The Hotel Guru
California
20 Best Hotels in California Wine Country

20 Best Hotels in California Wine Country

California is blessed in many ways, and when it comes to the wines produced here you can taste this state’s blessings. Whether supping a drop grown in north, around the Napa Valley and the Sonoma Valley, in the central regions around Paso Robles, Santa Barbara and the Carmel Valley, or in the south, around the Temecula Valley, you’ll get all the benefits of the sunshine and rain California is known for. Our independent experts at The Hotel Guru have searched all across this varied state, considering vineyard hotels overlooking the vines and the river, and vineyard hotels overlooking the vines and the mountains, criss crossing between the ocean and the desert. What they've come up with is a list of California Wine Country hotels to suit all tastes and budgets, from luxury properties to family friendly resorts and chic little B&Bs.

For a Wine tasting Weekend

The Emerald Iguana Inn in central Ojai is an iconic place to stay, an epic imagining of Art Nouveau style and craftsmanship from the owner and artist, Marc Whitman, who has brought these 19 rooms, studios, cottages and treehouses to life. As well as being surrounded by wineries, Ojai is close to the Sespe Wilderness, known for its hiking, biking and kayaking opportunities. There’s no restaurant on site, but there are plenty of bars and restaurants within a short walk.
The Tallman Hotel in pretty Upper Lake, is a charming white-wood building encompassed by verandahs on both floors, giving the look, and feel of a southern mansion. The 17 rooms and suites are decorated with an air of country chic — think well chosen antiques and patterned, but unfussy wallpapers and throws. The Garden Rooms have private patios with outdoor tubs. The property is just opposite Lake County Wine Studio, perfect for a spot of tasting!
The H2Hotel in Healdsburg is an eco-hotel with decor inspired by organic materials, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. There are 36 rooms and suites, all with private balconies, and chic, minimal decor. There’s a lovely courtyard and pool, and the bar and restaurant have an excellent wine list — not surprising, really, this is the middle of the Sonoma Valley.

For a Wine Tasting Long Weekend

The Allegretto Vineyard Resort overlooks its own vines, growing on the outskirts of Paso Robles. But you’re overlooking them from a very comfortable spot, whether you’re on the balcony or terrace of one of the 170 odd rooms and suites, in the sun-trap of a courtyard beside the elegant olive trees and fountains, by the pool or fire-pit, or in the beautiful Mediterranean restaurant. As well as around 200 local wineries there’s a lot to do and it’s a great pick for families.
The River Terrace Inn is on the Napa River in central Napa, the perfect spot for a rural atmosphere, but with easy access to the highlights of town. There are 114 rooms and suites, all spacious and decorated in contemporary style neutral colours. If you want romance you’ll find it in the private hot tubs and romantic bar, but you’ll also find a family-friendly welcome, a 24 hour gym and lots of activities.

For Romance Among the Vines

The Inn at Europa Village is a resort situated between three wineries, each growing wines inspired by a different European nation. The resort has just ten suites, all of them unique, decorated with antiques and original artworks; some have private terraces with vineyard views, some have hot tubs, and all are beautiful, luxurious and intimate. There’s no restaurant but there are many within a pleasant stroll.
The 12 room Milliken Creek Inn is right on the banks of the Napa River in central Napa, perfectly positioned for relaxing, and exploring the region’s best food and drink. You can start with ‘Magic Hour’ each evening, when complimentary local wines and cheeses are served. Milliken Creek raises the romance bar with an impressive list of spa treatments, and adults only policy.

For Foodies

You can probably guess from the name that the Gaige House + Ryokan has an impressive spa, heated pool and hot tub set up, and Eastern twist to the decor. But it’s also worth knowing that it’s Michelin recommended, and can be found in the pretty Sonoma Valley hamlet of Glen Ellen. It has 23 rooms and suites, is very welcoming of families, and runs a cooking school as well.

