It’s harvest season in wine country and in honor of all the hard work that goes in to us enjoying a great happy hour, we rounded up some sweet stays for your next California wine getaway. From the small, friendly town of Paso Robles to the miles of Napa vineyards, here’s where to stay for the best vino experience.
Paso Robles
When visiting Paso Robles in Central California, book a stay at Allegretto, one of the town’s only resorts. With an eclectic blend of Italian-style architecture with an art collection ranging from the Middle East and beyond, this resort is one of a kind. Rooms are highlighted by 14-foot European-height ceilings and surround a stunning courtyard. Allegretto is also home to mouthwatering cuisine at Cello, an on-site tasting room and a unique self-guided outdoor sound labyrinth.
To get as close to the vineyards as possible, just sleep there. SummerWood Winery is home to a nine-room estate just across the street from where it produces all its wine. The light, bright and airy inn features a farmhouse design and views of the surrounding vineyards. With the intimate vibe of a charming bed and breakfast combined with the luxury of a modern-day retreat, this cozy outlet is not to be missed.
Guests at Hotel Cheval can stay in the center of all the downtown action. Located near the historic town square, the 16-room boutique hotel whisks guests off to another world upon entry. The hotel features an inner courtyard; a cozy library and the Pony Club Wine Bar, a local fave with live music, appetizers and small plates. While the hotel itself does not have a full-service restaurant, its great location means some of the town’s best dining outlets are within walking distance.
Where to drink: Grey Wolf Cellars, Parrish Family Vineyards, Vina Robles Vineyards & Winery, J. Lohr, SummerWood Winery, PasoPort/Per Caso Cellars
Sonoma
Located in Valley of the Moon, this Mediterranean-style inn is surrounded by vineyards, orchards and ancient oaks. With just 29 rooms, each with a separate entrance, this cozy resort is peaceful and serene. Hotel features includes three courtyards with fountains, a heated pool and two hot tubs. In between tasting, dig into breakfast buffets, wine and cheese tastings and small bites. Guests visiting in 2019 will discover a newly renovated luxury spa for ultimate relaxation.
If the Italian villa theme is not your thing, opt for Gaige House + Roykan. The zen retreat is infused with Japanese hospitality and Asian details. Zen gardens, calming fountains and quiet meditation areas keep the theme throughout the property. The hotel is located along the Calabazas Creek and its 23 rooms exude a contemporary vibe. Enjoy afternoon wine and cheese tasting, daily breakfast and an array of sake…and wine of course.
Arizona locals visiting Sonoma will be pleased when visiting Timber Cove. The small 46-room resort was renovated in 2016, yet still retains its Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture and artisan elements. Surrounded by ocean, coastline and forest, guests can explore by setting out on the two miles of hiking trails or sip some wine at nearby wineries.
For a more approachable and affordable option, The Sandman is a modern throwback to roadside inns. Located in Santa Rosa at the gateway to Sonoma County, the boutique hotel is minutes from many of Sonoma’s best wineries. Guests can jump into the heated pool or relax at the indoor-outdoor bar before setting out to explore wine country.
Where to drink: Benovia Winery, Kunde Family Vineyard, Petroni Vineyards, Fort Ross Vineyard, Sonoma Coast Vineyards, Flowers Vineyard & Winery
Napa Valley
A visit to famed Napa Valley can be enjoyed at the brand new Vista Collina Resort, a Meritage Collection property. Debuting July 2018, the Tuscan-style property is set on 11 acres and features a Village with nine tasting rooms, an artisanal market, a pool with 10 cabanas, a community lawn for concerts and more. Of the nine tasting rooms, one features a Napa brewery while the remaining eight offer up eight hand-selected wineries from the region. With 145 rooms including 39 suites, the conveniently located resort is just a short drive from downtown Napa.
For one of the most iconic Napa resorts, head to Auberge du Soleil. Situated on a 33-acre olive grove on the slopes of Rutherford Hill, the resort is home to an award-winning spa and stunning vineyard views. With Mediterranean-inspired design, the 50 guestrooms and suites offer a cozy yet luxurious stay. Its cuisine however is just as much a star of the show. With 12 consecutive Michelin Stars, Executive Chef Robert Curry’s Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at The Restaurant is a can’t miss.
With just a few resorts in the world (only eight to be exact) earneing the 2018 trifecta of Forbes Five-Star ratings for hotel, spa and restaurant, Meadowood Napa Valley is one of them. Located in St. Helena, the hotel is nestled into the green trees in a private canyon. Guests can stay active on hiking trials, tennis courts and the croquet lawn. Meadowood also offers a daily wine reception, a Michelin-Star restaurant and one of the region’s most luxe wellness centers.
Where to drink: Beaulieu Vineyard, Buehler Vineyards, Chappellet, Long Meadow Ranch
