Napa may be America’s most famous wine region, but a trip to the scenic California destination will make anyone feel like they’re in the hills of Burgundy, Tuscany, or Duro. With countless wineries and world-class restaurants, Napa is ideal for those that want to indulge, and this guide while help you get started planning a weekend getaway to Napa Valley.
Getting to Napa
There are many ways to get to the Napa Valley, but the most efficient route is to fly into San Francisco International Airport and drive less than 60 miles to the wine region. The drive is gorgeous and scenic and be sure to take a picture in front of the welcome sign as you enter the region. I took a Chevy Traverse, and the heated steering wheel, wireless charging for my phone and adaptive cruise control made the drive a dream.
Where to stay
A trip to Napa is all about living the good life so take the plunge and splurge on one of the swanky hotels and resorts. The Solage, an Auberge Resort is a peaceful retreat in Calistoga, and the 15,000 square foot property boasts 83 studios and six one-bedroom suites. The studios all come with two bicycles if you want to leave your car and bike into town, and the resort features both family-friendly and adults-only pools.
Taste wines while touring a castle
A 13th-century Tuscan-style castle in the heart of Napa, Castello Di Amorosa is an architectural gem and they even welcome kids along for the tours. Go on a self-guided tour at the property before heading to the tasting room where grown-ups can try Cabernet Sauvignon while the kids have grape juice and snacks.
Reserve a table at Farmstead
Located on Long Meadow Ranch, Farmstead serves up classic American dishes in an inviting, chic setting, with stand-out dishes ranging from cheddar biscuits, grass-fed beef meatballs, the “brick cooked” chicken and grilled California Trout. The restaurant is incredibly popular, so reserve your spot well in advance.
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Treat yourself to a massage
Start day two with one of the many treatments at Spa Solage, which ranges from facials and peels to full body scrubs and massages. For a unique and rejuvenating experience, try the spa’s signature, immersive mud treatment.
Visit a black-owned winery
Head to the tasting room for The Brown Estate, which is the first and only black-owned winery in Napa. The family-owned business pours glasses of Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon at a sleek tasting room in downtown Napa, but you’ll have to be a member of their wine club to get a tour of their winery.
Have lunch at a black-owned BBQ restaurant
Barbecue isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you imagine the food you would pair with wine while in Napa, but Buster’s Original Southern BBQ is a staple in Napa and is one of the only black-owned restaurants in the region. The menu features tri-tip, beef ribs, pork loin, and pulled pork, and the restaurant has nabbed awards from National Geographic and Wine Spectator.
Brose exhibits at the Napa Valley Museum
Exhibits dedicated to art, history, and culture make up the presentations at Yountville’s Napa Valley Museum, which features exhibits with a distinctly California focus. There’s always a fascinating art collection on display and check ahead to see what events will be happening at the event during your trip.
End your trip with a dinner al fresco
Enjoy the California weather and beautiful views by spending your last night dining outside at one of the many restaurants with patios. Sam’s Social Club has fish, meat, pasta, and vegetarian dishes, and the patio is one of the best in Napa.
