Napa | Sonoma Romantic Escape Guide

Calistoga Ranch

When the demands of daily life are just too much to bear, escape to Calistoga Ranch, a secluded 157-acre resort tucked into the hillside. After enjoying its private lodge accommodations, full-service spa, complimentary classes and activities, pool and restaurant, you're guaranteed to emerge from this rustic-luxury oasis utterly transformed.

Auberge du Soleil

Auberge du Soleil has to be seen to be believed. Mere words simply cannot do justice to the kind of rarefied luxury you'll find at this impeccably tasteful Mediterranean-inspired resort. It has an Old World elegance that is hard to come by in today's fast-paced world, making it the ultimate place to stop and smell the perfectly manicured roses.

Hotel Healdsburg

This is very well what paradise might look like. Wildly sophisticated and boldly sleek, with every aesthetic detail in place and every creature comfort imaginable, the Hotel Healdsburg transformed the town when it opened its doors a few years ago. There's a fabulous spa and the award-winning Dry Creek Kitchen on-site, so you can enjoy a perfect weekend without even leaving the premises.

Kenwood Inn and Spa

Combine the tasteful aesthetic of Tuscany with the gorgeous landscape of the California Wine Country, and the result is the Kenwood Inn. This gracious Old World estate will make you feel as though you've stepped into a different, infinitely more serene era, when long wine-filled outdoor lunches and languid afternoons by the pool were the norm. Turn off your BlackBerry and soak it up.

Meadowood

Less of a private retreat than a social mecca, Meadowood's lush and sprawling grounds are a hive of activity, both for guests booking one of the 85 bright and tastefully decorated cottages and suites and for locals for whom it serves as a private club. With golf, spa facilities, tennis, a pool, hiking and more, Meadowood is a lovely place to mingle and socialize while you relax.

Solage

Solage successfully combines a distinctly urban aesthetic--think neutral tones, clean lines and iPod hookups with the lush, bucolic landscape of Calistoga. The effect is sublimely sophisticated, making it the perfect place for a very grown-up getaway.

Bardessono

The hotly anticipated Bardessono opened its doors to great acclaim in early 2009. Its widely touted green philosophy is only part of this sleek retreat's appeal. The contemporary style and palette are best described as desert-chic, with neutral tones throughout and extensive use of stone. For those who love spa treatments, Bardessono may be heaven itself. Bathrooms are designed to double as private spas, with custom massage tables and deep soaking tubs, ask about the suites with dual shower-steam rooms and outdoor showers.

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

With an on-site golf course, newly renovated spa, several restaurants, business amenities, tennis courts and more, this sprawling resort has something for everyone in your group. It makes a great base for exploring the area.

Healdsburg Bar & Grill

If you need a break from culinary acrobatics and just want to tuck into a simple classic; a burger, a Caesar salad or a thin-crust pizza; grab an outdoor table on the patio at Healdsburg Bar & Grill. The dishes are accessible and delicious, and the mood is very relaxed.

Taylor's Automatic Refresher

Yes, one of the great pleasures of the Valley is getting dressed to the nines and indulging in an unforgettable meal at one of its many gorgeous restaurants. But there is also a time and a place for a fabulous patty melt and a chocolate shake, savored in the sunshine at a bright-red picnic table in the grass. This casual diner just happens to have a more serious wine menu than most; this is still Napa, after all.

Chefs' Market

This vibrant farmers market is like a foodie carnival, with chef demonstrations, fabulous food, live music and plenty of local color. It's a nice change of pace from some of the uber-posh Napa Valley experiences. Thursdays 5-9pm, late May-late July.

Gillwoods Cafe

This cafe in the heart of downtown St. Helena keeps things simple, and that's part of its charm. If you're craving a big old-fashioned egg breakfast or a quick lunchtime BLT, Gillwoods is the place.

Go Fish

When veteran chef Cindy Pawlcyn (of Mustards fame) opened Go Fish in 2006, it became an instant favorite. Locals and visitors alike flock here for a dizzying array of delectable fish preparations that satisfy every kind of craving, from sushi to oysters to fish-and-chips to black cod, all well executed by chefs who clearly know their guppies.

