Extended Layover in Napa Valley

Planning a trip to Napa, even if it's just for a few days, can be a delightful experience filled with incredible wine, stunning views, and delicious food. I visited Napa Valley during the winter, and while the rainy season presented some challenges, it was still an unforgettable adventure. Here’s how you can make the most of your quick trip to the iconic wine region.

Choosing Your Arrival Point: Sacramento or San Francisco?

When planning your Napa trip, consider flying into Sacramento or San Francisco. Both cities are relatively close to Napa Valley, offering different experiences. I chose Sacramento, arriving a day early to explore the city before my friends picked me up for the drive to Napa. If you’re short on time, flying into either city works, but Sacramento has the advantage of being slightly closer to Napa.

Embracing Napa’s Winter Charm

Visiting Napa during the winter has its pros and cons. Yes, the rainy season means you might encounter storms, and the vineyards won’t be lush and green, but don’t let that deter you. The wine is just as incredible, and the views—while different from the vibrant summer scenes—offer a unique, serene beauty. Plus, the crowds are thinner, making for a more relaxed experience.

Planning Your Winery Visits

One of the most crucial parts of your Napa trip is planning which wineries to visit. Napa Valley is extensive, and driving from one end to the other can take up to an hour, so plan your itinerary accordingly. Research the wines you want to try and make reservations in advance, keeping in mind the travel time between locations. We aimed for two to three wineries a day, which allowed us to fully enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Where to Stay: Napa River Inn

For our stay, we chose the Napa River Inn, a charming hotel that served as an ideal home base. After a day of wine tasting, we would return to Napa for dinner, enjoying the town’s excellent restaurant scene. Our favorite dining experiences included lunch at Angele Restaurant & Bar and dinner at Scala Osteria & Bar. Both offered incredible meals that perfectly complemented our wine adventures.

Start Your Day at Oxbow Public Market

Before heading out to the wineries each day, we made it a point to stop by Oxbow Public Market. Here, we fueled up with coffee from Ritual Coffee and indulged in bagel sandwiches from Loveski Deli. The market is a great spot to grab a quick, delicious breakfast and soak in some local flavor before a day of tasting.

Our Winery Picks: A Balanced Itinerary

We carefully selected a mix of wineries to visit, aiming for a balance of well-known names and hidden gems. Our itinerary included:

Domaine Carneros: Known for its sparkling wines and stunning chateau.

Sterling Vineyards: Offers panoramic views of the valley, accessed by an aerial tram.

Rambauer: A smaller, boutique winery with a cozy atmosphere.

Elusa Winery: Focused on producing wines from organically farmed grapes.

Artesa Vineyards + Winery: Famed for its modern architecture and beautiful art installations.

Castello di Amorosa: A must-see, this 13th-century-style castle offers an immersive experience alongside its wines.

Even on a quick trip, Napa Valley offers a rich experience that’s well worth the visit. With some careful planning and a willingness to embrace the season, you can enjoy world-class wines, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable meals—all in just a few days. So whether you’re flying into Sacramento or San Francisco, pack your bags, make those reservations, and get ready for a fantastic Napa adventure! Extended Layover in Napa.

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