Discover quintessential Napa Valley at Saint Helena
An upmarket town in California's Napa Valley, Saint Helena offers a great base from which to explore wine country. Perhaps unsurprisingly, finding a new favorite tipple is a popular pastime, but travelers are equally charmed by the boutique shopping and delicious high-end dining, not to mention the chance to squeeze in a culture fix at everything from an old-fashioned cinema to a 19th-century water-powered mill. Looking for a place to stay? Just like the wine here, Saint Helena vacation rentals come in a variety of flavors, with cozy cottages, smart downtown condos and sprawling mountain-top estates all on the menu.
Explore downtown Saint Helena
Visiting the wineries dotted throughout the valley is a must, but if you're short on time, you don't need to travel far to get a taste of the good stuff. Downtown Saint Helena, the half-mile heart of the town known as Napa Valley's Main Street, has several plush tasting rooms where the wine flows freely. Perched alongside are darling candy stores, smart art galleries and high-end fashion boutiques, most housed in a sun-bleached historic building. And if you're looking for a way to round off a perfect day, a night at the old-fashioned Cameo Cinema more than fits the bill.
Indulge your inner foodie in Saint Helena
With good wine comes good food, perhaps never more so than at the Culinary Institute of America. Daily tours take in the campus's historic Greystone building and the Ghirardelli Chocolate Discovery Center, although serious foodies will want to experience a cooking class too Ñ don't be surprised to find yourself inspired to cook up a storm for dinner back at your Saint Helena vacation rental. You'll likely need some top-quality ingredients, which you'll find in abundance at the Institute's Spice Islands Marketplace Store, as well as at the Friday morning Saint Helena Farmers Market (open May through September).
Experience the harvest in Saint Helena
Given that wine country weather is mild all year round, the best time to stay in a Saint Helena vacation rental will depend on how you want to experience the valley. The excitement of the harvest season from late August through October sees travelers flock to the area. Family-friendly harvest events and the chance to see fall colors grip the landscape only add to the appeal, so bookings for rentals, restaurants and wine tasting should be made well in advance. If you prefer things a little less crowded, the low season from January through March offers a more leisurely experience.
Exploring the natural features in St. Helena
Whether you're looking for adventure or just want to spend some time taking in the scenery, you'll be sure to find the perfect setting for your vacation in St. Helena. Here are a few of the area's most eye-catching natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Sonoma Plaza (14.6 mi / 23.5 km)
- Old Faithful Geyser of California (9.6 mi / 15.4 km)
- Petrified Forest (9.8 mi / 15.8 km)
- Jack London State Historic Park (11 mi / 17.7 km)
- Safari West (12.7 mi / 20.5 km)
- Lake Berryessa (13.7 mi / 22 km)
Transportation options to and around St. Helena
The nearest airport is in Santa Rosa, CA (STS-Sonoma County), located 18.2 mi (29.3 km) from the city center.
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