For Families

The Calistoga Motor Lodge is A LOT cooler than the name sounds, because while this 50 room property started out as a motor lodge, it’s since been converted into something much chicer. The rooms are still simple, but the bold designs really liven them up, as do the refreshed pool facilities and wonderfully retro spa fittings — though the treatment list is entirely contemporary! While the adults enjoy the wines the kids can make the most of all the fun activities on site from hula hoops and bocce ball to traditional board games.
The Landsby is a Scandinavian-esque boutique-feeling hotel in Solvang, in the Santa Barbara Valley wine region. 51 rooms and suites make up the property, along with the excellent onsite restaurant Mad & Vin, the bar and terrace and lovely gardens. They offer a wine tasting discounts and tours too, but there are plenty of other activities to tap into as well, and it’s that, and the family suites, that got it onto the families section of the list.
Hanford House Inn is in Sutter Creek, a gold prospecting town turned wine centre. The inn has 16 rooms, and a separate bungalow for families, and it’s unfussily dressed in a contemporary chic style. This is a great choice if you want to do some exploring, or adventuring as well as wine tasting, because you’re on the doorstep of the Sierra Nevada, where you can ski, hike, bike, white water raft, fish, or play golf. And you can uncover some of the local gold rush history.

Our Most Relaxing Picks

The Ponte Vineyard Inn is so much a part of the Ponte Vineyard that the pool is surrounded by vines. And if you need more tasting variety there are three other Temecula Valley vineyards within a comfortable stroll. There are several wine courses you can take on this beautiful site, reminiscent of an old monastery, or you can relax by the pool, or in the hot tub, or restaurant. And you’re ten minutes from the golf course.
Wine & Roses is a 66 room hotel which ticks all the boxes when it comes to relaxation amongst the vines. The rooms, and especially suites, are light and airy and individually styled, with huge bathrooms and private terraces. The spa is award-winning, the restaurant is a farm-to-fork gourmet experience, and the wine cellar is extremely impressive.

For a Countryside Escape

The Babbling Brook Inn is just a short drive from Santa Cruz, but, because it’s surrounded by such lush gardens, it feels much more rural. It's intimate too, with just 13 rooms and suites, all with private balconies or terraces. There’s no restaurant, but the breakfast is impressive, and there are plenty of eateries close by.
The Victoria Inn is small, homely inn in Murphys, a former mining settlement now surrounded by wineries. There’s plenty of charm here, in the stone walls, working fireplaces, large windows and verandahs and antiques, and apparently Mark Twain was once a guest! There’s no onsite dining, but they do a continental breakfast, and there are lots of restaurants nearby.

For Great Value

The Rigdon House in Cambria benefits from wine country on one side and the beach on the other (albeit 45 minutes walk or five minutes drive). There are just 12 suites, all large and tastefully decorated, but unfussy, which matches the relaxed, unfussy vibe of the property. Bring your kids, explore the local region and enjoy the complimentary local wines by the fire pit of an evening.
The Boon Hotel & Spa is a hip-feeling hotel in Guerneville, in the Sonoma Valley, close to the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve and many, many wineries. 14 rooms are available all year, and in the warmer months you can also stay in one of three tent cabins. This is a luxurious spot, with relaxation in mind, and there’s a good list of spa treatments and a large pool area. The hotel has bikes you can borrow to explore the area.

Great Wine Country B&Bs

Calistoga’s The Bergson is an elegant B&B of the sort one might find in Cape Cod, with large verandahs and a beautiful courtyard garden. There are 21 rooms and suites, all individually decorated with four-poster beds, well chosen antiques, and bold wallpaper and carpet choices that really work.
The Hidden Valley Inn Carmel is a family-run B&B in the Carmel Valley, close to the valley’s wine trail. There are 25 rooms, suites and studios (the larger rooms have kitchenettes), with views of the mountains, the garden or the pool, and individually chosen classic decor. The heated pool is located on a sunny deck, and while there’s no restaurant they do offer a hearty breakfast, and Carmel is packed with great places to eat.
The Eden House at Carriage Vineyards is a three room B&B on a 100 acre working farm and vineyard in the heart of Paso Robles. The accommodation is spacious and contemporary, and located within an old farmhouse building, where you can also order an excellent breakfast, and supper if you need it. Rural and peaceful.

