Luxury holidays in Napa Valley

The vineyards may not be as extensive nor the wineries as grand as their European counterparts, but what Napa lacks in Old World tradition it makes up for in warmth and informality. Forget about snooty sommeliers and their pompous pretensions: here, wine tasting is always a pleasure rather than a trial. Napa has impeccable French-inspired cuisine, a benign climate and some beautiful scenery, so it's hardly surprising that San Franciscans flock here year-round for some refined R’n’R.

Recommended offers

See our boutique hotel deals

Areas in Napa Valley

When to go

The exciting autumn harvest is known locally as ‘the Crush’. You might want to time your visit and go just after or just before, when the weather is perfect and the crowds less madding.

Getting there

  • Planes

    Direct flights from the UK land at San Francisco’s International Airport (www.flysfo.com) | which is a little more than an hour’s drive from the southern end of the valley.
  • Trains

    You can dine as you admire the splendid scenery if you travel on the somewhat touristy Napa Valley Wine Train that runs the length of the valley (www.winetrain.com); you’ll still have to drive from San Francisco, though.
  • Automobiles

    A car is ideal for getting around the valley, and handy for getting here in the first place; treat yourself to a convertible and let the wind rush through your hair. Note that during the autumn harvest the main roads can crawl with tourist traffic.