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Famed for its glorious vineyards, rolling hills and perfect year-round weather, Napa Valley is a beautiful region of northern California that will transport you to a rural haven a world away from the big coastal cities. And while wine may be the main allure in Napa Valley, there are countless ways in which to explore and enjoy the area, whether it’s on land, in the water or in the sky.
Napa Valley appeals to everyone looking for relaxed fun in the sun. Couples can enjoy its romantic vibes with sunrise hot air balloon rides and decadent spa experiences, families will love its laid-back rustic charm, and groups of friends can savour long weekends drinking, dining and laughing together – all making memories that will last forever.
Napa Valley Highlights
Napa Valley is located just 50 miles east of San Francisco, perfect for venturing out on day trips – or longer – deep into the heart of California’s Wine Country. There is much natural beauty to explore here, from rivers, lakes and parks to the town of Napa itself and the surrounding hamlets of Calistoga, St Helena, Yountville and American Canyon, each offering its own individual culture and charm.
World-Class Wineries
With more than 400 wineries and 90 tasting rooms to its name, Napa Valley is one of the leading regions in the world in wine production, despite being one of the smallest in size. Its near-perfect climate affords some of the most beautiful, fragrant Cabernet Sauvignons you’ll ever try, and the picture-perfect backdrop makes it a wonderful holiday destination.
Outdoor Pursuits
Much of your time in Napa Valley will be spent outside, whether it’s sampling local tipples in a shady vineyard, dining al fresco in a quaint hillside town or taking a stroll along a leafy woodland trail. And with beautiful parks, lakes, rivers and green spaces to enjoy, this idyllic part of the world offers a huge variety of leisure activities to really make the most of nature.
Michelin-Starred Dining
There are more than 150 restaurants in the Napa Valley area from classic American-style and Mexican fare to French and Italian cuisine, many of which hold Michelin stars and embody a Terroir to Table® philosophy – the art of pairing wine and food effortlessly. The climate is not only ideal for grape-growing but also for producing some of the freshest fruit and vegetables available, offering you an unparalleled culinary experience from start to finish.
Blissful Hotel Retreats
Napa Valley boasts a wide range of hotels and lodgings including five-star luxury resorts, intimate boutique hotels, and remote vineyard cottages, offering authentic countryside ambience for a distinctly romantic experience. Stay close to the shops and restaurants of captivating urban neighbourhoods or get lost amid tranquil scenery and rolling hills – there’s gorgeous accommodation to suit your every whim
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Our Napa Valley Favourites
Calistoga Hot Springs
Literally dip your feet into a truly memorable Napa Valley experience in the small city of Calistoga, a place famed for its hot springs and mineral pools. This renowned wellness haven boasts beautiful waters that were discovered more than 8,000 years ago by the area’s native inhabitants, the Wappo tribe.
Nowadays, there are multiple resorts, bathhouses and lodges centred around these geothermal wonders, offering indulgent spa treatments to complement the natural therapeutic benefits found in their warm, mineral-rich waters. Choose a modern resort with sleek accommodation like UpValley Inn & Hot Springs to make a mini getaway out of it or visit for the day and enjoy a programme of spa treatments alongside an elegant dinner at Dr Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort.
Napa
Napa Valley’s largest town sits serenely on the Napa River, which affords plenty of opportunities for exploring, whether it’s shopping and eating along the attractive Riverfront Promenade or kayaking and paddling along the water for whimsical afternoon fun.
While it may not hold the historic charm of some of Napa Valley’s smaller towns, it’s worthwhile spending some of your free time in Downtown Napa. With plenty of shops, bars, restaurants and tasting rooms to discover, this small city offers relaxing vibes all day and night. Enjoy a little evening comedy and live music entertainment at the gorgeous art deco Uptown Theatre, before heading to the chic Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar for a nightcap with panoramic views.
Napa Valley Wine Train
All aboard the luxurious Napa Valley Wine Train for a wonderfully unique multi-centre holiday experience, taking in the best the region has to offer in one fell swoop: fantastic wine, delectable food and remarkable scenery. Enjoy the vintage vibes of these century-old railcars, which happily trundle along a 150-year-old rail corridor from downtown Napa to the lovely city of St Helena and back again, taking in nothing but gorgeous sights of vineyards and charming towns along its 36-mile route.
Various luxury tours are available to book, ranging from full-day experiences with additional stops and wine tasting sessions, to shorter daytime tours and themed evening dinners – whatever you choose, you’re on the right tracks for an epic trip!
St Helena
Less than half an hour’s drive north of Napa is the historic town of St Helena, which is recognised for its picturesque Main Street, landmark pioneering wineries and is also known as the home of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America at Greystone (CIA).
Pay a visit to the family-run HALL Wines, where you can see its eight Estate vineyards – five of which are Certified Organic (CCOF) – wander its historic buildings and admire the art and architecture in its Modern Tasting Gallery, as well as sampling its award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon. And if you’re feeling peckish afterwards, pop into Gott’s, a classic roadside diner with contemporary Californian- style dishes like burgers, sandwiches and yummy milkshakes.