Still not sure where to book?

You could refine your search by location, and see just the best wine hotels in the Napa Valley or the best places to stay in the Sonoma Valley
Or refine your search even further and consider just Napa, Yountville, St. Helena, Calistoga, Sonoma or Healdsbur.
You could expand your search to include ALL the best places to stay in California,
Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- The Rigdon House Cambria (California) 12 rooms from $119
  
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  Back to Nature  -  A perfect base to learn about the area's abundant wildlife, explore nature reserves, visit local farms or enjoy a beach day
  Families  -  The Family Suites are spacious, well-equipped and will provide parents travelling with children with a comfortable stay
  Wine tasting  -  This is wine country. Visit nearby Stolo Vineyards, Harmony Cellars, Hearst Ranch Winery and Cutruzzola Vineyards
  Sights nearby  -  Visit Hearst Castle and nature-lovers will really enjoy the Elephant Seal Rookery
  
  Smart guesthouse situated in the charming coastal village of Cambria surrounded by picturesque rural landscapes. Twelve generously-sized suites are all tastefully furnished with nautical colour-schemes and wonderful bathrooms. Enjoy complimentary local wines by the cosy outdoor fire-pit. See More
  
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- The Landsby Solvang (California) 51 rooms from $212
  
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  Wine tasting  -  Guests of the hotel benefit from 2-for-1 wine-tastings. The Santa Barbara valley is teeming with excellent wineries to discover
  Local exploring  -  A great base from which to explore wine country. Take a vineyard tour or hike and bike your way around the scenic landscape
  Romantic Break  -  Perfect for a romantic weekend of doing very little other than eating well and relaxing in a beautiful environment
  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
  
  A scandinavian-inspired boutique hotel located in Solvang, California. 51 rooms and suites have been tastefully decorated with blonde woods, clean white palette and fun Scandi touches. Enjoy a cocktail in the courtyard, dine at the excellent on-site restaurant 'Mad & Vin' or explore the valley. See More
  
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- The Victoria Inn, California Murphys, California 13 rooms from $143
  
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  Wine tasting  -  There are 25+ award-winning wineries in the Murphy's area. Purchase your 'Passport Weekend' to sample a selection of local wines
  Active Holiday  -  The area offers natural outdoor pursuits in summer and winter; go white-water rafting, water-skiing, hiking, fish and skiing
  Minimum Stay  -  2 night minimum stay on weekends
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  Charming owner-run inn located in central Murphys, a former mining settlement in California gold-country. Built in 'Miner’s Exchange' style, the property has spacious and indulgent guestrooms some with working fireplaces, four-poster beds, private balconies and claw-foot baths. See More
  
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- Gaige House + Ryokan Glen Ellen, California 23 rooms from $204
  
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  Cooking classes  -  Cooking and Wine Classes at Ramekins- dedicated to the home cook, from amateur to aficionado.
  Spa  -  On-site spa and wellness centre.
  Swimming Pool  -  Year round heated swimming pool.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  
  A Michelin recommended hotel tucked into the Sonoma Valley hamlet of Glen Ellen. The 23 elegant rooms have a clean contemporary vibe with an Oriental twist! Crisp white linens, eastern antiques and modern features. Prepare to be pampered with an on-site spa, heated pool and hot tub. Heaven! See More
  
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- Babbling Brook Inn Santa Cruz, CA (California) 13 rooms from $160
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Natural Bridges State Beach for some shore bird spotting and seals.
  Fishing  -  Sport fishing is avaliable.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Full of character
  
  Intimate B&B in a beautifully manicured garden a short drive from Santa Cruz. Light rooms with greener-that-green views, private bathrooms, fireplaces and private terrace. Enjoy the daily breakfast as well as a wide range of restaurants in town. Great spot for the family to explore the outdoors. See More
  
