8 Reasons Napa Valley Is So Awesome In The Summer

  • Guides
  • by WINECOUNTRY COLLECTIVE
  • on JUNE 15, 2017
  • 5945
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The beauty of Napa Valley is obvious year-round with its rolling vineyards, incomparable sunsets, and mountain ranges bookending the valley. When the days grow longer and the sun is shining bright, the sights and adventure of the valley really peaks. Prep your sense of adventure and a killer pair of sunglasses, and dive into 8 Reasons Why Napa Valley is So Beautiful in Summertime.

Sitting Poolside


What’s summer without a dip in the pool and soaking in the sun? Well, Napa Valley is chock-full of great places to wade in the water and get a great tan.

Bardessono
6526 Yount Street
Yountville, CA 94599
(707) 204-6000

The rooftop pool at Bardessono Hotel is a popular summertime hangout that features comfy daybed-style cabanas, a bar, and spectacular views of the valley. From June to November, hotel guests can enjoy dining poolside from the award-winning, Lucy Restaurant and Bar.

Indian Springs Resort & Spa
1712 Lincoln Avenue
Calistoga, CA 94515
(707) 942-4913

Described as its “heart and soul”, the pools at Indian Springs Resort & Spa have been attracting guests seeking out the restorative powers of the thermal waters from the geysers since the 19th century. Soak in the energy from the Olympic-sized, main pool or relax in the more intimate setting of the adult-only pool, with lush surroundings that provide maximum privacy.

Comon’ Get Higher


Embrace your sense of adventure as you explore the beauty of the Napa Valley from high above the sky.

Balloons Above the Valley
603 California Boulevard
Napa, CA 94559
(707) 253-2222

With over 30 years of commitment to excellence, Balloons Above the Valley shines through in creating an incomparable guest experience. From the pre-flight pastries and coffee, to the celebratory Champagne brunch, not a single detail is missed. Opt for the Winery Tour package and continue your adventure after your sunrise flight.

Napa Valley Balloons, Inc.
4086 Byway East
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 944-0228

Make memories that will last a lifetime with award-winning Napa Valley Balloons. The most experienced pilots in the Napa Valley will guide you above breathtaking views of the vineyards and mountainous hillsides set against the morning sky. A delicious, American-style breakfast and fine sparkling wines await you at Domaine Chandon’s Etoile Restaurant post trip.

Patio Tastings In the Sun


Exceptional wines and great views are elements that draw visitors to the Napa Valley time and time again. Nothing like savoring your wine on a warm, sunny day with views of the vineyards and mountainous hillsides.

Hall Wines
401 Saint Helena Highway, South Street
Saint Helena, CA 94574
(707) 967-2626

Renowned throughout the valley for its collection of modern artwork from all over the world (including the iconic “Bunny Foo Foo”), Hall St. Helena’s award-winning Cabernets hail from 14 out of 16 Napa Valley appellations. Enjoy your wine from the balcony, overlooking the lush 33-acre property, or relax and unwind on the Great Lawn and take in the views of the vines.

Provenance Vineyards
1695 Saint Helena Highway, South
Rutherford, CA 94573
(707) 968-3633

The Patio Tasting at Provenance Vineyards offers not only delicious, small-lot fine wines, but you’ll also get comfy sofas, a fire pit, and outstanding panoramic views of the valley.

Cosentino Winery
7415 Saint Helena Highway
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 921-2809

Only two years old, the beautiful patio at Cosentino Winery has become a popular spot for guests to enjoy their tasting. Whether you are breathing easy in the shade or toasting to an awesome day by the fire pit, Cosentino’s patio is a must-stop on your way in or on your way out of the valley.

Fresh Pickin’s


Napa Farmers Market
195 Gasser Drive
Napa, CA 94559
(707) 501-3087

Extending their 2017 season from April to November, Napa Farmers Market is host to more than 40 local farms with offerings of fruits, veggies, flowers, meat, and more! With regional artisans, gourmet foods, chef demos, and activities for the kids, a trip to the market can be a family affair, fit for all ages.

Saint Helena Farmers Market
360 Crane Ave
Saint Helena, CA 94574
(707) 486-2662

Every Friday, from May through October, Crane Park is bustling with Napa Valley locals at the St. Helena Farmers Market. Fill your bag with fresh produce and regional gourmet treats, or browse the handmade crafts of local artists. The market favorite is the General Store, which showcases merchandise featuring the winning artwork from the “I Love Our Farmers’ Market” art competition.

