Heather Lindstrom 5/20/20 Heather Lindstrom 5/20/20

A Mediterranean Style Getaway: the Kenwood Inn & Spa in Sonoma Valley Wine Country

If you zip around the corner too fast on the Sonoma Highway you may miss it, but if you slow down you will see a charming glimpse of the Mediterranean in Kenwood that may make you blink twice. I typically travel to Italy a couple of times a year and this place has a similar feel without risking those uncertain international flights right now. Vine-covered Mediterranean style architecture, wrought iron embellishments, gurgling fountains, pergolas wrapped with fragrant blossoms, and terracotta pots filled with citrus have that quintessential Med feel. On Valentine’s Day weekend, not long before the two months quarantine began, my husband gifted me with a 3-day stay at the old-world style Kenwood Inn & Spa in Sonoma Valley, California.

The Kenwood Inn & Spa in Sonoma valley, California

If you zip around the corner too fast on the Sonoma Highway you may miss it, but if you slow down you will see a charming glimpse of the Mediterranean in Kenwood that may make you blink twice. I typically travel to Italy a couple of times a year and this place has a similar feel without risking those uncertain international flights just now. Vine-covered Mediterranean style architecture, wrought iron embellishments, gurgling fountains, pergolas wrapped with fragrant blossoms, and terracotta pots filled with citrus have that quintessential Med feel. On Valentine’s Day weekend, not long before the two months quarantine began, my husband gifted me with a 3-day stay at the old-world style Kenwood Inn & Spa in Sonoma Valley, California.

A video tour of our spacious suite at the Kenwood Inn

Kenwood Inn & Spa in wine country by Heather Lindstrom, luxury travel advisor, at Curated Travel.

On Valentine’s Day we indulged in 80-minute massages at the newly reimagined Kenwood Spa located just off the pool lined with luxurious private cabanas. We also enjoyed the largest spa (complete with waterfall) we’ve ever seen located just off our suite. Sunbathing on a cool day in February felt truly luxurious.

That evening Chef Sam Badolato was the featured chef for the private Pop-up Valentine’s Day Dinner. He and his staff served up a delectable five-course prix-fixe menu and wine pairing, locally sourced with an Italian twist and we enjoyed every foodie bite.

The Kenwood Inn is located near wineries, cafes and some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. We enjoyed an extensive tasting at Kunde, just a hop, skip and a jump from the Inn, as well as a delightful alfresco lunch at Salt and Stone. Other favorite wineries include Deerfield Ranch Winery, Wellington Cellars, St. Anne’s Crossing, Ledson and the Mayo Reserve Room.

If you live in Northern California as we do, the wine country is an easy road trip from just about everywhere. A short trip to this ‘Mediterranean’ escape may be the perfect getaway for you. To learn more about wine country and The Kenwood Inn and Spa please contact us to book your next wine country getaway. Thanks to my sweet husband for the perfect gift for this travel advisor who loves the Mediterranean and wine country. x

Ciao!

Heather

Curated Hotel: 3 Days at the Chic Le Blanc Spa Resort in Los Cabos

I’ve had my eye on the chic, contemporary Le Blanc Spa Resort brand since it first opened in Cancun years ago. I’m attracted to the spa themed luxury and all-incluisive adults only property for a truly relaxing vibe. When I was offered a chance to the visit the newest Le Blanc resort in Los Cabos I jumped at the chance.

I was greeted at the airport by a private driver and enjoyed the scenic 20 minute drive along the golden corridor to Le Blanc Spa Resort. First steps, a private check-in, proffered welcome drink, a cool, scented mini towel, and a tour of my suite by my kindly personal butler, Omar. He took special care to acquaint me with the conveniences and smart technology of my spacious suite, including an app to communicate wishes and requests directly to my personal butler. Talk about feeling spoiled!

A tour of the luxurious spa suite at Le Blanc

Le Blanc offers a range of amenties including your choice of aromatherapy, scented pillow, hand-crafted soaps of your choice and butler drawn baths at your selected time (complete with your favorite aromatherapy and rose petals). Definitely an after dinner treat to savour!

