Everyone knows that Napa Valley is equivalent to a wine heaven . There is no doubt that the photos of this trip, in and around the valley will be emphasized by the wineries that beguile you through their gates. Amazingly, within this amazing getaway of Napa Valley, there are six Michelin-starred restaurants.
The best time to visit Napa is during the Fall. This is "crush" time when the different wineries/vineyards will harvest the grown grapes. This will give you first hand views to see a winery in action. November is also a good time as the weather is still pleasant but the added advantage is that the crowds and rates would have dropped.
These are the various locations you will need to consider before booking your stay in Napa Valley:
1) Napa City:
Being the main location in the Valley, Napa City is the best place to arrange your accommodation, under the assumption that you are going to be visiting all the locations around Napa. It is more central and hence moving to any place from here is easier, especially if you do not want to carry your luggage around. Filled with all types of accommodation, from luxurious hotels to airbnbs, you should definitely consider crashing here for a few days.
Good For: City dwellers, Hardcore Foodies, Upcoming Sommeliers
Places to eat : TORC,Oxbow Wine Merchant and Wine Bar,Bistro Don Giovanni
2) St. Helena:
This is definitely the busiest part of Napa Valley, with a blend of Wine boutiques, Wineries, Cafes , Michelin Star restaurants, spice island market places, etc. It is also great for art lovers who can explore the Caldwell Snyder Gallery which has an amazing collection of American and European contemporary art.
St. Helena also has a couple of parks such as the Lyman Park and Crane Park, which are clean and spacious, perfect for families.
Good for : Art Lovers, Foodies , Culture Vultures, Shopaholics and Families
Places to eat: PRESS,The restaurant and Meanwood,Gatehouse Restaurant,Harvest table
3) Calistoga:
If you need to run away from the concrete jungles, this is the best place to do so. Filled with soothing spas, mineral filled mud baths, and the amazing hot springs, Calistoga is the perfect place to unwind.
If unwinding gets too boring, there's always the option to take a famous hot air balloon ride - an experience so fulfilling and beautiful that the picturesque sight of the endless vineyards will be etched in your memory forever.
Good for : Families, honeymooners, luxury travelers, upcoming sommeliers
Places to Eat: Solbar,All Seasons Bistro, Brasswood bar + Kitchen, Busters Southern Barbecue.
4) Yountville:
In this amazing foodie heaven, home to the highest number of Michelin star restaurants per capita in all of America, one can expect the waiting lists for these restaurants to go up to more than 2 months. So if you are planning to visit here , better plan in advance!
It is the best to come here during march, as they have a festival which brings in local musicians , food demonstrations, various markets and huge auction fundraisers which are organised by the community.
Good for : Foodies, Art lovers,Couples, Groups.
Places to eat: Bistro Jeanty,Ciccio, Ad hoc, Botega Napa Valley
5) Oakville & Rutherford:
This is the home of the most picturesque vineyards in Napa Valley. Those with a special liking to the Cabernet Sauvignon will feel like they have found their true calling in this getaway. It is one of the locations where you can just sit back and enjoy with an amazing glass of wine and just unwind.
A brilliant location for those who would like to start in the wine game. This place focuses on simple comfort living with amazing food and wine pairing.
Good for: Upcoming sommeliers, Senior travelers,Laid back travelers, Wine pairing enthusiasts.
Places to eat: The Rutherford grill,Brix Napa Valley,Inglenook,Farmstead at long meadow ranch.
We hope this makes your decision easier and that you have an enjoyable stay in Napa Valley!