Late summer and early autumn, when most wine producers begin harvesting the season's vintage, are some of the most exciting weeks of the year for oenophiles. It is a crucial time--grape ripeness and quality are determined and wineries are at their busiest. For vino enthusiasts eager to witness the action, vineyard estates offer luxury accommodations that allow guests to soak up the sights and smells of a vineyard running at full speed. (And, blissfully, a glass of wine is never far away.)

The styles are varied. L'And Vineyards, located in Portugal's Alentejo region, opened last spring right around the time its very first vintage (a 2009 Reserve) hit the market. Situated just 15 minutes from the ancient Roman city of Évora (and less than an hour from Lisbon), the vineyard's stylish digs and simple, warmly appointed suites capitalize on the area's serenity. Retractable over-the-bed roofs offer stunning nighttime views of star-lit skies, and outdoor fireplace-equipped patios look out over greenery and patches of farmland. "Wine is our anchor, but it works best when paired with everything else on the property," says Duarte Cunha, L'And's general manager.

In Temecula, California, longtime small producer Ponte Winery takes a similar approach. It utilizes the vineyard´s natural surroundings to create a scenic, wine-driven space for guests to take advantage of wine tastings and see firsthand how the winemaking process works. The folks behind Ponte realized that their most ardent clients--the same people who pushed for the opening of the hotel--would appreciate a place to unwind from their busy city lives and indulge in their passion for wine right at the source.

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Rising majestically above the 600 acre beach front resort of Anse Chastanet, Jade Mountain St.Lucia is a cornucopia of organic architecture celebrating St Lucia’s stunning scenic beauty.

Architect owner Nick Troubetzkoy has expanded upon his philosophy of building in harmony with Caribbean nature in his creation of Jade Mountain St.Lucia. The bold architectural design individual bridges leading to exceptional infinity pool sanctuaries and rugged stoned-faced columns reaching towards the sky makes Jade Mountain St.Lucia one of the Caribbean’s most mesmerizing resort experiences.

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Everyone wants recommendations where to stay when they travel, and for 17 years running, Travel + Leisure has asked our readers to vote on the hotels they love most. The resulting World’s Best Awards are a collection of the properties that go above and beyond.

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Tuscany is in itself, one of the most magical places in the world. You've read articles by our writer and travel blogger Lynn Pederson whose blog http://www.tuscanyatheart.com/ is all about the beauty of this part of the world.

The food, architecture, culture and history in Tuscany can inspire poets and lovers. Another special part about Tuscany are the hot springs, the natural thermal pools rich with minerals. The Ancient Romans, and even Etruscan people built spas around these thermal pools and they have been renown for the health benefits for centuries.

Fonteverde is a modern spa built on property that was once an ancient Roman spa. An infinity pool of warn minerals over looks the Tuscan country side, with its charming medieval villages, vineyards and olive groves.. Fonteverde is a 5 star luxury hotel and spa. It's an exclusive resort with world class food, service and innovative spa techniques from Europe and Asia.

Fonteverde was built in the 17th century by the Grand Duke Ferdinando I de' Medici amid precious hot springs whose therapeutic properties were known since ancient times. It re-opened as a modern spa 10 years ago and has seven swimming therapeutic pools, a holistic centre and beauty centre.

Fonteverde was voted the best spa in Europe by several international publications including Spa Magazine.

If you're in Europe, Fonteverde is a must see. http://www.fonteverdespa.com/

Photos by : Paolo Lo Debole

(CNN) A massive herd of caribou grazes the Arctic tundra. Sea birds fatten up on shellfish along the Chesapeake Bay before flying thousands of miles to winter in South America. A pod of orca glide past Pacific islands blanketed in fir and cedar as they hunt for salmon.

Few sights are more awe-inspiring than mass movements of  animals instinctively traveling the path forged by the millions of their kind that came before them. Summer is prime time for wildlife viewing, the season when you'll catch birds and animals tending their young and storing up energy before their fall migrations to winter feeding and breeding grounds.

Here are seven jaw-dropping places in the United States to spot amazing creatures as they prepare for journeys large and small.

Food and travel are intrinsically linked. Some of the fondest and most vivid travel memories center around stuffing one's face. For that reason, we've taken a look at many foodie travel "bests."

We chronicled some of the best fast food chains around the world, and, on the other end of the spectrum, the world's top tasting menus. In honor of the 2012 Summer Olympics and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee there's the 10 best pubs in London and 10 proper spots for a spot of tea. Of course, we couldn't ignore the 50 best restaurants in the world.

With summer at hand, oceanfront dining naturally requires our attention. To fill us in, Travel Channel stars Samantha Brown, Adam Richman and Bert Kreischer suggest a few of the best beachside dining to be found. 

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There is a formula for perfection, and the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel gets it right every time. Yes, there are many beach resort options, but if you value your time and money, the ROI of Ritz Carlton is a risk free, proven brand. From the moment you drive onto the property, complete with gilded fire hydrant, you know you have arrived. The staff couldn’t be more welcoming and solicitous. After all, they are the ladies and gentleman serving the same.

See more photos at Just Luxe