For dinner I met the small group of luxury travel advisors exploring Le Blanc with me. We enjoyed a refreshing drink, a sunset dinner by the sea and live music in the lounge as well as lively conversation. By the end of our 3 days together we felt like we had known each other forever. #girlstrip

The next morning our small group of luxury travel advisors enjoyed a personalized tour of the resort from Le Blanc brand rep, Maria.

I’m always up for some pool time and we had two full afternoons built in for enjoying the pools and beach. The service at Le Blanc, including poolside staff offering cucumber slices for the eyes and a mini-massage, is fantastic. I also noticed there were many cabanas, lounge areas and 4 pools so it was easy to find as much quiet time or socializing time as you like.

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Luckily for us, a spa day with massage was built in to our schedule. As our host, Kalan, reinforeced that we needed to experience all the amenities of Le Blanc. Honestly, my 50 minute massage was one of the best I’ve ever experienced. The water treatment program from sauna, to cold room, to therapeutic pools (hot/cold/whirlpools) makes you feel completely relaxed and yet renewed. I highly recommend the spa and wellness programs at Le Blanc.

There are a number of culinary options at Le Blanc. We enjoyed several of the food restaurants as well as ensuite dining during our stay. Learn more about dining at Le Blanc.

The view from my suite at Le Blanc

Following my visit to Le Blanc Spa Resort I was given several fantastic packages to share with my travel clients including $1500 resort credit, packages that include $500 off air, unlimited golf packages, and much more. Contact me for more info and to book your dream vacation to Le Blanc! Special offers through December 31st, 2019.

As you can see, Le Blanc is perfect for a couple’s romantic getaway, a girlfriends’ spa trip, an adults only desination wedding or a super romantic honeymoon or celebration trip.

My thanks to Kalan, Maria and Le Blanc for the invitation to experience Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos. I’m a big fan!

Heather Lindstrom 3/6/19 Heather Lindstrom 3/6/19

Curated Hotels: Our Stay in Tuscan Luxury at Castel Monastero in the Heart of Chianti

It may be just a quick view, or an image, that stays in your mind. I spotted vibrant images of Castel Monastero when they first opened as a boutique resort and I jumped at the chance to visit when offered. Mr. C.T. and I spent two nights immersed in Tuscan luxury at Castel Monastero last fall. Days were spent exploring the dappled beauty of winding roads adorned with vineyards, discovering foodie gems, wine tasting at a local winery and getting acquainted with the locals. Evenings spent enjoying Michelin star dining at Contrada and these glimmering sunsets from the terrace.

Mr. C.T. and I spent two nights immersed in Tuscan luxury at Castel Monastero last fall. Days were spent exploring the dappled beauty of winding roads adorned with vineyards, discovering foodie gems, wine tasting at a local winery and getting acquainted with the locals. Evenings were spent enjoying Michelin star dining at Contrada and these glimmering sunsets from the terrace.

Castel Monastero is located in an ancient monastery near Siena in Tuscany. Known for it’s Michelin star dining, rustic luxe decor and stellar wellness and spa experiences, Castel Monastero is the perfect getaway, off the beaten path, in Tuscany.

HISTORY OF CASTEL MONASTERO
“The origins of Castel Monastero are lost in the history of Medieval Tuscany. The castle is mentioned for the first time, under the name of Sarna, in 1044. Afterwards, from 1050, it is cited more and more often with the name of Monastero, in connection with nearby Berardenga Abbey.
From the early years of the 12TH century to at least the beginning of the 14th, it was home to a branch of the Berardenghi family and in 1202 it belonged to the Commune of Siena administration system.
It was besieged but without success by the Florentines in 1208 and conquered in 1270 by Guido di Montfort who used it as a an outpost against the city of Siena. Bought by the noble Sienese Chigi Saracini family, it became their country house, a place designated for hunting and harvesting the fruit of the vines in the castle territories.
At the end of an accurate restoration process aiming at reinstating its ancient splendour, it is today ready to welcome our guests.
Almost ten centuries of history await you there.” - Castel Monastero

Your Dream Place: Castel Monastero is waiting for you, find out where we are and how to reach the destination of your dreams. Castel Monastero and its splendid hotel spa, just 23 km from Siena, offer you the exciting chance to try something new every day. We are ready to welcome you.

