Napa Valley is known to all. Tourists visiting San Francisco for vacation, make sure to visit this land of undulating lush green fields of grape vines, wineries, and lavish resorts. This world famous wine growing region boasts a large number of wineries to sample from and tour. This award-winning valley exudes scenic natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors to the valley are spoiled for choices here, as the number of wineries and resorts here are innumerable.
However, you won’t be overwhelmed as we have rounded up some of the best attractions to explore and experience in Napa Valley. Check them out!
Best Time To Be in Napa Valley
The climate of Napa Valley is mostly influenced by the mountain ranges in the backdrop and its close proximity to the Pacific Ocean. It experiences a dry Mediterranean climate, which is ideal for producing fine wine grapes. Although it is a year-round destination, the months between May and July are the warmest.
The best time to book a flight to San Francisco is in the harvest season (August through October), when a large crowd flock to Napa Valley wineries. However, during the peak season, the resorts get quite expensive and you may not find budget-friendly accommodation nearby.
But the tail-end of the harvest season sees a low crowd, and is considered the best month to get the best deals in resorts and a flight to California.
Things to Do in Napa Valley
There are plenty of wineries in Napa Valley to explore, where you can sample some of the world’s finest wines and take in the views of the scenic vineyards and the mountains in the backdrop.
Top food and drinks-based experiences
Napa Valley Wine Train
A train ride by the legendary Napa Valley Wine Train is a must. The train journey itself is an experience. Whether you are on a romantic vacation or just a day full of sips, sights, and dramatic landscapes of the vineyards, hop on the train for a vista dome experience. The train offers a six hour adventure through the valley. A welcome glass of sparkling wine will be served to you. A four-course meal inspired by the region’s delicious cuisine is provided to the passengers.
Furthermore, as you pass through the verdant vineyards, the picturesque views of the wineries and the grape vines only elevate the experience. You can spend at least three hours in the vineyard sampling three wines and two hours at V. Sattuti wineries and Charles Kurg.
O’Brien Estate Winery
This small plot of land, covering only 40 acres, has a vineyard, a winery, and the owner’s home. However, from planting to producing, and bottling, the entire wine making process is done at this small plot. Visitors raved about this winery for the friendly staff, who guided them around the winery and let them sample the freshly produced wine. This family-owned winery is located in Oak Knoll Appellation in Napa Valley. A trip to the O’Brien Estate Winery is also important because you may not find the handcrafted wines anywhere else in the world.
It remains open for visitors from 10 am to 4 pm and the entire trip takes no more than 190 minutes. However, it is not a kid-friendly place and does not allow underage visitors. The winery is reserved only for the adults.
Robert Mondavi Winery
The rich art collection and the regular musical performances at Robert Mondavi Winery are the biggest draw of Napa Valley. It is among the first wineries in the valley to offer visitors with all-inclusive vineyard tourism. Today, being one of the popular wineries in California, Robert Mondavi Winery offers a variety of tasting and culinary experiences. Visitors here enjoy sampling the finest wine, multicourse dinner, and live music performances.
The owner Robert Mondavi was however considered an icon in America’s wine industry. He introduced the world with California wines. It remains open for visitors from 10 am to 4 pm and prior reservation is required.
Castello de Amorosa
Castello de Amorosa is more than just a winery. Visitors here appreciate the architecture, which is a recreated 13th century Tuscan castle. The entire area takes you back to the past and itself is an experience to cherish. The view from the top of the castle offers some scenic vistas of the nearby hills and the vineyards. The Italian-inspired wine here is popular among the visitors.
It is an architectural masterpiece with an element of a medieval castle, a moat, defensive ramparts, drawbridge, courtyards, loggias, five towers, a chapel, stables, an armory, and a torture chamber. So even if you are here to sample the fine wine, it is the structure, which is going to attract you the most.
Auberge du Soleil
There are plenty of resorts in Napa that offer a great vacation. Auberge du Soleil is one of the top-rated resorts that is nestled atop a hill in Rutherford. The resort offers an unobstructed view of the 33 acres of oak trees, olive grove, and the surrounding hills. Whether you are in Napa for a wine tasting vacation or looking for a relaxing holiday in the wine-producing region of California, make a prior reservation to stay in Auberge du Soleil.
This adult-only plush resort is inspired by the south of France and Califorinian soul. The restaurant has won the coveted Michelin star 13 times and its spa is a must experience. The Hammam steam rooms and three springs let guests rejuvenate from all stress. Do not search for Napa Valley hotels, and instead make reservations at Auberge du Soleil for more than just accommodation.
Bottom Line
The Napa Valley weather is ideal for producing fresh wine. A large number of both domestic and international tourists flock to the valley to sample its wine and to feel the vibe. A two to three days of vacation here is enough to explore the valley. If a Californian holiday is on your card, include Napa Valley in your itinerary.
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