Yountville, a tiny 1.5-square mile town less than 10 miles north of the town Napa, is credited with being home to the first grapevines in all of Napa Valley.

Today, the ritzy enclave is also known for its small-town charm, abundance of world-class restaurants (including the famous Three-Michelin-starred The French Laundry), dedication to the arts, stylish hotels, natural beauty, stunning architecture, boutique wineries, and walkability. The latter actually makes it one of the most appealing destinations in all of Napa Valley, as once you park your car upon arrival, there’s almost no reason to touch your car keys until it’s time to return home.

Read on to discover some of the most indulgent, exciting, and relaxing ways to enjoy yourself while on a getaway to this charming town that bills itself as the Heart of Napa Valley.

Soar Above in a Hot Air Balloon

See Napa from a new perspective while soaring about the vineyards in a hot air balloon. Napa Valley Aloft has been flying above Yountville’s gorgeous landscape since 1978, with baskets that hold 8 to 12 passengers and an option for a post-flight brunch with mimosas. (You can also book a private balloon for special occasions.) Napa Valley Balloons is another acclaimed company for taking in the sights of the region from above and has baskets that carry 6, 12, 16, and 20 passengers, with private flights for two.

Whichever company you choose for your adventure, you’ll arrive before dawn to watch the colorful balloons get inflated and then take off soon after sunrise when the winds are calm, and the temps are cool. As you rise into the sky, you’ll take in views of the Napa Valley floor, Mt. St. Helena, Mayacamas Mountain Range, and on days when the wind cooperates, glimpses of the San Francisco skyline and the Sierras.

Take a Leisurely Stroll to Wine Taste

One of the best things about Yountville is that you can enjoy everything the town offers without ever getting in a car, including one of the best things the town has to offer: over a dozen stroll-able winery tasting rooms.

At the Priest Ranch tasting room, you can try Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as several less common varietals, including Grenache Blanc and a Brut Rosé of Syrah. And while you can pair your tasting with a specialty cheese and charcuterie board, the Bacon & Wine Experience is the way to go… because what other winery tasting room is going to offer you a pairing of four distinctly flavored types of bacon to go with your wines?

Just a few steps from Priest Ranch is Handwritten Wines, a contemporary space with indoor and outdoor seating where you can sample the winery’s proprietary Bordeaux-style blend “Three Worlds,” its Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir from Santa Barbara County, as well as Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. If you’re especially fond of Pinot Noir, the Pinot Noir Vertical Experience is a must; you’ll explore the different growing seasons and aging nuances while sipping four vintages from the same vineyard.

It will take you about 10 minutes to walk from Handwritten Wines to Jessup Cellars, known to be one of the friendliest tasting rooms in Wine Country, where the art-covered gallery walls provide the perfect setting for enjoying premium wines fit for aficionados and novices alike. All tastings come with a satiating charcuterie board, but if you know your stomach will be grumbling, there are plenty of amazing Yountville restaurants just a hop and a skip away.

Dine on Locally-Sourced Food at Top Restaurants

Northern California is known for its amazing bounty of fresh ingredients grown and raised by local farmers, and you’ll find ample opportunity to enjoy that farm-to-table dining perfection at several Yountville restaurants.

Enjoy Italian fine dining in Napa at Bottega Napa Valley, a lively restaurant from the late celebrity chef Michael Chiarello, where all of the dishes highlight local, seasonal ingredients and bold flavors.

The French Laundry is on almost everyone’s Napa fine dining bucket list for good reason. Their multi-course dinner is a treat for the senses, but for those looking for a truly unique dining experience highlighting local ingredients, the trick is to order the restaurant’s “Tasting of Vegetables” menu. The French Laundry has a “culinary gardener” on staff whose job is to tend to the 3.5-acre garden across the street from the restaurant, which serves as their main source of produce.

If it’s laidback, yet still locally-sourced cuisine you’re after, look no further than The Kitchen at Priest Ranch. Inspired by the homey flavors of the Midwest and American classics, you’ll find everything from gourmet smashburgers to Italian beef sandwiches—and they serve breakfast all day. To top it off, all of their dishes pair perfectly with Priest Ranch wines. After you’re back home, and no doubt craving the good eats from the Kitchen, you can scroll through their list of recipes listed on their website for culinary inspiration.

