Frommer's San Francisco 2012 - Matthew Poole [221]
YOUNTVILLE
Far less “developed” in look and feel than neighboring Napa, this tiny town has about 4 long blocks of hotels and restaurants—with a little shopping thrown in for good measure.
Best For: Travelers who enjoy resorts and their amenities and instant access to destination restaurants.
Drawbacks: A stay here doesn’t come cheaply, even if you end up in a relatively plain B&B.
Very Expensive
Napa Valley Lodge ★ Boasting the four-diamond award from AAA and thumbs up from us, this relaxed yet polished retreat, located just off Hwy. 29, beyond a wall that does a good job of blocking the road, adds a personal touch to its well-appointed offerings. The large, clean guest rooms are better appointed than many in the area and have spacious bathrooms with dual shower heads. (Many also have vaulted ceilings, and 39 have fireplaces.) Rooms come with a king-size or two queen-size beds, wicker furnishings, robes, and a private balcony or a patio. Ground-level units are smaller and get less sunlight than those on the second floor. Suites boast king-size beds and Jacuzzi tubs. Extras include a concierge, afternoon tea and cookies in the lobby, Friday evening wine tasting in the library, and a continental breakfast. Ask about winery tour packages and winter discounts, the latter of which can be as high as 30%.
2230 Madison St., Yountville, CA 94599. www.napavalleylodge.com. 800/368-2468 or 707/944-2468. Fax 707/944-9362. 55 units. $295–$595 double. Rates include champagne breakfast buffet, afternoon tea and cookies, and Fri evening wine tasting. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Amenities: Concierge; small exercise room; Jacuzzi; heated outdoor pool; spa. In room: A/C, ceiling fan, TV w/pay movies, hair dryer, minibar, free Wi-Fi.
Villagio Inn & Spa ★★ Set next to a small vineyard in the center of walkable Yountville, this, the largest luxury resort in Yountville, with immaculately maintained grounds, is a choice spot for bachelorette parties, girlfriend getaways, and a younger, hipper set (as well as an older clientele) who love the opportunities to lounge by a pool while pop music plays, indulge in spa treatments at their swank spa, and linger over complimentary champagne breakfast (served each morning). Bigger than many of the region’s resorts, this one comes with plenty of perks, including a complimentary bottle of chardonnay upon arrival, a four-poster queen-size bed, flatscreen TVs, a balcony or porch, and a Jacuzzi for two in the bathroom. Most rooms also have fireplaces.
6481 Washington St., Yountville 94599. www.villagio.com. 800/351-1133 or 707/944-8877. Fax 707/944-8855. 112 units. $340–$675 double. Rates include champagne breakfast buffet and complimentary wine upon arrival. AE, DISC, MC, V. Amenities: Concierge; Jacuzzi; pool; spa; tennis court. In room: A/C, TV/VCR w/on-demand movies, fridge, free Wi-Fi.
Inexpensive
Maison Fleurie ★★ One of the prettiest garden-set B&Bs in the Wine Country, this property, run by the ever-classy Four Sisters Inn company, comprises a trio of beautiful 1873 brick-and-fieldstone buildings overlaid with ivy. The main house—a charming Provençal replica with thick brick walls, terra-cotta tile, and paned windows—holds seven rooms; the rest are in the old bakery building and the carriage house. Some feature private balconies, patios, sitting areas, Jacuzzi tubs, and fireplaces. An above-par breakfast is served in the quaint little dining room; afterward, you’re welcome to wander the landscaped grounds or hit the wine-tasting trail, returning in time for afternoon hors d’oeuvres and wine.
6529 Yount St. (btw. Washington St. and Yountville Cross Rd.), Yountville, CA 94559. www.maisonfleurienapa.com. 800/788-0369 or 707/944-2056. Fax 707/944-9342. 13 units. $140–$285 double. Rates include full breakfast and afternoon hors d’oeuvres. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Amenities: