The Travel Guide: Napa, California
Our favorite spots to visit in Wine Country
30 September 2022 -
Napa is one of those rare places—
—that delivers exactly what you expect out of travel. This impossibly scenic valley lives up to the hype. All around you are perfectly tidy rows of grape vines, which give way to charming country towns, sprawling hillside chateau wineries, and some of the most design-forward boutique hotels on the planet. It’s laidback and elevated at the same time, and if you can’t find a Michelin-starred restaurant or world-renowned winery to suitably whet your palette, you’re looking for all the wrong things. The Valley is comprised of a variety of idyllic towns, but Napa is the largest and arguably the most famous. Be sure to pack your favorite hat and boots and prepare to be swept away by this scenic stop in the heart of Northern California.
TO EAT —
The French Laundry (Yountville)
This iconic eatery is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with a plethora of international accolades to prove it. While the Michelin-Star restaurant requires a reservation made far in advance (time to plan ahead!), trust us when we say it is completely worth it.
Bouchon Bakery (Yountville)
From the same chef behind The French Laundry, Thomas Keller, this famous French bakery is one of the cutest stops in town. Pain au chocolates, croissants, macaroons, you name it, and you can’t go wrong.
Bear at Stanly Ranch (Napa Valley)
This stop is the new kid on the block and doesn’t disappoint (like everything associated with Auberge!). Local faire to suit any appetite.
La Calenda (Yountville)
Because everyone needs a Mexican food moment when they’re in wine country!
The Girl & The Fig (Sonoma)
The cutest French restaurant right in Sonoma square; it’s great for breakfast (French omelette, anyone?) and has the dreamiest patio. Pro tip: get the pack of chocolate chip cookies to go!
TO STAY —
Bardessono (Yountville)
A modern hotel and spa that feels encompassed in nature and with a farm-to-table restaurant on site, you’ll almost feel like you never have to leave (almost!).
Hotel Yountville (Yountville)
A Tuscan-inspired hotel with enough charm to last a lifetime.
El Dorado (Sonoma)
Located right in Sonoma Square, this hotel is a special spot filled with classic interiors and a great restaurant.
Auberge Stanly Ranch (Napa)
A brand-new resort that feels like you’re in a brand-new world. The incredible pool and villas open to the best of wine country views. A personal slice of heaven.
TO SHOP —
Chateau Sonoma (Sonoma)
A French home goods store, filled with the dreamiest, hand-picked pieces like candles and French barware.
Hillstone Home (Yountville)
A must-see home goods store with a trove of unique finds!
Alchemy Works Napa Valley (Yountville)
Like all of the Alchemy Works locations, you can’t walk out of here without buying something–it’s all so good!
TO WINE TASTE —
RH Yountville Wine Vault (Yountville)
All of the classic beauty that Restoration Hardware has to offer, in a wine tasting. The beautiful vine-lined patio makes you feel like you’re in a different country.
Stewart Cellars (Yountville)
A family-run winery and filled with the best Cabs you can find. The interiors were designed by Ken Fulk and as expected, every inch feels special.
Ram’s Gate (Sonoma)
Designed by the team behind Restoration Hardware, this winery has a fantastic covered patio with sweeping views of wine country and equally amazing wines.
Hudson (Sonoma)
A true Napa experience, Hudson sits on a family-run farm. It’s a truly unique experience as the wine tasting includes local bites and olive oil from their own farm.
Scribe (Sonoma)
An all-time favorite and not to be missed! The winery sits atop a hill and is lined with palm trees, making it a special spot to build memories. Pair the wine tasting with their food experience or grab a bottle of wine and sit on their lawn and just enjoy.
Clos Du Val (Napa)
Recently redone, this modern tasting room sits right on the vineyard and is the perfect spot to post up for the afternoon with rosé in hand.