The Most Beautiful Hotels in Saint-Emilion

Saint-Émilion, with its châteaux, vineyards, and grand crus… The region is renowned for its wine-tasting getaways after a visit to Bordeaux. Discover the most beautiful hotels in this small town in southwestern France, steeped in a heritage that is the pride of France. 

These establishments are racking up stars, both for their accommodations and their exceptional restaurants. Nestled among the vineyards, these high-end spots are a must-try during your stay in Saint-Emilion.

Château Hôtel Grand Barrail

Set in an idyllic setting, this five-star hotel quickly established itself as one of the The Most Beautiful Hotels in Saint-Emilion since its opening in the spring of 2023. This château, built in 1902, is nestled in the heart of a three-hectare park. It’s the perfect spot for a getaway to Bordeaux without staying in the city, or for exploring the many nearby wineries that have made the region famous. Vineyards are everywhere, surrounding the estate. The view stretches as far as the eye can see from the terrace and the gardens, the spa and the pool. 

This celebration of local heritage continues in the restaurant run by Quentin Merlet, a native of Bordeaux. The chef presents a menu that changes with the seasons, showcasing the best of the southwestern region, to be enjoyed in the «Mauresque» dining room—with its Baroque style, stained-glass windows, and oriental paintings—or in the elegant Grand Salon. Not to mention the superb wine list. Delicious picnics are also available for those taking a bike ride through the vineyards. 

As for accommodations, nine rooms are located in the castle and offer a regal atmosphere, while the other 37 rooms are located in the annexes and feature a more modern design. 

Hôtel de Pavie

Nestled on the hills above Saint-Emilion, the Hôtel de Pavie is steeped in history. Once a convent, then a coaching inn during the Revolution, an inn, and later a dance hall after World War II, the Perse family—the owners—has restored the property into a five-star hotel, certified Relais & Châteaux.

The estate features 22 mostly contemporary rooms spread across the Maison du Clocher, the Maison du Village, and the Maison des Suites. The main building, meanwhile, houses the gourmet restaurant a two-star restaurant helmed by Yannick Alléno, which draws inspiration from the produce of southwestern France while showcasing local recipes. And of course, the exquisite selection of Grands Crus is well worth a visit. The region’s finest wines can also be enjoyed at L’Envers du Décor, a historic bar in Saint-Émilion.

The best part? The breathtaking view of the vineyards, the Château du Roy tower, and the rooftops of the medieval village from the terrace. A guaranteed escape.

Château Troplong Mondot

This 18th-century mansion overlooks the Château Troplong vineyard, a 1er A Grand Cru Classé B whose reputation is well established. These fine wines, along with those from the estate’s cellar, can be savored at the one-star and one-green-star restaurant Les Belles Perdrix, run by David Charrier. The excellent dishes are certainly the result of top-notch culinary expertise, but also of local ingredients, many of which are harvested directly from the estate’s vegetable garden. 

All that’s left is to choose your room from a wide selection. Some are located in the castle itself, while others are tucked away in two other houses not far from the property. In addition to their fireplaces, terraces, and living rooms, these rooms open up to the outdoors—much to our delight. 

The stay is rounded out by the many tours offered by Château Troplong Mondot, such as Range Rover excursions to Explore the estate during the grape harvest or the blending process at the winery. And for a truly romantic experience, book a picnic lunch to enjoy a meal from the restaurant amidst the vineyards.