Elite Traveler January-February 2018

INSPIRE TOP 100 HOTELS AMERICAS

elite traveler JAN/FEB 2018 51

POST RANCH INN BIG SUR, CALIFORNIA, USA

FOUR SEASONS RESORTHUALALAI KAILUA-KONA , HAWAII, USA

With an unbelievable location on top of a mountain ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Post Ranch Inn revels in its natural surroundings, and the suite known as the Cliff House — a freestanding structure with a deck suspended over the cliffs, 1,200ft above the ocean — is especially dramatic. Explore the beauty of Post Ranch with a guided nature hike or, come nighttime, gaze at the stars, nebulas and rings of Saturn through the resort’s powerful telescope. Though the inn had been welcoming guests by helicopter while a bridge on Highway 1 was closed, the famously scenic road has now reopened, allowing guests to take the iconic route by car once again. The Cliff House from $2,825 per night. Contact Liz Parker, reservations manager, liz@postranchinn.com, +1 831 667 2200, postranchinn.com

The Big Island conjures images of black-sand beaches, flowing lava, waterfalls, rainforests and, of course, Kona coffee. Here you can find 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones (it’s unsurprisingly missing the Cold Continental Climates, but you can still find snow atopMauna Kea), and the perfect place to explore them is Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. It has a large collection of suites and private homes — the three-bedroom Hawaii Loa Presidential Villa highlights indigenous art and history, and epitomizes indoor/outdoor living with its private lanai with hot tub and walk-out beach access. Hawaii Loa Presidential Villa, $17,000 per night. Contact Erin Santana, reservation manager, erin.santana@fourseasons.com, +1 808 325 8112, fourseasons.com/hualalai

INNAT LITTLEWASHINGTON WASHINGTON, VA, USA

BEVERLYWILSHIRE, BEVERLYHILLS (A FOUR SEASONS HOTEL) BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA, USA What do Elvis Presley, Warren Beatty and Queen Elizabeth II have in common? All have stayed at the BeverlyWilshire. The hotel oozes Hollywood glamour from the second you enter the marble-adorned lobby. Steps from the Rodeo Drive stores, it’s the perfect spot for an indulgent trip, and perhaps reenacting Pretty Woman , filmed in the penthouse. There’s a world-class spa, and the very first Cut byWolfgang Puck is located here. It also boasts the largest and most expensive suite in Beverly Hills, the Penthouse Suite, with a wraparound terrace, media room and dining room. Penthouse Suite from $25,000 per night. Contact Julie Plateado, assistant reservations manager, julie.plateado@fourseasons.com, +1 310 275 5200, fourseasons.com/beverlywilshire

MEADOWOODNAPAVALLEY ST HELENA, CALIFORNIA, USA

For a luxury wine-country getaway, look no further than Meadowood. Situated just off Napa’s Silverado Trail, the resort is hidden away in the woods on a private 250-acre estate. Offering hundreds of legendary wines, outstanding winery tours and daily tastings, fine wine is an integral part of life here. The three-Michelin-starred restaurant, The Restaurant at Meadowood, has a delectable menu dictated by the seasons. Pair with one of the 1,200 wines on offer in the cellar. The accommodations are charming lodges and expansive suites with beamed ceilings, chic neutral decor and cozy fireplaces. Estate Room from $11,200 per night. Contact Rob Harrison, director of guest relations, rharrison@meadowood.com, +1 877 963 3646, meadowood.com

Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the Inn at LittleWashington is a culinary institution positioned just 67 miles west of the US capital. Run by chef/proprietor Patrick O’Connell, this property is a serene oasis overlooked by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Enjoy breakfast while watching deer graze, get cozy by the fire in the main house and ensure you are seated at The Kitchen Table to be part of the action over dinner. The accommodations are spread over six distinct buildings, which are all unique but share the same level of luxury and charm. The two-bedroomClaiborne House is perfect for small families looking for privacy, while the Gamekeepers Cottage is ideal for romantic weekends. Claiborne House from$2,500 per night. Contact reservations@theinnatlittlewashington.com, +1 540 675 3800, theinnatlittlewashington.com

Photos Barbara Kraft, Meadowood Napa Valley