Bouchon

On first glance, Bouchon looks like any pleasant little bistro - a lovely casual ambience and a convivial scene of relaxed and happy people tucking into French classics like Pâtés de campagne, French onion soup, beet salad and steak-frites. But the fact is, Bouchon is anything but ordinary. Thomas Keller (of French Laundry fame) is the brain behind this deceptively casual spot, so the food is really the best in its class, and the entire experience is carefully orchestrated to ensure guests' maximum pleasure.

Farm

Don't let the name fool you - this ain't no farm. This is glamorous, sophisticated dining at its Wine Country best, complete with acres of white linens, soaring floor-to-ceiling windows and an urban menu that specializes in highlighting the area's gorgeous local bounty.

Bottega

If you like to be in the know, book a table at this new hot spot opened in late 2008 by local celebrity chef Michael Chiarello and be among the first to see what all the fuss is about (hint: sublime Italian-inspired cuisine in a warm rustic setting).

Martini House

It's quite simple, really: if you're coming to Napa, you must book a table here - the sooner, the better. Between the Pat Kuleto designed rustic setting and chef Todd Humphries' deft work in the kitchen, you are guaranteed a sublime evening. Pay special attention to the wine list, which oenophiles have been swooning over since the place opened. Tip: Mushrooms are something of a specialty here. Definitely try the mushroom soup.

Bounty Hunter

Need a break from the highfalutin ways of the Wine Country? Snag a table at the Bounty Hunter, order their famous (no joke!) beer-can chicken or ribs, and then peruse the seriously impressive wine list while you wait. This quirky local spot is a real find - don't miss it.

Ad Hoc

Do you just want a casual night out - good food and good wine in a relaxed setting? Ad Hoc is the answer. It serves a daily-changing four-course prix fixe family-style meal five nights a week. Simply brilliant.

Redd

Fans have been swooning over Richard Reddington's cuisine at some of the Bay Area's top restaurants for a long time. Here, at Redd, he gets the chance to do things his way. And it turns out his way is a very, very good way indeed. Don't miss the chance to enjoy his inventive riffs on the classics in this crisp, airy, minimalist setting.

Uva Trattoria

This cozy local favorite in the rapidly gentrifying town of Napa draws a happy, casual crowd with fine Italian cuisine and live jazz. It's a great choice for a casual but satisfying evening.

Napa Valley Opera House

Yes, it's called an opera house, but this intimate venue sees all kinds of performances - from Pocket Opera versions of favorites like The Barber of Seville and Carmen to Joan Baez and Bruce Hornsby to theatrical performances of My Fair Lady. Check the website for upcoming performances and ticket sales.

Robert Mondavi Winery 2009 Summer Music Festival

Grab a cozy blanket and a picnic and prepare to enjoy Wine Country at its best. Musical legends like the B-52's, Natalie Cole and KC & the Sunshine Band are scheduled to perform in 2009 at this outdoor festival on the winery's expansive lawn. The festival kicks off in June and ends in August. Check the websites for artists, dates, and directions, and to buy tickets. http:www.robertmondaviwinery.com

Napa City Nights

Make like a local and head over to the refurbished Veteran's Memorial Park for one of the free live concerts held Friday evenings in the summer. Don't forget to bring a blanket (ask your hotel for one) and a picnic basket filled with some of the day's finds. Fridays 6:30-10pm, June 5-September 11.

Music in the Vineyards

If you're lucky enough to visit Napa in August, be sure to check out Music in the Vineyards, now in its 15th year. This nationally acclaimed three-week festival showcases world-class artists-in-residence performing chamber music in stunning winery settings. Enjoy wine tastings at each intermission and breathtaking views of the Napa Valley.

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

With an on-site golf course, newly renovated spa, several restaurants, business amenities, tennis courts and more, this sprawling resort has something for everyone in your group. It makes a great base for exploring the area.

