We spent 2 nights in Napa Valley – well worth it if you like your food and drink. It's only about an hour’s drive from San Fran and the weather totally changes. It's amazing, blue skies and endless views of rolling vineyards - so beautiful. There are only 2 main roads running parallel through the wine region with all the vineyards dotted along either side. Most of them you can just pop into for wine tasting sessions (some exclusive ones are by appointment only). I'd recommend William Cole vineyards - family owned.
Restaurants - well, there is Thomas Keller's ‘French Laundry’ although that has a 2-month waiting list as it is one of the most famous restaurants in the USA. I had been recommended ‘Cindy's Backstreet Kitchen’ by a client of mine and this was fantastic, too. Also, Thomas Keller's ‘Bouchon’ is great for lunch and half the price of his other restaurant.
Hotels - the Auberge du Soleil is arguably the best hotel in Napa; great location, beautiful views, amazing food, pool etc., very private. Also the Calistoga Ranch (sister to the Auberge) looks fantastic - a bit less pompous maybe and still as beautiful/private. I stayed in Solage Calistoga that is in the same group as the others. It's a new hotel, all open-plan and a little strange looking when you arrive but it's actually a great hotel for less than half the price of the other 2 properties. It has a very young feel to it but the rooms are stunning and the food fantastic. Good for young couples I would say…
Melissa@collettstravel.co.uk
Tel: 020 8906 0542
CT
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