Discover Regional Art at the Napa Valley Museum

Take a break from wining and dining to learn a little more about the place from where it all comes. Hop on the free Yountville Trolley (downtown) to the Napa Valley Museum to explore three galleries of West Coast art, a showcase of noteworthy aspects of local culture, and selections that exemplify the region’s history.

Walk the Walk—the Art Walk, That Is

Discover 35 outdoor sculptures (most of which are available for purchase to benefit the Yountville Arts fund) within a mile or so of each other on the Yountville Art Walk. Roam around and see what you find (you can learn more about each piece by scanning the QR code on the plaque), or download the printable map to ensure you see them all.

Sip Your Way Through Nearby Wineries

It wouldn’t be a trip to Yountville without exploring some of the town’s outstanding boutique wineries.

Fans of rock n’ roll will definitely appreciate Cliff Lede Vineyards, where the vineyard’s “Rock Blocks” are named after songs and albums, like “Dark Side of the Moon” and “Light My Fire.” The outdoor patio is gorgeous, but for a truly unique experience, opt for the Backstage Tasting Lounge, where you can sip while enjoying rotating art exhibits.

At Goosecross Cellars, a winery that is close to downtown but feels off the beaten path, you’ll take in views of the vineyards, Yountville Hills, and the Mayacamas Mountain Range while enjoying a diverse portfolio of meticulously crafted wines of all varietals, including Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet, Chardonnay, Viognier, and Syrah.

Bell Wine Cellars is also worth a visit, especially for those who enjoy single-vineyard or single-clone wines. During their Grape to Glass Tour & Tasting, you’ll go behind the scenes, seeing exactly what it takes to make their carefully curated wines.

Play a Round of Golf

Whether you hit the links often or just enjoy a leisurely afternoon on the greens, check out Vintner’s Golf Club. The championship nine-hole resort course features three different sets of tees, and is an excellent option for an afternoon of golf as it’s welcoming to all levels. Stop by the Lakeside Grill after a round for a club sandwich and beer (or wine) in a picturesque setting.

Few places epitomize romance like Napa Valley, making Wine Country the perfect destination for a Valentine’s Day getaway. From luxury hotel packages to glamorous winery events and playful cooking classes, Napa Valley is the place to visit and fall in love this Valentine’s Day.

Of course, no need to feel limited to a Wine Country getaway in just February. Napa Valley, with its beautiful weather, luxury hotels and spas, and exceptional dining options, makes it easy to find a romantic moment any time of year. Romance not your thing? No problem! Grab your pals for a Galentine’s Day to remember, because this guide is really about making memories (romantic, or otherwise) with those near and dear to your heart.

Be Wine

Is there a more memorable place to spend Valentine’s Day than an actual winery? We can’t think of one. Here are a few of our favorites (and some fun winery events) to check out.

Cliff Lede Vineyards

1473 Yountville Cross Road, Yountville, CA 94599, (707) 944-8642

Cliff Lede Vineyards is always a lovely spot to sip wine in Napa, but why not plan your visit around one of the winery’s rotating special events (hello, date night out!)? This Valentine’s Day, the winery is hosting a romantic Valentine’s dinner in the middle of their state-of-the-art winemaking facility. An elegant, multi-course meal will be served alongside live music, the company of your fellow wine-o’s, and of course, lots of delicious wine. There’s even the promise of breaking out some library selections, like the 2011 Songbook Cabernet Sauvignon.

Markham Vineyards

2812 St. Helena Highway N, St. Helena, CA 94574

For 45 years, Markham has been crafting acclaimed Merlot and Cabernet wines from its historic winery in Napa Valley. Rich in history and heritage, the beautiful winery makes for a wonderful place to sip with your sweetheart. But this Valentine’s Day, the winery is setting its sights on the gal pals with its special Galentine’s Day Luncheon. The event, which takes place inside Markham’s stunning 150-year-old Stone Cellar, will feature plenty of wine, food, a photo booth, and even friendship bracelet making. It’s sure to be a fun way to celebrate the day.

