Northern Napa Valley centers on St. Helena and Calistoga, where winemakers continue traditions from the 1800s. The area's Mediterranean climate features warm days and cool nights, with diurnal swings up to 40 degrees Fahrenheit that maintain grape acidity for varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon.
This guide outlines a three-day weekend for friends, emphasizing wellness, wine, and meals. Base in Calistoga for access to geothermal springs or St. Helena for boutique stays. Travel by car or shuttle; book tastings in advance. In July 2025, align with Festival Napa Valley for music and arts from July 11 to 20.
Day 1: Arrival and Calistoga Relaxation
Arrive in Calistoga, known for high-elevation vineyards and spas drawing from volcanic soils. Check into Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs, a retro property with mineral pools and mud baths rooted in early settler practices. Start with a spa session - try CBD-infused treatments or geothermal soaks to unwind after travel.
Head to Joseph Cellars Winery, a family-owned winery between Calistoga and St. Helena. Tour the 10,000 square foot cave and taste reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, paired with views of the Mayacamas Mountains. Reservations required; groups can book private sessions.
For dinner, walk Lincoln Avenue to Lovina, a woman-owned spot in a Victorian house serving seasonal dishes. End with shopping on the avenue's boutiques for local finds.
Day 2: St. Helena Wineries and Dining
Drive 15 minutes south to St. Helena, home to family-run estates amid rolling hills. Begin at V. Sattui Winery for tastings of Chardonnay and Merlot, then picnic on the lawns with deli selections— a tradition from its 1885 founding.
Shop Main Street's stores, from clothing to accessories, blending budgets and styles. Lunch at Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch, where seasonal American fare like pulled pork pairs with estate wines.
Afternoon: Visit Hall Wines for Cabernet tastings amid art installations, or Brasswood Cellars for cheese pairings in a farm setting. If seeking wellness, book massages at Las Alcobas Spa.
Dinner at Cook in St. Helena offers Northern Italian pasta and risotto. Cap the evening at Goose & Gander's cellar for cocktails.
Day 3: Final Tastings and Departure
Return to Calistoga for Chateau Montelena, site of the 1976 Judgment of Paris win. Taste Chardonnay in the gardens; tours highlight the area's winemaking history.
If time allows, add a hot air balloon ride over vineyards for panoramic views, a practice tied to the valley's tourism growth. Check Festival Napa Valley schedule for concerts in nearby venues.
Depart via Napa's airport or San Francisco, an hour south.