Yountville
This lovely town sits right in the heart of Napa Valley and is best explored on foot as everything is within walking distance. Yountville is known for its Michelin-starred restaurants and locally referred to as the ‘Culinary Capital’ of Napa Valley, much to the delight of the gourmands in your party. The French Laundry, Yountville’s most esteemed eatery, is considered one of the world’s best restaurants and its nine-course tasting menu is off the charts.
Culture lovers will be equally impressed by the town’s art scene, particularly the Yountville Art Walk, which features a walkable collection of at least 35 rotating outdoor sculptures from local and international artists. Plus, many of the town’s tasting rooms have art to admire while you sip your world-class wine!
Oxbow Public Market
This is foodie central in downtown Napa and the perfect place to visit if you can’t decide what you fancy eating because it’s got a little of everything. Oxbow Public Market is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists to purchase the freshest produce, food and wine in the lively backdrop of a bustling marketplace.
Here you’ll find dozens of vendors showcasing their wares daily (except public holidays) including chocolates, pizzas, burgers, Mexican food, contemporary Japanese cuisine, oysters – you name it! Lose yourself in the aromatic hubbub of this wonderful market, grab your chosen meal and sit outside on one of the benches and enjoy dining al fresco, Napa style.
Napa Premium Outlets
Positioned right in the heart of the city of Napa, the impressive Napa Premium Outlets is your go-to shopping mecca for huge discounts on designer brands, and with more than 40 retail stores, it’s a must-visit destination for shopaholics on Napa Valley multi-centre holidays.
The mall features many big-name labels and iconic brands such as Calvin Klein, Coach, Michael Kors, Tommy Hilfiger, Levi’s, American Eagle, Guess and J. Crew, and with up to 70% off in many stores you’re sure to come away with plenty of bargains, but you may need a bigger suitcase to get it all home!
First Street
Downtown Napa has several great places to shop and on First Street you will find a charming selection of independent fashion boutiques and home décor and gift shops to peruse, as well as quality high-street brands like Anthropologie, Free People and lululemon – with a few tasting rooms and restaurants peppered in to satiate your appetite.
This casual and friendly shopping area exudes an artisanal, communal feel, offering a welcoming place to spend an afternoon where you can wander freely in and out of its shops and cafés. Between May and December, head for the Makers Market open-air craft fair and pick up some locally made, sustainable souvenirs for yourself and gifts for loved ones back home.
Downtown Calistoga
Calistoga has a really easy-going vibe and its main drag, Lincoln Avenue, offers a range of quirky boutiques selling vintage clothing, jewellery and accessories, as well as the must-visit indie bookstore, Copperfield’s Books. The street also features several art galleries and exhibition spaces showcasing contemporary local artworks, while there are plenty of cafés, delis and bakeries to satisfy your cravings as you stroll up and down.
The Calistoga Farmers Market displays a wide range of local artisanal goods as well as lots of prepared food to take away such as cheeses, olive oil, honey, jams and hummus. Live music is also a regular feature, making it a wonderful place to spend a Saturday morning for the whole family!
Hot Air Balloon Ride
One of the best ways to appreciate and experience Napa Valley is on a breathtaking hot air balloon ride as it blissfully soars high above the undulating hills below, especially at sunrise when the temperature is cooler and the winds are calmer. Panoramic views over lush countryside and out towards the stunning coastline offer a truly magical experience, which is sure to feature on many bucket lists for multi-centre holidays in California.
Many tours last about an hour in the air in groups of between 8-20 people and include an elegant sit-down breakfast after landing, giving you time to relax and take in this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Consider booking a private hot air balloon ride with your loved one for an extra dash of romance, too!
Skyline Wilderness Park
The 850-acre Skyline Wilderness Park is situated in the foothills of Napa Valley’s southeastern corner and offers 25 miles of hiking, cycling and horseback riding trails to explore at varying experience levels, making it a great spot for the whole family to keep active and be immersed in nature during your Napa Valley twin-centre holidays.
This non-profit park was created for the protection of the area and its abundant wildlife, including deer and wild turkeys, which you may bump into on your journey. Other fun park activities include archery, fishing, picnicking and there’s even an 18-hole disc golf course if you fancy honing your Frisbee skills!
Napa River
One of the largest rivers in the Central Coast Range, the 50-mile-long Napa River snakes down from Mt. St Helena to San Pablo Bay and provides loads of fun ways to enjoy water-based adventures. Kayaking and paddleboarding are two popular, low-impact activities from which to explore the river, with several tour companies nearby providing all the equipment you’ll need.
Nature lovers will love the wildlife watching opportunities here, which is home to a range of native birds like herons and egrets, as well as otters, beavers, deer and turtles. Keen anglers can book a charter boat and fish around 30 native species including striped bass, sturgeon and trout. Look out for one of the several hiking and walking trails along the river for your daily burst of exercise, too!
Cycling Tours
Napa Valley’s undulating hills make for thrilling yet carefree bicycle rides through its uniformed vineyards and its many dedicated trail loops. The Napa Valley Vine Trail runs 47 miles from Vallejo to Calistoga and is especially good for families with smaller children as it is paved and mostly flat, while the more challenging trail at Lake Berryessa offers steeper climbs and descents, but with that come stunning lake and hill views, so it’s well worth the effort.
