Napa Vacations

Napa vacations are a great way to relax and rejuvenate. With exceptional natural beauty, comfortably mild weather, gourmet dining, world-class wineries, and a host of varied attractions, a trip to Napa is enjoyable and rewarding for all kinds of people.

As you plan your travel to Napa Valley, know that there are a variety of Napa Valley hotels to choose from. Whether you want a small hotel in downtown Napa or a resort in Calistoga or St. Helena, there's something for everybody. Napa Valley prices are not necessarily for everybody, however. Luxury hotels and bed and breakfasts are in high supply, but for cheap hotels you'll have to hunt a bit harder. To find the best deals, look for specials and vacation packages, or consider going in the off-season. If you don't mind roughing it, you can also camp in Napa Valley, and get your fill of hiking.

Napa is located northeast of San Francisco, so many people visiting the San Francisco Bay Area make a short excursion to travel to Napa Valley. There are several transportation options for traveling to and around the area; for instance, you can rent a car in San Francisco or Napa. You can also purchase a tour for your Napa Valley vacation that includes transportation from San Francisco—shuttle tours and bike tours are both options. Or you can book a ride on the Napa Wine Train, which will allow you to soak up the lovely scenery and enjoy a great meal at the same time. Another great way to take in the natural beauty of Napa Valley is by taking a scenic drive along Highway 29 or the Silverado Trail.

The attractions in Napa Valley are varied. Visiting wineries and vineyards for wine tasting and vineyards tours is an extremely popular thing to do on Napa vacations, as Napa is one of the most famous wine-producing regions in the world. From Castello di Amorosa to Domaine Chandon to Quintessa to Rubicon, every winery offers something special. If you find a few favorite wineries, you might consider signing up for their wine clubs, so you can enjoy their creations year-round. Since the fees for wine tastings can add up, be sure to look for wine-tasting discounts; ask your hotel if they have any coupons, or check the individual winery web sites. With luck, you might even snag a few free tastings on your Napa Valley vacation.

Dining is also exceptional in Napa Valley, and you'll definitely want to explore some of the food in Napa, Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga on your Napa vacations. Whether you're craving French restaurants, steak, or sushi, there's something for you. Yountville is even home to famous Michelin-starred restaurants such as The French Laundry and Bouchon. Foodies can also take advantage of farmers markets, food-related Napa festivals, and the Culinary Institute of America, home to the Greystone Restaurant.

Of course, a Napa Valley vacation isn't just about the food and wine. From golfing and spas to shopping and balloon rides, the possibilities are endless. You'll have to plan ahead to fit in everything you want to do in one trip, but you'll be well rewarded for the effort. Travel to Napa Valley is a true a delight, and you'll surely want to return many more times in the future.