The Meritage Resort and Spa

Though the entrance is in a somewhat unattractive business park, the resort improves upon closer appraisal: It is actually set amid nine acres of vineyards and offers a Tuscan-inspired, wine-filled retreat in Napa Valley. The beautiful grounds are dotted with lovely fountains and fire pits with lots of comfortable seating areas throughout, while hiking trails weave through the surrounding vineyards, ideal for active travelers and guests seeking to explore the grounds. (Though some parts of the grounds are visible from a busy road and this isn't the place for a true sense of seclusion.) Guests are greeted in an atmospheric, marble-floored lobby where a pitched ceiling features exposed wood beams and elegant armchairs and sofas are arranged in inviting clusters on maroon area rugs. Marble fireplaces imbue a sense of coziness into the warmly lit interiors. 

The on-site restaurant and bar also have a cozy, yet elegant, vibe with wooden floors and exposed ceiling beams. The walls feature large paintings depicting the Palio di Siena, an annual horse race held in the Tuscan town the restaurant is named after. The hotel even has a wine cave, which features striking arched hallways dramatically lit by large wrought-iron chandeliers and sconces, with rattan seating interspersed throughout the impressive space. The resort draws couples as well as groups here for various functions like weddings, meetings, and other events, though the large scale of the place might not suit all tastes.

The Meritage is in a business park on the southern edge of Napa Valley, less than a 15-minute drive from downtown Napa and close to a couple of outstanding golf courses. There’s nothing within walking distance, but there are several great wineries within a few minutes’ drive, and proximity to Highway 29 means access to the region’s quaint towns, great shopping and golf, and acclaimed restaurants. The two-lane Highway 29 can get extremely congested, though, so reaching Yountville, St. Helena, Calistoga and the many surrounding wineries to the north can take a half hour or longer. 

Napa is one of the world's best wine-growing regions, with hundreds of wineries sprawling over rolling hills. Napa Valley, unlike its neighbor Sonoma Valley, can occasionally feel a little touristy (it's not uncommon to see a tour bus parked at a winery), and it also feels geared toward visitors with cash to spend -- so those with lighter wallets might feel a little out of place. The beauty of the valley is striking at any time of the year, but especially during the harvest season (September and October) and spring. It can get very busy during the summer months, so expect crowds.

Rooms are tastefully appointed, with elegant contemporary decor that includes dark wooden furniture, cream-colored walls, and neutral brown and beige shades accented by jewel tones like purple bed runners and pillows. Canopies framing headboards give beds a royal touch. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, DVD players, large work desks, mini-fridges stocked with bottled water, coffee- and tea-making facilities, iPod docks, and safes; some of the Superior Rooms have sofa beds. Free bottles of wine are a nice touch, and apt in this vineyard setting. Some rooms have private balconies or patios with pool and vineyard views, while suites offer added extras like fireplaces and marble and stone baths. Some also have full kitchens and dining areas. Bathrooms are stylish and modern, with granite-topped vanities that offer plenty of counter space as well as walk-in showers, a nice range of toiletries, and plush bathrobes.

There’s a lovely adult-only outdoor pool and hot tub that overlooks the vineyard and is surrounded by a large sundeck lined with padded loungers and cabanas. There’s also a fire pit nearby surrounded by padded rattan chairs. Guests also have access to a family-friendly pool at the adjacent Vino Bello Resort. Guests wishing for a pamper can indulge in one at the on-site spa, which has 12 treatment rooms and separate men’s and women’s lounges with showers, whirlpools, and steam grottos. A wide variety of treatments are offered, including facials, massages, and waxing. There’s also a spacious fitness center equipped with a variety of modern machines.

The hotel offers several dining options, the main one being Siena Restaurant, which serves Californian fare with a Tuscan flair for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as Sunday brunch (though food and service get mixed reviews). For a relaxed atmosphere and a dose of fun, Crush Ultra Lounge features a bowling alley and serves drinks as well as lunch and dinner. There’s also a small cafe with coffee, fresh pastries, breakfast, lunch, and other snacks that is open in the morning and early afternoon. The hotel’s wine bar offers an extensive wine list as well as small bites and shared plates, plus there’s also an on-site wine tasting room. For alfresco drinks and dining, the Terrace Bar is open seasonally. The hotel is well suited for hosting various events with several spaces and meeting rooms, including large ballrooms, boardrooms, a vineyard deck, and outdoor covered terraces. An obligatory resort fee is included in the rates, which covers Wi-Fi and valet parking.