Where to Stay In Napa Valley
Exploring the Distinct Neighborhoods of Napa Valley
Napa Valley, renowned globally for its exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes, is more than just a collection of vineyards. It's made up of a collection of unique towns and communities, each offering its own character and distinctive wine country experience. From the bustling energy of downtown to the serene tranquility of sleepier neighborhoods, let's uncork the diverse neighborhoods that make up this iconic California destination.
Downtown Napa: Urban Center of Napa Valley
As the largest city center in Napa Valley, Napa has undergone a significant revitalization in the past decade. Once primarily an agricultural hub, it's now a vibrant urban center brimming with gourmet restaurants, boutique shops, and a lively arts scene. When staying downtown, you will be within walking distance of various wine tasting rooms, restaurants, and shops.
Vibe: Urban sophistication meets wine country charm
Highlights: Oxbow Public Market, numerous tasting rooms within walking distance, world-class restaurants, and the Napa Valley Wine Train
Best For: Foodies, those looking for a lively atmosphere, and visitors who prefer walking to driving between attractions
Where to Stay In Downtown Napa
Andaz Napa
This is a solid option if you can’t afford any of the resorts in the vineyards of Napa Valley. It’s a boutique hotel with 141 basic rooms that are on the smaller side. The hotel can get quite lively during busy periods and the lobby bar offers live music on certain nights.
There is not a gym/pool onsite, however the hotel is partnered with a Healthquest fitness center where hotel guests can request a voucher from the front desk to utilize the gym. Uber rides to and from the gym are also reimbursed by the hotel. Self parking is complimentary in a public garage a three minute walk away.
Perks I can add to the reservations of my Bessties:
Daily Full Breakfast For 2 People
$50 property credit per stay
Early check-in, room upgrade, and connecting/adjoining rooms upon availability
Calistoga: Geothermal Springs and Bohemian Spirit
At the northern end of Napa Valley, Calistoga is known for its natural hot springs, mud baths, and a more relaxed, bohemian atmosphere. It offers a refreshing contrast to the more polished towns to the south. Calistoga's relaxed atmosphere and proximity to hot springs contribute to Solage's distinct charm. The Northern part of the valley is known for its rustic beauty and boutique wineries.
Vibe: Laid-back, therapeutic, and quirky
Highlights: Geothermal spas, Old Faithful Geyser of California, Castello di Amorosa, and a vibrant local art & dining scene
Best For: Wellness seekers
Where to Stay in Calistoga
Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection
Solage offers a modern social take on Napa Valley luxury. Its design is farmhouse chic with open layouts, abundant natural light, and an airy ambiance. The focus on modern design is consistent throughout the property.The property underwent a major renovation project in May 2021. Solage has a very lively atmosphere, making it a popular destination for social gatherings. It has a state-of-the-art fitness center, scheduled fitness and wellness classes, and impressive wellness facilities, offering everything from naturally heated geothermal pools, mud treatments, sound chair therapy, magnesium and saline pools, and more. The spa leans into its Calistoga location, which is famous for its geothermal hot springs, and offers a signature “Mudslide” spa treatment.
As our Besstie, we will add the below perks to your reservation at no additional cost (typically in combination with any public or non-public promotions):
Breakfast for 2 daily
100 USD resort credit per room
First priority for early check-in & late check-out (subject to availability)
Upgrade subject to availability on arrival
St. Helena: Historic Charm and Boutique Experiences
St. Helena offers a delightful blend of historic architecture, charming Main Street shops, and a mix of well-established and smaller, family-owned wineries. It strikes a balance between the bustling energy of Napa and the quiet luxury of Yountville. St Helena is often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Northern California and everyone from The Kardashians to the Beckhams have been spotted shopping downtown in St. Helena over the years.
Vibe: Picturesque, historic, and approachable elegance
Highlights: Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, boutique shopping, and diverse winery offerings
Best For: Shoppers, history enthusiasts, and those looking for a diverse range of tasting experiences
Where to Stay in St. Helena
Meadowood Napa Valley
Meadowood has been around since 1961. Past guests have included President George W. Bush, John Legend, Oprah Winfrey, Michelle Pfeiffer, Kate Upton, Courtney Cox, Dennis Quaid, and Julia Child. The property is a Forbes Five Star Hotel and Spa, a Relais & Chateaux member, and has received 3 Michelin Keys - an impressive list of recognitions for a hotel! Meadowood is more than just a hotel; it's a destination in itself given that it was originally a country club. The property spans 250 acres and features a golf course, five tennis courts, hiking trails, three pools, a newly renovated fitness center with class programming, a private hiking trail, a spa, a restaurant, a wine center, and a cafe. The Forbes 5 Star spa, accessible only to Meadowood guests and members, is incredible. The spa facilities are designed to allow you to relax and stay awhile - fireplaces, lounge areas, snacks and tea, a hot tub, and a sauna. What’s really unique about the spa is The Tree House Retreat, a private room in the spa that is partially outdoor. Partly open to the elements and underneath the beautiful trees, the room includes a fireplace and a hand-hammered copper tub for custom baths.
