Hotel TerraVina – Woodlands, Southampton
At the edge of the lovely New Forest, yet conveniently close to Southampton, TerraVina is a stylish boutique hotel in a fine red-brick Victorian building. It has 11 bedrooms, heated outdoor swimming pool and a massive wine cellar. Here, in the neat new brick vaults, the carefully labelled bins are central to the hotel’s raison d’être. It’s all about wine. Brainchild of Gerard Basset OBE (world-class sommelier and co-founder of Hotel du Vin), TerraVina has an outstanding, wide-reaching wine list and regularly hosts wine events. A relaxed, open kitchen produces California-style food that is both delicious and beautifully presented. From the distinctive staircase to the natural toiletries, Gerard and his wife, Nina, have furnished the interior with products made by local craftspeople. Standards are high throughout, but particularly in the handsome, reasonably priced bedrooms, many of which have walk-in showers, plus separate roll-top baths and secluded patios. Doubles from £160.
tip
Name to Know: Gerard, the most titled sommelier in the world. Ask him about the extensive and carefully selected range of wines, beers and spirits sourced internationally.
See: Enjoy the beautiful New Forest with wild grazing ponies, stunning countryside and pigs munching on acorns during the Pannage season.
Eat: The ever popular local, Sunnyfield, beetroot salad with local Rosary goat’s cheese, horseradish sorbet and candied walnuts.
Buy: One of the specially designed TerraVina doorstop dogs, in various designs and colours. Or a specially selected wine gift boxes, wine glasses and decanters designed by our very own Gerard Basset.
All photos: Honeydew Moment
Want to find out more? Visit the hotel's website.
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