Autumn is a magical time in Napa Valley. From show stopping fall foliage to the sweet smell of crushed grapes wafting through the vineyards and the excitement of another successful harvest, there’s a certain electricity in the air. 

Whether you're ballooning over the vineyards at sunrise, soothing away stress at one of Napa Valley’s blissful spas, or simply savoring a glass of Cabernet with friends overlooking a spectacular view, every where you look you will see the vineyards turned into a patchwork of autumn brilliance.

With so many choices in Napa where do you decide to go?

There is often a confusion between Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley.   Often they are lumped together, however, they are two distinct regions.   They can take over an hour travel between them and they are separated by mountains!

Napa Valley has a fairly small footprint of just 30 miles long and 5 miles across at its widest point, about a third of the size of the entire county — but the region produces some of the world’s most coveted wines. Varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are virtually synonymous with Napa Valley, but winemakers here also produce Pinot Noir, Merlot, Zinfandel, and Sauvignon Blanc, among others is home to five distinct towns, all with their own unique personalities. 

Highlighted are the main winery areas and suggestions of hidden gems for all foliage and hotels all with our Virtuoso VIP perks!

Calistoga

Located at the northernmost tip of Napa Valley, the town of Calistoga offers an easygoing, relaxed vibe. The town’s mineral-rich waters and natural geothermal hot spring pools make it home to several luxurious spas, where visitors can soak it all in. Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga’s main street, is lined with shops, tasting rooms, and eateries.

Where to stay:

Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection- With 22-acres of ample outdoor space it is a destination for ardent wine lovers, foodies and wellness seekers with their wellbeing programs.

Leaf-peeping Tip- Napa Valley Vine Trail  - Rent a cruiser bike from Napa Valley Bike Tours or an e-bike from Fat Tire Bike Rentals and pedal past rows of vineyards turning colors.

St. Helena

It only takes a few steps along Main Street to be charmed by the town of St. Helena, where shops, art galleries, and restaurants make it easy to while away an afternoon. Home base for local (and visitor) favorites Model Bakery and Gott’s Roadside.

Where to stay:

Meadowood Napa Valley- A 250-acre estate located in a private valley complete with tasting classes at their onsite Wine Center

Leaf-peeping Tip- Cruise through the “tree tunnel” on Highway 29 between Beringer Winery  and the Culinary Institute  in St. Helena. 

Yountville

In the heart of Napa Valley, Yountville is a luxurious getaway with small-town charm. And while Napa Valley is known around the world as a food and wine paradise, nowhere is that more apparent than in the small town of Yountville. With more Michelin-rated restaurants per capita than any other destination in the US, Yountville is affectionately referred to as the culinary capital of Napa Valley.

Where to stay:

Bardessono Hotel & Spa- Easily walk to wineries, bike along vineyards, shop the marketplace, celebrate the festivals, and taste life.

Leaf-peeping Tip- Far Niente Winery’s  gingko-lined driveway. Remember to book a tasting if you want to take fall photos as appointments are required for access to the property. 

 Napa/City of  Napa

As the largest town in Napa Valley, the City of Napa is a destination in its own right. Home to locally owned restaurants, hip wine tasting rooms, stylish boutiques, and whimsical works of public art, the town is especially known for its nightlife, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Shopping is a sport here, too, whether you're looking for art or something new to wear for dinner, and for a change of scenery, rent kayaks and paddle the Napa River.

Where to Stay

Carneros Resort & Spa- Just 11 minutes from the City of Napa, enjoy their farm-style cottage and home accommodations with fireplaces, outdoor showers and hot tubs.

Leaf-Peeping Tip- Trefethen Family Vineyards  - book an outdoor tasting and find the tree swing overlooking the vineyards for the perfect fall photo-op.  

These are just some of our top picks but there are 12 luxury resorts to chose from! Reach out to us to so we can help you plan your stay.

**Excerpts courtesy of Virtuoso.com and VisitNapaValley.com