Lots of bike shops and rental outfitters are available in Downtown Napa so all you need to do is grab your bicycle, find your route and head off into the sunset!
Castello di Amorosa
It’s hard to pinpoint a standout winery in a place full of standout wineries, but Castello di Amorosa has the wow factor with its authentically styled 14 th century Italian castle, expertly replicated with intricate features like hand-cut stone walls, ornate ceilings and even its own moat. This unique setting transports you to the heart of the Tuscan countryside, just a few miles south of Calistoga, offering a wonderful experience not to be missed on multi-centre holidays in Napa Valley. Take a guided tour with access to the castle’s pretty courtyard, its upper levels, armoury and torture chamber before sitting down to an intimate, 75-minute tasting session of several local and Italian- inspired wines, and why not pair with a delicious cheese and charcuterie board for added indulgence?
Mustards Grill
Located just north of Yountville off the St Helena Highway, this Napa favourite is a hit with locals and tourists seeking classic Californian truck-stop grub and has been in operation for almost 40 years. Its menu is packed with flavour and sophistication, while the service is welcoming, and the ambience relaxed.
A delicious selection of soups, salads, and appetisers feature crispy calamari, crab cakes and tuna crackers, grilled chicken, slow-cooked pork and half-pound beef burgers. And from the wood- burning oven there are delectable, hearty options including mustard marinated rabbit, baby back ribs and grilled hanger steaks. Pair your dishes with an impressive wine list as well as cocktails and dozens of lagers, ales and ciders!
Cabernet Sauvignon
If California multi-centre holidays bring you to Napa Valley and wine is your mission, you’ll likely be tasting a lot of cabernet sauvignon while you are here. These flavourful, treasured grapes are the most expensive in Napa Valley and account for more than half of its wine-growing acreage.
The region has perfected the art of a classic ‘cab sav’ due to ideal growing conditions, but with so many wineries and tasting rooms and a seemingly limitless range of delicious blends, where do you begin? Ink Grade in St Helena has long been producing cabernet sauvignon grapes dating back to before Prohibition, its terraced vineyards carve into the steep slopes of Howell Mountain and offer a striking setting from which to taste these elegant wines.
Tasting Rooms
If you prefer to stay closer to the action in town, head for one of the convenient, walkable tasting rooms, otherwise known as urban wineries. These smaller venues may not present picturesque vineyards or production facilities on-site like the rural estates, but the wine sure packs a punch and you can visit multiple hotpots without the need for driving, plus they are often open longer and turn into excellent wine bars at night.
New to wine tasting? Many urban wineries offer the option to book flights – a small, pre-selected range – or by the glass or bottle, making it simpler (and cheaper) to find your perfect blend. Try Napa’s Bounty Hunter for its 400-bottle collection and accompanying BBQ, or seek out St Helena’s edgy The Saint, a century-old former bank with cool vibes and great international wines.
Napa Valley FAQs
Napa Valley FAQs
Napa Valley FAQs
Napa Valley is only around an hour’s drive from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) but there are several other smaller international airports in the area including Oakland (OAK), Sacramento (SMF) and San Jose (SJC). Wherever you fly into, you’re set to have a wonderful drive out to wine country. And if you don’t have a car, you can easily take the San Francisco Bay Ferry to Vallejo and onwards to Napa Valley using the VINE Transit bus.
Napa Valley is one of California’s most treasured holiday destinations and its proximity to the major city of San Francisco makes it the ideal getaway for a long weekend to escape the hubbub of urban life. Similarly, if you are embarking on an epic road trip up and down the Golden State, Napa Valley provides a worthwhile detour from Highway 1 and the perfect rural retreat with family and friends.
Hiring a car isn’t essential if you are planning on sticking close to a specific town in Napa Valley, most are small enough to walk around or grab a taxi if necessary. However, if you are hoping to venture out to one or more countryside wineries, having the freedom to explore and take in the glorious scenery at your own pace is a huge plus.
There are a few rare places that accept walk-ins but as a rule, it is always best to pre-book your tasting sessions, dinners and winery tours before you travel. Some of the more esteemed venues have rather long waitlists so make sure you make your reservations ahead of time, often months in advance. And if you are in a larger group, you may need to check first if they have any limits on numbers of guests for tasting sessions.
The weather is near-perfect all year round so it will be stunning no matter when you head to Napa Valley. However, the crowds do roll in around June for the summer holiday season and tasting sessions at the more popular, touristy wineries fill up quickly; spring and winter are quieter seasons and offer you more personal time with your server. And if you are interested in seeing wine production, September to October is a great time to visit as you can even get your hands (or feet) dirty with a fun grape-stomping experience!
It’s customary in the US to tip serving staff, regardless of where you eat or drink, and in Napa Valley this still rings true even if you just buy one glass of wine. The going rate is around 15-20% and if you had a lovely time and your server was attentive, do leave a tip.
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