Nestled in the heart of California’s renowned wine country, Napa Valley is synonymous with refined relaxation, world-class wines, and the epitome of luxury. While we’ve had multiple trips to Napa, our best ones are when we stayed at the best Napa resorts 5 star. These resorts gave us not only unparalleled opulence but also world-class treatments. Imagine waking up to the beautiful vineyard views, indulging in premium spa treatments, and savoring Michelin-starred meals paired with Napa’s finest wines. All this is amidst settings that range from palatial estates to sleek contemporary sanctuaries. Napa’s luxurious resorts truly cater to every desire. Get ready to embark on a journey through Napa’s most exclusive resorts, and check out the curated list below!
Table of contents
- DoubleTree by Hilton Napa Valley
- Hotel Yountville
- Milliken Creek Inn
- Meadowood Napa Valley
- Carneros Resort and Spa
- The Estate Yountville
- Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection
- Bardessono Hotel and Spa
- Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley
- Alila Napa Valley, a Hyatt Resort
- Hotel Auberge du Soleil, An Auberge Resort
- Our Verdict!
- Where to Stay in Napa
- Why is Napa so expensive?
- Do I need a car in Napa Valley?
- How many days are ideal in Napa?
DoubleTree by Hilton Napa Valley
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The perfect 5-star accommodation to start this list is the DoubleTree by Hilton Napa Valley. One of the highlights of this resort is the on-site Spa Gaia. A stop at this spa is a must for guests who want to indulge in luxurious massages and body treatments. In addition to that, we were kept busy by the rest of the modern amenities. Think of a modern gym, jacuzzi, and outdoor pool. There are many ways to stay active and bask in the California sunshine.
Another highlight is Table 29, the resort’s eco-friendly restaurant. It satisfied our cravings with international cuisine crafted from fresh, local ingredients. And can we talk about the bar? As self-proclaimed wine enthusiasts, we were excited by the fact that the bar has an impressive selection of 100 Napa Valley varieties. That’s really mindblowing! When it’s time to call it a day, nothing feels better than resting in one of the modern rooms. They deliver everything you need for a relaxing stay.
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Hotel Yountville
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Though technically a 4-star hotel, Hotel Yountville has everything you need from a 5-star resort. First of all, it has a killer restaurant. Our taste buds were pampered throughout our stay at this hotel. We highly suggest starting your day with a gourmet breakfast at Heritage Oak, where the open kitchen and wood-burning fireplace set the stage for a delightful meal. In the evening, visit The Bar. It offers specialty cocktails and complimentary wine tastings Wednesday through Friday. Not a bad offering, right?
After a day of exploring the wineries and indulging in spa treatments, we would find ourselves in the outdoor pool area. It was the perfect place for us to relax. Spacious and bathed in natural light, the rooms on the property come with a cozy fireplace, perfect for chilly evenings. Meanwhile, the private patio allowed us to unwind in the fresh air. After a good night’s sleep, we would take advantage of the hotel’s free bikes to explore the charming town of Yountville at our own pace.
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Milliken Creek Inn
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Milliken Creek Inn is one of the most expensive resorts in Napa, but after experiencing it ourselves, we think it’s worth the extra money. This place allowed us to immerse ourselves in the Napa Valley lifestyle. One of our favorite activities was the complimentary wine tasting! Yep, you can do this excursion for free. In addition to that, Milliken also gives its guests easy access to renowned wineries like Coppola, Renteria, and Rocca. And for a touch of vintage charm, the Napa Valley Wine Train is only a mere five-minute drive away. Impressive!
This resort sure knows how to pamper its guests with thoughtful touches. While we were there, we would start our morning with a delectable American breakfast delivered to our doorstep. And in the evening, we would unwind with a complimentary wine and cheese reception. Moving on to the rooms, each is a haven of modern elegance. Adorned with plush linens and spa baths that invite long soaks after a day of wine tasting, they’re the perfect place to rest.
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Meadowood Napa Valley
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Most Luxurious. Meadowood Napa Valley is a lavish paradise nestled in the middle of the jaw-dropping California mountains. Luckily, it’s not just about scenery. During our stay, we had the chance to dive into the world of wine with The Wine Center. Led by renowned educators, we would go beyond sipping beautiful pours and delve into the culture and art of winemaking. It was a one-of-a-kind experience that we highly recommend. In addition, we also loved to hone our tennis skills on one of the five immaculate Plexipave courts. Even if it’s your first time playing tennis, you don’t have to worry, as the instructors are ready to help.
Like many other Napa resorts 5-star, Meadowood also boasts a 5-star spa. Imagine spacious spa suites, your own steam shower, and treatments that can erase all your stresses. From revitalizing massages to rejuvenating facials, this is the place to be for self-care. And while there are tons of different studios and suites on the property, all of them are nothing short of calming. We loved how our room was luxuriously decorated with a fireplace and premium toiletries.
