Top Romantic Things to Do in Napa Valley
Napa Valley is a top location for romantic California getaways. That’s no surprise considering its scenic coastal views, abundance of wineries, and cozy neighborhood bars, perfect for making intimate memories.
Bring your special someone to this West Coast locale for a weekend filled with some of the area’s most enchanting activities and attractions. Here are the top romantic things to do in Napa Valley:
Sit for Breakfast at Lucy
Start your morning off with breakfast or brunch at Lucy Restaurant and Bar at Bardessono. The menu offers specialties designed according to the available local ingredients. Chef Victor Scargle crafts favorites like the brioche French toast and the duck confit hash. The whole restaurant has an eco-friendly, modern appeal, and the clean, bright dining room has rustic wood tables for a rural feel.
Pamper Yourself at Spa Solage
Head to Spa Solage for an afternoon massage. Select from an array of different types, like aromatherapy, Thai Swedish, shiatsu and deep tissue massages. However, you might want to skip over these and head straight to the tub – the spa is renowned for its mud baths. Dip yourself from head to toe in specialty mud – a mixture of volcanic ash and spring water. You’ll sit in a sauna-like room among the smells of lavender, while looking out at the rolling hills of Wine Country.
Grab Lunch at Bouchon
No couple’s retreat to Napa Valley is complete without a stop at what is arguably the most romantic restaurant in the area: Bouchon. This restaurant offers authentic French cuisine cooked up by renowned chef Thomas Keller. Start off with the oysters then move on to the main course, like the Boudin Blanc or Maine bouchot mussels. You’ll enjoy your lunch among the charming ambiance of a Parisian country home. If you’re nearby in the morning, stop by the adjoining Bouchon Bakery for a scone or pastry.
Take a Balloon Ride
Want to explore Napa Valley from a birds-eye-view? Then hop on a private hot air balloon ride. Your pilot will take you over the area’s gorgeous rolling hills, lush vineyards and sparkling waters, allowing you to take in the splendor of the bustling city and nature below at a calm pace. Sign up for a floating tour with one of the local hot air balloon companies, like Balloons Above The Valley, which offers you a post-flight champagne, or Napa Valley Aloft Balloon Rides.
Relax at Pleasure Cove
Take a dip in the waters of Lake Berryessa when you take a trip to Pleasure Cove, only 15 miles east of Napa Valley. Lay out a towel and soak up the sun on the beach, or hit the water in a boat rental. Grab your rod and reel for a soothing afternoon of fishing, then cool off with a swim in the refreshing lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike through the grassy hills around you, where you’ll find oak forests, songbirds, eagles, deer and even wild turkeys.
Catch a Show
Make it a special night on the town with a show at the historic Uptown Theatre in the West End district. The building itself is a masterpiece to admire – the restored art deco building is like a picture out of the golden era of Hollywood. Musical, comedy and theater performances are held most nights of the week, making it one of the most recommended nightlife attractions by innkeepers. Afterward, head to the theater’s Courtyard Cafe for a cold beer or a warm coffee.
Take a Wine Tasting at Domaine Chandon
Travigne is a staple among local couples. Guests can take a table outside on the courtyard, shaded by trees covered in white lights, or they can sit inside in the grand, candle-lit dining room. The menu features fine Italian cuisine, including pastas and antipastos made to pair with the many local and Italian wines found in the restaurant’s cellar.
Hop on the Wine Trolley
Head to Second Street and jump aboard the Napa Valley Wine Trolley, an authentic replica of the San Francisco cable car designed in the 1890s. During the 6-hour tour, you’ll discover the scenery and city life of the area while your guide takes you to four different wineries. In between, enjoy cuisine by renowned chef Michael Chiarello and complimentary beverages.
Explore Peju Province
The Peju Province Winery is home to beautiful, sprawling gardens. Enjoy a glass of red or white among colorful perennials and artwork scattered across the grounds, like the statues of famed sculptor Welton Rotz. Then, head inside to roam the art gallery located on the second floor. Here, you’ll find works by well-known Bay Area artists as well as pieces by up-and-coming talent.
By Nicole Martinez