Celebrate the holidays in Napa in a cozy cottage with some mighty fine wines

A few years ago my husband Richard and I took a drive from Los Angeles to the Napa Valley, we stayed at several hotels along the scenic way as well as in the Valley. One stop, that left a lasting impression was at the rural-chic charming Carneros Inn (www.thecarnerosinn.com) where we spent two peaceful nights a cozy cottage.

 

During the day we swam in the infinity pool, indulged in extraordinary spa treatments and had amazing meals in the restaurant--we're talking typical Napa-culinary-centric meals that delight--especially when paired with local wines.

 

So when I heard about the hotel's "Meet the Vintners" package, I just had to pass it along. It's a special deal that lets you take an up close and personal tour of boutique wineries with Doug White of Beyond the Label. You can drive to Napa in about 6 hours from Los Angeles or fly Southwest (www.southwest.com) to Oakland--with today's fares listed from $157 each way-- rent a car (try Hertz for some good California rates (www.hertz.com)and hit the road.

It comes with...

The Carneros Inn, a PlumpJack Resort, is the first full-service resort to be built in Napa in 20 years, and the first ever in the world-renowned Carneros wine region. The resort features 86 charming, private guest cottages and suites, and nightly private luxury Home rentals each furnished with casual elegance and nestled in a lush garden courtyard with private deck. The property also offers outdoor terrace dining and an infinity pool and family pool, both with panoramic vineyard views; award-winning spa facilities; and, most importantly, first-class service delivered with warmth and ease.

The Carneros Inn (www.thecarnerosinn.com)is located at 4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa, CA 94559. The Carneros Inn is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts World Wide.