It's been raining non-stop here in Northern California. Though the watery deluge is nothing compared to what my family in Seattle experiences every year, I'm hoping that spring kicks in soon, so I can get a much needed infusion of sunshine and Vitamin D.

On yet another one of these global warming induced weird weather days, I found myself headed to Yountville, renowned gourmet hot spot and primo wine country destination. My mission was to have a Bardessono "experience", exploring the pleasures of this relatively new, green, luxury hotel, spa and restaurant.

Impressive in any weather, Bardessono's clean lines and modern aesthetic were a welcome distraction from the storm. As I entered the main lobby, decorated with stunning art that evokes the work of Andy Goldsworthy, I noticed rain filling an infinity pond in the main courtyard to overflowing, amplifying the natural beauty of this stone influenced water feature.

Divided into four seperate compounds, "Magnolia", "Cypress", "Birch" and "Olive", Bardessono's rooms are carefully crafted works of design and function. As one of the only LEED Platinum certified hotels in the country, Bardessono's commitment to green hospitality is high. I was delighted on entering my room in the "Birch" compound to discover the many eco-friendly features thoughtfully interspersed throughout. From the filtered "house" water in clear glass milk style bottles stocked in the fridge, to the heat and light produced by solar and geothermal, Bardessono demonstrates its desire to provide guests a luxurious experience, while simultaneously leaving a light carbon footprint.

Bardessono has also been designed with the spa in mind, featuring guest accommodations that can easily be transformed into spa treatment rooms. Massage, body and even facial therapies can all be experienced from the comfort of your own room. State of the art jacuzzi tubs, steam rooms in the showers and a massage area are all features of most of Bardessono's guest suites.

I was looking forward to my 60 minute in-room "Bardessono Massage", but first I wanted to take a look at the out-of-room, main spa area in the hotel courtyard. This fully equipped spa features four treatment rooms for those who prefer to receive treatments outside of their guest suites. Infra-red saunas and showers are available in each of the seperate men and women's locker rooms and the spa shop carries a variety of natural body care products, yoga wear, jewelry and other unique merchandise.

After a relaxing 1/2 hour in the spa's infrared sauna, I returned to my room to receive my massage. Wilmer Espaillat, my therapist, greeted me cheerfully and then promptly placed a warm lavender bag around my neck as he asked me questions about what areas needed work.

It was clear from the moment he begin that I was in good hands with Wilmer. With an experienced touch and a soothing infusion of warm towels and aromatherapy oils, I spent the next sixty minutes in a state of deep relaxation. When my too-short massage was over, Wilmer started the bath in the roomy tub, lit candles and left me alone to enjoy all the comforts of my spa suite. With In Fiore bathroom amenities, including a luscious blend of bath salts, I was more than happy to enjoy some quality time in the tub.

In the afternoon, when the rain had miraculously stopped for awhile, I took advantage of Bardessono's complementary on-site Orbea bicycle collection and took a ride along the nearby Silverado Trail. With a breathtaking view of vineyards on one side and the California hills on the other, I leisurely explored the surrounding area, appreciating the momentary warmth of the late afternoon sunshine.

Returning to Bardessono, I decided to check out the pool area, which features a 75 foot lap pool and hot tub, as well as yet one more spectacular view of the nearby mountains. After enjoying the hot tub, I took another tour of the spa's infra-red sauna before heading back to my room.

Turn-down service at Bardessono is designed to ensure sweet dreams. Besides the usual pillow-fluff, Bardessono offers a lavender aromatherapy product called Naturopatch that you can apply to help you enjoy a soothing and relaxing sleep.

Even the return of the rain the next morning didn't dampen my pleasurable experience of Bardessono. After a cozy complimentary breakfast in the hotel restaurant, featuring home baked pastries, a main breakfast entree and Blue Bottle organic coffee and teas, I leisurely read the morning paper before preparing my leave of this modern eco-palace.

Bardessono
(707) 204 6000
6526 Yount Street Yountville, CA 94599