TH’s Travel Diary. Your Guide to Napa Valley: Top Wineries, Restaurants & Hotels
Napa Valley is every wine lover’s dream trip. So when we had the opportunity to put together a private tour for TH Designs, we did not hesitate! Each year, we host a group trip and Napa has been on the radar quite sometime and we finally made it happen.
From the rolling vineyards to the charming towns, every corner of this region offers plenty of sights and relaxation.
Our group had a fantastic time and is still raving about all of the delicious wine and food that we had. Now we want to share our itinerary with you!
Where to stay in Napa Valley: River Terrace Inn
I can not say enough about how wonderful this hotel is. It’s especially perfect for groups as the terrace overlooking Napa River is a great gathering place with fire pits, rocking chairs and lots of space. I loved eating a yummy, almond crossaint and latte from The Model Bakery our there every morning It was a perfect way to start the day.
The River Terrace Inn offers spacious rooms with large windows that fill the space with natural light. The property also includes a fitness center and complimentary bike rentals.
Now, let’s talk about where to go because as much as I love a good hotel day, you’re in Napa to eat and drink.
Day 1: Arrive & Relax
Depending on where you’re traveling from, you may have had a long travel day and are exhausted.
Take the rest of the day to unpack, stroll around downtown, grab a glass of wine and unwind.
Day 2: Visit the Wineries in Napa Valley
After a restful night, we wasted no time getting right to the fun of wine tasting!
We started at Cakebread Cellars (which was my favorite stop of the whole trip), where our guide’s passion and extensive knowledge made the experience truly memorable.
Sipping on exquisite wines while learning about the winemaking process was fascinating.
Next, we headed to Black Stallion Winery, known for its bold reds and stunning architecture. It did not disappoint. We took a break in their backyard wih a yummy packed lunch from Oakville Grocery. Truly one of the best sandwiches I’ve had in a long time.
We rounded third base with Leap Frog Winery. We loved being able to walk around their gorgeous farm property filled with orange trees, olive trees, artichoke plants and so much more.
Day 3: Relaxing/Sightseeing in Napa Valley
After a full day, we decided to reserve this day for relaxation and leisure activities.
We had the best time riding eBikes around vine trail. If that’s not your thing, you can also enjoy relaxing with spa treatments, go hiking through scenic trails, or just find a shady spot to take in the breathtaking views.
Another option is to rent a car and explore the Napa Valley region. We loved Yountville. It’s perfect for shopping, strolling and good eats. If you want to stay nearby, Oxbow Public Market is a fun marketplace packed with local goodies.
For dinner, I highly suggest making reservations at Cole’s Chophouse. The steak was cooked to perfection and the ambiance on the outdoor patio was just right for our group to dine and share what we did that day.
Day 4: Tour Around Sonoma Wineries
Sonoma is another popular destination that neighbors Napa Valley and is worth the visit!
Our first stop was Ledson Winery, a gorgeous castle-like estate. From the moment that we pulled in, we knew we were in for a good time! The wines here were as impressive as the architecture. We may or may not have spent lots of time and money here. (hee hee).
After an extended visit at Ledson, it was time for lunch. Put Sonoma Plaza on your list. It’s the cutest downtown square with lots of shopping and eating. We stopped at Mary’s for yummy italian salad and a huge slice of pizza pie. No regrets! Yum!
Next, we visited B.R. Cohn Winery, surrounded by gorgeous scenery. Founded in 1984 by Bruce Cohn, manager of the Grammy award winning band The Doobie Brothers, B.R. Cohn is rooted in California Rock 'n Roll. The venue has hosts concerts and is now the proud home of the Sonoma Harvest Music Festival.
From the stunning landscapes to the world-class wines and luxurious accommodations, Napa Valley has it all.
Ready to plan your own Napa Valley adventure? Let TH Travel Designs help you craft the perfect itinerary, ensuring you experience the best this region has to offer. Reach out to us today, and let’s start planning your unforgettable escape!
