Your Perfect Weekend Getaway: Napa Valley

Located just a short jaunt from San Francisco, Napa Valley and California’s wine country create an ideal weekend retreat for wine aficionados and novices alike. While these narrow valleys are filled with enough wineries and restaurants to keep you occupied for days, we’ve crafted a detailed itinerary for the perfect two-day taste of Napa Valley’s uniquely rich flavors.

Saturday

Morning

Begin your day in downtown Napa with a hearty breakfast at Sweetie Pies Bakery. This charming spot on the main drag is known for its delectable pastries and cakes. Be sure to try the blackberry cheesecake danish, flaky croissants, and generous breakfast sandwiches. Those with gluten intolerances will also find suitable options available.

After satisfying your morning hunger, kick off the day with some sparkling wine at Domaine Carneros. This elegant hilltop winery is inspired by the chateaus of France and boasts breathtaking views of lush grapevines. The dramatic staircase at the entrance is perfect for Instagram photos. Although Domaine offers various types of wine, their sparkling wines truly stand out. Tastings start at $35, and reservations are necessary.

Afternoon

After embracing the French ambiance at Domaine Carneros, switch to a more rustic vibe at Truchard Winery. This small, family-run winery might even have the owners present, as they often tend to the grounds. The tastings, held in the winery’s ‘wine cave’, offer a personal touch; highlights include the chardonnay and cabernet franc. The combined tour and tasting costs $40 and runs until noon on Saturdays, requiring advanced reservations.

Once you’ve enjoyed your tastings, head over to Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa. Sample diverse local dishes ranging from tacos to sushi and pizza while enjoying a meal on the riverside deck. Don’t forget to grab some goodies for a picnic from Oxbow Wine & Cheese Merchant!

If time permits, explore one of Del Dotto Winery‘s three locations, with the Historic Winery and Caves being the closest to Napa. The exciting aspect of the cave tour here is the numerous barrel tastings of high-quality wines that set it apart. Additionally, they provide a more affordable bar tasting option for $45, but advance reservations are essential.

Evening

Technically situated in Sonoma, Gundlach-Bundschu is just a short drive from Napa, making it an excellent evening stop after a delightful day of wine tasting. Pack up your picnic and head to this expansive property founded by Bavarian immigrant Jacob Gundlach in 1858. You can book a tasting at the Vista Courtyard for $30, surrounded by olive trees overlooking a scenic pond—don’t miss their Gewürztraminer! Tastings run until 5:30 PM on weekends during the summer. The winery also hosts evening events at its outdoor amphitheater.

Sunday

Morning

For a genuine Napa experience, drive 45 minutes to Calistoga and indulge in its famous mud baths and mineral baths. This charming town lies in an area celebrated for its hot springs and volcanic ash, thanks to nearby Mt. St. Helena. Several spas throughout Calistoga offer luxurious treatments utilizing these unique geological wonders. Indian Springs Resort, California’s oldest continuously operating spa, provides an iconic space to relax. Should you seek a budget-friendly option, the Baths at Roman Spa offer 2-for-1 deals on Tuesdays during the week.

Afternoon

After enjoying the therapeutic benefits of volcanic mud, wash off and proceed to your first wine tasting of the day at Castello di Amorosa. This exquisite winery, modeled after a 13th-century castle, is constructed from stone imported from Italy and features traditional building techniques. The tour highlights the castle’s history, including its gothic features like a torture chamber, leading to tastings in atmospheric rooms beneath the castle. Favourites include their merlot and old-vine zinfandel—tastings cost $30 with walk-ins welcome, while tour-tasting combos are $45 (reservations are recommended).

Following the castle visit, stop in St. Helena for a meal at The Charter Oak founded by renowned chef Christopher Kostow and Katianna Hong. Despite their impressive accolades, the chefs have created an approachable dining experience with seasonal, locally-sourced food in a family-style setting. Be sure to review the rotating menus before your visit.

Evening

Wind down your weekend with dinner in cozy Yountville, where a variety of dining options awaits, including the renowned French Laundry and local favourite Mustard’s Grill. We also recommend the inviting atmosphere at Bistro Jeanty, where you can savor classic French dishes like tender pork shoulder or tomato bisque topped with flaky puff pastry.

To cleanse your palate after a day filled with wine, head to downtown Napa’s Tannery Bend Beerworks, where you can enjoy vibrant, hoppy beers that perfectly balance the rich wines consumed throughout the day.

Top Tip

While enjoying your exploration through wine country, it’s important to exercise responsibility. Designated drivers are crucial; however, if you’re without one, a variety of driving services are available to ensure safe travels between venues. Rideshare options like Uber and Lyft are prevalent.