It's never too often to have a girls' trip. Even though we went to San Francisco a couple of months ago for my birthday, the idea of a Napa spa getaway was too good to pass up. Our itinerary would be similar to the trip Sandy and I did a year ago, with a couple of new restaurant experiences added in.

On Saturday morning, Sandy, Karen and I drove to Napa in time to have lunch at Oxbow Public Market. Even though I had eaten at C Casa last time, the lines were moving quickly so we ate there again, but tried different entrees. The dungeness crab salad was super fresh and delicious!

part of Oxbow Public Market

dungeness crab salad from C Casa

After lunch, we headed to Spa Terra at the Meritage Resort, housed inside an underground wine storage cave. The three of us enjoyed soaking in the jacuzzi and being pampered from head to toe. It was great that Spa Terra accepted SpaFinder gift cards; you can usually buy discounted ones at Costco or gift card exchanges online.


After our treatments, we made our way to the Embassy Suites Napa Valley. I was fortunate to find award night availability on a Saturday night during high season. All Embassy Suites rooms have a separate bedroom and living area, and include a complimentary made-to-order cooked breakfast and manager's evening reception.

sofabed in living room

microwave/fridge/coffee

good sized bathroom

shower/tub combo

Giovanni toiletries

additional vanity in the bedroom

comfy double beds

closet

free wi-fi and breakfast

room service menu

We didn't have time to enjoy the hotel's happy hour due to early dinner reservations at Torc, serving modern cuisine focused on local ingredients. We ordered the prix-fixe menu; it wasn't gut-busting, but as expected for the price. I would select from the regular menu if I were to return.

squash blossom amuse-bouche

hamachi crudo

pork belly

rice pudding

So after dinner, we dropped by Ben and Jerry's next door for second dessert.

I needed some "Chocolate Therapy"

Back at the hotel, I was pleased to find Pokemon Go pokestops and gyms on site, so Sandy and I walked around and played for a bit before bed.


The next morning, we enjoyed a hot breakfast in the atrium, then walked around the beautiful grounds - not your typical Embassy Suites.

the hours are spot on; it was very busy at 9:30

eggs cooked any way you like

two hard-working employees

tasty salsa

buffet as well, with baked goods, fruit, etc.

chorizo omelette

pretty hotel grounds

resident black swan

We checked out of the hotel, then headed to Domaine Carneros, specializing in sparkling wine. The chateau and estate were picture-perfect. The three of us were still pretty full from breakfast, so we ordered sparkling wine by the glass and a cheese plate...delicious! Tasting reservations are required and can be made online. Another tip: the main parking lot can get full, with stairs leading to the chateau; a second parking lot is available a few blocks further down Duhig Road with no stairs required.

expansive views

the chateau

tasting menu

wine and cheese

watching the grapes getting crushed

Afterwards, we visited the Napa Premium Outlets for some shopping. We all managed to find something to buy!

And that was the end of our girls' getaway to Napa...super fun! It's awesome to have destinations like this right in our backyard.

What's next on the agenda? Viva Las Vegas...stay tuned!