A tour of our rustic luxe suite at Castel Monastero

A view of our suite at Castel Monastero

The inviting pool at Castel Monastero

Dinner at Contrada, a Michelin Guide restaurant and a true foodie dining experience.

“An 11th-century walled hamlet surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, Castel Monastero transports guests to another place and time — that is, one with a transformative spa and much-touted restaurant. The 74 individually appointed guestrooms and suites are rustically elegant, and the spa offers personalized programs to revitalize and detox. The ancient wine cellar offers more relaxed repasts. Go bike riding, play golf or polo, join the kitchen team for an Italian cooking class or take a hot-air balloon ride over the Tuscan hills.”

— Virtuoso

Our thanks to our friend, Graziella Arba, for arranging this stay for us. Thanks for the staff for making us feel so welcomed.

To learn more about Castel Monastero, Virtuoso Amenities and upgrades, and to book online.

2019 Virtuoso Amenities

Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

Complimentary buffet breakfast for up to two in room guests
Welcome in room amenity Castello di Monastero Wine
$100 USD equivalent Resort/Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
For stays of 4 nights or more, one complimentary 3 courses lunch in our Tuscan restaurant La Cantina for up to 2 guest

To book a stay at Castel Monastero contact me at Curated Travel.

Heather Lindstrom 2/2/19 Heather Lindstrom 2/2/19

A Sumptuous Stay and Spa Experience at Bagni Di Pisa & Grotta Giusti in Tuscany

Our next stop on our spa getaway to Tuscany was the classic Italian spa retreat at Bagni Di Pisa. Here we enjoyed gourmet dining, fine wines with our impressive sommelier and luxurious spa treatments. One of the most interesting elements to this retreat is the history. Our two room suite, loaded with classic Italian charm, was a sumptuous blend of luxury and historic style. Was it the Dalai Lama or Richard Gere that stayed in our suite?

Our next stop on our spa getaway to Tuscany was the classic Italian spa retreat at Bagni Di Pisa. Here we enjoyed gourmet dining, fine wines with our impressive sommelier and luxurious spa treatments. One of the most interesting elements to this retreat is the history. Our two-room suite, loaded with classic Italian charm, was a sumptuous blend of luxury and historic style. Was it the Dalai Lama or Richard Gere that stayed in our suite?

“The majestic spa residence was originally built in 1743 for Francesco Stefano of Lorena, the Grand Duke of Tuscany. Over the centuries, it has hosted royalty, dignitaries, and celebrities as the destination of choice for a relaxing retreat with unrivalled wellness offerings. Today, Bagni di Pisa is world renowned for as a hotel and spa that honours the 18th century charm with frescoed ceilings, extravagant furnishings, floral gardens and captivating nature. With a collection of pools and thermal treatment rooms, ancient treasures of art and history, innovative wellness facilities and delectable culinary masterpieces, Bagni di Pisa is where one can truly disconnect from the world and immerse into to a world of beauty and healing.”

— Bagni di Pisa

Our suite, where celebrities and inspirational leaders alike have stayed, was luxurious and cozy at the same time. Italian Hospitality Collection was delightfully generous to welcome us with fruits, wine and sweets.

A tour of our suite featuring Mr. C.T.

The next day we took a trip to Grotta Giusti to experience the thermal spas and underground grotto. Celebratory cocktails and dinner followed our revitalizing day at the spa with our final night on the spa tour. What we had with this group of new friends exploring spas in Tuscany.

“A PLACE OF DISCOVERY AND REVELATION.
OUR REFURBISHED HOTEL WITH SPA, SET IN THE TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE.
A nineteenth-century villa, restored to its original splendour with meticulous care and attention to every detail. Today it welcomes guests with inlaid wood floors, refurbished rooms, parquet flooring, new lighting, new colours that enhance the rooms and the mood, and all the comforts of a beautiful hotel. It is elegantly furnished, decorated with frescoes, surrounded by an age-old park, and has a unique thermal spa.
Inside unexpected treasures await: a unique and wonderful grotto, a thermal spring, a deep, warm underground lake and spectacular chambers, where the temperature is set as if it were a living and breathing organism.
The villa above the grotto is now a place where you can experience a kind of new harmony, with the Equilibrium method. Water, stone, heat, art and history all make it a place that heals and comforts. Discover the splendid new Grotta Giusti where you can reconnect with nature, like a new discovery and a new revelation.”

