Accommodations

Wine Country inns and hotels range from low-key to sumptuous, and generally maintain high standards. Many inns are in historic Victorian buildings, and when rates include breakfast the preparations often involve fresh local produce. The newer hotels tend to have a more modern, streamlined aesthetic and elaborate, spalike bathrooms, and many have excellent restaurants on-site.

Accommodations generally have lower rates on weeknights, and prices are about 20% lower in winter. The towns of Napa and Santa Rosa have the widest selection of moderately priced rooms. On weekends, two- or even three-night minimum stays are commonly required at smaller lodgings. Book well ahead for stays at such places during the busy summer or fall season. If your party will include travelers under age 16, inquire about policies regarding younger guests; some smaller lodgings discourage (or discreetly forbid) children.

Information and Reservations

BedandBreakfast.com has details about member inns in the Napa and Sonoma County. The Napa Valley Hotels & Resorts page on the Visit Napa Valley website lists hotels, inns, and other accommodations throughout Napa County. The Sonoma Hotels & Lodging page on the Visit Sonoma site has similarly comprehensive listings for Sonoma County. The members of the Sonoma Valley Bed & Breakfast Association operate noteworthy small inns and vacation-rental properties throughout the valley; Wine Country Inns represents 20 small lodgings throughout Sonoma County. You can check availability at its members’ inns on the website, which can save you time. The various innkeepers share phone duties, so the level of assistance offered varies depending on whose turn it is.

Reservations are a good idea, especially from late spring through the fall harvest season and on many weekends. Two- or even three-night minimum stays are commonly required, especially at smaller lodgings. If you'd prefer to stay a single night, innkeepers are more flexible in winter. Some lodgings aren't suitable for kids, so ask before you make a reservation.

Facilities

When pricing accommodations, always ask what's included. Some small inns may not have air-conditioning, so be sure to ask if you're visiting in July or August, when temperatures can reach 90°F. Most hotels have Wi-Fi, although it's not always free. Most large properties have pools and fitness rooms; those without usually have arrangements at nearby gyms, sometimes for a fee.

Prices

Wine Country lodging prices, which on average exceed those even in high-end San Francisco, may come as an unpleasant surprise. Even the humblest accommodations start at nearly $200 a night in high season. If you're having difficulty finding something in your price range, remember that Napa and Santa Rosa have the widest selection of moderately priced rooms. Rates vary widely; call the property directly, but also check its website and online booking agencies.

Our local writers vet every hotel to recommend the best overnights in each price category, from budget to expensive. Unless otherwise specified, you can expect private bath, phone, and TV in your room.