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Carneros Resort and Spa
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Best for Couples. No matter when you choose to grace Carneros Resort and Spa with your presence, gorgeous views await. When we were at the resort, we were always in love with the fat palm trees, vibrant wildflowers, and lush greenery. The setting is truly romantic. This resort takes immense pride in its natural surroundings, which is further reflected in the cottages named after local flora and fauna. Speaking of which, there are 86 unique cottages, each with its own semi-private outdoor space. For couples, the Harvest Cottage may be a great choice. It offers a private garden, an outdoor tub for two, and an open-air fireplace. No wonder Carneros is named one of the most romantic hotels in Napa Valley.
Some of the resort’s amenities, like the FARM Restaurant, Boon Fly Cafe, and the on-site market, welcome everyone, whether they’re hotel guests or not. But for something more exclusive, you can visit the guest-only spa. It promises treatments to soothe the body and pamper the soul. Moreover, two sparkling pools invite you and your loved one to a romantic dip. And with beautiful vineyard views stretching as far as the eye can see, what more could you ask for? Yes, it’s one of the most expensive hotels in the US, but it’s also worth the splurge.
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The Estate Yountville
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In the heart of Napa Valley’s Yountville, The Estate Yountville has one of the best resort locations. When we were in the mood for a walk, we only had to take a 10-minute stroll to reach the Michelin-starred restaurants. In addition to that, the legendary champagne producer Domaine Chandon is only a two-minute drive away for those craving bubbly adventures. Of course, there are on-site restaurants, too. From Italian delicacies at Ristorante Bottega to the vibrant tapas of Coqueta, your taste buds will embark on a global journey without leaving the resort.
After a day of indulging, we loved to pamper ourselves at the spa with its rejuvenating treatments. You can soothe your muscles in one of the outdoor soaking tubs or invigorate your senses with Swiss experience showers. Massage therapy, steam rooms, and saunas are completing the ultimate relaxation package. Speaking of relaxing, the rooms here deserve so much praise. Each comes with a furnished balcony, which is the perfect place to enjoy your morning tea and soak in the Napa sunshine.
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Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection
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Most Secluded Retreat. It’s hard not to love Stanly Ranch. While we were at the resort, we were met with breathtaking views of vineyards everywhere we turned. But what made our stay special was its unique program of experiences. One of the most exciting things we did was take a 36-mile cycling adventure up Mount Veeder and reward ourselves with fresh pastries and snacks afterward. Besides that, we also loved exploring the ranch’s culinary garden, the Grange. Meanwhile, wine enthusiasts can indulge in happy-hour tastings with neighboring winemakers. And in the morning, feel free to find your zen by joining the yoga classes.
Additionally, there’s Halehouse. This is the in-house state-of-the-art spa and fitness center, which offers an adults-only pool. Not only that, it also has a menu of treatments that go beyond the ordinary massage and facial. We knew this resort was great, but we didn’t know that there were three swimming pools! One of them is the previously mentioned adults-only oasis. In addition, there’s a provincial-style pool with Basin Bar and a kid-friendly pool. Considering its immersive activities and world-class amenities, we think this Napa Valley gem deserves more recognition.
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Bardessono Hotel and Spa
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Most Eco-Friendly. Bardessono Hotel and Spa isn’t just another luxurious resort in Napa Valley. This 5-star resort is the place to be for those who want to experience unparalleled comfort. But more importantly, it’s one of the only 14 LEED Platinum-certified hotels in the country, setting the bar for eco-conscious hospitality. Bardessono’s architecture is proof of its dedication to the environment. Built with 100,000 sq ft of salvaged wood, this was the most eco-friendly hotel we’ve been at. Our experience was then made even better at the on-site spa. With just four treatment rooms, our session felt like a personalized escape.
“Bardessono gave us a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of life, and we would always be thankful for the experience.”
WOW Travel
Our retreat wouldn’t be the same without world-class dining, and thankfully, Lucy Restaurant and Bar didn’t disappoint. It offers guests a sensational farm-to-table menu showcasing Napa Valley’s bounty. The grilled lamb was the MVP for us. Now, let’s talk about the suites and villas. Each comes with a private balcony or enclosed courtyard; we think that alone is enough to convince you to spend your night here.
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Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley
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Best for Families. Another option that may steal your heart is the Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley, one of Napa’s brightest gems. When you’re at the resort, get ready to be captivated by its homage to the land’s heritage. When we arrived in the lobby, our attention was all on the beautiful portrait of a Latina grape harvester. After talking to the staff, it turns out the portrait is to honor the unsung heroes of the winemaking industry. On that note, the resort’s crown jewel is Elusa. This on-site vineyard, winery, and tasting room take viticulture to a different level. We were glad we had the chance to sample the estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon.
