Napa Valley, California

By Mary Casey Sturk

No visit to the San Francisco bay area would be complete without a trip to Napa Valley.  About an hour’s drive north of the city, this world-famous region is a wine lovers dream.  The valley itself is approximately thirty miles long and five miles across at its widest point.  Despite it’s proximity to San Francisco and Oakland, Napa County has managed to avoid urban sprawl and is an attractive and pleasant place to visit for a day or longer.  I recommend a longer stay in order to take in the fine wines, food and accommodations it has to offer.

Northern Napa contains two of my favorite wineries to tour: Beringer Vineyard and Robert Mondavi Winery.  Here, you can take interesting tours where you will learn about this fertile region’s grapes, making, storing, choosing and tasting fine wines.  Southern Napa as well as the Sonoma area contain countless vineyards as well.  One great way to spend your time here is driving throughout the region (including Highway 29) and stopping whenever the mood strikes you (and during operating hours) to visit a variety of wineries.

Now that you’ve quenched you thirst, don’t forget you stomach.  The Napa Valley Wine Train is a truly unique way to remember your time spent here.  The train consists of circa 1915-1917 restored Pullman cars complete with etched glass, brass fixtures, mahogany trim and all the trimmings for a fine dining experience.  The dining options are many and the prices are varied.  Among your options are: champagne brunch, luncheon tours and gourmet dinner packages.  Every excursion lasts approximately 3 hours and during this time you are taken on a visual and culinary adventure through the heart of Napa Valley Wine Country.

You might opt for a meal at the world-famous Culinary Institute of America (C.I.A.) in Helena.  Any “foodie” will be in heaven as eating a meal here is a true delight.  There are many dining choices in this region, from chains and family-run establishments to spa-style meals.

Feeling adventurous?  Try a hot air balloon ride over Napa Valley.  Several companies operate in this area, and the packages vary, but only from above can you truly take in the terrain of this beautiful valley. 

When it’s time to unwind, head for Calistoga.  Calistoga is the place for spas.  Lying in mud, soaking in mineral water and being massaged has never been more luxurious.  There are many to choose from as well as hotel and bed and breakfast establishments.  I enjoy Calistoga for its nightlife, shops and restaurant selection.  While there, visit the Old Faithful Geyser to see more of Mother Nature’s work.

Whether you have a day or a week, a trip to Napa Valley will be a memorable journey and one you will want to take again.