Living in San Francisco means I’m just a quick drive away from one of the most magical destinations in the world: Napa Valley. Over the years, I’ve made it my mission to explore as many hotels in wine country as possible, whether it’s for a romantic getaway with my husband or a girls’ weekend filled with wine tastings and poolside lounging.
From luxurious resorts to charming boutique stays, here’s my definitive ranking of the best hotels in Napa Valley.
1. Auberge du Soleil (Rutherford)
If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury escape, Auberge du Soleil is it. Perched on a hillside with panoramic vineyard views, this adults-only resort is Napa Valley’s original luxury retreat. With a Michelin-starred restaurant, an award-winning spa, and Mediterranean-inspired suites, it’s the perfect place to indulge.
Highlights:
Michelin-starred restaurant with sweeping valley views
Outdoor sculpture garden and yoga pavilion
Adults-only pool with private cabanas
Full-service spa with open-air treatment rooms
Suites with soaking tubs and effortless elegance
2. Bardessono Hotel & Spa (Yountville)
Sustainability meets sophistication at Bardessono, a LEED Platinum-certified resort in the heart of Yountville. This eco-conscious property is ideal for foodies and spa lovers alike, with sleek, modern design and a farm-to-table restaurant that’s a must-visit.
Plus, it’s so centrally located you can walk to everything in town.
Highlights:
Spa-style suites with private courtyards
Rooftop pool with lounge seating
Farm-to-table dining at Lucy
Complimentary bikes for exploring Yountville
Pet-friendly and solar-powered
3. Meadowood Napa Valley (St. Helena)
Nestled on a private estate surrounded by forested hills, Meadowood is a serene retreat that feels like a world away. With a Forbes 5-star spa, hiking trails, and croquet courts, it’s perfect for wellness seekers and those craving a slower pace.
Highlights:
Cottage-style accommodations with fireplaces
Multiple pools, including an adults-only option
Onsite restaurant and wine experiences
Hiking trails, croquet, and tennis courts
4. Carneros Resort and Spa (Napa/Carneros)
Carneros Resort feels like a contemporary village, with private cottages scattered across rolling vineyards. I stayed here in one of their cottages and loved the spacious rooms and private backyard with a soaking tub. It’s also home to one of Napa’s best brunch spots, making it a favorite for foodies and wine lovers alike.
Highlights:
Private cottages with decks and outdoor showers
Three pools, including an adults-only infinity pool
Dining at FARM, Boon Fly Café, and Hilltop Dining Room
Full-service spa and fitness center
Great wine tasting available at POST without leaving the property
5. Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection (Napa River)
Stanly Ranch combines rustic elegance with family-friendly flexibility. Set on a working ranch along the Napa River, it’s immersive yet laid-back, with farm-to-table dining and curated experiences.
Highlights:
Farmhouse-inspired villas with patios and fire pits
Geothermal pool and wellness offerings
Family activities and kid-friendly touches
Onsite farm and garden-to-table menus
6. The Meritage Resort & Spa (Napa)
If you’re looking for a lively, full-scale resort experience, The Meritage is the place to be. With a wine cave spa, tasting rooms, and even a bowling alley, it’s perfect for groups or event-friendly stays. The sprawling property is also one of the best places to spend Christmas in California with festive activities like ice skating, igloo domes, and cozy fire pits. I love to come here in December since they even pipe in fake snow!
Highlights:
Estate Cave spa with wine-inspired treatments
Adults-only pool plus family-friendly options
Nine-acre vineyard onsite
Tasting rooms, fire pits, and a social atmosphere
Holiday activities like ice skating and igloo domes
7. Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection (Calistoga)
Solage is where chic wine country vibes meet ultimate relaxation. Known for its geothermal pools and Michelin-rated restaurant, it’s a favorite for wellness travelers and stylish getaways. I spent a weekend here and loved our private cabin and soaking in the pools and it was very hard to leave.
Highlights:
Studio-style cottages with private patios
Geothermal mineral pools and spa soaking circuit
Michelin-rated restaurant (Solbar)
Complimentary bikes and yoga classes
8. Calistoga Motor Lodge & Spa (Calistoga)
This fun and funky motor lodge is full of retro charm, paying homage to the great American road trip. With mineral pools and whimsical design, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on personality. Much more affordable but still packs all the charm and perks you want from a major hotel (check out their spa, it’s a must!)
Highlights:
Three geothermal mineral pools
Full spa with mud baths and retro-inspired treatments
Lawn games, fire pits, and movie nights
Vintage-inspired rooms with playful details
9. Alila Napa Valley (St. Helena)
For a refined, adults-only escape, Alila Napa Valley is a dream. Built around a restored Georgian farmhouse, it offers vineyard romance and minimalist luxury just steps from downtown St. Helena. I loved spending a weekend in our room overlooking the vineyards, especially at sunset.
Highlights:
Vineyard-view balconies, fire pits, and soaking tubs
Onsite spa, Acacia House restaurant, and fitness studio
Heated outdoor pool and curated wellness experiences
10. North Block Hotel (Yountville)
This boutique hotel at the north end of Yountville blends Mediterranean architecture with Napa’s signature relaxed luxury. It’s intimate, stylish, and perfectly located for exploring the town’s world-class dining scene. You also simply must grab lunch and a plate of oysters at the North Block Restaurant.
Highlights:
20-room property with modern finishes
Tranquil courtyard and plunge pool
Acclaimed North Block Restaurant
Why These Hotels Made the List
Each of these hotels offers something unique, whether it’s the Michelin-starred dining at Auberge du Soleil, the eco-conscious luxury of Bardessono, or the retro charm of Calistoga Motor Lodge. No matter your travel style, there’s a perfect Napa Valley escape waiting for you.
So, pack your bags, grab your wine passport, and get ready to experience the best of wine country. Cheers!