Why Napa Valley?
About Napa Valley
Napa Valley is one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world. It is a complete sensory experience that combines nature, art, food, and history into an extraordinary destination:
World-class wine production: Napa Valley benefits from a rare and perfect Mediterranean climate that is ideal for balanced and flavourful wine. The diverse terroir provides a wide range of soil types and micro-climates. And its reputation is second to none on the world stage.
Scenic beauty: Napa Valley is surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and lush landscapes that make it a picturesque destination. It’s not just a place to taste wine but to immerse oneself in natural beauty.
Culinary excellence: Napa Valley is a food lover’s paradise. It features Michelin-starred restaurants, innovative farm-to-table cuisine, and partnerships between wineries and chefs, creating exceptional wine-pairing experiences.
Luxury tourism: Napa Valley offers high-end accommodations, spas, and unique experiences such as hot air balloon rides over the vineyards, making it a hub for luxury travel and relaxation.
Sustainable practices: Many Napa Valley wineries lead the way in sustainable and eco-friendly farming and production techniques, ensuring environmental stewardship alongside high-quality wine.
Rich history and culture: Napa Valley has a deep winemaking history dating back to the 19th century. Today, it boasts a vibrant community of family-run wineries and innovative vintners who blend tradition with modern techniques.
Accessible location: Napa Valley’s proximity to San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and other major hubs makes it an easy and popular destination for travelers.
About St. Helena
St. Helena is a charming town in the heart of Napa Valley — an intimate yet vibrant experience that blends world-class wine culture with small-town charm. St. Helena encapsulates the essence of Napa Valley, making it a treasured destination for wine lovers, history buffs, and those seeking an escape into refined relaxation amidst breathtaking surroundings.
With a population of 5,200+, the town is known for:
- Culinary and wine excellence: St. Helena is home to some of Napa Valley’s most prestigious winers such as Beringer, Charles Krug, and Hall. The town boasts renowned restaurants such as The Restaurant at Meadowood and Press.
- Historical significance: It is often referred to as the “birthplace of Napa Valley’s wine industry.” Charles Krug Winery, established in 1861, was the first commercial winery in Napa Valley. The downtown has well-preserved Victorian-era buildings, boutiques, and galleries.
- Artisanal and boutique appeal: St. Helena is known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and artisanal markets, offering unique finds that reflect the local culture.
- Natural beauty: St. Helena’s stunning vineyards, framed by the Mayacamas and Vaca mountains, make it one of the most picturesque parts of Napa Valley. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and outdoor activities.
- Cultural and educational experiences: The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone is an iconic institution that offers cooking classes, wine education, and fine dining.
- Luxury accommodations and spas: In addition to the Harvest Inn, St. Helena features world-class resorts and spas that offer serene retreats with top-notch amenities.
While Napa Valley as a whole is known for luxury, St. Helena strikes a balance between sophistication and a relaxed, small-town vibe. It’s a place where INMA participants can enjoy refined experiences without pretension.
What to do in Napa Valley
Plan your time in Napa Valley in advance with the help of INMA-recommended sites and guides. We strongly encourage participants to schedule vacation before or after the Roundtable.
Here are our recommended sites to explore:
Napa Valley: There are many Web sites dedicated to Napa Valley. Our favourites are:
- Visit Napa Valley
- NapaValley.com
- TripAdvisor
- Local Wally’s Napa Tourist Guide
- Lonely Planet: A First-Timer’s Guide
St. Helena: Everything to do in “Napa Valley’s Main Street,” including shopping, exploring, and dining. Click here for the St. Helena Web site.
Hot air balloon: Connect with Napa Valley Aloft for a hot air balloon ride you will remember for a lifetime. This is one of the original hot air balloon companies offering agricultural aerial tours over Napa Valley.
Biking: Mountain bike in Moore Creek Park, the trails of Pacific Union College, or the South Loop along the Silverado Trail. Look at Napa Valley Bike Tours for ride planning, bike rentals, and more.
Kayaking and canoeing: Explore Napa Valley Paddle (NVP) for kayak and paddleboard rentals, sales, and guided tours. Discover the “best kept secret” of the Napa River.
Hiking: There are many hiking trails in Napa Valley, and you can look at the most traversed at Best Trails to Hike in Napa Valley by Visit Napa Valley.
Backpacking: Lake Berryessa offers ideal rugged terrain for backpacking and fishing. Click here for all backpacking trails.