairings or select individual bottles. The program emphasizes discovery and education rather than intimidation, with staff enthusiastically sharing knowledge.

Dining Logistics

Reservations are essential, even for hotel guests. The restaurant is popular with both guests and Bordeaux area residents seeking exceptional dining.

Dress code is smart casual, though most diners dress up appropriately for the two-Michelin-star experience. Arrive hungry and leave time for an apéritif in the house bar beforehand.

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The Other Dining Options: From Bistro to Wine Bar

Beyond La Grand’Vigne, the property offers additional restaurants catering to different moods and occasions.

La Table du Lavoir

The country inn, with a “bistro” style menu, offers delicious and generous dishes crafted according to seasonal availability. This casual dining option provides excellent French cooking without the formality or pricing of La Grand’Vigne.

The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial, perfect for lunch after spa treatments or informal dinners when elaborate dining feels unnecessary. The food quality remains excellent despite the more casual positioning.

Le Bistrot du Boulanger

Additional casual dining featuring bistro classics, grilled meats, fresh salads, and comfort food. The outdoor terrace makes this ideal for warm weather dining.

Wine Bar & Lounge

The house bar has an old-school, gentleman’s club feel, and barkeeps who make a serious G&T. The wine bar offers extensive selection by the glass, allowing guests to explore Bordeaux wines without committing to full bottles.

Light bites and cheese plates complement the wine service, perfect for afternoon or evening relaxation.

Breakfast

Breakfast is typically included in room rates or available as addition. The spread includes fresh pastries, breads, French cheeses and charcuterie, fresh fruit, yogurt, and made-to-order eggs.

The dining room overlooking vineyards makes breakfast particularly pleasant, especially in good weather when terrace seating is available.

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Activities Beyond the Spa: Wine Tours, Gardens & More

While the spa and restaurants anchor most stays, the property offers additional activities that enhance the wine country experience.

Château Smith Haut Lafitte Wine Tours

Guests can tour the Grand Cru Classé vineyard and winery, learning about viticulture, winemaking, and the history of this prestigious estate. The tours include tastings of the château’s wines.

These tours provide context for the vinotherapy treatments and deepen appreciation for the wine culture surrounding the property.

Bordeaux Wine Region Excursions

The concierge arranges visits to other prestigious Bordeaux châteaux, wine villages, and attractions throughout the region. Options range from half-day tours to full-day excursions visiting multiple estates.

For serious wine enthusiasts, these excursions transform the stay from spa vacation to comprehensive wine country immersion.

Gardens & Nature Walks

Beautiful gardens surround the property, with walking paths winding through vineyards and natural areas. The grounds invite exploration on foot, providing peaceful outdoor time between treatments.

Bicycles are available for guests wanting to explore farther afield through the countryside.

Cooking Classes & Wine Workshops

Periodic cooking classes, wine education workshops, and other activities allow hands-on learning about French cuisine and wine culture.

These experiences add educational dimension to the stay, providing knowledge guests can apply at home.

Seasonal Activities

Summer brings outdoor events, vineyard picnics, and extended terrace hours. Fall harvest season offers special activities related to the grape harvest and winemaking process.

Each season provides distinct experiences connected to the vineyard’s annual cycle.

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The Caudalie Philosophy: French Art de Vivre Meets Wellness

What ultimately distinguishes Les Sources de Caudalie is the philosophy bringing everything together into coherent, meaningful experience.

The French Paradox Foundation

The French Paradox refers to the observation that the French enjoy rich food and wine yet maintain relatively good health outcomes. The property embraces this paradox, celebrating pleasure, good food, wine, and wellness as compatible rather than contradictory pursuits.

This philosophy rejects deprivation-based wellness in favor of balanced enjoyment of life’s pleasures combined with genuine care for health and beauty.

The Family Touch

Alice and Jérôme Tourbier’s work and passion have provided this site with the warmth of a family home while cultivating the attention to detail of the greatest luxury hotels. This family ownership shows throughout the property in thoughtful touches and genuine hospitality.

The property never feels corporate or cookie-cutter. It maintains authentic charm and personality that only family-owned establishments achieve.

Connection to Place & Terroir

Everything about Les Sources de Caudalie connects to its specific location: the hot spring water from beneath the property, the grape extracts from surrounding vines, the food sourced from local producers, the wine from the estate.

This deep connection to terroir creates authenticity and meaning that transcends generic luxury or arbitrary wellness concepts.

Beauty, Nature & Well-Being Combined

The property makes the senses pampered, bodies soothed and souls regenerated through combining natural beauty, scientific wellness, culinary excellence, and wine culture into holistic experience.

The goal extends beyond temporary relaxation to genuine rejuvenation and reconnection with pleasure, nature, and life’s beautiful elements.

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Who Should Book Les Sources de Caudalie

Perfect For:

Wine Lovers Anyone passionate about wine culture will find this property magical. The combination of vineyard setting, wine-based wellness, and access to exceptional wines creates wine lover’s paradise.

Couples Seeking Romance The vineyard setting, intimate spa treatments, Michelin-starred dining, and overall atmosphere make this ideal for romantic escapes, anniversaries, or honeymoons.

Wellness Seekers with Discerning Taste Travelers who appreciate high-quality spa experiences but want something more interesting than generic luxury spa hotels will love the unique vinotherapy focus.

Francophiles & Culture Enthusiasts The property celebrates French art de vivre beautifully, offering authentic immersion in French culture, cuisine, and countryside living.

