So, I recently introduced my 5-year old to the Home Alone movies. Christmas classics, right up there with A Christmas Story and Elf, if you ask me. The original is my favorite, but Home Alone 2: Lost In New York offers its fair share of laughs and gags, too. In it, Kevin McCallister again gets separated from his huge family and ends up in Manhattan at Christmastime. His humble abode? The Plaza Hotel. In the film, the Hotel is decked to the nines in holiday décor: garlands, trees, lights and bows. It is the perfect picture of what a hotel should be like at Christmas – festive, jolly and drop-dead gorgeous. It’s true, there is just no place like a hotel at Christmas.

Years ago I enjoyed a mini-vacation in mid-December to New York City with my mother. It was – what’s the word? – mmmmagic. Ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park, Rockefeller Center, Broadway, window displays on 5th Avenue, and a beautifully decorated Tudor Hotel where we stayed in Midtown. We felt the comfort of home 3,000 miles away. I think this is what most hotels strive for; a comfortable place to stay that feels like home… but just a teensy bit better, maybe. And that’s exactly what Ponte Vineyard Inn offers this time of year.

Our 60-room, boutique hotel may not be physically far from the hustle of daily life, but it feels worlds away. Serene, quiet and nestled in the middle of vineyards, it is the perfect picture of relaxation. Ponte Winery next door is adorned with the biggest gift bow you’ve ever seen, which sets the mood of the holidays. The property is dripping with lights. Stepping into the Inn, you’ll likely see a roaring fire in the living room-inspired lobby along with a Christmas tree, ornaments and poinsettias. It’s like home… but just a teensy bit better. Take your welcome-glass of Moscato across the courtyard to your room or suite, wrap yourself in one of our signature robes and, by all means, scan the tv channel guide for the Christmas movie du jour. Later, enjoy dinner at Bouquet Restaurant or place your order for in-room dining if you absolutely must see the end of that Christmas movie!

Many people don’t think about a getaway this time of year because it’s so busy, but that’s exactly why a stay in the country might be just what you need to get you out of panic mode and back into festive mode. Your stay at Ponte Vineyard Inn will allow you to relax, breathe and truly take in the beauty of this special season.

We do hope to see you!  Click here to make your reservation.

–Erica Martinez