Thanks for your input. I agree that the setting of Birkenhead looks great, but then again La Residence looks amazing and it often gets ranked as one of the world's top hotels. Of course, that comes at a price (which is even higher than Birkenhead House). I wonder if anyone has been to either and can comment on the activities available at or near the resort. Obviously at La Residence there are vineyard tours but I also assume there are other activities to take part in. To me that is really the deciding factor, as both are managed by the same group and therefore will likely offer similar accommodations, service, food, etc in a great setting.