Travelers Wanting Bordeaux Base Perfect for exploring the Bordeaux wine region while maintaining a luxurious, relaxing home base with exceptional amenities.

Food & Wine Tourists The Two-Michelin-star restaurant plus access to Bordeaux wine country attractions makes this outstanding choice for culinary tourism.

Not Ideal For:

Budget Travelers Five-star pricing, Michelin dining, and luxury spa treatments position this as splurge destination rather than budget option.

Families with Young Children The intimate, romantic atmosphere and wine focus make this better suited for adult travelers than families.

Non-Drinkers Uncomfortable with Wine Culture While abstaining from alcohol is perfectly acceptable, the entire property revolves around wine culture and celebration. Those uncomfortable with wine themes might feel out of place.

Urban Experience Seekers Located in countryside rather than city, this won’t appeal to travelers preferring urban hotels with easy walking access to restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.

Active Adventure Travelers While lovely for walking and cycling, this isn’t an adventure resort. Travelers seeking high-energy activities will find limited options.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Les Sources de Caudalie

How much does Les Sources de Caudalie cost per night?

Rates vary by season and room category, but expect approximately €300-500 for standard rooms and €500-800+ for suites during peak season. Rates often include breakfast. Special packages combining accommodations, meals, and spa treatments offer better value for wellness-focused stays.

Is breakfast included in room rates?

Breakfast is typically included with most rates, though verifying specific booking terms is recommended. The breakfast is excellent, featuring French pastries, quality products, and vineyard views.

Do vinotherapy treatments actually work?

The antioxidant properties of grape polyphenols are scientifically validated. Many guests report noticeably improved skin, better circulation, and overall rejuvenation after treatments. Results vary individually, but the science behind vinotherapy is legitimate rather than marketing fiction.

Can non-guests use the spa?

The spa primarily serves hotel guests, though day packages might be available during less busy periods. Booking is essential, and availability for non-guests varies seasonally.

Is a car necessary for staying at Les Sources de Caudalie?

Not essential but helpful for exploring the wider Bordeaux region. The hotel can arrange transfers and taxis, but having a car provides flexibility for visiting other châteaux and wine villages.

What’s the minimum recommended stay length?

Two to three nights allows experiencing the spa properly, dining at La Grand’Vigne, and exploring the estate without feeling rushed. Longer stays enable deeper relaxation and more comprehensive spa programs.

Can the hotel arrange wine tours?

Yes, the concierge arranges visits to other Bordeaux châteaux, wine villages, and regional attractions. Options range from half-day tours to full-day excursions throughout the wine region.

What should be packed for a spa-focused stay?

Comfortable clothing for spa time, swimwear for thermal baths, casual attire for daytime, elegant outfits for La Grand’Vigne, walking shoes for vineyard strolls, and minimal technology to support relaxation.

Are there vegetarian or dietary restriction options?

All restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. La Grand’Vigne particularly excels at creating excellent vegetarian tasting menus. Inform staff of any requirements when booking.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer ideal weather and beautiful vineyard scenery. Fall harvest season provides special atmosphere. Summer brings warm weather and outdoor activities, though it’s busiest season.

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Final Verdict: Wine Country’s Ultimate Wellness Escape

Les Sources de Caudalie delivers something genuinely unique in the luxury wellness landscape. This isn’t another generic spa hotel with nice facilities. It’s a thoughtfully conceived experience where wine culture, scientific wellness, French hospitality, and natural beauty converge into something special.

What Les Sources de Caudalie Does Exceptionally Well:

The vinotherapy concept provides genuine therapeutic benefits while creating distinctive identity. The treatments harness real science rather than just clever theming, delivering results alongside enjoyable experiences.

The vineyard setting is breathtaking and authentic, with the property deeply connected to the Château Smith Haut Lafitte estate and Bordeaux wine culture. This terroir-driven approach creates meaning and authenticity.

La Grand’Vigne’s two Michelin stars provide genuinely excellent dining without requiring leaving the property. The combination of world-class cuisine and comprehensive spa facilities is rare and valuable.

The family ownership maintains warmth, character, and attention to detail that corporate properties struggle to replicate. The property feels personal and loved rather than generic.

The Value Proposition:

At €300-800+ per night plus meals and treatments, Les Sources de Caudalie represents significant investment. Whether this delivers value depends on priorities and budget.

For wine lovers, couples seeking romance, or travelers wanting unique wellness experiences in beautiful settings, the property justifies pricing through quality, uniqueness, and comprehensive offerings.

For budget travelers or those indifferent to wine culture, countless more affordable wellness options exist throughout Europe.

The Transformation Factor:

Beyond relaxation, Les Sources de Caudalie transforms how guests think about wine, wellness, and the relationship between pleasure and health. The French Paradox philosophy—that enjoyment and wellbeing enhance rather than contradict each other—feels genuinely liberating.

Guests leave with glowing skin, relaxed bodies, and renewed appreciation for quality food, wine, nature, and beauty. Many also become devoted Caudalie product users after experiencing the treatments’ effectiveness.

Les Sources de Caudalie is a truly exceptional property that earned its international reputation as the temple of vinotherapy. For the right traveler seeking unique wellness experiences in magical vineyard settings, this property delivers memories and benefits that last long after checkout.

Ready to experience where wine meets wellness? Book your vineyard escape at Les Sources de Caudalie and discover why this property has enchanted travelers for over 25 years.

👉 Reserve Your Stay at Les Sources de Caudalie

Soak in wine barrel baths, indulge in Michelin-starred dining, and let the vineyards work their magic. Some wellness experiences are worth every penny—this is one of them.