Insider Tip: Pack a picnic and bring the kids. Crane Park features a large playground area with picnic tables shaded by Redwood trees.

Explore the Silverado Trail


A visitor’s paradise, the popular and busy Highway 29 stretches from Napa to Calistoga with wineries, tasting rooms, restaurants, and boutiques at every turn. The beautiful and serene Silverado Trail is also home to some of Napa Valley’s most outstanding wineries with premium, world-class wines and amazing scenery.

Miner Family Winery
7850 Silverado Trail
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 944-9500

Tucked into the eastern hills of the Oakville AVA, stop by Miner Family Winery for the dramatic views and impressive reserve-styled wines. Each wine is poured into Riedel stemware designed to enhance the character of each varietal.

Rutherford Ranch Winery
1680 Silverado Trail S.
Saint Helena, CA 94574
707.968.3200

The award-winning line up at Rutherford Ranch Winery is sure to impress and please the palate. The popular Reserve Wine and Chocolate Tasting is a sweet way to tantalize your taste buds. Or for a more in-depth experience, the sensory analysis seminar is an awesome way for guests to learn to taste wines like a pro.

The Napa River


The Napa River stretches about 55 miles and runs right through the hustle and bustle of downtown Napa.

Napa’s Riverfront
500 Main Street
Napa, CA 94559

Eat, shop, and stay when visiting Napa’s Riverfront. Some of Napa Valley’s most exquisite restaurants, quaint retail shops, and luxurious accommodations are right at your fingertips.

Napa River Wine Tours
66 Glenwood Drive
Napa, CA 94559
(707) 320-7554

Get on board, relax on the river, and experience the best of the valley when you book a tour with Napa River Wine Tours. Local fine wines and microbrews are yours to enjoy as you explore the sights and sounds of the Napa Valley.

Insider Tip: Check out Napa’s Riverfront Napa City Nights Summer Concert Series. 2017 is the 10th anniversary of this series, and the line-up is one of the best yet with performances from all musical genres to fit your fancy.

Free Wheelin’


Now, if there’s one thing you can find locals doing in the Napa Valley, it’s going for a bike ride. For some, it’s bike trails, a stop to pick up treats from a local favorite shop, or a quick afternoon tasting at a cozy winery. When the weather is warm and the breeze is cool, a quiet ride down the Silverado trail can be the best part of the day. Bike tours are a great way to explore the Napa Valley and its picturesque surroundings.

Napa Valley Bike Tours
6500 Washington Street
Yountville, CA 94599
(707) 944-2953

Join a group with Napa Valley Bike Tours and pedal along as your tour guide leads you down country roads, through the vineyards, or to a trendy spot to taste impeccable wines.

Getaway Adventures
(800) 499-2453

Hop on and follow the fun with Getaway Adventures. Their popular Sip N Cycle bike tour is an awesome journey to some of Napa Valley’s most renowned small, family-owned wineries with a picnic lunch to boot.

Insider Tip: Not into hanging with the crowd? Opt for a Self-Guided bike tour with Napa Valley Bike Tours and go where you want to go.

Rosé All The Way


Keeping cool in the summertime is easy when you have access to some of wine country’s best rose-styled wines.

Peju Winery
8466 St. Helena Highway
Rutherford, CA 94573
(800) 446-7358

A unique blend of both red and white wines, Peju’s Province is fun, versatile, and elegant. The cranberry, raspberry, and cherry flavors of this delicious blend make it the perfect complement to your summer barbeque, Sunday afternoon on the porch, or even a quaint sunset dinner.

Shundria Reed is the blogger of Southern Girl in a Wine World. She also serves as Media Lead for the Oakland Wine Festival. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring the ins and outs of California Wine Life.


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WineCountry Collective

WineCountry is made up of a dedicated and passionate team of wine, food, and travel aficionados. We diligently explore regions, both near and far, to curate the best ideas and resources. Whether you're musing over your next wine escapade, planning a romantic weekend away, embracing the Wine Country lifestyle at home, or are simply looking to be entertained for a moment, trust us to be your comprehensive guide.