Top 5 Things to Do in Napa Valley

Located in California, the Napa Valley wine region is home to some of the most prestigious wineries in the United States. This is a great stopover to add to your California itinerary, especially if you have a rental car in San Francisco.

1. Visit the vineyards aboard the Wine Train

Onboard a historic 20th-century train, you are cordially invited to explore the vineyards of California.

Seated comfortably in an elegantly restored wagon, you will cross a railway line built in 1864, which will take you to the heart of one of the best wine regions in the world.

From downtown Napa to the beautiful little town of St. Helena, this round trip of just under 37 miles will take you through breathtaking green hilly landscapes.

But that’s not all; you will also live an extraordinary culinary experience thanks to the talent of chef Donald Young and his brigade. Whether for lunch or dinner, the gourmet meal that awaits you is second to none.

Depending on the package chosen, you may have the opportunity to stop to meet the winegrowers and taste their products.

2. Flight over the valley in a hot air balloon

If helicopter rides are generally popular for discovering a region from the air, it is in a hot air balloon that we fly over the bucolic landscapes of the famous valley.

At dawn, this typical regional experience is the best way to start the day.

Accompanied by an experienced pilot-guide, you will have a front-row seat to admire the wineries from a bird’s eye view and enjoy the morning tranquility. Do not hesitate to ask him your questions, which he will be happy to answer.

With panoramic views at California sunrise, this moment is sure to be magical.

3. Trip to the village of St-Helena

The historic small town of St Helena is the heart of the Napa Valley. There are many resorts ready to welcome travelers in a truly charming setting.

There are many vineyards, restaurants, and cafes nestled in the hills. For epicureans, it is a true paradise.

Stroll along Main Street, the main thoroughfare, where you can do some shopping in the many boutiques and art galleries.

For lunch, stop by the tasting room at Clif Family organic vineyard and treat yourself to some great food at Bruschetteria, their excellent family food truck.

In the late afternoon, don’t miss a tour of Maryvale Vineyards, the first winery built after Prohibition was repealed in 1933, ending the ban on alcohol making in the United States.

This iconic Napa Valley location has played an important role in California’s history. It goes without saying, a tasting of their products is essential for all lovers of good wines.

Return to the vineyards at the end of the day for an aperitif.

4. Guided tour of the vineyards by bike

To stretch your legs and at the same time make you feel guilty about a few extra glasses of wine, nothing better than a bike ride!

The verdant valleys of charming Napa Valley are the perfect playground for cyclists of all skill levels.

In a small group and accompanied by a guide, you will have the unique opportunity to walk from vineyard to vineyard and perhaps even pedal among the vines.

The bike-wine combination is an original way to combine sport and indulgence!

5. Travel the Silverado Trail Scenic Drive

This beautiful 48 km country road, which connects Napa to Calistoga, is bordered by numerous vineyards. They say it would take more than a week to visit them all!

Among the many points of interest that are worth a stop, do not miss the Darioush Winery.

You will discover the excellent Californian wines of the producers, but also their sumptuous property worthy of a Persian palate. Indeed, the couple, of Iranian origin, offer visitors an atypical cultural experience, where the traditions of the past blend extremely well with the new techniques of today.

Also, a stopover at the Miner Family Winery is essential, the time to taste the famous Oracle, an excellent full-bodied red wine!

Finally, stop for a few minutes at Mumm Napa, to sip a delicious sparkling wine on their large terrace and enjoy the bucolic view.