photo courtesy of Meritage Resort & Spa
I’d been to Napa Valley a couple of times. As a matter of fact, I’d been in the valley a solid 5 days before heading for a stay at the Meritage Resort and Spa. It was (and still is) a special time of year at the resort. It’s the time that they turn the property into a virtual winter wonderland – with a skating rink, firepits to roast s’mores and drink hot toddies around, food trucks with the yummiest of treats, an outdoor bar and more. As a matter of fact, I was there before the holidays and got to catch a glimpse of the big guy himself!
Napa is beautiful, but the Meritage is a step above what you’d expect from a resort set in a vineyard tucked just far enough away from the crowds seeking out the “in” restaurants and tasting rooms. It is a sanctuary unto itself.
Nestled in the picturesque rolling hills of Napa Valley, the Meritage Resort and Spa is an all-in-one paradise that offers everything you need for that getaway you’ve been dreaming about. Whether you’re planning a girlfriend’s retreat, a romantic escape, or just some time to reconnect with yourself, this luxurious property promises an unforgettable experience. With its blend of wine-country sophistication and tranquil seclusion, it’s hard to believe the resort is only a 10-minute drive from bustling downtown Napa. Once you arrive, you’ll realize that everything you need is right here—why would you ever want to leave?
photo courtesy of Meritage Resort & Spa
Your Dreamy Retreat
The Perfect Resort Room
The soft, neutral tones of our hotel room felt like a carefully crafted frame, perfectly highlighting the breathtaking view outside. Through the window, the vineyards stretched out in all their autumn glory, their leaves in shades of gold and the surrounding trees had turned to amber and crimson. The peaceful hues of the room seemed to accentuate the vibrant colors of the landscape outside our window, creating a serene and harmonious contrast that made the view feel like a picture in a storybook about fall.
Patio at Olive and Hay photo courtesy of Meritage Resort & Spa
Activities for Every Mood
photo courtesy of Meritage Resort & Spa
Wine, Dine, and Indulge
The Meritage Resort is a haven for food and wine lovers. Start your day with breakfast at Olive & Hay, where farm-to-table cuisine takes center stage. For a casual yet elevated lunch, grab a pizza or pasta dish that pairs perfectly with a glass of local wine. When dinnertime rolls around, the resort’s culinary team truly shines, offering expertly prepared dishes that highlight the flavors of Napa Valley.
Love wine tasting? You’re in luck! The Meritage has its own wine cave, Trinitas Cellars, where you can sample local varietals in a unique underground setting. No need to drive from vineyard to vineyard when you have world-class wines right at your fingertips.
Relaxation and Rejuvenation
After a day of indulgence, unwind at the Spa Terra, a serene retreat tucked inside an underground cave. From massages to facials, the spa offers treatments designed to pamper and rejuvenate. The steam grottos and relaxation lounges are perfect for decompressing before heading back out to explore the resort.
Shopping and Exploration
Forgot to pack something? Want a keepsake of your trip? The Meritage has on-site boutiques offering everything from stylish clothing to Napa-inspired gifts. If shopping is your therapy, the resort has you covered. I (ahem) may have done a little damage to my wallet while I was there, but being there before the holiday meant that I could shop for beautiful boutique items as gifts for everyone from Mr. S to my grandson. There were even gifts to be bought for my dog Baby.
For Adventure Seekers
Prefer a little activity to balance all that relaxation? The Meritage features a well-equipped fitness center, bocce ball courts, and walking trails that meander through the vineyards. The property’s layout encourages exploration, with surprises like cozy fire pits and quiet nooks to discover around every corner.
Merry Meritage: Holiday Magic
As I said, I had the pleasure of experiencing the resort during one of its most magical events, Merry Meritage, where from November 18th through January 11th, the resort transforms into a winter wonderland. Napa Valley’s largest outdoor ice skating rink is surrounded by twinkling lights, cozy fire pits, and chic igloos. The pièce de résistance? A dazzling 40-foot Christmas tree that sets the holiday mood. Yes, the Meritage Resort knows how to celebrate the holidays like no other, transforming into a magical festive village packed with unforgettable experiences.
Stay warm inside an igloo at Merry Meritage
I spent an evening among the cherished holiday tradition that turns the heart of California Wine Country into a spectacular winter wonderland, drawing Bay Area locals and visitors from across California and beyond. I traveled across the country just to experience it and it was SOOOO worth it. From the largest outdoor ice skating rink in Wine Country to cozy VIP igloos and firepits perfect for roasting s’mores, every detail is designed to make even adults like me feel like a child again. Adults can enjoy Santa’s Tavern, a lively pop-up serving up indulgent hot toddies, “spirited” holiday cocktails, and creative mocktails for kids and anyone skipping the booze. Add to that a variety of food trucks (yum), s’mores for your personal fire pit, appearances by Santa himself, live music, nightly tree lighting ceremonies, and even a faux snow machine bringing the magic of North Pole flurries to the vineyards.
It’s a celebration full of joy, warmth, and wonder that you won’t want to miss. Merry Meritage truly captures the spirit of the season and creates lasting memories for everyone who visits! Whether you’re gliding across the ice, sipping hot cocoa by a fire pit, or snapping Instagram-worthy photos by the tree, the Merry Meritage event is a must-see.
Why You’ll Love It Here
- Location, Location, Location: While the resort feels like a secluded oasis, it’s a quick jaunt to downtown Napa if you decide to venture out.
- Versatility: The Meritage caters to a variety of travelers. Whether you’re here for wine, wellness, or both, the options are endless.
- All-in-One Experience: With shopping, dining, a spa, and unique seasonal events, you can easily spend your entire stay on the property without feeling like you’re missing out.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The Meritage Resort and Spa is the ultimate destination for:
- A Girlfriends’ Getaway: Share laughs over wine flights, relax with spa treatments and ice skate under the stars.
- Couples’ Retreat: Stroll through the vineyards, enjoy a private dinner, and rekindle romance in a cozy igloo.
- Solo Escape: Recharge with yoga in the vineyards, unwind in the spa, and sip wine as you take in the scenery.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a luxurious escape that combines the best of Napa Valley with the convenience of never having to leave the property, the Meritage Resort and Spa is your answer. From the Merry Meritage holiday magic to year-round indulgence in wine, food, and relaxation, this resort has something special for everyone.
Book your stay and let the Meritage enchant you—it’s the perfect place to sip, skate, and stay!
- Book your visit or learn more at: Meritage Resort
