To capture the pure, organic magic that is Napa Valley wine country, one learns to cherish more than a glass or two (or five) of wine. The entire experience, whether that’s learning about the lay of the land, tasting vintage reserves or strolling the property with the sun on your back, can transport you to what feels like a simpler time.
My guide to Napa Valley, full of family-owned farms, is a place where nobody dresses up for dinner, instead they gather after a long day working the vines to unwind and enjoy the harvest. It’s a place that welcomes wine and food lovers alike, converging to share their passion and perhaps follow their dreams and belief that one grape, one varietal, can change their life.
As I plan my fifth trip to wine country, I wanted to celebrate this magical place and share my favorite ways (thus far) to enjoy Napa Valley to its fullest. As you’ll see in the slideshow above, I gathered my list of must-visit wineries, along with suggested restaurants and travel to-do’s to create the full, majestic experience that will be truly unforgettable.
It’s true that both novice and expert alike will find something to fancy their tastes in Napa. And while many flock to the region to brave the crowds with full glasses in hand living up to it’s sometimes obnoxious label “The Disneyland of Wine,” I find that the most magical moments can be found off the beaten path. Always appreciating the families that made Napa Napa, but always seeking Napa Valley‘s hidden gems.
My biggest piece of advice for you, whether it’s your first time in Napa Valley wine country or twentieth: don’t be afraid to ask questions. At the heart of it, these are farmers. This is their craft, they are immensely proud of their hard labor and rightfully so. You’ll most likely spend time in several beautiful tasting rooms, but when I’m there, I’ll always ask if I can walk the property. Most wineries have beautiful gardens to explore, and “Winery Dogs,” to pet who prove that life in wine country is about as good as it gets.
To me, Napa isn’t a place, it’s a mindset. A place where the rolling hills allow me to do something I can never do; disconnect. A place where I can truly soak up everything I can about the people, the food, the vines, and that dirt that make the wine I have grown to love. In a few weeks, I’m going back to both Napa and Sonoma, and with that comes our Guide to Napa Valley: Part 2. Any suggestions for my next visit, please share! Truly, MKR
Love these recommendations! Next time you are in town try The Farmstead restaurant (at Longmeadow Ranch) Great atmosphere- chandeliers and gravel floors. And the best risotto!
I loved my trip to Napa last year and one of our favorite tours was of the Castello di Amorosa. The “Royal Food and Wine” pairing was well worth the money and included a tour of the authentic Italian Castle. Have a great trip!
Chris – http://www.shesallthatsister.com
If your visit is still during harvest season, consider the harvest lunch and tour at Failla. One of our favorite experiences from our 10th anniversary week out there!
Thank you for all the amazing suggestions we are planning a trip there this spring and are putting all of these on our list. I’d love in round two of your guide some more hotel and restaurant suggestions. xxoo Cheryl
Omg I’m dying to make a trip out to Napa question what do you think of the Carneros Inn?? I’m debating on staying there while in town any thoughts you have are so appreciated. Stacey
Are you planning on ever doing a Sonoma or Oregon guide? I’d love to get your thoughts on those two hot spots. Hugs Abbey
I’m hoping so, both are next on my list…after my upcoming trip back to Napa of course! xo MKR
Hi Stacey, its actually funny you ask as I may be heading there on this trip coming up so stay tuned! xo MKR
Noted, I’m on it see more restaurants & hotels in Guide II! xo MKR
Thank you so much for the suggestion, I’m putting it on my list! xo MKR
Thank you so much for the suggestion, I’m looking it up now! xo MKR
Hi Gretchen, I ate at Farmstead last time I was in town and it was amazing! It’s for sure going in my Part II list! xo MKR
I would love to print this information out for planning purposes. Is there a way to get the “story” emailed to me? Great info!!!!thanks
Hi Kat this is a great idea, we are working on it and coming out with a guide Part II so stay tuned! xo
Mandy,
I am so fortunate to get to Wine country once a year for the last five years.
Every time I go with my husband we have a Wonderful weekend. I thought I would
Recommend a few of our favorites. We try to stop by Ehelers, Regusci, Robert Foley &
Jessup. This year we will try a few of your recommendations. Thanks
I agree, napa is a great place to disconnect. I just looked up some recreational activities in Napa and Enjoy Napa Valley has a recommendation to go kayaking! https://enjoy-napa-valley.com/napa-recreational-activities-2/