While winter in other parts of the world can be a bit, well, frightful, winter in Napa Valley is something special. The busy harvest season has calmed down, there are less crowds of people, and everyone is feeling a little more relaxed and joyful as the holidays and New Year draw near. All these reasons, and more, make winter one of the best times to visit Calistoga, a charming community in the northern region of the Napa Valley known for its relaxing hotels and inns, intimate restaurants, world-class wine, and therapeutic hot springs. Oh, and did we mention it’s surrounded by some of the most picturesque landscapes in Northern California? Sounds dreamy, doesn’t it? 

In case that’s not enough to convince you, if you visit between December 7, 2024 and February 9, 2025, you can take advantage of the Calistoga Winter in the Wineries Passport and receive complimentary tastings at nearly 20 of the finest wineries throughout Calistoga and surrounding areas like St. Helena and Lake County. Plus, you’ll get access to discounts at Calistoga lodging and spas. The best part? Each Passport costs $80 per person and is valued at over $800 in wine tastings alone. So, pack your bags and kiss those winter blues goodbye, because a winter weekend in Napa’s UpCountry awaits. 

Day One

Midday

Welcome to Napa Valley’s “Up Valley”! Before you check in to your hotel in Calistoga, plan to venture 30 miles north to start your weekend by wine tasting in Lake County. This laid-back region, home to over 30 wineries, is one of Northern California’s best kept secrets, and as a Passholder, you’ll get to enjoy complimentary tastings at three of its top wineries. Stop at Six Sigma Winery to sip Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon in the middle of a 4,300-acre working ranch. Besides wine, you can purchase ranch-raised meat, local cheeses, and crackers—all the fixings to make your own picnic to enjoy with your wine. Nearby, the boutique Fults Family Vineyards showcases a variety of limited-production red wines from their tasting room, which looks out over the 45-acre property. 

Another Lake County winery to check out is Wild Diamond Vineyards, situated high on the foothills of Red Mountain, where you can enjoy beautiful views while sipping Bordeaux varietal wines.

Afternoon

Now, it’s time for the scenic drive back to Calistoga to check in to your accommodation. There are plenty of options when it comes to places to stay in Calistoga (with discounts available on lodging for Passport holders), so you really can’t go wrong. Consider booking at The Bergson, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Calistoga. Each of the 22 rooms and suites features elegant decor and luxurious amenities designed to help you unwind, such as fireplaces, jetted tubs, and feather beds. Nearby, the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs is another great choice right in town. Book a spa treatment, like a mud bath or a massage, then follow it with a dip in one of the four geothermal outdoor mineral pools. 

But wait, there’s more! Up Valley Inn & Hot Springs is a lovely boutique hotel, offering contemporary guest rooms, on-site mineral pools, and complimentary bikes for cruising around town. And for a truly plush and pampered stay, don’t miss the Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley. Here, five star luxury comes in the form of chic guest rooms overlooking the vines, highly personalized experiences, and acclaimed restaurants serving innovative cuisine.

Evening

End your first day with dinner at Evangeline, a popular French bistro “with a Creole soul” in downtown Calistoga. The covered garden patio is a nice place to savor comforting bistro classics like steak frites, as well as creole-inspired dishes like gumbo and shrimp étouffée.

Day Two

Morning

If your hotel doesn’t offer complimentary breakfast, be sure to pay a visit to House of Better at Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort to start your day off on the right foot. From light, healthy fare like nut and seed granola with organic yogurt, to heartier breakfasts such as the New Mexican breakfast burrito, every dish seamlessly highlights local ingredients alongside Chef Trevor Logan’s love for Southwestern fare.

After breakfast, head to your first tasting appointment at Tamber Bey. This equestrian training facility and sanctuary, home to more than 20 horses, is also a working winery and tasting room, where you can sample single-vineyard, single-varietal wines and Bordeaux blends while admiring the horses. Another must-stop on your Winter in the Wineries Passport tour is Bennett Lane Winery, known for its friendly service, relaxed atmosphere, and bold Bordeaux blends. 

If you’re up more for wine tasting in Calistoga, don’t miss Sterling Vineyards—not just for its wines but for the entire experience, which includes a scenic gondola ride up to the hilltop winery and sweeping views of the region. If you’re needing fuel up with some food, book the Founder’s Experience to sample wine alongside gourmet food pairings. 

Finally, if you feel like getting out of Calistoga, head 11 miles south to visit Charles Krug, located in St. Helena. One of the most historic properties in Napa Valley, Charles Krug has earned a reputation for its fine expression of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. 

Late Afternoon

After wine tasting, head to downtown Calistoga to peruse the many shops. Stop by Blackbird for artisanal finds for the home and tabletop, as well as toys and games for kids, then check out Field Trip, a moody shop featuring curated gifts, houseplants, and flowers. Calistoga Pottery, also downtown, is where you’ll find a wide variety of pottery items made by Jeff and Sally Manfredi, who have been making pottery together for 40+ years. 

If more wine is what you’re after (hey, it is Wine Country, after all), then stroll over to Tank Garage Winery, a winery and tasting room inside a converted 1930s gas station with a hip, welcoming vibe and a focus on small-lot, natural wines.

Evening

For a casual dinner (and a break from the wine), stop into Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery, where you’ll find brews on tap and a diverse food menu featuring everything from elevated pub fare to hearty, seasonal mains. Before the night ends, unwind by one of the fire pits on the garden patio—the perfect spot for conversation and a nightcap.

Day Three

Morning

It’s almost time to head home, but before you leave, grab a pastry and coffee from Sam’s General Store then walk over to Picayune Cellars for one last wine tasting before hitting the road. Or, even better, plan ahead to enjoy a rejuvenating late morning spa treatment at Dr. Wilkinson’s before bidding Calistoga, and the lovely Napa Valley, adieu.