There is perhaps no greater place to experience a world-class glass of wine than in California wine country. Without breaking out the passport, you can enjoy quaint town squares, award-winning wineries, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a rich cultural history—all with rolling hills and rows of perfectly planted grapevines as your backdrop.
If you’re lucky enough to be planning a California wine country vacation, there are a few things to consider and a lot of things to research. Luckily, Inspirato is here to lighten the load. Check out our top recommendations for your California wine country vacation—featuring two of the most renowned wine locales in the world, Sonoma County and Napa Valley. Plus, we’ve partnered with several of the region’s best wineries and tasting rooms to offer Inspirato members exclusive access, discounts, and gifts during their vacations. Let’s pop the cork and dive in.
Best time to visit California wine country
The best time to visit California wine country depends on what type of vacation you’re looking for. If you want a quieter, less crowded experience, go in the shoulder season from March to mid-May; the days are still warm and the nights are cooler—perfect after a long day of exploring. If you’re looking for a more bustling, energetic vacation, go during their peak tourist season, summer and harvest season, from August through October. Since harvest season is so busy, be sure to book your reservations for restaurants, excursions, accommodations, and more, as quickly as you can.
Napa Valley
The sophisticated and world-renowned region of Napa Valley wine country has everything you’re looking for on your California wine country vacation. Whether you’re visiting for the wine, the wellness, or the weather, there’s something to satiate even the pickiest of palates.
What to do
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, relax and unwind within the rejuvenating waters of Calistoga Spa Hot Springs. Renowned for its four geothermal mineral pools and authentic volcanic ash mud baths, this boutique resort and spa provides a tranquil refuge.
Silverado Resort hosts two award-winning golf courses for you to enjoy. Meander through the stunningly manicured grounds and play one of these 72-par courses. Group day passes and private instruction are available upon request.
Promenade Napa’s main downtown area—First and Second Street—for top-notch shopping. It’s here that you’ll find small, local boutiques mingling with larger, regional stores. Visit these quaint, locally owned shops from jewelry and apparel shops to bookstores and more.
Promenade Napa’s main downtown area—First and Second Street—for top-notch shopping. It’s here that you’ll find small, local boutiques mingling with larger, regional stores. Visit these quaint, locally owned shops from jewelry and apparel shops to bookstores and more.
Top wineries and tasting rooms
Tamber Bey Vineyards embodies the philosophy that great winemaking begins in the vineyard. This dog-friendly winery is located at the Sundance Ranch, a world-class equestrian facility designed by renowned architect Howard Backen. The tasting room overlooks the open-air barn and courtyard, where guests can taste estate-grown wine, mingle with the horses, and enjoy stunning views.
Fraîche Wine Group is a collection of wineries created by two friends: a winemaker and a sommelier. Through their partnership, they’ve created a collection of boutique wineries tethered to history and excellence from estates in Napa, Sonoma, Oregon, Tuscany, and Bordeaux. This collection includes four limited-production boutique wineries: Component Wine Co., Gagnon-Kennedy Vineyards, La Caccia di San Giovanni, and SOM Wines. Enjoy these unique wines in the group’s tasting room, just 10 minutes from downtown Napa.
Majuscule Wine is a small winery with a big name, crafting elegant, single-vineyard Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon in the Napa Valley. Their award-winning wines are produced in very small lots—typically less than 100 cases per wine—with an intense focus on quality. Tastings are hosted by the proprietors and winemakers at the vineyard or in their private salon in downtown Napa.
Top restaurants
Enjoy a touch of fine dining at Napa’s casual food truck, Joella’s Deli. Featuring only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients, you’ll enjoy their local favorites like the spicy fried chicken sandwich and meatball parmesan.
Home to over 20 different purveyors, from coffee to cupcakes, enjoy this 42,000-square-foot, local gathering place right along the Napa River. All purveyors, as well as Oxbow Public Market itself, are dedicated and committed to sustainability and organic agricultural practices so you know you’re getting the freshest, most nourishing ingredients.
For over 15 years, this Michelin-starred restaurant has been the fine dining staple of Napa Valley. From their 10,000-bottle wine collection to their legendary culinary talents, you’ll be awestruck at the bold flavors and wonderfully knowledgeable staff.
Where to stay
Carneros Resort and Spa is a tranquil respite surrounded by 28 acres of rolling hills and picturesque farmland. Enjoy two pools with hot tubs, a spa, and on-site farm-to-table dining options. Inspirato features four luxury accommodations from a one-bedroom cottage to a sprawling 2-bedroom residence.
Centrally located, just steps from the Napa River and Oxbow Public Market mentioned above, Archer Napa is a chic boutique hotel featuring Napa’s only rooftop bar and restaurant. Stay with Inspirato in one of two stunning suites; both feature a fireplace and private balcony.
