This Northern Napa hotel might as be an eco-resort. Maybe it is. I’m not quite sure what makes something an eco-resort, but I always assumed it was some symbiotic relationship with nature, which I think Calistoga Ranch encapsulates 100%. Also, for my fitness junkies, relish in the fact that there’s a fitness room and lap pool, both of which overlook the Calistoga Ranch Vineyard. Enjoy golf, tennis, and bocce (like WTF, but okay, I’ll take it). Or partake in a spa experience that will have you considering early retirement, whether you can afford it or not. Unfortunately, Calistoga is an hour and forty five minute drive from San Francisco which frankly means it won’t be my first choice hotel. I’m not keen to sit in a car that long after a 6 hour flight from NYC. But if mordern luxury in a secluded setting perfect for nature lovers speaks to you – then Calistoga should be top of your list for a dream escape. PS – this is Auberge Resort, so if you have high expectations for your hotel stays, then your bound to be pleased with this pick.

So this pick is almost 4 hours from San Francisco, so I’m shocked its even made my list. But the truth is – I’d move to the town of Little River if given the opportunity. What a picture perfect setting. I mean, look at that fucking view. Seriously, just look at the above picture and think about your self in this setting. Then think about yourself in this setting for ever. Get my drift? Little River, and specifically The Heritage House Resort could be your own little heaven on earth. Dramatic and jaw-dropping views are visible from almost any part of the resort. And the cute little village of Mendocino is nearby along with Redwood State Park. If you’re outdoorsy and shit, there are acres of trails winding along the coast. And the restaurant is, as you’d expect, farm-to-table. Honestly, this place is perfect (minus the drive from SF).

Do you seek rustic simplicity that makes you feel neither rustic nor simple while you’re enjoying it? This city girl says YES PLEASE! I am not a camper and the extent of my experience with nature was participating in Earth Day activities at boarding school. But can I appreciate rustic charm in a 5 star atmosphere? Yes. Yes I can.

Conde Nast Traveler

Kenwood would typically not be to my personal taste. It’s like a tuscan style resort B&B hybrid, but it totally works. I think the words I’m looking for are quaint and charming,with all the bells and whistles of any luxe vacation. Because luxury vacation = walk-in showers, and that’s what Kenwood has. Voila! But perhaps the best part of Kenwood is the culinary experience. Expect a daily breakfast spread that will knock your socks off and an evening wine and cheese tasting. My heart hath been won over. The Spa includes vinotherapy influences, so expect wine to somehow be included in your massage or facial. This place just oozes with traditional charm while providing a class and elegant experience overall

When I think California, I think bungalow. So I thoroughly appreciate Solage Calistoga’s layout, which features numerous charming bungalows to rent. The hotel is situated in a way that blends seamlessly with the nature around it while also incorporating tons of modern flourishes into this wine country escape. Also, this hotel is one of the greenest in California, featuring a construction made of primarily renewable and reclaimed wood to their recycling and conservation practices. Unsurprisingly, the hotel’s restaurants use sustainable and local ingredients.

Nothing says California more than tall leafy palms swaying in the breeze. I love Carneros’ aesthetic! So many hotels in Wine Country are either rustic or tuscan-provecal in design. It’s wonderful to come across and unapologetically modern outfit in wine country. Fine, the corrugated metal roofs on some of the buildings might not be everyone’s style but I just love it’s modern simplicity. Cottages are tasteful yet simple – neatly appointed with everything you could possibly want on a wine country vacay. Also some rooms have private patio gardens and indoor-outdoor showers, so that’s pretty amazing, right? And the restaurant Farm is fantastic, featuring locally sourced California ingredients. Located at the South End of Napa, it’s only a hop, skip, and a jump from San Francisco.