Based in the heart of California wine country, Napa Valley is a globally renowned haven that offers world-class wines, breathtaking scenery, and unparalleled luxury. Whether you’re seeking a taste of outstanding restaurants, rare wines, or inspiring art, or you’re interested in exploring the historic towns in this region, there are so many reasons to vacation here this season.
To inspire you to visit Napa Valley, in today’s travel guide, discover Calistoga’s radiant crown jewel – a picturesque new luxury resort and spa by the Four Seasons, and learn about an array of fun new hotspots and events popping up in Napa this Summer.
I was recently invited by INFINITI to participate in the QX80 Drive Experience, which was hosted at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley in Calistoga, California.
In addition to exploring the verdant valley and its many charming towns, I enjoyed discovering nearly everything that this chic new luxury resort offers – from world-class dining to a spectacular spa and more. While the Four Seasons in Napa Valley opened in 2021, it wasn’t even on my radar until recently, so it was a delightful surprise to learn that it exists!
First, what sets it apart from other luxury hotels in Napa Valley is that it’s the only Forbes five-star resort nestled within a world-class vineyard with a working winery on-site. Beyond the fact that it creates a unique experience (as you essentially wake up in the middle of a vineyard), the natural atmosphere creates a thriving environment for local wildlife making it even more special.
Upon arrival, you’re greeted by the resort’s sophisticated yet inviting design, which seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape. The contemporary architecture and refined interiors reflect a modern, minimalist aesthetic while honoring the rich viticultural heritage of the region.
Large windows and open spaces invite the outside in, ensuring you feel connected with the breathtaking scenery. Everywhere you look you’re enveloped by the beauty of nature.
The accommodations range from spacious guest rooms to expansive private residences, each thoughtfully appointed with luxurious amenities, plush furnishings, and private terraces or balconies offering expansive vistas of the pristine vineyards, Palisades Mountains, and vibrant blooming flowers.
The moment you step out onto your patio, you can reach out and touch the grapevines. It’s incredible to see and experience!
During my first day on the property, I spotted a huge jackrabbit hopping through the vineyard (right outside my hotel room). Then the next morning, while dining al fresco on my patio, a playful little bird came to join me as I was eating breakfast. I felt like Alice in Wonderland, on a charming outing with friendly, woodland creatures. It was very enchanting, to say the least.
But the property goes beyond just a lush natural setting, panoramic views, and adorable critters flitting about…
The hotel also boasts a sophisticated, Michelin-star-rated restaurant (AURO), a winery named Elusa (which operates in partnership with Thomas Rivers Brown, a renowned Calistoga-based winemaker), the resort’s signature restaurant, TRUSS Restaurant & Bar, and also a top-notch spa (Spa Talisa).
During one of the evenings at the hotel, INFINITI hosted a private multi-course food and wine pairing dinner at Auro, which was a treat for all of us.
Throughout the evening we were served a variety of intricately crafted, outstanding dishes that not only tasted great but also looked elegant. The dinner included a mix of flavorful dishes, ranging from Potato Croquette with Golden osetra and smoked creme fraîche to Ahi Tuna Sope with Aji Camarillo and furikake. Each course was paired with a different wine, making it all the more sensorial.
Aside from a delightful atmosphere with exceptional food, I learned that their executive chef (Chef Rogelio Garcia) was also named a finalist for the esteemed James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: California, a great honor for any chef and restaurant to receive.
Another incredible feature of the resort is its gorgeous spa, which is housed in a building that is reminiscent of a warm and inviting rustic stone farmhouse.
To pay homage to Calistoga’s renowned reputation as a wellness destination (due to its healing mineral waters and mud baths), Spa Talisa is a haven for relaxation and pampering. The spa infuses locally inspired treatments (such as beauty-boosting vinotherapy) into their therapeutic massages and facials, in addition to offering a tranquil atmosphere for rejuvenation. One of the spa’s mind & body rituals, aptly named the Vineyard Scrub, harnesses the healing power of grape seeds (which are naturally rich in antioxidants and polyphenols) and olive oil, to help combat harmful free radicals on the skin (which can prematurely accelerate the aging of the skin).
From the outdoor whirlpool to the indoor steam room and lounges, the spa was my favorite place to soak in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
While the pace of this particular trip was rather busy (since INFINITI had planned so many activities for us to participate in), when I had a few hours of quiet time, I took advantage of it by retreating to the peaceful outdoor pool, which was a serene oasis surrounded by lush vineyards. With luxurious lounge chairs and cabanas, it provided the perfect setting for relaxation and soaking up the Californian sun. Not to mention – the picturesque landscapes and delicious smoothies made it even more enjoyable to catch some rays while relaxing.
