33 Hours in Napa Valley

We were both exhausted as we made our way up the mountain in Napa to our lodging – my former colleague’s home.  Once we arrived, we were grateful for a night’s sleep on the pull-out couch in a very large “cottage,” set among vineyards at the top of a mountain near St. Helena, CA.

We awoke to a glorious day, filled with sunshine, and had a delicious breakfast laid out by our hostess Ellen, a Dietitian who is now attending culinary school at The Culinary Institute of America. The local fruits and artisan breads were the highlights of an all-around wonderful breakfast.  It was just the thing we needed before setting out to explore the region by bike. 

While we did not engage in the 30 or 100 mile “bike ride” that was being held in Napa Valley, we did ride about 25 miles with many who were part of that ride.  Not only were we not willing to get up early for the ride, the bike shops were not yet open at that time of day. 

 

Taking a break from our ride to take a few pictures

Note the other riders ahead of me

Halfway through our ride, we found the charming Cliff Lede Vineyard just off a side road that seemed perfect for a break.  We enjoyed the warm, dry mid-afternoon under the pergola, near the fountain and refueled with snacks that we brought with us and with the water provided by the vineyard.  Others around us were oblivious to our intrusion as they sampled the vineyard’s wine.  After riding in the warm weather, wine was the last thing I wanted. I could tell how dry it was when my lips starting feeling chapped. This became my reminder to drink more water.

Enjoying a break under the pergola at Cliff Lede Vineyard

The very cute courtyard at Cliff Lede Vineyard

One of the many vineyards along the road between St. Helena and Yountville

On our way back to St. Helena, we passed the take-out joint called Gott’s Roadside, whose long lines led us to believe the food was worth eating.  So, after returning our bicycles, we walked to Gott’s and enjoyed a burger and raw tuna tacos, which were both delicious.  The green onions, avocado, sesame and cilantro on the tuna added wonderful flavor.  Colin, who has a critical palate, gave the burger two thumbs up and an approval rating similar to In-and-Out burger, maintaining both just below his beloved Shake Shack on the scale of best burgers.

Gott's Roadside

Raw tuna tacos (left) and Gott's Burger (right)

With the rest of our afternoon, and before heading back to the “cottage on the hill,” we walked around St. Helena, drove around some of the areas we had not seen on our bicycles, and went to check out the Culinary Institute of America. 

Back at the cottage, Ellen was busy preparing another wonderful spread for our pre-dinner appetizers.  The blue cheese filled and bacon-wrapped heated figs were divine, giving me a new favorite appetizer.  It is a recipe I plan to try in the future. Eating the appetizers under the gazebo among the vineyards could also have contributed to the amazing dining experience.

View of the vineyards from behind the cottage

Ellen was able to reserve a table at a farm-to-fork restaurant called Market, which was not overly expensive.  On a previous visit to the restaurant, Ellen’s husband raved about his burger, so we decided to try one.  And since we had filled ourselves on appetizers, we decided on a salad for our second meal.  Throughout these posts you will notice that Colin and I share all of our meals.  Thankfully, neither of us are picky eaters, so we are able to order any two meals and split half of each.  I find it to be one of the best things about our traveling experiences. 

The other thing you will notice is that we don’t take many pictures of our meals or experiences when in the company of friends/family. We try to enjoy the experience with people and be fully present with them instead of focusing on getting it documented.  I am not always successful at being attentive with people, but I do try.

Our short visit in Napa Valley was just what we needed to start our journey.  I was very grateful for the two nights lodging, delicious meals, and fantastic weather.  On Monday morning, after another overly satisfying meal, I felt ready to begin our journey north.

What was your favorite part about Napa Valley or what do you look forward to in the area? 

I definitely enjoyed all the local food and the weather!