The Napa Valley in California is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. Yet when you ask most people what they know about Napa, wineries and wine is the most consistent answer you’ll get. The Napa Valley does indeed offer unrivaled wine tasting experiences, but for the discerning traveller it can also be one of the best weekend getaways you can ever choose.
With a lively cultural scene including amazing art and music venues, as well as world-famous food and wine, there is always something to do in Napa. The following are five must-do luxury activities when you visit Napa Valley.
1. Stay at the Napa River Inn
Luxury travel means avoiding the generic look and feel that most hotels have to offer without compromising on the quality of accommodation you choose. At the Napa River Inn, you’ll definitely feel like you’re at a hotel, but the tasteful use of traditional furniture gives it a luxurious feel you won’t find in other generic hotels. It’s also close to all the shopping, restaurants. and bars you’ll need during your stay.
2. Explore the Valley by Train
One of the best ways to explore all of Napa Valley is by train. You can book the Napa Valley Wine Train from Napa to St. Helena and see everything Napa has to offer while enjoying the wonderful tastes the train is so popular for. Because the train partners with four of the valley’s most renowned wineries, it’s a ride like no other, offering you the valley’s best dining experience as you soak in the gorgeous views from a different perspective.
3. Take a Wine Tour
Your visit to the Napa Valley is incomplete until you’ve taken a Napa Valley wine tour. It’s the valley’s most famous attraction, and there are quite a lot of wineries to visit. This includes Charles Krug Winery, the very first winery ever opened in the valley more than 150 years ago. It has quite the collection served in their stylish tasting room. Alpha Omega should also be a stop on one of your Napa Valley wine tours. It offers a more modern feel when compared to other wineries, and Sauvignon Blanc is particularly good. You should also check out Fantesca Estate and Winery, where you’ll get a private tour of their premium wines and a visit inside the mountainside cave that is said to once have been a silver mine.
4. Eat at the French Laundry
This is by far the most luxurious restaurant in the valley, offering one of the most unforgettable eating experiences you will ever have. The Michelin-starred restaurant is a stone farmhouse surrounded by organic gardens, with a menu that is world renowned. Just be sure to make a reservation well in advance!
5. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Aside from the train ride, the hot air balloon ride offers a great way to see the entire valley. The rolling hillsides and gorgeous rows of grapes the Napa Valley is most famous for is spectacular from above. This is an experience you are unlikely to forget any time soon!