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- Milliken Creek Inn Napa (California) 12 rooms from $205
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Adults-only, with romantic spa treatments and facilities and nearby vineyards for wine-tastings- perfect for a romantic break
  Total relaxation  -  Unusual and luxury spa treatments on offer, beautiful gardens overlooking the Napa river, and peaceful surroundings.
  Great walks  -  Explore the garden and beyond.
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  This intimate adults-only inn is on the grassy banks of Napa River and the scenic Silverado Trail. The beautiful rooms boast stylish furnishings in white and greys, creating a sense of warmth and luxury. Fantastic gourmet breakfasts and a manicured riverside garden add to the idyllic setting. See More
  
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- Hidden Valley Inn Carmel Carmel Valley 25 rooms from $169
  
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  Local exploring  -  Carmel Valley is a scenic base from which to explore Monterey Bay, Big Sur and the Californian coast
  Local markets  -  Visit Jerome's Carmel Valley Market, a chef-run institution which sells organic local produce, including wine
  Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.
  Quirky  -  An experience!
  
  Family-run B&B in Carmel Valley, located on the region's famous wine-trail. Rooms, suites and studios have pool, garden or mountain views, and some have kitchenettes. Enjoy sunny afternoons at the heated pool and sun deck. Breakfast is included and the village is known for its excellent restaurants. See More
  
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- Tallman Hotel Upper Lake, California 17 rooms from $169
  
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  Local exploring  -  Explore the wineries, local wildlife areas and the town of Upper Lake, with Tallman being the perfect base
  Restaurant  -  The Blue Wing Saloon Restaurant is located opposite to the Tallman Hotel and hosts live entertainment
  Private Hot Tub  -  The Lower Garden Rooms have traditional Japanese Ofuro soaking tubs on private patios.
  Kayaking  -  Explore County’s Rodman Slough Park by kayak
  
  A charming hotel, in the heart of Upper Lake. Country-chic rooms come with antique furnishings and marble bathrooms, and garden rooms enjoy private patios with outdoor Ofuro soaking tubs. The Blue Wing Saloon offers live music, cocktails and delicious gourmet pub fare. A scenic country getaway. See More
  
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- Boon Hotel & Spa Guerneville (California) 14 rooms from $170
  
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  Restrictions on children  -  Whilst there are no actual restrictions, this is a primarily adult focussed property
  Restaurant  -  Bistro style cuisine with most ingredients sourced locally from Sonoma County
  Kayaking  -  Canoe or kayak the Russian River
  Boutique  -  Only 14 rooms and 3 tent cabins
  Recommended by  -  I Escape
  
  Laid-back, youthful, trendy. Total relaxation in this intimate and secluded hotel. A luxe spa, lavish pool, and a healthy, stylish restaurant. Complimentary bikes for exploring the local Wine Country, Armstrong Woods, or nearby, bustling towns. See More
  
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- Calistoga Motor Lodge Calistoga (California) 50 rooms from $177
  
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  Spa breaks  -  Unique treatments such as: body scrubs with grape seeds, old-timey bath soaks, and a massage that uses a heated linen poultice
  Total relaxation  -  With chic clean design, three geothermal pools, and a spoiling spa - ideal for a relaxing break
  Restaurant  -  Fleetwood restaurant serves rustic Italian cuisine using locally sourced seasonal ingredients
  Spa  -  Moonacre Spa specialises in unique treatments in relaxed surroundings
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  A craftily converted motel offering an ultra-chic stay in Napa Valley. Modern rooms are minimalist, yet there is an undeniable retro influence. The three pools are filled with locally found geothermal water while the spa offers a unique treatment list. A hip wine country escape. See More
  
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- The Bergson Calistoga (California) 21 rooms from $183
  