Stony Hill Vineyard

3331 Saint Helena Highway N, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-2636

Tucked away on the enchanting slopes of Spring Mountain, Stony Hill Vineyard is your picture-perfect postcard of Napa romance. With roots stretching back to the early 1950s, this family-owned gem wraps you in the warmth of its history and passion for winemaking. Once a hidden treasure reserved for a select few, the doors of Stony Hill are now open, inviting you to partake in an intimate tasting journey that feels like a well-kept secret. Adding to the romantic vibe? Those panoramic views of the lush vineyards and surrounding mountains, which provide the perfect backdrop for love… er, your wine tasting.

Sterling Vineyards

111 Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515, (800) 726-6136

Take to the skies this February soaring high above the tangle of Sterling Vineyards’ vines below. Grab your honey and book the Hilltop Experience, which will have you enjoying a sweet gondola ride to the top of this picturesque tasting room. Once there, you’ll get to enjoy five exclusive wines, local cheese and charcuterie pairings, as well as sprawling views of Napa Valley from your perch. Bring on the photo opps.

Sweet Stays

With vineyard views and posh amenities, these Napa Valley hotels bring the romance 365 days a year.

Alila Napa Valley

1915 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 531-7062

This adults-only getaway is a peaceful respite for those looking for true serenity this Valentine’s Day, or really any time of year. Snuggle up by the firepit on your private balcony in the Vineyard View Suite (complete with romance-inducing views over the vineyards), or slip into a bubble bath in your outdoor soaking tub. If you can stand to leave your room, book an intimate dinner for two at Violetto or a spa experience at Spa Alila (Hint: the Zenith includes a couples massage and a private steam bath for two). From painting in the vineyards to uncovering the stars’ secrets with an astrology reading, every experience at Alila crafts the perfect ode to love. If that’s still not enough to fuel the love flames, the Fireside Romance package, with its cozy bathrobes, chocolate desserts, and bottle of Cabernet, will surely do the trick.

Milliken Creek Inn and Spa

1815 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 255-1197

Situated along the Napa River, Milliken Creek Inn and Spa is like a secret hideaway tucked away in the oaks. Choose a room that overlooks the river (we’d recommend Astra) and prepare to get cozy with your plus one beside the outdoor fire pit. Revel in the luxury of recent renovations that spotlight plush king-size beds, deep soaking tubs, and in-room fireplaces. But the romantic vibes don’t stop there—enjoy the decadence of nightly turn-down service, breakfast in bed, freshly baked cookies, an evening s’mores kit, and a concierge ready to tailor your stay to your heart’s desire. Oh, and did we mention they also offer couples massages in their open-air cabana?

Meritage Resort & Spa

875 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA 94558, (866) 370-46272

Dive into romance this season at Napa’s luxurious Meritage Resort & Spa, which offers special Valentine’s packages and experiences to make a note of. Imagine toasting to your love with a glass of Mumm Champagne during a private, in-room dinner for two, savoring the morning sun over brunch with endless bubbles and vineyard views, or unwinding together with a couples massage in the underground spa cave. If a girls’ trip is more your speed, you and your friends will adore booking a spa day, enjoying a picnic lunch on the great lawn, or taking a rejuvenating yoga class amidst the vines. Whether you join for Valentine’s Day or another time this year, Meritage Resort ensures every moment is unforgettable.

Table for Two

Why cook when an acclaimed chef can prepare a special, multi-course Valentine’s Day meal at one of Napa Valley’s top fine dining establishments?

Acacia House

1915 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-9004

Located at the stunning Alila resort, Acacia House is an upscale dining option with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients and views over the surrounding vineyards. With a menu featuring delectable options such as Artichoke and Burgundy Truffle Soup, Whole Branzino, and Farro Risotto, it’s not difficult to imagine that their multi-course V-Day menu will be anything short of delicious. Don’t forget to add on a wine pairing, curated by their in-house sommelier.