— Grotta Giusti

Learn more on Bagni di Pisa and Grotta Giusti. If you are interested in booking a spa getaway I highly recommend these resorts as well as Fonteverde from my previous post. Contact me to book VIP perks and upgrades on an unforgettable spa getaway in Italy. Contact Curated Travel.

Our thanks to Cristina Morellini and the Italian Hospitality Collection for the warm welcome and generous hospitality.

Heather Lindstrom 1/11/19 Heather Lindstrom 1/11/19

Our Spa Getaway to Fonteverde in Tuscany with Italian Hospitality Collection

Last fall I received an invitation to visit a collection of spa resorts, the Italian Hospitality Collection, in Tuscany. Let’s just say our host, Cristina Morellini, had me at ‘ciao!’ with this invitation. I’m a fan of spa hotels in general and when they are based in Tuscany I’m over the moon. Our first stop on the itinerary was the classically beautiful Fonteverde Spa resort located in San Casciano dei Bagni. A scenic train ride from Rome, a lift from our private driver, and we arrived at this blissful spot with the goal of relaxation and rejuvenation Tuscan style.

Last fall I received an invitation to visit a collection of spa resorts, the Italian Hospitality Collection, in Tuscany. Let’s just say our host, Cristina Morellini, had me at ‘ciao!’ with this invitation. I’m a fan of spa hotels in general and when they are based in Tuscany I’m over the moon. Our first stop on the itinerary was the classically beautiful Fonteverde Spa resort located in San Casciano Dei Bagni. A scenic train ride from Rome, a lift from our private driver, and we arrived at this blissful spot with the goal of relaxation and rejuvenation Tuscan style.

The invitation included:

Spa treatments for couples at Thalaquam & Salidarium Spa

Cooking Class with Chef Salvatore Quarto at Casina delle Rose

Private Wine tasting at La Bottiglieria

Dinners at Restaurant Ferdinando I

Upon arrival we were introduced to our small group of travel companions and lovely Cristina, our host. An al fresco lunch was served on the terrace and we felt like we had arrived in Tuscan heaven!

After lunch we settled into our spacious 2-room suite with walk-in closet accented by a wrap around terrace with sublime views of Tuscany. It’s always a nice touch to receive amenities and Cristina and Fonteverde thought of every detail to make us feel right at home.

We were scheduled to enjoy the couples spa experiences in the Thalaquam & Salidarium Spa. I can’t say enough how much we enjoyed the treatments and the healing waters of the thermal pools. Following massages, salt pool floats, warm salt bed treatments and a dip in the rain in the thermal pool, we were on cloud nine. I’ll never forget the moment of floating on the edge of that infinity-edged pool looking over Tuscany.

Pure Bliss!

That evening we enjoyed a master class wine tasting at La Bottiglieria with our handsome sommelier and were educated on some of the finer points of Tuscan reds. Our beautiful host, Cristina, demonstrated how to drink in an efficient, two-handed style (she said it’s the Italy way and I believe her ;). Let’s just say the word “luxurious” was used at one point to describe all variety of things on our trip forward after this “luxurious” wine tasting. We had such a ball with this group of travelers!

The next morning, our pasta making class with Chef Salvatore Quarto at Casina delle Rose was a first for us. We were excited as making pasta in Italy has been on our bucketlist forever. Our class handrolled each strand of pasta and there was a great sense of accomplishment when we were ready to go to ‘boil’. The pici with cheese and pepper was simple, satisying and tasty. Chef Salvatore was so kind as to share the recipe with us. DM me for details!

After breakfast we enjoyed a tour of the property including the church, Santa Maria ad Balneal, that resides on property in the park. Along with the terraces and magnificent views, this location is perfect for a wedding or special event infused with history and Tuscan charm.

“Fonteverde is truly one of the most outstanding destinations in Italy. Originally built as a renaissance palace for the Grand Duke Ferdinando I de’ Medici, the resort overlooks the majestic rolling hills of Val d’Orcia, and is set atop the natural hot springs to fully utilise the healing power of the thermal waters. With its collection of panoramic pools, hot tubs and treatment facilities, Fonteverde is destination where mind, body and soul meet in harmony, and restore the natural balance of life. Discover a resort and spa in Tuscany where Italian hospitality meets absolute wellness.”

