A luxurious inn, farm-to-table-dining and one very good Vintner’s Daughter-fueled facial
Words by JENNIFER BLAISE KRAMER
After a wildfire raged through wine country last fall, Napa Valley, much like Santa Barbara, is returning to its state of wonder. “Napa was built by a generation of women and men who dreamt big, and that spirit continues today with a new generation of family wineries, artists, chefs and entrepreneurs,” says Vintner’s Daughter’s April Gargiulo, whose family founded Oakville’s Gargiulo Vineyards. “They are ready to put their stake in the ground to create a fresher, more modern Napa experience.”
STAY
With plush rooms and impeccable landscaping, Auberge du Soleil delivers the age-defying Best of Auberge facial in partnership with Vintner’s Daughter. Vintage Indian Springs, which underwent a major renovation in 2014, still sports California’s oldest, continuously operated pool, thermal geysers and the best mud bath in town. Originally a family home for prominent merchant James H. Francis, The Francis House is a landmark building that was carefully restored and transformed into an exclusive luxury inn.
DINE
Book a tasting at Dana Estates in Rutherford and sample lauded cabernet sauvignon by its sister winery, Vaso Cellars. Head to ranch-to-table spot Farmstead in St. Helena for steak and salads, or linger alfresco at chef Charlie Palmer’s Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar atop the Archer Hotel in Napa.
CAN’T MISS
By day, bike or walk in pursuit of a good glass: The Vine Trail is a work in progress of 47 miles of trails stretching between Vallejo and Calistoga. The Calistoga Bikeshop will set you up with wheels, a local map and a sleek bike bag to stash souvenir bottles. Check out the RH Yountville, The Gallery in the Napa Valley for an immersive experience in food, wine, art and design.
Feature image: The adult pool at INDIAN SPRINGS in Calistoga.
