Napa Valley, California, USA, for the Holidays
Where to celebrate the holidays?
That seems to be the question everyone is asking these days. If you’re looking for a small community with Currier & Ives appeal, I suggest you head to Yountville in Northern California’s Napa Valley.
If you read my earlier post on Yountville, you already know that this small town is home to the largest concentration of Michelin Stars per capita on the planet– so finding good holiday food won’t be a problem.
However, what I just learned (thanks to certain Santa’s helper) is that from now through January 2 the town is also welcoming visitors with complimentary carriage rides, an enclosed skating rink, and enough cult cabernet to keep a sky full of reindeer lit.
Big ski areas in Northern California may offer holiday destinations with more razzamatazz, but Yountville is the place to savor the simple pleasures of the season.
Visitors can skate under the stars in a clear-top tent infused with holiday music and decorated trees at V Marketplace.
This family-friendly attraction is open 11am – 11pm daily, December 11 – January 2.
After 6pm, adults can sip hot toddies and other holiday cocktails as they spin.
Weekends around the rink will include select Yountville AVA wine tasting showcasing the area’s top producers – complete with a Santa sommelier.
A seasonal grazing menu will feature roasted chestnuts, dim sum, and pulled pork sliders.
A team of stout Percheron and Shire horses will pull carriages along Yountville’s main street strung with holiday lights. These complimentary rides are offered on December 11, 18, and 31.
And let’s not forget the vineyards: Napa Valley Bike Tours is offering a discounted WinterScape rate on guided bike tours to four boutique wineries, followed by a catered picnic lunch.
On New Year’s Eve, visitors can choose between a cozy dinner in one of Yountville’s great restaurants or ringing in the New Year at Domaine Chandon.
WinterScape Hotel Deals –
From Villagio Inn & Spa to the luxurious and eco-friendly Bardessono, December hotel packages include skating passes, prix-fixe dinners, and a savings of up to 20 percent across the board.
The Yountville Chamber of Commerce has more information.
Cheers!
Photo credit: Mars Lasar, http://www.picsfrommars.com/
Category: Northern California, Winter Holidays
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This town just shows that a holiday vacation does not have to be extravagant. Keeping things simple has its own rewards.