Video:Tips for Visiting Napa Valley Wine Country

Transcript:Tips for Visiting Napa Valley Wine Country

Hi, I'm Julie Crafton, here for About.com. I'm the Communications Manager for the Napa Valley Vintners, and I'm here today to give you some tips for visiting Napa Valley Wine Country.

Layout of Napa Valley

Beginning in the town of Napa and extending 30 miles North through the towns of Yountville, Oakville, Rutherford, St. Helena, and Calistoga, Napa Valley is the nation's premiere wine region with plenty to see and do. Let's take a closer look. While home to over 450 wineries, Napa still offers a small-town feel. State Highway 29 is the area's main artery, and the vast majority of our wineries can be accessed along this route.

Those flying in to visit our region will likely land at one of the major International airports in the Bay Area or Sacramento. From there, you'll need to make the one-to-two hour drive into Napa, or take advantage of a shuttle service that will drop you off at your hotel.

Accomodations in Napa Valley Wine Country

In terms of accommodations, there are a wide range of options throughout the Napa Valley. For a lavish experience, you'll find plenty of spas and resorts here. If your budget calls for something a bit more modest, there are dozens of hotels to choose from, as well as quaint Bed & Breakfasts. If you know which wineries you'll be visiting, selecting a hotel or resort in close proximity is a good idea.

What to Expect in Napa Valley Wine Country

While each of our wineries offers something wonderful and unique, there are some very popular ones that you won't want to miss. Kuleto Estate is a little ways off the beaten path, but the tasting experience and beautiful views make it worth the trek. The Robert Mondavi Winery is another great stop along the way and a piece of Napa history, as Mondavi is considered one of California's wine pioneers. If you're in the mood for old-world charm and amazing tour options, Castello di Amorosa is home to a 107-room Tuscan-style castle, complete with wine caves and armory. Or, for a more laid back experience with rustic ambience, great wine, gourmet food prepared on-site, and a relaxing picnic area, give V. Sattui Winery a try.

Napa Valley Non-Wine Options

Beyond tasting and vineyard tours, the Napa Valley has a lot to offer by way of shopping and dining. Downtown Napa is a must-see if you've never been to the area, or have only ever visited our wineries. With dozens of shops and restaurants to explore, it's enough to fill an entire day. If you want a break from the wine trails, be sure to check it out – and don't miss the Oxbow Public Market, which is home to several specialty merchants and regular Farmers' Markets. If you love the outdoors, the Napa Valley offers plenty of activities to suit your needs including hiking, horseback riding, and hot air balloon rides.

Other Sites in Napa Valley

Beyond this, I'd recommend traversing to the Northern-most town in our region, Calistoga. Here, you'll encounter the Petrified Forest and California's Old Faithful Geyser, two unique tourist attractions that are not only affordable and interesting, but immersive in the wonders of nature. And those are just a few tips for visiting the Napa Valley Wine Region – we look forward to welcoming you soon!

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