Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a wine amateur, you can visit Napa Valley for more than just the fruity, aromatic nectar. The area is a smorgasbord for the senses. The food is varied and delectable, the scenery is beautiful, and the entertainment is lively. When you visit Napa, you feel trendy and classic all at once.

A Taste of the Valley

Of course, the valley is known for its wines. Although several hundred wineries dot the valley, all of them are not open to the public. A private winery tour can give visitors a chance to sample the wines and visit the vineyards without having to hassle with directions, admission or finding a designated driver.

The oldest uninterruptedly operating winery in the valley is the Beringer Vineyard. The historic tours and wine tasting sessions bring visitors closer to their unique and elegant combinations of flavors. Ma(i)sonry is more than just a vineyard. Although the property has been established since the early 1900s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it was not opened to the public until 2008. Now, it is a gallery for art and wine. Known as a winery collective, Ma(i)sonry showcases wines from almost 20 different wineries and offers private wine tastings in the historic stone manor or the beautifully landscaped gardens.

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, visit Oenotri for homemade Italian food that changes daily. The restaurant works with local farmers to craft dishes that feature in-season fare. The authentic pizza Napoletana is baked in a wood-fired oven, and the house-cured salumi plates are a welcome change from the traditional appetizer. Even after you visit, you can have select wines and recipes shipped to you monthly with the restaurant’s wine club.

Relaxation and Entertainment

The valley is a destination for people seeking a romantic getaway or animated entertainment. Bardessono is fashionable and chic, and it’s all about sustainable luxury. The hotel offers guests organic linens, handcrafted beauty products and comprehensive spa services. Guests can relax with complementary yoga classes and happy hour at the hotel bar. The on-site art gallery features art from local and national artists.

Visitors looking for a well-rounded cultural experience can visit during the annual Napa Valley Film Festival. The festival celebrates independent artists, food and wine as the leaves change color and the air becomes crisp every fall.

When you visit the valley, don’t restrict yourself to wine tastings and vineyard tours. The area has become a draw for visitors looking for a cultural experience and also provides cuisine and entertainment options that are not to be missed.