Ubuntu Restaurant and Yoga Studio

Directed by Veronica Vidal, this world-class yoga studio offers a varied roster of 42 classes a week for yoga enthusiasts of all levels, taught by local and world-renowned teachers. Top off your post-class Zen with a delicious vegetarian meal downstairs. Much of the produce featured on Ubuntu's garden-fresh menu comes from the restaurant's own biodynamic gardens.

The Carneros Inn

A yoga retreat on the grounds of the beautiful Carneros Inn is a real treat for yoga buffs. Led by Janna Barkin, these serene and rejuvenating experiences are utterly transformative. Daylong retreats include morning and afternoon yoga sessions, lunch and use of the pools, grounds and the fitness center ($135). Half-day mini-retreats include a three-hour yoga session followed by an afternoon of soaking in the pools, exploring the grounds and dining at one of the on-site restaurants ($65).

Sonoma Half-Day

Start your visit with a trip to Viansa 25200 Arnold Dr., Sonoma; 800-995-4740; http://www.viansa.com  Upon entering the estate's Tuscan-style villa, you'll feel like you've been transported to Italy. Sample an assortment of fine wines, gourmet mustards, olive oils, breads, and desserts and take in the beautiful surroundings (tastings begin at a very wallet-friendly $5). From there, make your way to Gloria Ferrer 23555 Carneros Hwy., Sonoma; 707-996-7256; http://www.gloriaferrer.com to indulge in a few fine sips of bubbly, and then pop into Schug 602 Bonneau Rd., Sonoma; 800-966-9365; http://www.schugwinery.com, right next door, to try a few elegant and complex Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. If you have time, continue up to Gundlach Bundschu 2000 Denmark St., Sonoma; 707-938-5277; http://www.gunbun.com)a family-run winery that specializes in bright German varietal wines that are sure to perk up your taste buds after several hours of eating and drinking (reservations are required).

Sonoma Full-Day

Toast the day ahead with a glass of bubbly at Gloria Ferrer (23555 Carneros Hwy., Sonoma; 707-996-7256; http://www.gloriaferrer.com). Then pop into Schug (602 Bonneau Rd., Sonoma; 800-966-9365; http://www.schugwinery.com right next door, to sample some elegant and complex Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. If you want to really pack a lot into your schedule, check out Gundlach Bundschu (2000 Denmark St., Sonoma; 707-938-5277; http://www.gunbun.com) a family-run winery that specializes in German varietal wines. If you want to take your sweet time, then skip Gundlach and head in a more leisurely way to Imagery (14335 Sonoma Hwy., Glen Ellen; 877-550-4278; http://www.imagerywinery.com for an unconventional surprise. You'll discover a palette of unusual varietals, surprising blends and innovative farming techniques. Pay attention to their labels, which are one-of-a-kind world-class works of art. This experience is a Jane must. After lingering a while, get back to traditional wine-roots at Chateau St. Jean (8555 Sonoma Hwy., Kenwood; 707-833-4134; http://www.chateaustjean.com where you'll find a variety of crisp whites awaiting you. End the day at Ledson (7335 Sonoma Hwy., Kenwood; 707-5373810; http://www.ledsonwinery.com where you can enjoy sampling award-winning Petite Sirahs and Zinfandels. The medieval-style grounds are equally impressive, and there are lots of great places to sit and rest your wined-out toes.

Napa Bubbly

Begin your bubbly tour at the picturesque Domaine Carneros (1240 Duhig Rd., Napa; 800-716-2788; http://www.domainecarneros.com where guests can opt to taste, tour the facilities or both--no reservations necessary. A small menu is available, and the terrace setting overlooking the vine-covered hills is exactly what you imagined Napa would look like. Much as you'd probably like to linger here, press on, to Domaine Chandon (1 California Dr., Yountville; 707-944-2280; http://www.chandon.com, which accommodates visitors with a variety of tour ($30) and tasting ($16) options in a classically beautiful setting (the gorgeous toile restaurant also serves lunch Thursday-Monday). Finish up at Mumm (8445 Silverado Trail, Rutherford; 707-967-7700; http://www.mummnapa.com, where you can sample an array of sparklers on their beautiful terrace. Mumm is a Jane fave, and tastings start at a friendly $6.

