By Last Updated on March 17, 2023
There’s just something about waking up among the vines – in Napa Valley – California’s premier wine country, famous for its Chardonnays, Merlots and Cabernet Sauvignons. But what is the best Napa Valley Bed and Breakfast to enjoy this bounty.
Nestled in the heart of the valley, St. Helena’s Wine Country Inn is my choice for visitors wanting to explore the wineries and stroll through the idyllic small towns of this picturesque region. This romantic and secluded bed and breakfast delivers the quintessential wine country experience with spectacular vineyard views.
Visiting here and meeting local winemakers and family businesses was an absolute treat because as Napa Valley grows and becomes more commercialized, the number of these individually owned businesses is dwindling. Those that remain have amazing stories to tell.
Wine Country Inn and Cottages Napa
Checking in is a lovely experience itself at Wine Country Inn & Cottages as the staff is friendly, attentive and accommodating. The inn sports an array of luxuriously appointed rooms and cottages, exactly what you’d expect from the best Napa Valley Bed and Breakfast. Many rooms come with views overlooking the vineyards and valley.
My spacious king room included a separate seating area, fireplace and outside deck with a stunning vista. This was a lovely setting for greeting the day with my first cup of coffee while wrapped in a soft luxurious robe and slippers.
Because the location is so quiet and the premium bedding soft, comfy and high-quality, it was easy to get a good night’s rest before hitting the vineyards and the local Napa Valley attractions.
Bathrooms are classy and spacious with walk-in showers and high-end bath products.
Napa, CA Bed and Breakfast
The inviting lobby and accompanying rooms are beautifully decorated and an outdoor patio overlooking the impressive grounds is the ideal setting for breakfast. The morning country buffet is impressive with enough choices to please any guest.
An outdoor pool and hot tub perfectly round out the inn’s gracious amenities. There’s always coffee and tea in the common area of the inn and 24-hour front desk service is available.
For those looking for ideas or activities in the heart of wine country, concierge services are provided with a smile and lots of insider information.
It would be understandable to hunker down in this serenity and do nothing at all, but read a book. However, being in the heart of Napa Valley wine country, exploring this heavenly area is a must-do with its award-winning wineries, restaurants and boutique shops.
Book your stay at Wine Country Inn & Cottages!
Charles Krug Winery
Among the world-famous wineries, I for one was totally excited for a visit to Charles Krug Winery in St. Helena, only a few minutes’ drive from the inn. Though many wineries in the Napa Valley are now commercially owned and operated, there are still some like Charles Krug that remain a family operation.
In 1861, German settler Charles Krug founded Napa Valley’s first commercial winery in St. Helena. In 1943, the Italian Cesare Mondavi family purchased the 147-acre winery, but kept the original recognized name. For more than 150 years, the Charles Krug Winery estate has produced exceptional innovative red and white Napa Valley wines, stewarded by the Peter Mondavi Sr. family.
Restoration of the Charles Krug family reserve barrel room and carriage house in 2009 helped to preserve and showcase the storied past of this magnificent winery. Mondavi family members still live in historic homes on the property. Photos in the public tasting room and private library celebrate the Krug and Mondavi family’s many stellar accomplishments throughout the years.
From May to October, winery grounds are open for pizza on the lawns, live concerts, movie nights and other special events. I had the pleasure of strolling the property, sipping wine with Peter Mondavi, Jr. and sampling several Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizzas that were the among the best to be had outside of Naples, Italy—the birthplace of pizza.
Chef’s Table at Long Meadow Ranch
Excellence through responsible farming is the mantra of Napa Valley’s Long Meadow Ranch in St. Helena. Utilizing the freshest ingredients from the Hall family-owned farm, ranch and vineyards, the estate chef provides guests a five-course culinary masterpiece. This elegant dining experience with wine pairing is offered at the rustic and historic Logan Ives House at Farmstead.
In true farm-to-table style, 80-percent of the foods served are homegrown and raised on property, including grass-fed beef, honey, estate olive oil, fruits and vegetables.
Mouthwatering menu items change according to seasonal offerings and are perfectly paired with impressive Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and a late-harvest Chardonnay.
Artesa Estate Vineyards & Winery
One of Napa’s most amazing wineries just happens to have one of the best views of the Napa Valley. Its iconic modern architecture, captivating fountains and award-winning wines make the family-owned and operated avant-garde Spanish-American Artesa Estate Vineyards & Winery a must-visit.
The property is so magnificent, it served as the setting for the Hollywood movie “Wine Country” starring Amy Poehler, Tina Fey and a full cast of stars.
A variety of tasting experiences are available by reservation. I loved the Heritage Flight of white and red Spanish-inspired wines paired with five small bites known as pintxos. These creatively flavorful treats are speared with sword-like picks and designed specifically to accompany each hand-selected wine.
Napa Valley Best Bed and Breakfast
Peter Mondavi, Sr. once said, “Growing grapes and making wine is more than a family business—it’s a way of life for my generation and those that follow.”
Having the opportunity to experience Napa Valley through the eyes of the families who embrace this philosophy and live it every day was an absolutely unforgettable experience. One every visitor should enjoy.
There’s no better place for a home base stay than Wine Country Inn & Cottages, the best Napa Valley Bed and Breakfast. It absolutely fits this area to a T.
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