Ultimate Wine Country Getaway: The Best Luxury Hotels and Fine Restaurants in Napa/Sonoma Area

Auberge Du Soleil

Auberge du Soleil meaning "Inn of the Sun", this lavish French country inn consists of several charming cottages nestled on the verdant slopes of Rutherford Hill. Spacious guest rooms feature natural wood paneling, terra cotta tile floors, tasteful artwork, plush overstuffed furnishings, a wood-burning fireplace, fresh flowers and elegant linens. An oversized bathtub (some with jacuzzis), skylights and candles assure that even the bathroom is romantic. Each unit has French doors opening to a private terrace overlooking the Napa Valley. A magnificent sculpture garden graces the expansive grounds. The luxurious 7,000 square feet Spa du Soleil offers therapeutic spa services exclusively to hotel guests.

French Laundry Restaurant

San Francisco locals are ignoring the city's best restaurants to flock to this countryside jewel, considered to be one of the best establishments in America. According to reports, reservations should be made at least two months in advance. The exquisite American-French food defies description or convention. Appetizers include Poached Moulard Duck, Foie Gras au Torchon with Port-braised Mission Fig, and Adriatic Fig Salad. Entrees include Sirloin of Fallow Venison wrapped in Applewood and Smoked Bacon with sweet carrot puree. The French Laundry's extraordinary food is exceeded only by its excellent service. Patrons are always impressed by the breath and depth of knowledge of Master Sommelier Paul Roberts, whose recommendations are as tasteful as they are informative.

FARM at The Carneros Inn

Part of Carneros Inn, Farm comes across as a place you'd take someone to impress. The decor is plush with muted lighting and lounge chairs. The bar area is also innovatively lit and the LCD screen displays classic b/w movies, good range of wines and cocktails are available. Tuna carpaccio, butternut squash soup, braised veal cheeks and cheese and charcuterie platter are worth menu items. Guests can also ask to be seated in the heated outdoor area.

Silverado Resort

Spend your holidays in the wine country of California and if you have come here on business, don't worry—Silverado Resort is just the right place for you. Wind up work at the on-site conference center and then dive into the many recreational activities. Either rejuvenate yourself at the spa or workout at the fitness center. Pass your time with friends at the golf course or undertake winery tours and wine tasting. After all the activity, you can choose to sit and relax by the wooden fireplace or let your cozy room lure you.

Mumm Napa

Established in 1979, Mumm Napa is a partnership between France's Mumm champagne family and American bourbon moguls Seagram & Sons. Visit the spacious tasting room, which features a glass wall overlooking acres of vineyards and an outdoor terrace. In addition to rotating exhibitions by some of America's most famous photographers, the place houses a permanent photo gallery. Visit the website for details on complementary tours and tastings.

Far Niente Winery

Far Niente functioned as a gravity flow winery till the onset of prohibition. It was in disuse for 60 years and opened again in 1979. Far Niente believes in quality and therefore produce one Chardonnay and one Cabernet Sauvignon of the highest quality, luxury and elegance. If the wine does not meet expectations, then it does not make the final blend. Both the wines are premium wines and much sought after by the connoisseurs of California and beyond. Visitors are welcome and guided tours are offered several times during the day. You would need to call ahead if you want to go on a tour of their tri-level winery, the storage caves and the carriage house which has a large collection of classic and vintage automobiles.

Meadowood Napa Valley

For those who love luxury and the outdoors, this magnificent 250-acre resort can fulfill all your dreams. Surrounded by gardens, fountains and vineyards, Meadowood Napa Valley rooms are scattered among several charming cottages. All the elegantly appointed guest units feature open-beamed ceilings, heated bathroom floors, fireplaces, private decks, down comforters and comfortable furnishings. The immaculately landscaped grounds include croquet lawns, seven tennis courts, two swimming pools, hiking trails and an adjacent nine-hole golf course. A full therapeutic spa is onsite.

Royal Oak Steak & Seafood

Overlooking the south golf course, the Royal Oak is one of three restaurants at the Silverado Resort. Massive beams, floor-to-ceiling picture windows and plush upholstered chairs create an elegantly relaxed ambiance. The tables allow ample legroom and private conversation. Dressy casual attire is appropriate and the service is sublime. Menu items are prepared using local produce, herbs, meats and poultry. Try the Mesquite-grilled Pork Tenderloin, Yakitori-style and the farm-raised Muscovy Duck Breast. The sinfully delicious desserts include a Creme Brulee Duet (praline and vanilla bean) and White Chocolate & Croissant Bread Pudding. There is a full bar and extensive local wine list.

Siena – The Meritage Resort

Named after the quite township in Tuscany, Siena, is located in The Meritage Resort at Napa. Offering earthy hues and wooden embellishments to go with the subtle lighting, the restaurant creates an ambience one may not forget. Serving local and organic produce which is fresh and wellmade the restaurant also offers a huge list of wines. When in Napa simply allow Siena to treat your appetite.