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  Wine tasting  -  The Napa Valley area has 400+ vineyards. There are excellent options in Calistoga, try Castello di Amorosa and Chateau Montelena
  Local exploring  -  Base yourself in Calistoga to visit the wider Napa Valley and its many vineyards, excellent restaurants, shopping and cycling
  Romantic Break  -  Rooms and suites have been thoughtfully designed for romance with fireplaces, private sit-outs, jacuzzi tubs and feather beds
  Sights nearby  -  Calistoga is famous for mud baths; enjoy an authentic experience at Golden Haven Mud Baths or Indian Springs Mud Baths
  
  Cape Cod-style B&B with gabled porches and lovely courtyard garden in Calistoga. 21 rooms and suites manage to feel both fresh and contemporary but also traditional and cosy; several have balconies and four-poster beds. Take breakfast outside before exploring the area and its many restaurants. See More
  
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- Eden House at Carriage Vineyards Paso Robles (California) 3 rooms from $185
  
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  Wine tasting  -  The Paso Robles wine area has over 350 wineries, most of them owner-run, with more than 40 grape varieties to sample
  Weddings  -  The farm has a wedding event centre which can host up to 300 guests, making it a great option for a rural wedding
  Back to Nature  -  Enjoy the acres of countryside around you. The farm has orchards, creeks and woodland, cattle and wild turkey
  Sights nearby  -  Kids will love The Ravine Waterpark. Hearst Castle is a 50 minute drive
  
  A modern B&B on a 100-acre working farm and vineyard in the heart of Paso Robles wine country. 3 contemporary and spacious suites are located within a farmhouse; breakfast is included, dinner can be ordered or cook in the extensive kitchen and dining room. Enjoy uninterrupted rural views for miles. See More
  
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- Emerald Iguana Inn Ojai (California) 12 rooms from $187
  
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  Active Holiday  -  The vast Sespe Wilderness area offers some of the country's best hiking, kayaking, biking and riding
  Local exploring  -  Ojai Valley is a real outdoor lover's paradise but with great wine-tasting and dining as a bonus
  Local markets  -  Ojai's Farmer's Market, with its organic food and locally roasted coffee, is an ideal place to stroll on a sunday
  Cooking classes  -  As well as cooking classes try a Kombucha, olive-oil or honey tasting
  
  Iconic inn located in downtown Ojai. Inspired by Gaudi and Art Nouveau craftsmanship, owner and artist Marc Whitman is responsible for unique interiors set over 19 rooms, studios, cottages and treehouses. Enjoy in-room massages, outdoor pool and jacuzzi and gardens canopied by large sycamore trees. See More
  
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- The Inn at Europa Village Temecula (California) 10 rooms from $189
  
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  Wine tasting  -  The winery produces European-style wines. There are many tastings and wine-related events on property as well as in the area
  Local exploring  -  Should you wish to venture out, Temecula wine country is worth exploring; enjoy rolling hills, lakes and mountain views
  Romantic Break  -  The rooms are quiet, private and feel romantic. Stay here for a weekend away a deux; dine, drink wine, rest and relax
  Great walks  -  Enjoy a walk in the scenic Lake Skinner Park or jog around the Little Free Library at Harveston Lake
  
  Rustic Mediterranean-style accommodation set amongst three wineries, each inspired by France, Spain & Italy. The romantic resort houses one-of-a-kind suites combining antique furniture, wood paneling and lofty terraces; some have vineyard views & jetted tubs. Private luxury well-suited to couples. See More
  
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- Wine & Roses Lodi, California 66 rooms from $199
  
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  Total relaxation  -  With an award-winning spa, a fine dining restaurant, and wine tasting - this is a place to indulge and unwind
  Great walks  -  Take scenic walks around the picturesque lake and beyond
  Restaurant  -  Gourmet dining championing seasonal local produce
  Fishing  -  Spend a day fishing on Lodi Lake
  
  An elegant hotel, set in central Lodi, offering a very relaxing stay. Spacious individually styled rooms are light and airy with luxurious bathrooms and the best have private terraces. A fine dining restaurant and wine tasting room are a real draw, as is the award-winning spa. See More
  