Sonoma Bubbly

Begin with a visit to Gloria Ferrer (23555 Carneros Hwy., Sonoma; 707-996-7256; http://www.gloriaferrer.com to indulge in a few fine sips of bubbly on the lovely terrace overlooking the vineyards. After whetting your palate there, head over to J Winery's Bubble Room (11447 Old Redwood Hwy., Healdsburg; 888-594-6326; http://www.jwine.com to indulge in a full tasting flight featuring sparkling wines only available here, complete with a carefully selected tasting menu designed to enhance the wines. It's a bit of an extravagance at $60, but we're confident you'll agree that it's money well spent. Be sure to reserve ahead. Weekends only.

A Day in Napa

Begin your day at Miner Family Vineyards 7850 Silverado Trail, Oakville; 800-366-9463; www.minerwines.com. No appointments are necessary and tastings are a mere $15. Try the Oracle, the winery's flagship wine, and don’t miss the chance to sample some of their delicious Pinots. Continue north along the Silverado Trail to Mumm 8445 Silverado Trail, Rutherford; 707-967-7700; http://mummnapa.com to sample an array of bright sparkling wines on their picturesque terrace. Mumm is a Jane fave, and tastings start at a friendly $6. Continue up the trail to Frank Family Vineyards 1091 Larkmead Lane, Calistoga; 800-574-9463; www.frankfamilyvineyards.com, the friendliest winery in Napa. The setting is delightfully casual, and the tastings are free! From there, make your way to Highway 29 and turn left to head back south. End the day at St. Supéry 8440 St. Helena Hwy., Rutherford; 707-963-4507; www.stsupery.com, a hospitable place that attracts all levels of wine enthusiasts. The whites are especially delicious. Note: you don’t need to make an appointment at any of these places unless you are traveling with a group of six or more.

Napa Half-Day

Begin your visit at Paraduxx (7257 Silverado Trail, Napa; 866-367-9943; http://www.paraduxx.com, where you can ease into the day at your own tasting table (not crowded around a bar). The exclusive-feeling ambience is modern and hip. Make sure someone in your group orders the Blend Experience, as this is what they're best known for. Continue up the trail to Joseph Phelps (200 Taplin Rd., St. Helena; 707-963-2745; http://www.jpvwines.com to try their famed Insignia. The pours are generous, the outdoor setting is refreshing and the staff is charming. It is also a "green" winery, and we think it's one of the best. Cross over to Highway 29 to end your wine-tasting tour at Trefethen (1160 Oak Knoll Ave., Napa; 866-895-7696; http://www.trefethen.com, one of Napa's most famous vineyards. This family-run winery produces award-winning whites and reds and is far and away the best way to end the day. Reservations are a must on weekends, though you might get away with dropping in midweek.

Napa Full-Day

Start the day by visiting one of Napa's oldest vineyards, Trefethen (1160 Oak Knoll Ave., Napa; 866-895-7696; http://www.trefethen.com. This family-run winery produces award-winning whites and reds that are both reasonably priced and tasty. Continue up Highway 29 to Cakebread Cellars (8300 St. Helena Hwy., Rutherford; 800-588-0298; www.cakebread.com). Yes, the wine is just as good as it sounds. Do not skip this one - we promise you'll be glad you went. After you've had your cake, continue on to Grgich (1829 St. Helena Hwy., Rutherford; 800-532-3057; www.grgich.com) for wonderful Zins and world-class Cabs. (Fun note: Mike Grgich first gained international recognition at the celebrated "Paris Tasting" of 1976, where Mike's 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay was chosen as the finest white in the world!) Next, cross over to the less-traveled Silverado Trail to visit Joseph Phelps (200 Taplin Rd., St. Helena; 707-963-2745; www.jpvwines.com), where you can try their famed Insignia. The pours are generous, the outdoor setting is refreshing and the staff is charming. It is also a "green" winery, and we think it's one of the best. From there, continue south down the trail to Vine Cliff (7400 Silverado Trail, Napa; 707-944-1364; www.vinecliff.com), a small winery built into the eastern hillsides with a reputation for rich, intense, food-friendly and well-balanced Cabernets (note: reservations required). End the day at Paraduxx (7257 Silverado Trail, Napa; 866-367-9943; www.paraduxx.com), where you can rest your weary wine taste buds at your own tasting table (not crowded around a bar). The exclusive-feeling ambience is modern and hip and sets the right tone as you begin to think about a fun night out. Reservations are a must on weekends, though you might get away with dropping in midweek.

