All photography is by Janine Licare Photography unless otherwise specified.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, there is just something so incredibly special about Napa Valley. I’ve been fortunate enough to travel the world, but Napa is my happy place. Maybe it’s because the wine flows freely, or maybe it’s because every inch of this beautiful place is breathtaking… maybe it’s the locals that are so knowledgable about wine and at the same time spoil you rotten. It’s truly an oasis. I’ve been a million times, but I still can’t believe the city is only an hour away.
Napa has it’s own time. I’ve gotten to experience this place during peak seasons and off seasons… and honestly, it doesn’t matter when you go. It’s still relaxing. It’s a true break from real life.
Carneros Resort and Spa is hands down, one of my favorite resorts in the valley. It is truly one of the “finer things in life”… the service and staff are incredible, the rooms and beds are luxurious, and most importantly, the food and wine are OUTSTANDING. Carneros is home to 100 cottages, suites, and residences. All surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and scenic vineyards.
Mckenna and I stayed in a Garden Suite, which is two separate cottages complete with king size beds and a shared backyard. Both rooms were white and bright, super comfy with a Nespresso machine AND A MILK FROTHER. Talk about ways to win my heart!!
The grounds of Carneros Resort are extremely calming, yet vibrant. The hotel can be packed out and it still seems like time is going backwards. It’s a very peaceful place. From the hotel -guest-only dining up on the hill to the main restaurant Farm at the entrance, you feel a sense of relaxation around every corner.
If you need a ride, all you have to do is ask your waiter, or call down from your room. But, I prefer to walk the grounds if weather permits, because I don’t want to miss a thing! Like cherry blossoms or puppies!
The BEST thing about Carneros Resort & Spa is that it is dog-friendly. If you’re traveling with your furry companion, your room will be complete with a doggie bed and bowl. And cottages and suites are equipped with private, enclosed patios perfect for dogs to safely explore and relax. They also offer other fun stuff like locally crafted dog treats, a logoed dog leash, Dogster magazine, and a logoed dog toy to keep pups entertained and happy all day. Carneros also offers dog walking or dog sitting at an additional fee. You can view their dog policy here.
Of course, there’s lots to do in Napa Valley, but I usually don’t want to leave once I make my way to Carneros. I mean, why leave when they offer everything you need?
Three full service restaurants — FARM, The Boon Fly Cafe and Hilltop Dining Room. An upscale general store, Market, where you can stock up on picnic supplies, buy a bottle of wine, or take home Wine Country gifts. An onsite boutique, COOP, where you can shop for luxury resort wear and accessories located in Town Square. Two pools with hot tubs, including the adult-only Hilltop Pool with a sweeping view of the countryside, and the family and fitness pool. A 3,000-square-foot fitness center featuring cardiovascular and strength training equipment. Complimentary bicycles on a first-come, first-served basis. The Town Square, complete with bocce ball courts, and an expansive outdoor lounge. Complimentary fitness classes. Private training and private fitness classes. Wifi available throughout the property. Full concierge assistance for whatever you may need during your stay. Fireside Butler available for guests in Harvest Cottages and Harvest Suites to fill your outdoor tub and light your firepit. Electric vehicle charging stations. Car service within a 5-mile radius of the Resort based on availability. Complimentary use of a luxury Cadillac.
FARM restaurant offers gourmet wine country dining in an elevated setting that features a living room-style alfresco lounge, plush seating, dramatic lighting, a cathedral ceiling, and two fireplaces, as well as a bar and private dining space. FARM features produce from the resort's on-site culinary garden and fresh eggs from the resort's chicken coop. (Um, hello, this place was made for me). Authentically Napa Valley, the unique menu showcases simple and elegant food, hand-crafted cocktails, a selection of craft beer, and an extensive list of regional wines.
Fun, lively, and vibrant, the Boon Fly Café serves modern rustic cuisine in a contemporary roadhouse atmosphere. You can start your day with donuts and end it with a burger.
Named after a Carneros pioneer named Boon Fly, who planted orchards and vineyards in the area in the mid-1800s, it’s homage to local flavor. Guests and locals both are drawn to the energetic vibe that’s based on the agricultural heritage of the region. Check out my Napa Valley highlight for more.
Reserved exclusively for guests of Carneros Resort and Spa, the Hilltop Dining Room provides a picturesque setting for breakfast or lunch. The expansive views are breathtaking!
The space takes full advantage of its setting with floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor patios – perfect for enjoying panoramic views of nearby vineyards and the Napa Valley countryside. Oh, and don’t forget the beautiful farm animals!
Whether stocking up for a picnic, selecting a snack to take back to your cottage, or enjoying a quick meal before you head out for a day of sightseeing, you’ll find a bounty of gourmet food and beverages at Market, the upscale general store of Carneros Resort and Spa.
The store features all of the Napa Valley vacation essentials! Items available include:
Gourmet deli items including sandwiches, paninis, wraps and salads
Beer, sodas, water, coffee and espresso drinks
Organic and artisanal products from the Napa region
Boutique wines from Carneros, Napa, and Sonoma
Unique welcome amenities for in cottage enjoyment
Personalized picnic baskets
I didn’t get to experience the spa this trip, but in 2015, it was wonderful! Since then, the spa has been renovated and sounds even more amazing!
The renovated spa now includes a couple’s suite with an outdoor soaking tub and shower, a specialty studio with a private infrared sauna and shower, newly refreshed treatment rooms with all-new premium tables and equipment, a new indoor relaxation lounge and outdoor relaxation deck, upgraded locker rooms with indoor/outdoor showers, two new steam rooms, and a redesigned menu including new signature treatments. Surrounded by abundant farm lands, this wine country warmth and highly skilled therapists will leave you feeling rested and recharged.
I have now had the chance to experience this place a handful of times. One of those times was the week of my wedding! We got married down the road from here at a private estate in Glen Ellen. It was a wonderful week! Choosing a hotel for such an important week wasn’t difficult at all, we knew where we wanted to be. Carneros will always be special to me.
This place is what you make it. Romantic, adventurous, family-friendly… there’s something for everyone. I will be dreaming about it until next time.
This is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
Photography by Janine Licare Photography unless otherwise specified.
