There are terrific places to go on your next Napa Valley vacation and not all of them are wineries. We include a handful of wineries, eateries, and a perfectly situated place to stay that keeps you close to all the action.
**Disclaimer** The businesses or resources mentioned are not affiliated with Savvy Cali Girl and we have not received any compensation. They are simply helpful resources our Savvy Cali Girl contributors have deemed worthy of a shout out. In addition, all images are the property of the Savvy Cali Girl Blog unless otherwise noted.
Calistoga Inn Restaurant and Brewery
After a long drive up to Napa Valley from Southern California, we were looking forward to a good meal and time with friends. Our first stop was perfect! With plenty of fresh air, a menu with plenty of options for everyone, and a fun atmosphere, we thoroughly enjoyed the Calistoga Inn Restaurant and Brewery.
We even thoroughly enjoyed the long train of motorcycles that motored through on the nearby street. Their music blared fantastic oldies and your chest rumbled from their fabulous rides! In all honesty, many were perturbed but we thought it was awesome and only added to the experience.
The Town of Calistoga, California
In a nutshell, Calistoga in Napa Valley is quaint by big city standards and most certainly a breath of fresh air if you’re trying to escape the concrete jungles with a Napa Valley vacation. Only two-lane roads run throughout the town, chock full of cute buildings with bistros and boutiques. In addition, Calistoga is home to mineral hot springs and near all the Napa Valley wineries.
Palisades Eatery in Calistoga CA
If you’d like to have an even more casual meal still worth the spend, try out Palisades Eatery. From a great BLT to a homemade pizza, there is something for anyone in your group. We actually featured it first in another blog post on a previous Napa Valley vacation.
A Few Winery Stops On Our Napa Valley Vacation
On our second trip to Napa Valley, we opted to try out a famous, established destination as well as a handful of lesser-known wineries. We also cruised the area to take in as much scenery as possible. Being cooped up as a result of all the quarantines and lockdowns makes seeing a different landscape a real treat!
Our first stop was Castello di Amorosa, a return visit actually. I have an entire post dedicated to that first visit. We also toured Chateau Montelena and hit a smaller winery, Vincent Arroyo Winery on this Napa Valley vacation.
Napa Valley Vacation Insider Tip!
Our hosts were essentially our closest friends and live in northern California. They always find great spots but always make reservations for wine tastings, even out of season. Why? Sometimes, it is just really busy and who wants to stand around waiting for a table to open up? This goes for both wineries and restaurants. Added bonus? It gave the entire group a timeline. Just make sure to leave lots of gaps for unexpected fun, opportunities, or moments to rest if needed.
Napa Valley’s Castello di Amorosa
Our first drive up to Napa Valley from Southern California was during lockdowns but we stayed with friends and enjoyed a VIP tasting experience at Castello di Amorosa. That first visit certainly hooked us for sure! Consequently, we dedicated an entire post to the first Napa winery we visited. Our original blog post is linked here and includes a rundown of the location as well as our experience.
Chateau Montelena Put Napa Valley On The Map
If it’s the scenery you are after, the grounds will fill your cup! There is a gorgeous little lake with a pagoda and a lovely path around the entire perimeter. Watch out for the swans!
Above the scenic lake, lies a castle with a beautiful facade. Chateau Montelena has a rich history and is known for really putting Napa on the map. If you’ve seen BottleShock, you should know it is based in part on this winery specifically. The film that detailed the first California vintages that won awards in Europe in blind tastings in the early 1970s.
To be fair, I was much more taken with the Koi fountain at the entrance to the wine tasting venue. I had a koi pond myself at one point and fin I am easily distracted at any location with these lovely creatures. Our friends actually had to drag me into the tasting!
In any case, we all enjoyed the tasting itself and learning more about the history and owners of the property. Turns out, I had seen the film long ago not realizing it was about this particular winery.
A Hidden Treasure with Vincent Arroyo Winery
One of the places which “wowed” even our refined Pinot Noir travel companion was Arroyo Grande Winery. If you want to try an amazing port, great red table wine, or other variety then this is your “hidden treasure.”
Honestly, the grounds are simple, and the views and tables are as well but we absolutely loved the gentleman walking us through our tasting. Okay to top it off, we really enjoyed their offerings and everyone in our group took home a variety of bottles. Shhh … the balsamic they sell on site is truly fabulous!
Eateries On Our Napa Valley Vacation That Were Worth Every Penny!
While I love Napa already, our crew was eager to venture into Sonoma Valley on this trip. Since one couple in our group lives in Temecula, California their goal was to get the lay of the land up to the north. Thus, venturing into Sonoma was a must on this Napa Valley vacation. To be fair, the two areas are extremely close by car and the drive really is enjoyable, especially as a passenger.
Evangeline for French Cuisine
If you are looking for a place to indulge in a simply deliciously prepared meal then Evangeline should definitely be on your radar. It is a typical, small venue eatery but features french cuisine beautifully presented. I had the best roast chicken of my life that evening. Nearly everyone at the table agreed and they wished they had ordered it as well.
