The Napa Valley has been a beacon for tourists in search of an unforgettable California experience for more than 50 years. It began its transformation from an agricultural area into a destination for travelers with the passing of The California Land Conservation Act of 1965. The Act protected the area’s fertile soil and natural beauty from encroaching housing and industrial developments, and by the mid-1970’s, large scale wine producers moved to the area. The region is currently world famous for its wine production, but travelers will also find world-class restaurants, attractions, spas, and more.
Wineries
The Napa Valley is one of the principal grape producing regions in the world, and visitors will encounter over 400 wineries that range from large scale productions to family owned vineyards.
Beringer is one of the top wine producing companies in the world, and its headquarters are located in St. Helena, a Napa Valley community. Beringer offers a variety of wines, tours, and tastings, that will bring a smile to any wine connoisseurs face. The vineyard includes a local historical landmark, the Rhine House, which is ideal for tastings and gatherings.
Pride Mountain Vineyards is a family-owned operation that lies outside the main concentration of Napa wineries in the mountains west of St. Helena. The views of the surrounding vineyards and mountain ranges are alone worth the trip to the vineyard. Pride Mountain’s award winning mountain wines are considered some of best in Napa Valley and the vineyard offers a variety of tastings and tours.
O'Brien Estate is also a family owned operation located in the town of Napa. The Estate’s wines are all natural and made by a team of accomplished winemakers. O’Brien offers visitors an intimate wine tasting experience complete with tours of the lush grounds and an up-close look at the production process.
Restaurants
The culinary scene in the Napa Valley may not be as well established as the wine industry, but Wine Country contains a wide selection of award winning options.
The French Laundry was established in the early 1990’s by chef Thomas Keller as the go-to restaurant for French cuisine in the Valley. It has received numerous awards including three stars from Michelin Guide San Francisco and the “Outstanding Restaurant Award” from the James Beard Foundation. Patrons will be treated to top tier customer service and an ever changing menu that utilizes locally sourced ingredients.
The Oxbow Public Market is a 40,000 square foot marketplace located in the Oxbow District of Napa. It began as a way for local food and wine producers to make money during the economic downturn of 2008, and it has grown into a bustling food market. It contains an eclectic mix of foods, wines, and organic produce, as well as a collection of cafes. Patrons will find a perfect example of the farm-to-table process and will be able to purchase the same ingredients to bring home.
Goose and Gander is Chef Jeff Larson's vision of a gathering place for residents and visitors to enjoy the food and wines of the Napa Valley. His menu contains a variety of rustic American meals and snacks, as well as unique handmade libations and wines from the area. Patrons can enjoy meals in the pub inspired main dining room, basement bar, or beautiful outdoor patio.
Spas
Wine Country is home to one of the most diverse collections of spas and health centers in America, and travelers will find them in every corner of the region.
Applewood Inn, Restaurant, and Spa is a secluded and relaxing location for a spa-themed getaway. The inn's Mediterranean decor and layout inspires relaxation from the moment of arrival. The spa offers a spectrum of massages including Swedish, deep tissue, warm river stone, and mother-to-be. Visitors can also partake in treatments such as aromatherapy, facials, skin treatments, and more.
Villagio Inn and Spa is an affordable and luxurious resort located in Yountville. Spa Villagio is a European inspired spa facility that sets a relaxing mood with fountains, waterfalls, and reflecting pools, and then follows through a comprehensive menu of treatment options. Whether it’s a hot stone massage in a private suite or holistic body treatment in a private room, Spa Villagio offers a full spa experience.
EuroSpa & Inn is a Calistoga property that offers an intimate spa and resort experience, in the shadow of Mount Helena. The resort is located only a block from downtown Calistoga and able to maintain a secluded and private atmosphere. The Spa at EuroSpa & Inn offers a complete spa experience with a variety of cutting edge treatments and products. Some of the unique treatment options include infrared sauna sessions, Reiki healing, Migraine Miracle® Treatment, and more.