Saint Helena, California
There are many great places to stay in Napa Valley, but Meadowood has been the true heart of this region for over 60 years, and it shows. Simply put, it feels wonderfully, authentically and uniquely Napa: from its 36 rooms and suites designed by local and world-renowned architect Howard Bracken, to its impressive wine center that highlights the area’s best vineyards and a spa that capitalizes on the area’s centuries-old legacy as a wellness destination. The rooms and suites have a sort of elegant barn feel. They’re not at all rustic (clean lines, a sea of whites and neutrals), but the wainscoting and high, beamed ceilings give the elegant energy of a farmhouse. All cabins and suites have private porches, and although they are spacious and open-plan, fireplaces, soaking tubs, window seats, and comfortable sofas keep the atmosphere cozy. The spa is a real highlight and should not be missed. The space is relaxing: it has low lighting, a large fireplace, and deep sofas in the entry area. The atmosphere is welcoming and a true continuation of the resort’s aesthetic (rather than a minimalist, antiseptic annex, as is often the case), with plenty of neutrals and dark greys, olive tones and organic materials. As far as restaurants go, there is the Terrace Café, open-air and open only to resort guests and club members, serving light local fare. While I was there, I had an excellent plate of ceviche and quinoa at the all-day restaurant Forum. The menu is seasonally inspired (so menu items rotate), relies on locally sourced produce and has great vegetarian options, plus, unsurprisingly, a stellar wine list. Like most places in this wildfire-prone part of the state, the landscaping on the site is mostly limited to native or drought-tolerant plants that don’t require a lot of water (to help prevent fires, the property has sheep and goats to eat the growth). In the wake of the Glass Fire, the property has replanted 2,300 trees and plans additional reforestation efforts. The resort leans toward local sourcing (wine, food, spa ingredients) and local hiring. As such, the staff is warm, helpful and knowledgeable. The quality of service is high, but not so formal and demanding; It may be Napa, but this is California after all. —Rebecca Misner