Carneros Spa

Glam it up Napa-Hollywood style at the Carneros Spa. Book yourself a five-star treatment and follow it up with a glass of sparkling champagne-water poolside. Want to really go Hollywood? Book Destination Relaxation (if you aren't already staying there), which includes spa treatments and access to a complimentary guest cottage featuring heated floors, a deep soaking tub, indoor and alfresco showers, a wood-burning fireplace, a flat-screen TV, a private garden and more. Spend the day floating in the infinity-edge pool that overlooks the rolling hills and vineyards, then shop it up with a private shopping experience at PlumpJack Sport Boutique. Price is $450 including all spa treatments and gratuity. But hey, if you’re in need of a glamour fix, it’s way less hassle than a trip to Hollywood.

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

A little too much partying lately? Or over-stressed from work? If you’re feeling the need for a deeply rejuvenating cleanse, sign up for the Bathing Ritual here and let the purification begin. You’ll enjoy several thermal pools heated to different temperatures, an exfoliating shower, rehydration, steam room and sauna. Haven’t had enough yet? Try out some of the other treatments. The massages are great, the facials are fantastic and the lavender treatments are pure bliss. You’re guaranteed to emerge transformed. Stress? What stress?

Calistoga Inn & Ranch

Nestled just outside Calistoga, this indoor-outdoor spa is luxury and sophistication at its best. Soaking pools overlook moss-lined oaks, and chairs are perfectly positioned for relaxing or curling up with a good book post-treatment. If you’re having trouble deciding on a treatment, go for one of the massages—you won’t regret it.

Longs Drug

Rite Aid Pharmacy

The Vine Times Event Calendar

The most up-to-date and robust events calendar for Napa.

All Access Napa Valley - Concierge

Whether you're in search of fabulous food and wine, art, cooking classes, or exclusive access, the team at All Access Napa Valley will set you up.

Beau Wine Tours

Beau Wine Tours is also a great option. They can tailor a tour to your needs and offer up some pretty great deals. The drivers are a blast and know their hood.

Queen of the Valley Medical Center

Allergic reaction got you down? Head to Queen of the Valley Medical Center.

Cache Salon

Need a blowout, but don’t want to pay hotel salon fees? Book an appointment at Cache Salon.

Need a last minute outfit?

Head on over to Napa's Premium Shopping Outlet for a last minute outfit or a fabulous deal.

Fitting in with the locals

The “country” in Wine Country does not mean you should pack like you’re heading to Montana. Napa style is a combination of comfort and elegance. Your best bet during the hot summer months are flowing skirts paired with nice sandals or cute flats. Make sure you bring a light sweater for cave tours and air-conditioned restaurants. By night, anything goes. From casual chic to tiny cocktail dresses. Rule of thumb: keep it simple and leave the sky-high heels at home. Check out our Wine Country Style Guide for some ideas.

Drive or get driven

Thanks to fantastic city signage, getting around Napa on your own is not too tricky. If you are looking for a limo or town car to do the driving for you, the best agency in town is Beau Wine Tours (www.beauwinetours.com). Prices are competitive and the drivers are very helpful and knowledgeable. Make sure you book any tours/hourly rentals at least a few days in advance.