Note: In 2020, the Glass Fire engulfed Meadowood and burned 50 percent of the buildings, including many of the guest rooms and the 3 Michelin star restaurant. The resort is actively working on a comprehensive rebuilding plan, including a reimagined Restaurant, rebuilt cottages and lodges to bring the total room count back up to 106, and enhanced facilities. Currently, 36 rooms and suites, in addition to the Hill House, have been re-opened to guests, in addition to most guest facilities.
I can add the below perks at Meadowood for my Bessties:
Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant and via in-room dining
$100 hotel credit
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Yountville: The Culinary Epicenter
Often referred to as the "culinary capital" of Napa Valley, Yountville is a small, upscale town disproportionately rich in Michelin-starred restaurants. Its manicured streets and high-end boutiques reflect its luxurious appeal. It’s a compact neighborhood, so everything is within walking or biking distance, making it easy to stay here and never leave if you don’t want to.
Vibe: Exclusive, gourmet, and refined
Highlights: The French Laundry, Bouchon Bistro, Bottega, and numerous art galleries
Best For: Gourmands, luxury travelers, and those seeking an intimate, high-end experience
Where to Stay in Yountville
Bardessono Hotel and Spa
Bardessono Hotel is centrally located in Yountville complimentary bikes for exploring the culinary epicenter of Napa, although this little neighborhood is easily walkable. This hotel is LEED Platinum certified, which is reflected in its use of reclaimed materials, solar energy, and sophisticated water conservation systems. The hotel has an infrared sauna, heated rooftop swimming pool, and hot tub. The farm-to-fork restaurant emphasizes fresh local and organic ingredients, to reflect an authentic taste of Napa Valley. Each spacious and elegantly appointed room is a meticulously designed private sanctuary, with thoughtful touches such as private outdoor showers, deep soaking tubs, private courtyards, and/or rooftop patios.
Perks I can add for my Bessties at this hotel:
Daily breakfast credit of $30 per person, for up to two guests per bedroom
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Carneros: Cooler Climates and Sparkling Wines
Stretching across the southern ends of both Napa and Sonoma Valleys, Carneros is distinct for its cool, marine-influenced climate. This region is especially renowned for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, as well as sparkling wines, thanks to the cooling fog from San Pablo Bay. It’s the farthest South - meaning it’s the closest to San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and the major airports in the area (Oakland and San Francisco).
Vibe: Serene, agricultural, with a focus on cool-climate varietals
Highlights: World-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, sparkling wine houses, and picturesque rolling hills
Best For: Lovers of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines, and those seeking a more tranquil tasting experience
Where to Stay in Carneros
Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection
Nestled in the southern end of Napa Valley, close to the historic downtown of Napa, Stanly Ranch is a newcomer to Napa, having recently opened in April of 2022. Stanly Ranch has very modern spaces with open design that blend indoor and outdoor living, including individual cottages, multi-bedroom suites, two bedroom villas, and three and four bedroom homes. The decor is themed with a ranch aesthetic and you’ll see the bell staff (who call themselves “ranch hands”) decked out in Ralph Lauren, from their cowboy hats, denim, and cowboy boots. The common spaces are gorgeous and very Insta-worthy. Stanly Ranch has a state-of-the-art fitness center, scheduled fitness and wellness classes, and unique spa treatments, including myofascial release treatments, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, ice baths, polarity work, and more.
As our Besstie, we will add the below perks to your reservation at no additional cost (typically in combination with any public or non-public promotions):
Breakfast for 2 daily
100 USD resort credit per room
First priority for early check-in & late check-out (subject to availability)
Upgrade subject to availability on arrival
Ready to Visit Napa Valley?
Each neighborhood in Napa Valley offers a distinct flavor of wine country life. Whether you're seeking gourmet dining, world-class wines, relaxing spa treatments, or an urban experience, Napa Valley has a corner perfectly suited for your next adventure. So, pack your bags, raise a glass, and explore the diverse beauty of these enchanting communities.
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