Aside from these on-site activities, here are other enjoyable ways to spend time in Calistoga. Explore the historic town of Calistoga, heralded for its hot springs, mud baths, and rustic charm, take a scenic bike ride through the vineyards, or wake up early to float high above it all on a hot air balloon ride, which offers an incredible view of the valley’s rolling hills and lush landscapes.
As much as I love spending morning until night at a beautiful resort, the explorer side of me always feels inspired to roam around and discover my surroundings. That said, when visiting Napa Valley, I usually venture out into nearby towns, such as St. Helena, Yountville, and Napa.
St. Helena is a delightful town that offers outstanding eateries, inspiring art galleries, designer shopping at high-end boutiques, and lovely little bakeries and coffee shops (like the locals’ favorite hangout, Model Bakery). It’s always one of my favorite cities to visit in Napa Valley, as it’s one of the sparkling gems of the area.
Another equally charming town is Yountville. While the town is small in size, it makes up for it with its impressive Michelin-starred and top-rated restaurants (such as Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry and Bouchon Bistro) and world-class wineries. It’s also home to Napa Valley Aloft, which is one of the original hot air ballooning companies in Napa Valley.
Another must-visit restaurant in Yountville is the glamorous RH Restaurant (owned and decorated by Restoration Hardware). Not only is the entire design utterly stunning – the quintessential mix of understated elegance combined with dazzling accents (such as sparkling chandeliers and statuesque water fountains), but the decor isn’t the only highlight of this beautiful restaurant, as the food is also surprisingly good. From brunch to dinner, you can enjoy a variety of delectable dishes, while sitting indoors or outside on the covered patio.
Aside from eating your way through Napa Valley, of course, you’ll have to squeeze in a wine tasting at one of the renowned wineries in the area. A couple of my personal favorites include Far Niente Winery and Domaine Carneros, as both wineries not only offer exquisite wines but also have incredibly beautiful wine-tasting rooms that offer views of landscaped gardens.
For more suggestions on where to go wine tasting, check out this list of charming wine tastings in Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley for recommendations on top-rated wineries to visit.
Aside from Calistoga, St. Helena, and Yountville, when visiting Napa Valley, exploring Napa is always a good idea.
Speaking of, ironically as I was writing this article, Downtown Napa’s tourism board sent me the following events and news announcements. So, if you were looking for a sign to go to Napa Valley this summer, let this be it! Napa Valley will surely be a hotspot for fun all summer long, especially with all the new arts, entertainment, and events happening.
New Arts & Entertainment in Napa:
- Blue Note Napa will host its Summer Sessions Concert Series, in partnership with The Meritage Resort and Spa, featuring performances by Gregory Porter, Brian McKight, Chris Botti, Tash Sultana, and more throughout the summer.
- Every Friday in July, Veteran’s Park will host its Friday Nights in the Park concert series. From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., sit back, relax, and enjoy the life performances of two bands per night.
- Join the City of Napa for a Fourth of July celebration that showcases the city’s patriotic spirit. On July 4, enjoy a day filled with family-friendly activities, including a parade, kids’ zone, live music and more. At 9:30 p.m., watch as 400 drones create a stunning light show with 3D displays at Oxbow Public Market.
- Festival Napa Valley will return July 6 through 20. While events will take place throughout Napa Valley, visitors in Downtown Napa can enjoy free live concerts at the CIA at Copia, including a Novack Concert for Kids, Bouchaine Young Artist Concert, and more. Festival Napa Valley aims to engage audiences with programs that innovate, uplift and inspire.
- The inaugural Oxfest will take place at Oxbow Public Market on Aug. 17 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. The festival will feature the best of Oxbow Public Market with live music, art exhibits, and unique food and drink. This free event is open to individuals of all ages and provides an opportunity to explore everything the district has to offer.
New Food & Drink Spots in Napa:
- Michael Pozzan Wine Tasting Room is now open in Downtown Napa at 1207 Randolph Street.
- The brand-new wine speakeasy, Bonita Bonita Wine, is now open at 1207 Coombs St.
- The popular Santa Barbara winery, Fess Parker Winery, plans to open a location in the former Brendel tasting room on First Street. The Santa Barbara winery was started by the late Fess Parker, who became famous for playing Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone. The official opening date is TBD.
- The CIA at Copia is hosting a World Pizza Tour from June to November. Each week will feature a different gourmet pizza at The Grove Restaurant, including options like Napoletana, Roman Taglio, Sicilana, and more. To reserve your spot, visit CIAatCopia.com.
From farm-to-table dishes and rejuvenating spa treatments to award-winning wineries and live entertainment, Napa Valley offers a variety of outstanding places to visit. Whether you’re savoring a glass of fine wine, indulging in gourmet cuisine, or simply relaxing in the comfort of your elegantly appointed hotel room, this dream destination promises a memorable and enriching stay in one of the world’s most beautiful regions.
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[Disclosure: Accommodations and meals provided by INFINITI Communications. All opinions are my own.]