Charlie Palmer Steak Napa

1260 First St., Napa, CA, 94559, (707) 819-2500

The first California location for the acclaimed Charlie Palmer Steak is located in downtown Napa at the Archer Hotel. For Valentine’s Day, they’ll be dishing up an incredible prix-fixe menu which, if the menu preview has anything to show (Caviar, Filet, and Strawberry Shortcake, anyone?), will be as indulgent as ever. Of course, the restaurant’s regular menu of raw seafood and steaks is available anytime of year, so there’s never a bad time to visit.

Romantic Rendezvous

Of course you’ll want to go wine tasting on your vacation, but these unique, Valentine’s Day-themed Wine Country activities are fit for two.

Couples Spa Retreat at Carneros Resort and Spa

Wine and delicious food are always great, but to really up the ante on the romantic vibes, how about a relaxing spa experience with your sweetie? Though the spa at the Carneros Resort and Spa is normally only for guest use, our exclusive WineCountry Experience lets you savor a full spa and pool day retreat anytime. Enjoy a romantic lunch for two followed by a couples’ Swedish massage, then head to the heated pool for a dip and mimosas. It’s the perfect way to revel in the romance of Napa Valley.

Cooking Classes (or Dinner) at the CIA at Copia

500 First Street, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 967-2500

Downtown Napa’s culinary center, the CIA at Copia, is THE place for foodies in love. Sign up for one of Copia’s food enthusiast cooking classes to improve your kitchen skills or to discover a new meal to cook together at home. Or, attend one of the guest chef dinners at Copia’s restaurant, The Grove. Every year, the CIA at Copia hosts Valentine’s Day-themed dinners, like their homage to the culinary wonder, Julia Child, which makes for a memorable and delicious way to spend Valentine’s Day.

Air Balloon Flight for Two with Napa Valley Balloons

(800) 253-2224

There’s a reason that a lot of engagement proposals go down in a hot air balloon: they’re incredibly romantic! You don’t have to propose (unless you want to), but you and your honey will never forget the morning you flew above the clouds while looking down at the Napa Valley in all of its glory. Valentine’s Day is the ideal time to splurge on a private flight so that you’re not sharing your special moment with a bunch of strangers. Napa Valley Balloons offers one of these per day, and it includes a post-flight Champagne toast to boot. Afterwards, you’ll have the entire day free for wine tasting around Wine Country or just hanging out in your room for some Netflix and Chill.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and what better place to put a little love in your heart than in Wine Country? From romantic resorts to adventures that will set hearts aflutter to fantastic wine and food that will awake the senses, Napa Valley is the perfect spot to write your own love story.

Of course, Cupid isn’t out in full force right now due to COVID-19, which definitely puts a damper on stolen kisses thanks to constant mask-wearing, but love birds can still find magic in this enchanting Northern California region; it just involves a little flexibility with the existing guidelines. (More on that below). Even if you don’t plan that big Napa rendezvous with your Valentine this month, you can still use this guide to plan another romantic getaway, whatever time of year, because Napa Valley’s weather makes it easy to visit each and every month. After all, after waiting patiently to visit Napa Valley again, you’ll certainly deserve it.

COVID-19 Note: Napa Valley is again welcoming visitors! Please note that existing regulations limit some activities, like wine tasting and in-person dining, to outdoors only. Be sure to confirm hours and guidelines with each of these businesses before visiting, and check out our pandemic news page for further information.

Where to Stay

Carneros Resort and Spa

A stay at this luxurious resort in the heart of Wine Country should come with a warning: You’ll find it almost impossible to pull yourself away from the picturesque estate, which for a romantic weekend is perhaps actually perfect. Truly, there’s no need to leave as the resort has everything one could possibly want: charming secluded cottages with private front porches and backyard gardens, fire pits and fireplaces, and outdoor soaking tubs; two pools with hot tubs (one which sits atop a hill with vineyard views and is adults-only); a full-service spa exclusive to guests; and three farm-to-table dining experiences. If you do manage to venture away from the grounds, you’ll find plenty of world-renowned wineries nearby, as well as outdoor activities, like golf, horseback riding, hiking, and kayaking. But if you decide to enjoy breakfast in bed before making your way to a chaise lounge for the day (interrupted only by your couples massage), no one will judge you.