With our gang of colorful personalities and varying tastes, we ordered a variety of dishes, drinks, and desserts. Sharing everything makes meals for us not only fun but also a relaxing affair. We split bills evenly among the couples and everyone gets to taste or sip anything they want. I tried a lovely dessert wine, sampled a beautiful gumbo, and even tried fried pickles for the first time.
Northern California Insider Tip: Mary’s Free Range Chickens
Now, one of the people in our group is really on top of their food game. She always orders chicken at a restaurant anytime they specify “Mary’s” chicken. These chickens are free-range, non-GMO, fed an organic vegetarian diet, and just about the best-tasting poultry ever!
Spend the Day in Sonoma Valley
While I love Napa already, our crew was eager to venture into Sonoma Valley on this trip. Since one couple in our group lives in Temecula, California their goal was to get the lay of the land up to the north. Thus, venturing into Sonoma was a must on this Napa Valley vacation. To be fair, the two areas are extremely close by car and the drive really is enjoyable, especially as a passenger.
We explored the town square in the hopes of picking up a few gifts for family back home. The boys in our crew tried out a distillery but apparently, that wasn’t their cup of tea. They bailed to the main park to smoke their cigars. Yes, I know, a bit stereotypical but on vacation rules don’t apply. Do whatever seems like a good idea, right?
Kunde Family Winery in Sonoma Valley
With a Suburban full of giddy, energetic vacationers, we descended on Kunde Family Winery with stories to tell, jokes to test, and of course a thirst for a great tasting experience. Kunde did not disappoint!
Of course, the grounds are stunning but it is hard to ignore when you come from Southern California where much of the hills are generally brown most of the year. Kunde had a great of vineyards and an ambiance that felt casual, not overly done but still exceptional.
The Standout Wine Tasting of Our Trip
Of all the tastings we experienced on this trip and others, I think Kunde did a phenomenal job of it. Our host really took the reins. He bantered with our more jovial partners in crime and presented the wines with the knowledge that was actually interesting. He also adjusted the tastings to each person’s tastes, super helpful since it was a varied group of novices and well-versed consumers that day!
Now, I will tell you a few things that stood out for me. While I enjoy wine, I am certainly not as well informed as some of the others in our group. That being said, I have never enjoyed Chardonnay but at Kunde, I finally found something lovely. Turns out, a steel barrel Chardonnay is my preference. Who knew? On top of that, it was a very reasonably priced offering so I grabbed a few for the family to enjoy back at home.
In addition to the wines, there was a nice charcuterie and cheeses included. That plate of cheeses and spreads was so good, that I grabbed fig jams and cheeses for back at our hotel as well as gifts. So, word of advice, shop here for your next picnic or dinner party!
Ledson Winery and Vineyards in Sonoma Valley
Originally intended to be a private home, Ledson Winery became a winery instead. You see, Steven Noble Ledson created gorgeous grounds and a beautifully designed “gothic French Normandy” style home visible from the main road through Sonoma. Unfortunately, that afforded him little privacy from travelers. Hence, the entire project became Ledson Winery and Vineyards.
On our visit, we walked the main floor, admiring the level of woodwork and detail in each and every room and hallway. The grand staircase immediately greets visitors as they enter “the castle” as it is commonly referred to. I included a handful of photos but check it out for yourself with this 3D virtual tour from the Ledson website.
With empty stomachs, we took advantage of the marketplace on property. We grabbed sandwiches and a bottle recommended by the staff. Because our group loves the outdoors, we chose to picnic outside with a full view of the gardens and vineyards. To be honest, it was one amazing stress-free afternoon. Simple, delicious food, a fabulous bottle with friends, and of course, the panoramic scenery.
The Inn on Pine in the Heart of Calistoga CA
Now, everyone wants a beautiful bed and breakfast or a five-star stay but sometimes you find a spot that is so comfortable it is worth sharing. I gotta tell you, the Inn on Pine in Napa is central to everything. It is steps to downtown and short drives to virtually any winery in the area. Our Napa Valley vacation was a delight while staying here.
I think what made our stay so comfy was the hospitality. The daily continental breakfast had opened options for our Keto companions, my sensitive stomach issues, and even our picky eater. The coffee always hit the spot and the cookies in the evening were delicious.
Now, a jacuzzi in the evening would top off each day perfectly. With clean rooms that weren’t fussy, I slept like a baby the entire trip. The manager was also a delight. She made sure guests had what they needed at any time.
More Resources via Visit Calistoga
If you’d like to know more about Calistoga, check out their welcome center or their extensive website. There are so many links to all the latest and great happening in the area, it is a great resource you’ll want to bookmark!
I am drooling reading your blog. The Food Explora in me would definitely enjoy dining at the Evangeline Restaurant. The food pictures looks delicious. Even though I am not a wine person, Wine tasting is a must in Napa Valley. Thanks for sharing your Napa Valley travel adventure. Will pin for later reference.
We have warmed to wine tasting but thoroughly enjoy the food adventures. Next stop Paso Robles!