If you’re a wine lover looking for something new, you don’t want to miss the hidden gems of Napa Valley. But what can you do beyond enjoying vineyards and wineries?
Napa Valley is well-known as one of the world’s premier wine regions. It offers visitors lush vineyards, stunning scenery, and plenty of opportunities to sample delicious wines. However, many people are unaware of all that Napa Valley has to offer beyond its beautiful vineyards and renowned wineries.
Napa Valley is a treasure trove filled with unexpected delights for those who explore outside the obvious choices. From exploring local nature trails to indulging at awe-inspiring wineries and restaurants, there is a diverse range of activities to enjoy in this captivating valley. Discover the hidden gems of Napa Valley in this guide!
Plan Your Visit to Napa Valley
Planning a trip to Napa Valley can be overwhelming, but don’t worry – with a few tips and tricks, you can make the most of your time in this stunning region.
- First, decide when you want to go. The weather in Napa Valley is generally mild year-round, so any time is a great time to visit. However, summer months tend to be the busiest and most expensive, with harvest season (August-October) being especially crowded. If you want a more relaxed experience, try visiting in the winter or early spring.
- Once you’ve decided on a date, it’s time to plan your itinerary. Start by researching the various wineries in Napa Valley and picking out a few you want to visit. We may be a bit biased, but we hope you’ll include Paloma Vineyard in your list.
- Then, look into local attractions and activities – from hot air balloon rides to biking tours – to make your trip even more memorable.
It’s best to choose several wineries and landmarks close to each other. Spring Mountain AVA is home to a variety of renowned venues including Pride Mountain Vineyards, Keenan Winery, Behrens Family Winery, School House Vineyard, and, yours truly, Paloma Vineyard. Not to mention the rolling mountains, quaint experiences, and spectacular views, Sprint Mountain is a special place to visit.
Top Napa Valley Wineries and Landmarks
Here are some of the top wineries and landmarks to visit on your trip to Napa Valley.
Paloma Vineyard
Located at the peak of Spring Mountain, this small, family-owned winery offers a unique experience for visitors with its stunning views of the valley and rich history. Visitors can sample Paloma Vineyard’s award-winning wines while taking in the breathtaking views from the summit vineyard of Spring Mountain.
The winery is known for its production of Cabernet Sauvignon and award-winning Merlot, which are produced from their estate grapes grown on the steep slopes of the Mountain. The winery’s commitment to sustainable winemaking practices and organic farming practices ensures that the wines produced are of the highest quality and reflect the terroir of the region. Paloma Vineyard’s wines have consistently received high ratings from wine critics and enthusiasts alike.
After enjoying your wine tasting and learning about the rich history of Spring Mountain and Paloma Vineyard, visitors are welcome to explore the property and take in the breathtaking views. The winery’s tasting room is situated on historic farmland which was built in the late 1800s and has been restored to its original beauty.
Paloma Vineyard also offers a wine club for enthusiasts who appreciate the flexibility of fully customizing their wine selection. Members of the wine club are invited to special events and have access to spectacular house-cellared wines from the Paloma library collection. The winery’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and history make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Napa Valley wines.
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park is a must-visit for any history buff. Located in the heart of Napa Valley, this park features a fully restored 19th-century grist mill initially built by pioneer Dr. Edward Turner Bale in 1846. Visitors can explore the mill and its surrounding grounds, learning about its history through interpretive panels and displays. The mill is also home to a museum and gift shop.
Calistoga Depot
Calistoga Depot is a great choice for the foodies in your party. Located in a former train station (the second-oldest in California), the Depot offers dine-in and carry out options. They have burgers, hot sandwiches, salads, and wood-fired pizzas. Stop here for an unforgettable lunch or dinner before or after your wine tasting, or bring their food to Paloma Vineyard for a picnic.
Giugni W F & Son Grocery
Giugni W F & Son Grocery is a great spot to grab your picnic sandwich to bring up to Paloma. They provide delicious, homemade deli sandwiches– that you can fully customize. They are just a short drive from Paloma Vineyard, in downtown Saint Helena.
Final Thoughts
These are just a few of the many unique sites, wineries, and attractions that Napa Valley has to offer. With so much to explore and experience, you’re sure to have an incredible time discovering the hidden gems of northern Napa Valley.
Don’t forget to book a tasting at Paloma Vineyard before your visit.