On a recent trip to downtown Napa, I had the pleasure of staying at Churchill Manor Bed and Breakfast. The 1889 historic grand manor was the first Napa residence to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Once inside, you’ll see why this property made it on to this prestigious list.
With 10 guest rooms located inside the Napa Valley inn, each room is unique. Most rooms are located upstairs, but the Carneros room is located on the first floor if you don’t like stairs (the bed and breakfast does not have an elevator.) All rooms include a gas burning fireplace and ensuite bathroom. Five rooms feature king beds, while the additional five guest rooms include queen beds.
I stayed in the Rutherford room, named after the famous Napa Valley wine appellation that produces world renowned Cabernet Sauvignon wine. Not only did this large room include a comfortable king bed, it also offered a twin daybed. My favorite features of the room were the oversized claw foot bathtub and the gas fireplace. Look inside the closet for white cotton robes and slippers and then drop some bath tablets into the tub and relax before happy hour begins.
Guests are greeted with fresh baked cookies in the afternoon and the evening wine and appetizer reception takes place in the parlor from 5:30-7:30 p.m. After a day of wine tasting and exploring the Napa Valley, you’ll be within easy walking distance of downtown Napa, Oxbow Market and the many restaurants and tasting rooms. The inn offers off street parking, but I found its location an added bonus, as I like parking my car and exploring the historic downtown on foot.
As Churchill Manor is a member of Unique Inns and Select Registry, among other lodging organizations, you may expect to be well fed and looked after. The innkeeper, as well as the owners are very “hands on” and are happy to offer suggestions for winery visits or great places to ride the tandem bicycle built for two! They even have bike helmets. Make time to wander in the rose garden, play a game of croquet or simply relax with a glass of wine or cup of tea on the veranda.
Of course, what’s a bed and breakfast without a gourmet breakfast?
Hotel rates start at $199 to $409 and are priced according to availability. There is a two night minimum on weekends, but do call the inn for last minute specials. You can make reservations directly with the inn or go through Tripadvisor. If you are celebrating a special occasion or it’s your birthday, you may find a little treat in your room. If it’s not a special occasion, I’ll let you in on a little secret; guests are able to purchase the handmade wine-infused chocolate truffles that Churchill Manor keeps on hand. This is sure to make your stay in the Napa Valley a little sweeter!
Churchill Manor Bed and Breakfast review and all photos by San Francisco Bay Area travel writer Nancy D. Brown. Her stay was hosted by Churchill Manor. As always, her thoughts and opinions are her own.