Love is in the air and it’s the perfect time to start planning a thoughtful outing—or better yet, a romantic getaway—for that special someone. In the spirit of love and Valentine’s Day, we’ve gathered a few of our favorite spots in Wine Country to grab your sweetheart and head off to for a little romance and quality time. We even added a few with a French flare, of course!
T A S T E
the girl & the fig
A classic favorite among both locals and tourists, the girl and the fig is a French style restaurant located in our favorite town, Sonoma. Created by fabulous restaurateur Sondra Bernstein, the girl & the fig showcases her love of France —particularly the Rhone region. With a beautiful old bar that greets you upon entry, a bartender that makes an unforgettable French 75 and a menu filled with French-inspired specialties, the girl & the fig makes for a fabulous spot to get a true taste of France (both literally and figuratively) without the price of a plane ticket. Some of our top menu picks? The duck liver mousse, pastis-scented steamed mussels and frites, and the duck confit (to die for.) C'est très bonne!
Bistro Jeanty
A neighborhood spot located in Yountville, Bistro Jeanty is a cozy French bistro offering delicious French recipes in a warm and intimate space. Led by chef Phillipe Jeanty who was born in Champagne, Bistro Jeanty is built on the idea of hospitality, nostalgia and French tradition. From the warm and welcoming team members, to the classic yet ever-changing menu of French favorites, to the undeniable feeling of home, Bistro Jeanty is not one to miss. We recommend the Crême de Tomate en Croute and the Coq au Vin!
The Farmhouse Inn
From the serene and peaceful drive through the California countryside to the warmest welcome upon arrival, The Farmhouse Inn makes for an ideal spot to get away, toast with good wine and spend one-on-one time with your partner—even if just for an evening. With a homey and intimate feel, the Farmhouse Inn restaurant offers a delicious Cal-French menu that is sure to give you that romantic feeling from beginning to end. Enjoy a little extra wine at dinner for an excuse to spend the night one of their fabulous cottages, but be prepared to wish you could stay forever.
La Forêt
Established in 2010 to provide premium chocolates to fine dining restaurants in the Bay Area, Napa-based La Forêt has developed into a true atelier offering beautiful and decadent creations to the public. Working closely with chefs to design and execute, pastry-trained owner Wendy crafts beautiful chocolates and many other treats with incredible attention to flavor, texture and presentation. Stop into the shop for a taste as we have a few of her creations in stock for Valentine’s Day and grab a box to-go. The Sea Salt Caramels are a team favorite!
E X P E R I E N C E
Schramsberg Vineyards
A fabulous vineyard located in Calistoga creating the most beautiful California sparkling wines, Schramsberg Vineyards is as rich in history as it is in taste. Originally a run-down winery stumbled upon by the Davies family in 1965, Schramsberg has been crafting some of the finest sparkling wines for over 50 years and if you pay them a visit, you’re sure to find out why. Book the vineyard and cave tour for an incredible experience and of course plenty of bubbles along the way.
Mud and Mineral Baths at Indian Springs
Known for their special qualities, the mud and mineral baths at Indian Springs Resort and Spa make for an amazing experience for you and your partner, offering you time to relax and recharge together. Using 100 percent pure ash found on the beautiful and scenic Indian Springs property, the spa’s mud baths are mined on-site, hand-sifted, and mixed in mineral water from their thermal geysers, creating an incredibly rejuvenating mud bath. Be sure to check out the many other fabulous spa services while you’re there and maybe even consider staying awhile as the entire resort is a truly beautiful retreat!
Day Trip to Point Reyes Station
A small town located in western Marin County, Point Reyes Station is one of favorite spots to get our taste of salty air. With plenty to see, do and eat all by the beautiful Northern California coastline, Point Reyes Station makes for a perfect place to get lost and explore with your love. While you’re there, be sure to visit our favorite purveyor of coziness—Coyuchi, taste delicious local cheese at Cowgirl Creamery, and share a dozen oysters at Nick’s Cove!
Hike through Jack London Park
A California State Historic Park located in Glen Ellen, Jack London Park (named after famous writer/adventurer Jack London) boasts over 26 miles of trails across 1400 acres! Hit the trails and be inspired by the views, the rich history and the lore of Jack London and his enchanting wife, Charmian. Be sure to stop by Ovello Salumeria to pack an incredible picnic to enjoy at the park!
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