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- Hanford House Inn Sutter Creek, California 17 rooms from $200
  
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  Local exploring  -  The area offers plenty to do, from wine-tasting, great restaurants and shopping to exploring the region's rich gold rush history
  Active Holiday  -  The Sierra Nevada foothills are an outdoor lover's paradise; ski, hike, bike, go white-water rafting, fish, golf & pan for gold
  Wine tasting  -  There are 40 local Amador County wineries to visit and within 30 minutes many more in El Dorado and Calaveras
  Sights nearby  -  As well as nearby historic Gold Rush towns, Sacramento is less than an hour away by car
  
  Located in downtown Sutter Creek, this charming inn offers a stay in the heart of historic Gold Country. There are 16 spacious rooms in the main building and a stand-alone bungalow. Breakfast is taken at the property's Element restaurant, as well as evening glasses of local Sierra Nevada wines. See More
  
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- Ponte Vineyard Inn Temecula (California) 90 rooms from $210
  
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  Total relaxation  -  There's no need to venture out as everything you need is on-site; pool, hot tub, in-room massages, restaurants and valley views
  Weddings  -  A wonderful venue for outdoor weddings with vineyards and wine country views - as well as mountain vistas in the background
  Wine tasting  -  This is proper wine country; It's walking distance to 3 local vineyards, including the property's working winery, Ponte
  Local exploring  -  Should the 3 local vineyards not be enough, explore the wider Temecula Valley Wine Country by car
  
  Mediterranean monastery meets California chic at this brand new boutique resort. Rooms are comfortable and spacious; interiors are contemporary classic in style with antique touches. Large balconies come with sit-out furniture & scenic valley vistas, while the outdoor pool has views over the vines. See More
  
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- Allegretto Vineyard Resort Paso Robles 171 rooms from $249
  
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  Wine tasting  -  Take a tour of the resort's vineyard followed by a tasting. Should you wish to venture out, Paso Robles has over 200 vineyards
  Weddings  -  Sun-drenched courtyards, stunning landscapes and Italianate design creates the feel of a romantic Tuscan wedding
  Romantic Break  -  Enjoy stunning sunsets from the Rajasthani swing, relax by the fire-pit or take a spoiling couples' massage
  Sights nearby  -  It's a 45 minute scenic drive to the area's famous Hearst Castle historic landmark, built in the early 20th century
  
  Stunning vineyard-facing resort on the fringe of Paso Robles. Vaulted ceilings, classical statues, courtyard fountains & Mediterranean architecture create a sultry summer feel. There's a spa, hot tub, pool and stacks of activities for when you're not tasting the property's wine. Family-friendly! See More
  
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- H2Hotel Healdsburg (California) 36 rooms from $219
  
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  Wine tasting  -  Situated in the heart of Northern Sonoma wine country
  Kayaking  -  The Russian River
  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, I Escape
  
  Cool eco-friendly hotel that uses organic materials and nature inspired design to create a relaxing and welcoming environment. Bedrooms are clutter free with bamboo floors and fresh cotton linens. Relax at the hotel pool and bar or get out and explore the fantastic countryside and activities nearby. See More
  
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- River Terrace Inn Napa 114 rooms from $243
  
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  Weddings  -  Romantic riverside weddings can host up to 300 guests. Enjoy the reception with firepits, mood lighting and Napa River views
  Groups  -  A great option for larger groups travelling together as the location, style and accessibility will please almost everybody
  Wine tasting  -  There are 250 wineries in the surrounding area. Book on a tour and wine-taste your way around this world-famous region
  Romantic Break  -  Couples will love the Deluxe King Rooms with forest and river-facing balconies plus private hot tub
  
  A 144-room hotel in the very heart of Napa, yet with a wonderful riverside location. Contemporary and spacious rooms and suites are light-filled and many face the lake. There is a 24-hour gym, in-room massages and endless local activities. As well as a restaurant and bar, enjoy great outdoor dining. See More
  
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