The Silverado Trail

Running along the eastern side of Napa Valley beneath the oak-studded peaks of the Vaca Mountains, this historic highway – named for the Silverado Silver Mine – connects the towns of Napa and Calistoga. It is more serene than Highway 29, which runs through the center of the valley and can be thronged with traffic on weekends. Rolling, gently winding in sections, and elevated over the valley, the Silverado Trail is popular for cycling. Many small mom-and-pop wineries line the route, alongside some big-name wineries such as Darioush and Stag’s Leap.

Top 10 Features

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Silverado Resort and Spa

With 435 deluxe suites, the Silverado Resort and Spa boasts the largest resort spa in Napa Valley, plus two golf courses, 13 tennis courts, and 10 outdoor swimming pools.

Soda Canyon Store

A well-stocked grocery and delicatessen, this store, about 2 miles (3 km) north of Napa, is a great place to stock up on picnic items, which can be enjoyed in picnic grounds or on a shaded patio overlooking a creek and vineyard.

Darioush

Wine samples, Darioush

The freestanding columns, fountains, and lush gardens at Darioush evoke the ancient Persian capital of Persepolis, reflecting the owner’s heritage.

Omi Farm

Although this family-run farm has a small vineyard producing Cabernet Sauvignon grapes for local wineries, owners Kirsten and Jim Niesar also grow fruits, nuts, and vegetables, and raise chickens, guinea hens, rabbits, sheep, and even Australian Cattle Dogs.

Clos du Val

Renowned for its award-winning wines, Clos du Val’s other draws include beautiful grounds, pétanque courts, and a winery that hosts casual tastings and formal tours.

Stag’s Leap Winery

This winery leapt to prominence in 1976 when its Cabernet Sauvignon won the Judgment of Paris. It has lovely gardens, a barrel cave lit by sconces, and 17th-century original paintings of ancient celestial maps.

Cliff Lede Winery

This Stag’s Leap AVA winery features a sophisticated cave storage system, and a welcoming tasting room. The highlight is a contemporary art gallery housed in a former fermentation room.

Napa River Ecological Reserve

In dry months, a single trail of the Napa river winds through this floodplain wilderness. It irrigates meadows, shrub thickets, and stands of oak and willow that provide shelter and food for wildlife.

Joseph Phelps Vineyards

Perched on a hilltop, this winery offers lovely views over the valley. Its award-winning Insignia Bordeaux-blend and other red wines can be enjoyed on the tasting terrace.

Casa Nuestra Winery

Casa Nuestra’s wine labels display a dove, “Ban the Bomb” sign, and the words “Embrace Peace.” The tasting room exhibits clippings about Mother Teresa and Nelson Mandela, plus Elvis Presley memorabilia.

Tip: Visitors with deep pockets should book the Quintessential Wine Experience at Darioush.

Olive Oils

Though vineyards dominate the landscape of Wine Country, the warm Mediterranean climate of the Napa and Sonoma Valleys is also ideal for growing olives, which were first planted here by Franciscan missionaries in the mid-1700s. There are now more than 150 local producers, and the pressing of gourmet, artisanal extra virgin olive oil is big business. California’s olive oils range from buttery yellow to light green, and are typically more robust than those of Italy or Spain. Many boutique producers have tasting rooms.

Visitor Information

Silverado Resort and Spa
1600 Atlas Peak Rd., Napa, 94558
www.silveradoresort.com

Soda Canyon Store
4006 Silverado Trail, Napa, 94558

Darioush
4240 Silverado Trail, Napa, 94558

Omi Farm
4185 Silverado Trail, Napa, 94558

Clos du Val
5330 Silverado Trail, Napa, 94558

Stag’s Leap Winery
6150 Silverado Trail, Napa, 94558

Cliff Lede Winery
1473 Yountville Crossroad, Yountville, 94599

Napa River Ecological Reserve
Yountville Crossroad, Yountville

Joseph Phelps Vineyards
200 Taplin Rd., St. Helena, 94574

Casa Nuestra Winery
3451 Silverado Trail N., St. Helena, 94574