While the name Napa Valley often conjures images of world-class wine, the small town of Yountville in Northern California is equally well known for tranquil, spa-focused getaways. Situated on Washington Street, the North Block Hotel offers a stylish, intimate retreat. Below street level, the Francis & Alexander Spa at North Block Hotel provides a range of signature services, including the Un-Corked treatment. This 50-minute experience combines a foot and back exfoliation using freshly ground grape seeds with a soothing massage that blends fingertip techniques and the unique use of corks.
The hotel’s Mediterranean-inspired architecture frames a calm, beautifully landscaped property centered on a courtyard with a fountain and fireplace. With just 20 guestrooms, the atmosphere remains quietly refined; some rooms feature private fireplaces, while upper-level rooms open to balconies and lower-level rooms lead to terraces. Each guestroom includes oversized bathrooms with heated floors, deep soaking tubs and separate rain showers, as well as conveniences such as mini-fridges and espresso machines. A gated outdoor pool and hot tub provide opportunities for daytime relaxation and evening stargazing beneath the Napa Valley sky. On-site dining is anchored by Redd Wood, the wood-fired restaurant from acclaimed chef Richard Reddington. The menu highlights handcrafted pastas and pizzas, a robust wine list and a curated selection of artisan cocktails.
© Rebecca Chotkowski
Yountville’s tasting room scene is compact but rich. Directly across the street from North Block Hotel, Stewart Cellars operates as a family-owned, small-batch winery that blends impressive stone architecture with welcoming, modern spaces. Its Tasting Hall features soaring ceilings and a sweeping horseshoe-shaped bar, while the Nomad Heritage Library—with exposed beams, a large wood-burning fireplace and a terrace—evokes the charm of an old-world explorers’ club.
Guests can arrange private tastings that showcase library vintages, including Stewart Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and the NOMAD Beckstoffer Las Piedras Cabernet Sauvignon, typically paired with thoughtfully selected cheeses and small bites. Stewart Cellars also runs a Wine Club for curated shipments to members wherever they reside. While tastings generally require reservations, visitors are welcome to stop by the café counter for casual orders. Chef Sarah Heller offers light to-go options like fresh juices, vibrant salads and Belgian waffles, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed bite between tastings.