For my first trip to California’s most famous wine region, I wanted a Napa Valley hotel that would give us easy access to interesting wineries and local sites. I also wanted it to have a bit of charm and outdoor space, so we could enjoy relaxing outside after a long day. Rancho Caymus Inn in Rutherford, California, gave us all of that and more. So, if there are any other first-timers out there looking for Napa Valley hotels, I’d suggest giving this one a try.
Rancho Caymus Inn Rooms
We opted for a king room with a living room on the second floor. The hotel bed was firm and comfortable, the décor had character, and the living room gave us a nice spot to spread out and relax. The bathroom was spotless, and we had to give the shower double thumbs up for size and comfort.
We enjoyed having slatted window coverings during the day because we could let in light without feeling too exposed. The only trick was that light trickles around the slats even when closed, so if you need absolute darkness in the early mornings, you might need to adjust.
The room had a refrigerator that we used a lot, but no microwave (which we didn’t miss). I even enjoyed the tiny balcony. Full disclosure—the location of our room meant that our second-floor balcony overlooked the wall of the winery production facility next door. However, I still appreciated having a private outdoor space.
Rancho Caymus Inn Amenities
As you can see from the photos, Rancho Caymus Inn boasts a lovely heated plunge pool and spa. Alas, it was unseasonably cold the first couple of days we were there, so there was no way I was jumping into a pool (or getting out of one). Still, given that the weekend after we were there was already going to be in the high 80s, I’m guessing it is a big hit with guests.
We took advantage of the fire pits and the central fireplace. They pipe in music, so it has a fun retreat vibe without anything being too annoying or loud. The lobby always had coffee/hot water or cold water near the front. And there was a market where you could get snacks and wine (of course, given that it is Napa).
Our favorite amenity was the breakfast every morning. We had hot and cold options, and we delighted in starting our day by nibbling on baked goods and eggs. Pre-Covid, there was a buffet in the dining room (there’s also an outdoor dining area). Now, you ordered breakfast in the dining area, which was brought by picnic basket to the room.
Napa Valley Hotel Wine Partnerships
As this was my first venture to the area, I have no idea if the wine partnerships happen everywhere, but we loved the wine partnerships available at Rancho Caymus Inn. Basically, the hotel runs deals for a number of local wineries – everything from discounted tastings to additional tastings and guided winery tours.
We only took advantage of two of their offerings (Honig and Inglenook), but if (when) we return to this Napa Valley hotel, we are going to make some reservations around their deals because Napa is expensive (!) and the deals are terrific.
Rancho Caymus Inn Location
The location of Rancho Caymus Inn put us in the heart of Napa Valley wine country (between Route 29 and the Silverado Trail). We arrived, checked in, and were easily able to make our reservation at Elizabeth Spencer, which was across the street. The Rutherford Grill is next door, as are two wineries we didn’t visit (next time). Inglenook was across Route 29, and Honig was just down the road (as was Round Pond and Frog’s Leap). The hotel’s location made visiting the area so easy – allowing us a gentle introduction to the epicurean delights of the area.
It’s worth talking to their Concierge once you book your room because they can set up your tastings (and the discounts) with their partner wineries. They can also help with reservations and tours, generally. And keep in mind that most wineries in Napa Valley now require reservations. You’ll need to give many of them at least a week’s notice during the season.
Cost
We got lucky. We went for our anniversary in mid-May, during the week. So, it wasn’t quite in season yet. So, we got it for half the cost you are looking at now. Having said that, Napa Valley hotels are very expensive (as is everything in Napa), so having a deluxe king (about 400 sq ft) in a luxury hotel with this location is going to run you about $500 per night at the height of the season. It’s definitely worth keeping an eye out for deals but be prepared for the sticker shock that is common in the area.
Overall Impression
The hotel was clean, had many appreciated amenities, and the staff was wonderfully accommodating. The bed was comfy, the location was unbeatable, and we’d love to go back.
For more Napa Valley wine tasting adventures, click here. You can also see more about our other California wine trips at Hearst Ranch Winery and throughout Paso Robles.