Romantic Cottages in Wine Country

Cottage Grove Inn, located in California wine country, looks like something out of a storybook: two rows of private cottages are shaded by century-old elm trees, many of which are adorned with wooden bird feeders. Each cottage has a small porch to look out at the wildflowers, water fountains, and wicker rocking chairs that dot the grounds.

The inn’s 16 cottages are designed for peace and privacy. Individual stone walkways lead to partially enclosed porches bordered by leafy trees and neatly trimmed hedges. Inside the private units, you’ll find unique architectural features such as hardwood floors salvaged from an old whiskey distillery and vaulted ceilings punctuated by skylights. Luxurious amenities, including two-person hot tubs and wood-burning fireplaces, add romance and warmth.

In the morning, the inn lays out a breakfast of quiche, waffles, and freshly blended smoothies. There’s also an outdoor patio area adorned with café tables and a water fountain. With this Groupon, you’ll get a bottle of wine and tastings for two at local wineries, including Tedeschi Family Winery.

Calistoga, California: Down-to-Earth Hamlet in Northern Napa Valley

The story goes like this: 19th-century developer Samuel Brannan wanted to create a West Coast version of Saratoga Springs (renowned at the time for its mineral spas), but he had been drinking when he made the announcement and so the name came out garbled as the “Calistoga of Sarifornia.” This origin myth sounds a little fishy, but nevertheless, Brannan’s vision of creating a relaxing and therapeutic Napa Valley getaway was eventually realized. Thanks to the area’s natural hot springs, a slew of spas sprang up, offering restorative mineral soaks and mud baths. You can still find many such businesses peppered among the restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries lining Calistoga’s quaint, quiet main street, which is set against a backdrop of rolling hills.

Those hills are home to some of Napa Valley’s more than 400 wineries, many of which lie within a short drive of downtown Calistoga. The curious wine lover can choose from a wide array of vineyard experiences, ranging from tours to tastings at wineries modeled on English castles and Tuscan villas. One word of warning: many of these places require reservations, so be sure to book in advance.

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