California’s famed Napa Valley is known for its rolling forested hills, sea of vineyards and, of course, its iconic local wine. But when you’re traveling to a place where there is so much to see and do, staying at one of Napa’s many bed and breakfasts may be the ideal lodging accommodation for you.

A bed and breakfast provides you with a small, low key place to hang your hat at night, and get up, eat breakfast and go in the morning. And because so much of Napa’s culture is culinary, only being able to eat one meal at the hotel will force even the most stay-inish vacationer take part in it. Bed and breakfasts are generally small, and rooms are high quality, compromising only the resort feel that not every tourist likes; and because bed and breakfast inns are typically owned by people who live and work on the premises, they are known for being all the cozier.
A bed and breakfast does not offer the same service as a resort or hotel, but this only adds to the homey feel of it. Bed and breakfasts are also usually much friendlier, with guests conversing, and helpful travel tips from the people who work in them, all locals, who know and love the area where you are staying.

There is quite a selection when it comes to finding the perfect bed and breakfast in Napa, and in fact, a few of the most popular choices now fringe on famous.

Right on the edge of all things Main Street sits one of the most popular Napa bed and breakfasts, the Hennessey House, which features ten slightly varying rooms, some with private whirlpools and feather beds. Voted onto the “Top Ten Wine Country Inns” list spanning the United States, Hennessey House is within walking distance to town, and longer walking or a short car ride to the nearest vineyards. Breakfast is served in the morning, tea in the afternoon and wine and cheese in the evening.

Featured on national TV and in major magazines, the Old World Inn prides itself on its trademark amicable atmosphere and the feeling among guests that they are actually “staying with friends”. Its cozy rooms each have their own private bathrooms, and the inn offers a two course breakfast that begins at 9 am and is included with the price of lodging, as well as wine and cheese in the afternoon and chocolate at night.

The Churchill Manor is a historic mansion that now holds ten extremely epicurean guestrooms. Recommended mainly for romantic getaways, each room is furnished with high end authentic antiques, a fireplace and a beautiful private bathroom. You can decide whether you would rather eat in the more communal bed and breakfast atmosphere, or a more private one, with breakfast served in the morning, fresh cookies in the afternoon, and wine at night.

But when in Napa, the important thing, of course, is to get out there and take it all in. Once you’ve finished your breakfast, start walking, biking or driving to any of the unforgettable attractions all over Napa.
The most popular attraction in Napa is, of course, its wine. Wine tastings are offered at countless wineries and vineyards throughout the region, so find your favorite one, and get the wine tour schedule…or just meander up there at your leisure.
Enjoy the enthralling scenery of Napa on foot…take a hike! With so much unspoiled land, there is a trail for every experience level of hiker or adventurer.
Attend a concert, such as Festival del Sole, from July 17 to 25, and happening all over Napa Valley. The Robert Mondavi concert series is the perfect way to spend a part of your Saturday, and what’s more, the proceeds go to charity. If you still aren’t sure what to see in Napa, a bike tour could point you in the right direction.
Traveling with kids? Even though they can’t drink, there is still plenty to do with the entire family. Castello di Amorosa is actually set at a castle, which will fascinate your children, as would a tram ride at Sterling Vineyards. Walk through the Petrified Forest, or sit back and watch Calistoga’s Old Fashioned Christmas Parade.

But then, if you really want to know what’s out there, just ask your hosts back at the bed and breakfast.