Napa Valley's Secret Garden Is An Idyllic Destination With Dramatic Blooms And Wine Tastings

In "The Secret Garden," British-American author Frances Hodgson Burnett writes, "If you look the right way, you can see that the whole world is a garden." This feeling perfectly encapsulates the experience of visiting historic wineries in Napa Valley. Tucked away on a hilltop in Oakville, Far Niente is known for its enduring elegance and enchanting atmosphere.

Since 1885, Far Niente has embraced il dolce far niente, or "the sweetness of doing nothing," and its southern-style estate, blooming gardens, and beautiful setting truly encourage this mantra. The winery's commitment to creating an idyllic destination combines natural beauty and exceptional wine-tasting experiences. This meticulously restored estate exudes an air of sophistication and whimsy for its visitors.

Although one of the world's most beautiful gardens for a fall stroll is in New York, at the core of Far Niente's allure lies its secret garden, a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling wine country of Napa Valley. Far Niente's promises a feeling of rejuvenation, combining the magic of its lush flowers with the artistry of winemaking to create an unforgettable sensory journey. Whether your visit to the area is long or short, Far Niente is a great experience in Napa Valley.

As a masterpiece of landscape design, each section of the unparalleled estate builds drama and beauty. Through the wrought iron gates, a cascading garden surrounds the 19th-century stone winery and is intersected by winding paths, hidden alcoves, and views of the valley, looking like something straight from a fairytale. Each turn reveals a new perspective of the lush Napa Valley landscape, framed by the garden's carefully curated flowerbeds.

The gardens boast a diverse array of plants that thrive in Napa's warm climate, creating an ever-changing landscape that complements the winery and vineyards. This blend of delicately cultivated beauty reflects Far Niente's commitment to environmental stewardship and aesthetic excellence, transporting its visitors into storybook bliss. It is no wonder that guests comment on the unwavering beauty of the gardens.

Far Niente's gardens are more than just a visual spectacle — they are an integral part of the winery experience. With picturesque nooks for outdoor tastings, guests can enjoy the estate's renowned wines in an unparalleled setting. The ambiance is designed to enhance the journey of wine tasting and create a multifaceted experience that engages all the senses, promising to leave a lasting impression on all its visitors. If you're looking for things to do in Napa Valley that don't include drinking, there are also endless blossoming passages to roam at leisure.

In addition to its stunning grounds, Far Niente has a range of unique wine-tasting experiences that take full advantage of its garden setting. A private tasting allows guests to enjoy a curated selection of wines nestled within one of the garden's alcoves. For those wanting a more comprehensive experience, the group tours offer a guided exploration of the estate and its wine caves with a seated tasting, immersing visitors in the winery's history and varietals.

Each wine at Far Niente is truly unparalleled. Depending on the weather, time, and group size, visitors can enjoy their drinks outside in the gardens or within the winery itself, ensuring that each tasting provides the optimal setting for appreciating the exceptional chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon. Despite Napa Valley's popularity, guests of Far Niente can enjoy solitude and peace.

As a true testament to Napa Valley, Far Niente combines natural beauty, horticultural wonder, and world-class wines into one unforgettable destination. Everyone who visits is encouraged to savor the moment and indulge in the simple pleasures of wine and nature. For a similarly magical experience outside the U.S., head to this underrated wine region in France that's full of old-world charm.