Located on 33 acres of rolling countryside, complete with an on-site Michelin-starred restaurant and award-winning spa, Auberge du Soleil offers some of the most prestigious lodging in Napa Valley wine country. Choose from Inspirato’s four gorgeous suites, each equipped with stunning views of Napa Valley.
“From the moment we arrived we were treated amazingly well. Lovely property with a great spa and restaurant. We will return!”
Jeff G., Inspirato Member
Sonoma County
Since the 19th century, Sonoma County has won countless national and international wine awards. Known as the birthplace of California wine country, this renowned region hosts more than 425 wineries, farm-to-table restaurants, and countless scenic trails to explore.
What to do
This vintage trolly offers a unique, expert-led experience to take in the scenery and discover all the unique flavors of this prestigious wine region. This is, by far, one of the best California wine country tours.
“The Sonoma Wine Trolley was so much fun—the driver was really informative and had such a great personality.”
Inspirato Member
Feel like taking an adventure? Get a bird’s-eye view of Sonoma’s sweeping vistas on a world-class ziplining tour. Traverse Northern California’s iconic Redwood National Forest with these exhilarating courses—including zip lines, spiral staircases, and sky bridges.
Boasting a plethora of boutiques, shops, galleries, and restaurants, you can spend an entire day just roaming Sonoma’s downtown plaza. Eat, shop, admire art, or simply sit on the lush grass and enjoy a picnic full of locally sourced charcuterie.
Top wineries and tasting rooms
Located in Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley, Blue Rock Vineyard is a small, family-owned winery that’s home to Vintner’s Cottage. While providing private, personal, and gracious hospitality, Blue Rock Vineyard uses European winemaking techniques to produce exceptional small lots of cabernet sauvignon and Bordeaux-inspired blends.
Comstock Wines was inspired by the fundamental passion to grow and source only the best Sonoma County grapes. Set amidst a 17-acre vineyard outside Healdsburg, Comstock Wines will provide you with an elevated and approachable experience in the heart of Dry Creek Valley. Enjoy premier wine and food pairings, single-vineyard terrace tastings, and more.
Three Sticks Wines is a Sonoma-based, family-owned winery. The estate specializes in small-lot, artisan wines crafted with grapes from its own exceptional properties. Three Sticks purchased and restored the historic Vallejo-Casteñada Adobe; the result is nothing short of stunning—an intimate, opulent home in the heart of Sonoma where Three Sticks hosts their private wine tastings.
With their tasting room located just off the Square in downtown Sonoma, Sojourn Cellars offers some of the most charming and sophisticated wines and tasting experiences. This relaxed and welcoming tasting room offers guests the opportunity to taste the nuances among family-owned vineyards of the Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley, and Napa Valley appellations.
Top restaurants
Located right in Sonoma Plaza, the girl & the fig offers “country food with a French passion,” as owner Sondra Bernstein describes it. Expect a seasonal menu with rustic Provençal-inspired cuisine, French aperitifs, and an award-winning wine list.
Just 17 minutes up the road from downtown Sonoma is the cozy yet esteemed restaurant of Glen Ellen Star. Centered on an open kitchen, this unique Sonoma favorite specializes in wood-fired cooking and fresh, seasonal ingredients. If you’re looking to book a table, do so as far in advance as you’re able.
Positioned just outside of downtown Sonoma Square, this local favorite is a casual spot serving up authentic Mexican cuisine. Their staff is always friendly, and the food is made with the freshest ingredients—including their signature masa dough tortillas that are made by hand and with love.
Where to stay
Nestled atop the Mayacamas Mountains, this private, four-bedroom estate is located on five acres and offers expansive views of the rolling hills of Sonoma as well as the Bay Area. Enjoy an expansive outdoor deck with a heated pool and built-in hot tub.
“From the moment we arrived at Villa Della Luna, we felt right at home. Our stay was filled with serene mornings overlooking breathtaking vineyards and memorable wine tours catered to our taste.”
Inspirato Member
This luxurious, four-bedroom farmhouse-style estate is located right on the grounds of the 17-acre Comstock Vineyard. Guests will enjoy complimentary wine tastings, a hot tub, and an expansive outdoor living space—equipped with grill, fire pit, and alfresco dining area.
Perfect for a large group, Winner’s Circle is a stately home. Perched on an idyllic hilltop with 60 acres and 360-degree views, this sprawling five-bedroom estate hosts a plethora of luxury amenities—including a heated outdoor pool with hot tub and private library with wood-burning fireplace.
“The house is lovely and the view SPECTACULAR!”
Pryse E., Inspirato Member
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