One of California’s most famous wine regions, the extraordinary beauty of the legendary Napa valley will stay with you forever. Once seen, never forgotten, it's only an hour's drive from the fleshpots and big city hubbub of San Francisco, but you might as well be in a different world, a different planet. A beautiful procession of rolling hills planted with vines, grand estates, quirky wine-tasting rooms and quaint towns await you.
Explore the modern architecture and majestic grounds of Clos Pegase Winery, also known as 'America's first monument to wine'.
The Napa Valley wine route is world-class, so rich in different experiences and destinations. Here are three of the best wine trail treats.
-
Visit Joseph Phelps, ZD Wines and the splendid Miner Family Winery
-
Explore the stunning Tuscan castle, Castello di Amorosa
-
Experience the delights of the charming city of St Helena
If you can manage all three you'll be well on the way to getting the full flavour of this deliciously lush, rich and verdant region.
For shopping, head to the Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa where you'll find anythng and everything food and drink related, including live cooking demonstrations and tastings.
Have you heard about the Napa Valley Wine Train? It's something else, a restaurant on wheels rich in old-school antique splendour, all crisp white tablecloths and fine dining. Take a trip on the Napa Valley Wine Train and indulge on world-class vino and gourmet delights whilst taking in the stunning scenery of California's wine country.
Wine isn't the only treat in the Napa Valley. There's so much more. How about these?
-
Relax in the hot springs and spa at Calistoga
-
Visit Napa itself, particularly the vibrant downtown area
-
Take a hot air balloon ride over lush vineyards
With all three under your belt you'll feel wonderfully familiar with the legendary vibe of this glorious area of the USA, a place you'll want to return to again and again.
"Wine to me is passion. It's family and friends. It's warmth of heart and generosity of spirit. It's the essence of civilization and the art of living." - Robert Mondavi.
Breathe Napa in all its glory on your bike, taking in a fine wine tour on two wheels courtesy of a friendly, experienced tour guide. Play an excellent round of golf in the famously balmy climate, with a host of great courses to choose from. Visit the dramatic Skyline Wilderness park for hiking, biking and horse riding. Enjoy a performance at the Uptown Theatre in Napa. Eat out at the Calistoga Inn, restaurant and brewery, famous for its outdoor dining, live entertainment and dancing. Or strut your stuff at the excellent Silo's Music Room for the finest live rock, soul, reggae and jazz.
Missing British beer, billiards and darts? Napa delivers Brits' favourite entertainment down at Billco's Billiards and Darts... including sixty microbrews and international beers on tap. Whether you're a chilled type of person who loves nothing more than a peaceful break exploring the stunning Napa Valley countryside, or a party animal who prefers to spend your holidays living it up, there's something for everyone. Fantastic food, fascinating art and creative pursuits. Great entertainment, history, mystery, music, theatre and loads more, all crammed into one gorgeous, enormous, lush valley. It's perfect. And there's lots for the kids to do, too.