A Walkable Wine Country Escape: Yountville, California

Sunrise hot air balloon ride (Book at V Marketplace near Bottega)
Rise before the valley wakes and float above the vineyards in a hot air balloon. The launch site is just steps from Bottega, and flights typically depart before sunrise — meaning you'll be back just in time for a croissant and cappuccino. Views stretch from Napa to the Mayacamas, and champagne often follows. Romantic, peaceful and totally unforgettable.

Morning bakery run to Bouchon - Start your day the Yountville way — with a buttery, just-out-of-the-oven croissant in one hand and a perfectly foamed latte in the other. Bouchon Bakery opens early, and while there’s always a line, it is always worth it. Grab your coffee and pastry to-go and stroll the quiet, flower-lined streets while the town slowly wakes up.

Art Walk with a wine in hand - The Yountville Art Walk features over 35 outdoor sculptures from local and international artists. Grab a glass of white from a nearby tasting room (they’re all steps apart), and wander the flower-lined paths. It's the best kind of low-key culture fix.

Vineyard e-bike adventure - Rent an e-bike and take a scenic ride through the vines. Start in town and head out to Goosecross, Domaine Chandon and Cliff Lede — or let me map out a more hidden gem route. Add a picnic or wine-and-cheese board, and you’ve got the perfect midday escape.

Boutique shopping on Washington Street - Skip the touristy stuff — Yountville’s boutiques are curated and stylish.. It’s easy to turn a 20-minute stroll into a whole afternoon.

Spa Garden session at Hotel Yountville - For a peaceful reset, book a massage at Hotel Yountville’s Spa Garden. Outdoor soaking tubs, eucalyptus-scented steam and massages under the trees? It’s quiet luxury at its best — and the ideal follow-up to a full day of tastings.

Reserve tasting at Stewart Cellars - Their light-filled Heritage House library is perfect for sipping premium Cabs and single-vineyard Chardonnays in peace. It’s a step above your average tasting — refined, intimate and exceptionally well-curated. Bonus: the courtyard is insta-perfect.

Wander through The French Laundry gardens - Even if you’re not dining at The French Laundry, take a walk across the street to explore their organic gardens. Every plant is grown with purpose and precision — it’s part edible art installation, part chef's dream pantry and totally worth the detour.

The French Laundry – A true culinary pilgrimage. With three Michelin stars and an ever-evolving nine-course tasting menu, this is a bucket-list meal. Signature dishes like “Oysters and Pearls” (Island Creek oysters, sabayon and tapioca), truffle custard and hand-rolled agnolotti rotate seasonally. Wine pairings are exceptional. If you can’t get a reservation, don’t worry — the building and the gardens across the street are worth a visit on their own.

Bottega Napa Valley – Rustic Italian from the late, great Michael Chiarello. Don’t miss the ricotta gnudi, wood-grilled octopus and short rib meatballs over creamy polenta. The patio dining is peak ambiance, and the cocktail menu (hello, espresso martini) is just as impressive as the wine list.

Bouchon Bistro & Bouchon Bakery – The bistro offers classic French fare — think steak frites, onion soup gratinée, and moules au safran. The bakery next door is a local staple. Go early for fresh pain au chocolat, TKOs (Thomas Keller Oreos) and seasonal tarts. There’s always a line — it’s always worth it.

RH Yountville Wine Vault – A curated, high-design space for sipping wines in style. Grab a flight and lounge under olive trees or by the fireplace. Ideal for late afternoon tastings and quiet conversation.

Stewart Cellars – Bright, modern and laid-back. This family-owned tasting room specializes in small-lot Chardonnay and Cabernet. The Heritage House library tasting is perfect for oenophiles who want something elevated but relaxed.

Jessup Cellars – A hidden gem with a cozy, welcoming vibe. Known for their bold reds and artful wine pairings — you might even catch live music or a local art show during your visit.