Living in the Napa Valley

In the gentle hills of the Napa Valley, time seems to stand still. Located within easy reach of the coast, Sierra Nevada mountains and San Francisco, this is a place where the old world is not forgotten, where rural charm rules the day, and where everyone lives a great life. Lazy days are spent walking the vineyards or biking the hills. A game of bocce or an al fresco meal can be an everyday occasion. It’s a place where the people are happy and the quality of life is unsurpassed.

Now you have a chance to be part of it all. In addition to being in a great place to visit, you’ll discover it’s an even better place to live.

PLACES TO LIVE

Napa

The city of Napa offers a charming, small town atmosphere that includes a historic downtown, acclaimed restaurants that can be found at every corner, and specialty boutiques that offer one-of-a-kind fashion and gifts. Once a jumping off point for wine country visitors, Napa is undergoing a complete renaissance and has become a world-class destination in its own right. Cultural activities and outdoor adventures help to define Napa as a city known for its quality lifestyle. There are endless things to do in Napa. The city’s vibrant downtown offers opportunities to stroll and shop. The Opera House built in 1879 hosts jazz, blues, theater, dance and contemporary greats. Craving nature? Don’t’ miss Napa in the spring when the mustard is blooming, Hike the Bay Area Ridge Trail from the river to Skyline Park or grab your bike and pedal along the river Trail.

To learn more about Napa, go to www.napachamber.com.

Yountville

Located just north of Napa, Yountville is made up of less than 3,000 people and boasts a charming village atmosphere that is both idyllic and tranquil. Sure it’s the award-winning restaurants and it’s a walkable town made up of quaint shops, culture and arts, but more than this is the breathtaking scenery and friendly locals that make this the charming place that it is.

To learn more about Yountville, go to www.yountville.com.

St. Helena

Located in the heart of the Napa Valley is St. Helena, a charming town located in the north end of the Valley. St. Helena offers sophisticated country living at its best, a vibrant arts scene, boutiques, highly-acclaimed restaurants, luxury spas, and outdoor adventures. There are always exciting things to do in St. Helena. Gourmands enjoy award-winning cuisine and plenty of events featuring world class food or you can stay active with hiking, biking, tennis, golf and swimming. For those interested in rest and relaxation, there are plenty of spas and wellness centers to rejuvenate the spirit. It’s also home to friendly neighbors, safe streets, and well-ranked schools.

To learn more about St. Helena, go to www.sthelena.com.

Calistoga

Calistoga is tucked into the base of Mount Saint Helena at the top of Napa Valley. It offers all the rustic charm of 19th century western town, combined with today’s modern conveniences.

There is plenty of things to do. Biking, shopping, galleries and a vibrant Art Walk. The Sharpsteen Museum presents local history within a 19th century cottage from the area’s first resort. Nearby natural wonders include a geyser and petrified forest and the trails of Robert Louis Stevenson State Park where you’ll have plenty of opportunity to picnic and hike.

To learn more about Calistoga, go to visitcalistoga.com.

CLIMATE

Defined by mountain ranges and influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the Napa Valley is just 30 miles long and a few miles wide with a dry Mediterranean temperate climate, perfectly suited to the growing of fine wine grapes.

Because of its unique geologic history, Napa Valley has a remarkable diversity of microclimates, weather and geography, as well as some of the most diverse soils found on earth.

Spring mornings and evenings are wonderfully crisp, while the days offer pleasant temperatures and abundant sunshine (rainy season is normally over by April 15th) The average spring temperature is 72 degrees, making it comfortable all times of the day.

Summer warms the valley with average daytime temperatures in the 90’s, with very temperate nights.

Fall is when the leaves change and Napa Valley is full of color. Summerlike temperatures warm the day, while the night start to get cooler.

Winter in the Napa Valley is mild in comparison to most other place. Temperatures in the 70’s are not unheard of, while the lows hardly ever go below freezing. While there typically is rain, there are also long periods of sunshine.