WineCountry Perks: Book using code ‘WINECOUNTRY’ to receive your third night free and complimentary daily breakfast.

4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa, CA 94559, (866) 860-2328

Poetry Inn

Romance is the name of the game at this hillside escape, perched above the Silverado Trail in Napa’s Stags Leap District. Offering both privacy and serenity, Poetry Inn pampers guests with luxury amenities and personalized hospitality, from the spacious suites with private terraces and wood-burning fireplaces, to the customized concierge services, to the gourmet three-course breakfasts served each morning. Enhance a stay with a romantic spa experience, like a side-by-side couples massage or couples spa shower treatment, and no doubt you’ll be rekindling the flame in no time.

WineCountry Perks: Make a reservation using the code ‘WINE’ to enjoy a complimentary cheese board upon arrival, as well as complimentary wine tastings at nearby Cliff Lede Winery.

6380 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 944-0646

What to Do

Getaway Adventures

Set pulses racing with an outdoor adventure that will allow you to experience Wine Country in a whole new way. Getaway Adventures has something for everyone, including tours where you’ll bike and wine taste in the morning and kayak in the afternoon, sip and cycle through Calistoga, or hike through the hills and valleys of Napa Valley. If you’d prefer to cruise around at your own speed, you can also rent a hybrid, e-bike, or road bike and enjoy the feel of the wind in your hair as you hit the open road.

61 Front Street, Healdsburg, CA 95448, (800) 499-2453

Napa Valley Aloft

Soar to new heights in your relationship (literally and metaphorically) during a hot air balloon ride over Yountville. Napa Valley Aloft balloon rides fly above the valley floor with panoramic views of Mt. St. Helena, the Mayacamas Mountains, and, if the weather cooperates, glimpses of the San Francisco skyline and the Sierras. After you safely land, you’ll enjoy a post-flight Champagne brunch where you can toast to more adventures to come. Most flights have around 8 to 12 passengers, but if you’re celebrating a special occasion and want to splurge, you can reserve a basket built for two.

6525 Washington Street, Yountville, CA 94599, (707) 944-4400

Where to Eat

Press Napa Valley

If the way to your loved one’s heart is through their stomach, then don’t miss dining at Press, known for its award-winning (and extensive) wine list and its selection of Prime beef, free-range poultry, local lamb, and fresh local seafood, all cooked on a custom-built, wood-fired grill. Everything about this fine dining experience is utterly enjoyable, from the food to the moody, romantic ambiance, and makes for the perfect date night out.

587 St. Helena Highway, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 967-0550

Angèle Restaurant & Bar

Transport yourselves to France while sitting in an old boathouse on the Napa River. Angèle is a charming restaurant in downtown Napa that has become a staple for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy wine and oysters on the heated patio overlooking the water or, on colder nights, tuck into some French onion soup or crispy duck confit in the rustic and cozy dining room.

540 Main Street, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 252-8115

Where to Taste Wine

Stags’ Leap Winery

There’s just something extra romantic about sipping wine with your loved one at a historic winery in Napa, especially if said winery offers nostalgic details, sensory gardens, fruit trees, and sweeping views. Constructed in 1890, the Manor House on the estate is the ultimate place for Cupid’s arrow to strike. With its original stonework, English Renaissance style, and romantic history as a summer retreat for one-time owners, the Chase family, this picturesque building makes for an idyllic place to sample a mixture of the winery’s current release and library wines.

6150 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 257-5790

HALL Winery

HALL Winery in St. Helena pairs world-class wine with intriguing art for an experience unlike any others you’ll find in Wine Country. As you roam the lush 33-acre property, you’ll come across over 35 impressive pieces of contemporary art, including the famous metal “Bunny Foo-Foo” sculpture at the entrance. You can wander the grounds alone and steal kisses in the Olive Grove, but if you’d like a more in-depth look at the wine and the art, reserve the Wine and Art Exploration experience where you’ll be guided through the collection while sipping on some of HALL’s best wines.

401 St. Helena Highway South, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 967-2626