Napa Valley wine country boasts a wealth of fantastic hotel properties. But if you’re hoping to actually squeeze in some moments of relaxing in between wine tastings and fantastic meals, do yourself a favor and book a room at the North Block Hotel in Yountville.
Located at the north end of Yountville on Washington Street, the town’s main drag, the North Block Hotel is close to everything you’ll want to see and do, but yet still manages to feel quiet and intimate.
Mediterranean-inspired, the hotel’s 20 rooms are centered around a communal courtyard with lush greenery, fountains and fire pits. There are no hallways to navigate; all rooms are accessed from the courtyard. Those located on the second floor are reached via outdoor staircases lined with colorful mosaic tiles. When checking in you’ll be offered a glass of wine with an open invitation to come back for more at any time.
I stayed in a Deluxe King guestroom on the ground floor. The room had a neutral color palette with crisp, white linens on the notably comfortable king bed. French doors opened to a small patio with seating. All rooms feature an espresso machine, television and small refrigerator. Every morning, guests can access hot water and an assorted variety of teas in the lobby.
The spacious bathroom was especially inviting; in addition to a marble vanity with double sinks there was a walk-in shower (with more colorful mosaic tile) and a separate oversized bathtub. Green plants and a candle ensured it felt like a place you should spend some time and relax.
The only tricky thing about the room was finding an electrical outlet to plug in all of the electronics that accompany me when I travel. I didn’t find any USB outlets in the room, so bring along whatever power adapters you’ll need during your stay.
Be sure to also pack your swimsuit — tucked in the back of the courtyard is a heated pool and hot tub with plenty of cushy seating and cozy nooks brimming with pots of colorful succulents. A small spa is located below the lobby, along with a fitness center featuring free weights, a treadmill and pair of Peloton spin bikes.
North Block Hotel is an easy and enjoyable walk to some of Napa Valley’s best-known restaurants including three-Michelin star The French Laundry, Bistro Jeanty, and Bouchon. That said, the onsite North Block Restaurant was recently added to the 2021 Michelin Guide, and is worthy of your attention. Currently open for dinner only, menu selections include Yellowfin tuna toast, dry aged (and locally raised) Liberty Duck, wood fired pizzas, and more. If you’ve had your fill of wine, the cocktail menu here won’t disappoint.
North Block Restaurant is currently not serving breakfast, but that is expected to change in the future. There are a number of eateries near the hotel; just across the street, Southside’s delicious take on Chilaquiles will easily serve two.
Downtown Napa is less than 10 miles to the south and St. Helena is about the same distance to the north. Plan on at least 90 minutes to make the drive to San Francisco International Airport.
Rates start at $775. Wi-Fi and parking is included, and complimentary electric vehicle charging stations are available. Dogs are welcome for an additional $150 fee. Book directly with the hotel or through a booking site such as Hotels.com or Expedia.
Review and photos by San Francisco Bay Area travel writer and television correspondent Dana Rebmann. Her stay was organized by the Yountville Chamber of Commerce, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.