— Fonteverde

To learn more about a spa getaway in Tuscany at Fonteverde, contact me for more information. This is the perfect location for a romantic getaway, girlfriends’ spa trip or special event such as a family reunion or a wedding filled with pure Tuscan charm.

Thank you to Cristina Morellini and the Italian Hospitality Collection for the warm welcome and generous hospitality at Fonteverde.

Up next: Bagni di Pisa

Heather Lindstrom 9/25/18 Heather Lindstrom 9/25/18

Curated Hotel: An Idyllic Stay at Montage Los Cabos

An idyllic stay at Montage Los Cabos. I was pleased to see that the itinerary included a stay at the luxurious Montage Los Cabos, and for 24 hours or so, everything slowed down to a relaxing vibe Montage style.

My recent trip to Los Cabos was filled to the brim with visits to luxury resorts, a gourmet dinner on the beach, foodie experiences and spa treatments thanks to Journese, Los Cabos Tourism and my travel agency, CADENCE. I was also pleased to see that the itinerary included a stay at the luxurious Montage Los Cabos, and for 24 hours or so, everything slowed down to a relaxing vibe Montage style.

From the moment we arrived at Montage Los Cabos we were treated with an elevated level of service. From scented cool towelettes to a signature cocktail, to personalized lounge style check-ins, our every need seemed to be anticipated by the welcoming staff. As you can see, there is an air of relaxed luxury to this desert oasis on Santa Maria Bay. The stunning architecture sets the backdrop for a truly memorable stay.

Within a few minutes of our arrival I was introduced to my lovely guide, Karina, and was whisked away to my suite.

Pinch me, I’m dreaming!!

My second floor suite was a brilliant combination of natural wood elements, luxurious fabrics, authentic Mexican decor with a beachy vibe and all the comforts of home. The spacious balcony with serene views of the desert and sea beyond was a true sanctuary. The oversized spa bathroom had me at ‘hello outdoor shower’. I always appreciate a luxurious bath and this one is my favorite. The outdoor shower is just plain sexy!

Enjoy this video tour of my suite!

A tour of my suite at Montage Los Cabos for Curated Travel.

“Perched upon the premier beachfront in all of Cabo and set within the renowned master planned community of Twin Dolphin, Montage Los Cabos features 122 expansive guestrooms, suites and casas along with 52 Montage Residences. Montage Los Cabos’ location, including 39 acres on the pristine and gentle waters of Santa Maria Bay, has spectacular views and unique in the Los Cabos region, features remarkable walk-in access to the finest swimming, snorkeling and diving in the region. ”

— Montage Los Cabos

The spa area at Montage is sublime. I enjoyed a 50 minute baja massage in one of the zen garden suites. I felt like a new woman after the treatment, I promise you. Afterwards, we were welcomed with prosecco and delicious bites at the relaxing spa pool area.

There are a variety of pool options at Montage including the cabana pool with private butler service which is exceptional. The beach is one of the few swimable beaches in Los Cabos which allows for a variety of water sports, from snorkeling, diving, fishing, paddleboarding and more for the active traveler.

Following our spa treatments and poolside cabana time we were given a private tour of the entire resort and the extraordinary private villas. Later we dined at Mezcal and enjoyed a true foodie experience.

I found these decadent little succulents - made of chocolate and creamy ganache - in my suite just before bedtime.

Talk about sweet dreams!

I highly recommend a stay at Montage Los Cabos for a romantic retreat (you may never leave that luscious spa suite with an outdoor shower!), a girlfriends’ spa getaway, a couples’ trip or a destination wedding, celebration, or family reunion in one of the spacious villas on property. This destination works equally well for a variety of travel experiences and it’s one of my favorite destinations in Los Cabos.

Contact me to book this memorable getaway and to upgrade you VIP style here.

Learn more about farm-to-table dining in Los Cabos.

Many thanks to my team at CADENCE Travel, Montage Los Cabos, and Los Cabo On-Time Transfers for the luxury stay in Los Cabos.