There's no shortage of hotels in California Wine Country, but few offer the same value-packed experience as Grand Reserve at The Meritage. A hotel within a hotel, Grand Reserve at The Meritage is part of the larger Meritage Resort complex in Napa Valley. Here, you’ll find upscale accommodations, a serene swimming pool, a handful of farm-to-table restaurants and tasting rooms, and a slew of luxe amenities. This expansive and newly renovated property offers guests plenty of room to roam and explore — or sip vino — at their own pace.
Grand Reserve at The Meritage looks like it’s been plucked straight out of Tuscany with its stunning architecture, Tuscan-style decor, and sweeping vineyard views. The small reception area features dark woods, white seating, and pops of red in the form of throw pillows and rugs — perhaps an homage to the region’s signature Cabernet Sauvignon. The elegant aesthetic carries into the sizable guest rooms and suites, which are fitted with a natural palette, dark wooden furnishings, and deep purple and olive-green accents. Private balconies or patios are perfect for enjoying the included bottle of wine. For a worth-it splurge, opt for one of the suites, which start at a spacious 850 square feet and offer all of the above plus sumptuous four-poster beds, a fully equipped kitchen with marble countertops, and a cozy living room.
Upscale and chic but not-at-all stuffy (because not all Napa stays are pretentious!). Most guests are in town for wine tastings, and you'll see couples sharing a glass on the many outdoor Adirondack chairs and groups of friends heading to and from downtown Napa, which is just 10 minutes away via resort shuttle. A massive lawn surrounded by on-site boutique tasting rooms makes it feel almost like a village, which makes sense given that it’s called The Village. Come nighttime, twinkling string lights illuminate the entire area.
Anyone seeking a high-end, personalized experience will appreciate the hotel’s thoughtful touches — like chocolates at turndown, sparkling wine upon arrival, and wine in each room — as well as its attentive staff.
Those looking to stay in the heart of Napa may find the location a bit remote. That said, it's just a short drive or shuttle ride away.
The Village, the property’s 16,000-square-foot event lawn peppered with comfy chairs and shade, takes the cake. Surrounding the lawn are boutique tasting rooms, each unique in decor and offerings. You’ll also find Fivetown Grocery, an upscale indoor farmers market where you can grab a coffee, a bottle of wine, a breakfast sandwich, or fresh pastries. Next to this is the Food & Wine Center, where you can partake in cooking classes (like tacos and tequila or brunch and bubbles) designed by chef Vincent Lesage. Also steps away from the lawn is the aptly named Village Bistro, which serves decadent French fare like steak frites, beef bourguignon, and bouillabaisse.
Spa Terra, which is part of the hotel’s sister property, The Meritage Resort & Spa, is a close second. Built into a 22,000-square-foot cave underneath the resort, the spa houses 12 treatment rooms where you can choose locally inspired services like grape seed facials and lavender body scrubs. Between treatments, there's a relaxation lounge, whirlpools, and steam rooms.
Guests at the Grand Reserve have access to all of the amenities of The Meritage Resort & Spa, including access to its drinking and dining venues, vineyard, and adults-only pool overlooking said vineyard. Over at Grand Reserve, guests can access The Village and its surrounding restaurants, tasting rooms, and shops.
Fees and Extra Costs You Should Know About at Grand Reserve at The Meritage
In addition to the above-mentioned amenities, Wi-Fi, and an in-room bottle of wine, Grand Reserve guests are privy to extra perks such as:
All of these are included in a $45 nightly resort fee.
The best way to get a deal is by checking the resort's website under the offers tab. Current specials include family-themed packages and 30% off rates for military personnel, to name a few.
Set among 400 wineries in the region, this property offers easy access to a multitude of tastings. It's directly across the street from its sister property, The Meritage Resort & Spa, which offers even more drinking and dining options. Don’t miss Crush Lounge, where you can sip boozy milkshakes and go bowling.
Just a few miles down the road, you'll find Oxbow Public Market, a modern food hall with everything from fresh oysters and ice cream to local cheeses and burgers. The market, along with the surrounding downtown Napa area, is easily accessible via a resort shuttle.
Napa County Airport is about three miles from Grand Reserve at The Meritage. Alternatively, the property is an hour's drive from the more accessible Sacramento and San Francisco airports.
Napa doesn't offer a whole lot in the way of public transportation. The best option is booking a tour, renting a car, or using a ridesharing app like Uber. As previously mentioned, though, the property does offer complimentary shuttle service to and from downtown Napa.
This upscale property feels like a destination unto its own — wine lovers will barely have to leave the complex.