Top 5 activities to do in Napa Valley
Located in California, the Napa Valley wine region is home to some of the most prestigious vineyards in the United States. It's a very nice stop to add to your Californian itinerary, especially if you have a rental car in San Francisco.
Discover the top 5 activities to do in Napa Valley to make the most of your stay in the wine valley!
#1. Visit the Napa Valley vineyards aboard the Wine Train
Aboard a historic 20th-century train, you are cordially invited to discover the vineyards of Napa Valley. Comfortably seated in an elegant restored carriage, you'll travel along a railway line built in 1864, which will take you to the heart of one of the best wine regions in the world.
From the downtown Napa to the beautiful small town of St-Helena, this round trip of just under 60 km will take you through breathtaking green rolling landscapes.
But that's not all; you will also experience an extraordinary culinary journey while admiring the view of the Napa Valley vineyards. Whether for lunch or dinner, the gourmet meal that awaits you is unmatched. Depending on the chosen package, you might have the opportunity to stop and meet the winemakers and taste their products.
#2. Hot air balloon ride over Napa Valley
While helicopter rides usually have the edge for discovering an area from above, it's by hot air balloon that you soar over the bucolic landscapes of the famous Napa Valley in California. At dawn, this typical regional experience is the best way to start the day and definitely ranks in the top 5 activities to do in Napa Valley!
Accompanied by an experienced pilot-guide, you will have a front-row seat to admire the wineries and enjoy the morning tranquility. Do not hesitate to ask him your questions, which he will be happy to answer.
With the panoramic views at sunrise, this moment will surely be magical.
#3. Trip to the village of St-Helena
The historic small town of St-Helena is the heart of the Napa Valley. Many resorts are ready to welcome travelers in a charming setting. There are many vineyards, restaurants, and cafes nestled in the hills. For food lovers, it is a true paradise.
Stroll along Main Street, the main artery, where you can do some shopping in the numerous boutiques and art galleries. For lunch, stop by the Clif Family organic vineyard tasting room and treat yourself to a good meal at Bruschetteria, their excellent family food truck.
In the late afternoon, do not miss the visit to Merryvale Vineyards, the first winery built after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, thus ending the ban on making alcohol in the United States.
This iconic Napa Valley spot played an important role in Californian history. Needless to say, a tasting of their products is a must for all wine lovers. Return to the vineyards at the end of the day for an aperitif.
#4. Guided bike tour of Napa Valley vineyards
To stretch your legs and at the same time mitigate the effects of a few too many glasses of wine, nothing beats a bike ride! The green hills of the charming Napa Valley region are the perfect playground for cyclists of all levels.
In a small group and accompanied by a guide, you will have the unique opportunity to stroll from vineyard to vineyard and maybe even pedal among the vines. The bike-wine combo is an original way to combine sport and gourmet pleasure!
#5. Drive the scenic Silverado Trail
This stunning 48 km country road, which connects Napa to Calistoga, is lined with numerous vineyards. It is said that it would take more than a week to visit them all! Among the many points of interest worth a stop, do not miss Darioush Winery.
There, you will discover the excellent Californian wines produced by the owners, as well as their sumptuous property worthy of a Persian palace. Indeed, the couple, originally from Iran, offers visitors a unique cultural experience, where ancient traditions blend extremely well with new techniques.
Also, a stop at Miner Family Winery is essential, to taste their famous Oracle, an excellent full-bodied red wine! Finally, stop by Mumm Napa for a few minutes to sip a delicious sparkling wine on their large terrace and enjoy the bucolic view.
You now know the top 5 activities to do in Napa Valley! If you have any questions and/or suggestions, feel free to express them in the comment section below.
As far as I can remember, I have always been attracted to movement and trips. I travel the world with child eyes and a great pleasure. After 3 years and multiple road trips in North America, I happily share my experience with Authentik’s readers.
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