Nancy D
Google
This property, and every aspect of it, are simply the best--among the finest all-inclusive properties I've ever stayed at. We stayed in one of the 6 newly built Casitas (completed in September or so; with 2 people per room, that currently puts maximum occupancy at 12 people). The views from every room and angle of the Casita are spectacular, overlooking the vast vineyards. To the left upon entry (we were in the Viognier Casita, closest to the Residence--the property's main structure, about a 3 minute walk from our Casita), was a spacious living area, with comfortable chairs, a desk, mini-fridge stocked with waters and sodas, as well as much appreciated milk for morning coffee, Nespresso machine, with sliding doors that opened to a lovely balcony. To the right of the entry was the most spacious closet I've ever experienced, with luxurious hanging space, shelves, drawers, and mirrors. On the other side of that was the amazing bedroom, with three walls of glass with full views of the vineyards (2 of which opened onto balconies, one accessing a table and chairs, the other accessing a walkway to the plunge pool). One need not fret about light peeking into the glass enclosed bedroom (I always travel with a sleeping mask), because they have Lutron (or equivalent) automated blackout blinds, which transform the bedroom into a completely darkened sleeping space (--lighting and electrical throughout the Casita was impressive, state-of-the-art, but is Chilean outlets). The bathrooms have every amenity imaginable, and include a divine tub, walk in shower (rain head and hand held shower heads), with heated towel bars. The bathrooms have a separately enclosed toilet area, hooks for robes or towels, have two complete sink areas with an array of L'Occitane products, and that amazing view of the vineyards. Every meal was to perfection and overseen by the omnipresent--in a most welcome way-- by the very knowledgeable and helpful sommelier, Dragan, for whom nothing was too much of an ask. He, and the rest of the staff provided excellent service (and Dragan gave an incredible tour of the very impressive Bodega--one of the most beautiful I've seen anywhere, with stunning lighting, layouts, artful designs, and a multi-storied spiral staircase down to a two story private family cavernous cellar). They offer a golf cart ride from the Residence to and from the Casitas, but we preferred to walk. There are onsite horseback rides and massages (we choose to walk the property, where we saw a peacock, a condor, and the original structure from before the Casitas were built). The food was sublime, with every lunch and dinner being accompanied by a personalized menu (they clear food allergies/preferences in advance and are open to requests), a three piece apertif course, which in our case always included a delicious and most anticipated mini empanada plus two other items, a starter, an entree, and dessert. Breakfasts included an extensive buffet of fruits, baked goods, homemade jams, smoked fish, as well as a menu to order egg and other options from. Everything was Michelin quality in presentation and taste, and well portioned. Clos Apalta arranged for our transfers to and from local wineries for tours/tastings, and was able to get us a last minute reservation for lunch at nearby (1.5 miles) Fuegos de Apalta, by Francis Mallman (--it was a hard decision to give up our last lunch at Clos Apalta--since their lunches are really excellent, but Fuegos de Apalta was such a different experience, we are grateful that Clos Apalta enabled us to have it). Every aspect of Clos Apalta was flawless. The Casitas, the dining, the amazing wines, the experience, and the service were incredible. At the end, we left a group tip of about 10% on our credit card, which was well deserved by the excellent and hard working staff. Highly recommend this property.
