Lodging

Love is in the air and for many it is about planning and executing the most romantic of surprises for their spouse, lover or life partner. Because life happens many of you will be busy at work or have other engagements that will hinder how much time, money or magic you can invest in making Valentine’s 2015 a day to remember. This is a conundrum but not one that can’t be fixed with a tad of creativity and a little flexibility. If you are swamped or otherwise drop the ball for Valentine’s give your sweetheart a raincheck for a little adventure full of wonderful wines and romance in Napa Valley. Our team of concierges is ready to lend you a hand.

How many days do I need for a wonderful and romantic tour of Napa?

We are certainly willing to show you the best of the best in a couple of days of touring; but to truly get to the heart of our beautiful wine country we suggest a Thursday arrival with a Sunday departure. That will give you sufficient time to restfully enjoy the sights and delight your palate with some of the best wines in the world.

What are the best hotels and specialty lodging options in Napa?

Napa has many secret treasures when it comes to lodging and our concierge can match you with just the right facility for you. Not to leave you in the air let us mention a few of our favorite hotels in and around Napa Valley. We love Bardessono, Andaz & Calistoga Ranch.

Best way to get around during your stay?

Not to gloat but our little team of wine educators ranks among the top five percent among 219 other tourism-focused activities in Napa on TripAdvisor. We highly personalize every experience and are deeply connected with the wine making community in Napa. Our vehicles are pristine, comfortable and full personal touches that have made us one of the best wine tour providers in Napa. Our guests enjoy small local treats, artisanal chocolate and a selection of local and imported flat & sparkling water. We know the shortcuts and the roads less traveled where you can appreciate nature and truly see Napa from the inside out.

What About Dining?

Napa Valley is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. Boasting aside we also have many small organic eateries that must be experienced and a number of chefs willing to venture into new culinary territory. If you are an absolute romantic we can plan and cater a secluded picnic. If instead you want to make culinary memories you won’t soon forget why not try, Bottega, Press, Meadowood & French Laundry.

The Most Romantic Wineries

Yes! We always leave the best for last. We know you are reading this post because you want to come, buy and enjoy wonderful wines. After much deliberation we feel the most romantic wineries in Napa are as follows:

Ehlers estate
Viader
Caldwell
Fontanella

When it comes to great lodging opportunities Napa Valley does not fall short. There are gorgeous properties some nestled among vineyards, others right in the heart of Napa downtown and a few so very hidden only the most knowledgeable of travelers could ever aspire to visit. For the more whimsical at heart Bed and Breakfast opportunities may just be the right choice.

Imagine for a moment arriving on a Thursday afternoon to a casual and quaint wine-pouring event hosted by a local winery. Most B & Bs’ host tastings sponsored by local wineries on Thursdays & Fridays usually after 5.00 p.m. If what you crave is intimacy and familiarity don’t miss out on what Napa’s best B & Bs’ have to offer.

Our favorites are known for excellent cuisine that might include locally sourced ingredients, private Chefs and lovely veranda dinners paired with the finest of wines.

As an added perk don’t be surprised if your host bed and breakfast offers you the option to purchase two for one wine deals in partnership with many of the most coveted wineries in the region.

#1. The Inn on First

The Inn on First is one of Napa Valley’s most beloved Bed & Breakfast. Jim Gunther and Jamie Cherry are the owners and Innkeepers, and the reason you want to stay here. The mansion dates back to 1905 and only three families lived there before it was converted to a B & B. This transformation began in 2002 and was completed in 2003. The property is luxurious, but it manages to keep the warmth and coziness that we have come to expect from small luxury properties. We are particularly fond of their excellent taste when it comes to creating a holiday ambiance that simply makes our hearts melt. Jim and Jamie bring a fresh look and fervor to excel in service to their guests. What distinguishes their Inn from any other in Napa Valley property is the touch of San Francisco style they have added to the decor, and their focus on hospitality. Jim Gunther is a graduate of the California Culinary Academy. His education in gastronomy is reflected in the superior cuisine offered to their guests. The Inn on First is a perfect destination for romantics and heart wishing to be pampered. Did we mention they are Green Certified and dog-friendly?

#2 Candlelight Inn

If you envision a postcard quality breakfast with made-from-scratch baked goods the Candlelight Inn is the place for you. Candlelight Inn is a classic Bed and Breakfast Napa Valley perfectly situated on the border of Sonoma and Napa at the gateway to the Los Carneros wine region. I personally recommend this lovely property. Expect seamless and generous hospitality from Scott; their Innkeeper.

#3 The Poetry Inn

Nestled in the hills above the Napa Valley, with a majestic view of the Mayacamas mountains, the Poetry Inn offers a unique and unforgettable experience. The moment you enter the property you lose track of time and reality and completely relax, thanks to the exceptional staff and beautiful surroundings. Accommodations are decorated in warm colors, and each has a private porch from which to ponder the sunset while enjoying the vineyard’s excellent Cabernet Sauvignon. Obsessive attention to detail is standard operating procedure.

#4 The Lavender House

Lavender started life in the 1850s as a country farmhouse on Capt. John Grigsby’s ranch southeast of Yountville; it is one of the oldest homes in the Napa Valley. The house was moved to the present location in the village in the 1860s. The staff is personable and has tremendous concierge skills. Just ask for a dinner recommendation and they will point you in the right direction!

#5 Chateau De Vie

Quiet personal and detailed attention surrounds you as you enter our formal gardens of lavender, roses and deep evergreens at Chateau De Vie. The setting is just enchanting. Peter and Philip are the most gracious hosts and are truly concerned with making your experience “over the top”. Their impeccable manners, the comfort of the rooms, the breakfasts to-die-for, the surrounding beauty, and all the added details made this place a must for future travel.

Wishing You a Most Lovely Friday

Javy