When it comes to accommodations, this resort has tons of different options. From bright and big King Rooms to palatial suites and majestic villas, you name it. Our Vineyard King Room was everything we ever wanted. The spa bath and fireplace, of course, are the highlights. We also loved the fact that we could wake up every single morning to views of the mountains. In the evening, we would sip a glass of world-class wine on the balcony.
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Alila Napa Valley, a Hyatt Resort
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Set in the middle of Napa Valley’s verdant vineyards, Alila Napa Valley, a Hyatt Resort, is a sanctuary. One of the main reasons travelers love it is its bigger-than-big accommodation options. Each unit at the resort boasts a minimum of 500 sq ft, which is insane. We booked the King Room with vineyard views, and it was crazy how huge it was. The floor-to-ceiling windows blurred the lines between indoors and out, and we were able to take a dip and relax in the tub. Better yet, every room comes with it, allowing guests to indulge their senses further.
For the real spa experience, head to Spa Alila. It draws inspiration from Napa Valley’s rich culinary heritage and incorporates botanicals and essential oils into its treatments. And when it’s time to feast, Acacia House is the place to be. The Anderson ranch lamb and peppers were so good, and we also loved the chips and dip. Also, you don’t have to worry about calories at this resort, as it provides you with an outdoor swimming pool as well as a modern fitness center, so you can always keep your body in shape.
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Hotel Auberge du Soleil, An Auberge Resort
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Best Overall. Once you stay at Hotel Auberge du Soleil, An Auberge Resort, your standard for a Napa trip won’t be the same anymore. Formerly a fine-dining restaurant, this hotel is more than just a resort – it’s a place for rejuvenation. One of its highlights is The Spa. Of course, we had to stop by the famous on-site spa. There were plenty of locally-sourced spa treatments, and we were honestly startled. While the massage was plenty enjoyable, we particularly loved the fact that we were able to use the temperate pools and hammam steam rooms without any additional charge.
Of course, no Napa Valley experience is complete without indulging in its world-renowned wines. Thankfully, the resort made it effortless for us. Its house selection features wines from acclaimed local producers, ensuring every sip complements the breathtaking scenery. The accommodation is also an art form here. From oversized 520 sq ft rooms to expansive 1800 sq ft mansions, each is a celebration of luxurious comfort. Think fireplaces, private balconies, and bathrooms that feel like mini spas themselves.
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Our Verdict!
Napa Valley is all about wines, relaxation, and opulence. Among all of the amazing resorts above, we think Hotel Auberge du Soleil, An Auberge Resort, embodies Napa’s spirit the best. However, the rest are worth considering, too. We’ve categorized some of them based on these categories, so give them another look!
- Best for Families: Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley
- Most Eco-Friendly: Bardessono Hotel and Spa
- Most Secluded Retreat: Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection
- Best for Couples: Carneros Resort and Spa
- Most Luxurious: Meadowood Napa Valley
Where to Stay in Napa
First, you’ll want to consider downtown Napa. Bustling with energy, it’s the plus of the valley. It has a vibrant nightlife, from trendy bars to live music venues. Beyond bars, it also boasts an eclectic collection of restaurants and several esteemed wineries within walking distance of each other. Downtown caters to both budget-conscious and luxury seekers, so there are tons of different accommodations here.
Next, there’s Yountville. It’s best known for being home to several Michelin-starred restaurants. This is the place to be if you want to immerse yourself in exquisite culinary experiences. In addition to that, it also boasts many world-renowned spas. For accommodation options, here are the best hotels in Yountville!
Another area that may interest you is St. Helena. It boasts renowned wineries that offer private tastings and intimate vineyard experiences. It’s steeped in history, and you can witness Victorian architecture here. With green spaces here and there, it’s a popular base for traveling families.
Only a two-hour drive away, did you know that Napa is also one of the best day trips from San Francisco?
Why is Napa so expensive?
One of the main reasons why Napa is an expensive destination is because of its popularity. Its reputation as a premier wine destination attracts a large number of travelers, particularly during peak seasons. It is located in California and has a desirable climate and scenic beauty.
Do I need a car in Napa Valley?
Yes, we do recommend traveling by car in Napa Valley. That way, you can explore the valley at your own pace, visit wineries off the beaten path, and make spontaneous stops. It’s more convenient to navigate Napa with a car.
How many days are ideal in Napa?
It all depends on your itinerary. However, based on our experience, we recommend spending three to four days in Napa. That way, you can visit all the main attractions and explore the major restaurants.
