The kids are back in school and it is time for a well-deserved break in the action of household duties. The best possible getaway in September is a two-night stay in the Napa Valley wine country. We have done this several times and it works wonders on the psyche. Here are some sure-fire ideas for getting this trip off on the right foot and making sure that fun times prevail throughout the stay.

A morning cup and pastry at Bouchon Bakery

First of all, someone in the group must take the lead in organizing the entire trip. Give the group a name like “Sixth Annual Rejuvenation Wine Country Getaway.” Once the dates are firmed up, make sure you book your Napa lodging and Napa restaurants as soon as possible. September is harvest season and it’s a very popular time of the year in wine country.

Yountville, St. Helena, Calistoga, and Napa all have many choices of wonderful places to stay and dine. A smart idea is to stay in a hotel where you can walk to a choice of restaurants. Why drive or take a cab and when you can take an easy stroll to a restaurant? See our list of best Napa Valley Restaurants.

Bottega restaurant in Yountville

Many B&B’s have a wine reception with appetizers. If that is not the case for your lodging, bring your own wine and goodies for a fun hour before you head out to dinner. Besides some visits to wineries, what other activities will you schedule: golf, spa, massage, mud bath, or boutique shopping?

Plan one day for visiting a set of wineries. Make sure you have a designated driver or hire a limo or van service. One person in the group should take the lead in deciding which wineries to visit. Limo companies can do the planning for you but you will have more fun if you choose which wineries to visit and where to picnic. We have all the planning ideas you need for visiting Napa Valley wineries. You or your driver will need to make reservations for winery tastings if your group is 6 or more. Another consideration is to see if you can arrange for a private tour at one of the wineries. See if you can get an introduction from your local wine shop. A private tour might include a visit with the owner or winemaker, a vineyard walk, a barrel tasting, and a tasting of past vintages of wine.

Silver Oak Winery

Once your trip is planned, make sure everyone gets the itinerary and agrees with all the activities. Then sit back, relax and enjoy the wonders of the Napa Valley wine country.