Relais & Chateaux Roundup :

As temperatures drop in New York City, conversations turn to where to go to enjoy the snow, and where to go to escape it.

The winter is the perfect season to splurge on a hotel stay. Temperatures – whether hot or cold – encourage relaxation and soaking up the experience of memorable meals, spa treatments, and time spent with loved ones. One of my favorite ways to splurge is with a Relais & Chateaux weekend. This collection of luxury hotels delivers on two things that are important to me for a special getaway: strong character and delicious food. Whether located an hour from my doorstep or tucked into the French Alps, these properties all deliver a level of excellence worthy of a splurge.

Here are some suggestions for special hotel weekend getaways — in the US and abroad — that are all perfect winter getaways.

Xara Palace
For warm weather instead of snowy slopes, head to the island of Malta, just off the coast of Sicily. Here high above the island in a medieval walled city is Xara Palace. Exploring the quiet streets of Mdina and stumbling upon the sandstone building that houses Xara Palace is one the most distinct moments of my time spent in Malta. Take a seat in the dining room before sunset and watch the entire island of Malta change colors right before your eyes. This property has all the characteristics of what makes the Relais and Chateaux collection one that I trust: history, a true sense of place, and an experience that can’t be mimicked elsewhere. Phone: +356 0 21 450 560

Sheen Falls Lodge
The countryside of Ireland might not have a reputation for gourmet fare, but Sheen Falls Lodge is one glowing exception. Located outside Kenmare in County Kerry, Sheen Falls Lodge is an ideal home base for exploring the nearby Ring of Kerry. While the scenery around the lodge is fantastic, you might be tempted to take a seat by the fireplace and order a hot drink instead. Not only does this hotel offer one of the best breakfasts I’ve ever eaten, but the evening dining experience with the rushing River Sheen in the background is unforgettable. Don’t miss the tour of the impressive wine cellar during a visit. The helpful sommelier will help you to pair wines with your meals throughout your visit. Phone: +353 0 64 664 1600

Glenmere Mansion
Located just 50 miles from New York City in the lower Hudson Valley, this Tuscan-inspired villa provides a serene escape from the city. This Gilded Age mansion perched on a hill is the perfect example of what makes a Relais & Chateaux property so special. Beyond the luxurious soaking tubs and fireplaces, this hotel has a charismatic innkeeper, a great story of how it was restored, and two divine restaurants to choose between. Dine at the formal Supper Room when you’re craving something elegant, or take a seat by the fireplace in the casual Frog’s End Tavern for upscale comfort food. Phone: 845.469.1900

Chalet du Mont D’Arbois
Travelers looking to embrace the snowy season should consider a trip to Megeve, France. Not only will you have the opportunity to hit the slopes, but this Relais & Chateaux property is home to Le 1920, a restaurant with classic French service. Add a little romance into a snow getaway by dining at Le 1920 while snow falls just beyond the French doors. While the Alps are known for skiing, this retreat provides plenty of entertainment for travelers that don’t ski. Between shopping in Megeve and spa treatments at the chalet, non-skiers won’t have any problems staying occupied. Don’t return home without a serious sampling of the cheese cart. Phone: +33 0 450 21 25 03

Blantyre
Tucked into the Berkshires is a Tudor manor where I could happily become a regular guest. Between the Potting Shed Spa, wood-burning fireplaces, and shelves filled with carefully selected books, Blantyre is simply my kind of retreat. Come here if you like the sound of enjoying a cocktail before dinner in the parlor to the sound of live piano music. The food lives up to the atmosphere, with a surprise chef’s tasting menu that I still dream about. After your meal, retreat to the cozy rooms and order from the hot chocolate room service menu for one last decadent touch to the day. Sipping hot chocolate by a wood-burning fireplace is one of winter’s great pleasures. Phone: 413.637.3556

These hotels make up just 5 of the 500 properties that are part of the exclusive Relais & Chateaux collection. For sunshine, skiing, or something in between, there is a perfect match for every travel whim.