I

n the fall, California’s Napa Valley 
transforms from lush, green vine-
yards and rolling hills into a stun-
ning landscape of vibrant reds, deep 
oranges and rich yellows, all set against 
the bright, blue sky. As the leaves 
change color, the air becomes crisp and 
cool, creating a breathtaking backdrop 
to Napa’s quiet season.
The end of autumn’s harvest season 
affords Napa visitors a more intimate 
experience, a chance to explore the 
magic of the valley without the sum-
mer crowds. It is a time to take in 
Napa’s rich culture with harvest festi-
vals, seasonal culinary offerings and 
scenic drives through the valley.
Here are the best places to stay, dine 
and unwind in Napa Valley this fall.

WINERY TOURS 
Vineyards are the heart and soul of 
Napa Valley, and a visit to the area is 
not complete without taking in its sto-
ried wine history. The gorgeous, wel-
coming vineyards of Cakebread Cellars 
are the perfect place to find it. From 
November to February, this 50+-year-
old, family-owned winery provides a 

serene, personal experience with fewer 
visitors, allowing guests to connect 
more deeply with its rich legacy of 
quality, sustainability and innovation. 
Tours they provide:
The Cakebread Classic Tour, their 
signature tasting experience, guides vis-
itors through the winery for a 45-min-
ute tour, interspersed with tastings of 
Cakebread’s premium wines.
The Sustainable Wines and Vines 
Tour showcases Cakebread Cellars’ 
commitment to sustainability in its 
organic farming, winemaking practices 
and the construction of winery build-
ings using reclaimed materials.
The Perfect Pair Wine and Food 
Tasting allows you to experience the 
winery’s top wine varietals alongside 
Napa’s autumn bounty, reflecting its 
culinary roots and on-site garden 
through food-friendly pairings.

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS
A beautiful hotel experience is half the 
fun of a trip, and there are many resorts 
in Napa that provide luxurious and 
serene surroundings to enhance your 
visit. Stanly Ranch and Carneros Inn 

and Spa are located near downtown 
Napa, offering a peaceful and lovely 
retreat after your day’s adventures. 
When you visit during the fall, you can 
relish a premium stay without the pre-
mium price tag since hotel rooms can 
be up to 40% cheaper in the off-season.

FINE DINING
Many restaurants in Napa Valley cele-
brate wine culture, from Mustards Grill 
with its 30-year tradition of “honest 
American fare with worldly sophisti-
cation, washed down with a glass of 
the valley’s finest,
” to the elegant Brix 

Restaurant, with its focus on farm-to-
table dining inspired by the traditions 
of Northern California. With smaller 
crowds, reservations are abundant, so 
no need to brave the long lines to visit 
your favorite Napa spot.

FUN ADVENTURES
Hot air balloon rides. Called a “nature 
walk in the sky,
” Napa’s long tradition 
of hot air ballooning gives guests a 
truly breathtaking way to see the val-
ley’s striking landscape, bursting with 
vibrant fall colors. Tours begin at dawn, 
allowing you to float serenely through 
the air as you watch the sun rise.
Hiking. In Napa, you’ll find rugged 
mountain ranges, redwood forests, 
lakes and streams. Fall’s mild weather 
and vibrant hues create the perfect 
backdrop for guests looking to stretch 
their legs in the outdoors. From state 
parks to local trails with vineyard 
views, there is an excursion for every 
skill level. With the cooler temperatures 
in the fall, you won’t be hiking in the 
heat!
Hot springs. Unique to Napa Valley’s 
Calistoga region, underground hot 
springs feed geothermal mineral pools, 
infusing them with healing elements 
that soothe the body and mind. Step 
out of the crisp autumn air and book 
a day pass at Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard 
Resort & Mineral Springs to soak in the 
pools, which contain zinc, magnesium, 
calcium and bromine that relax sore 
muscles. It feels especially soothing to 
soak in the warm water on a cool day.
As the leaves change, Napa Valley is 
awash in color. Visit during this fleeting 
time of year and make the most of har-
vest season in Northern California. 

26 | NOVEMBER 21 • 2024 
J
N

Where to stay, dine and unwind this fall.

(BPT)

Where to stay, dine and unwind this fall.
Napa’s Quiet Season

BOOM | TRAVEL

