Napa Valley Named One Of ‘The World’s 100 Greatest Places Of 2021’ By TIME

Jamie Ferrell - Senior Staff Writer • August 6, 2021

One of the world’s greatest places is just across the Bay!

TIME has released their 2021 list of the World’s 100 Greatest Places, and nearby Napa Valley was named for its resilience and hospitality in the aftermath of the region’s devastating wildfires.

During the past year, the travel, tourism and hospitality industries have suffered immensely. TIME compiled this list as a tribute to the cities that “found ways to adapt, build and innovate” despite the circumstances. The magazine’s international network of contributors and correspondents nominated hundreds of places around the world, and the resulting list of 100 places is truly impressive and fascinating. Of the 100 locations included, 20 of them are located in the United States. Los Angeles is the only other California city mentioned.

Freelance writer Matt Villano nominated Napa Valley, specifically several newly-opened locations. Here are the main reasons Napa Valley made the cut:

The Four Seasons in Calistoga

Scheduled to open in late 2021, this will be the only resort in California built amid a working winery. They champion a “grape-to-glass” experience and specialize in Cabernet Sauvignon. Their award-winning winemaker, Thomas Rivers Brown, was named 2010’s “winemaker of the year” by Food & Wine magazine. The resort also offers the chance for visitors to participate in the winemaking process, such as harvesting and sorting the fruit. The resort’s stylish rooms and suites are designed with a rustic, farmhouse-chic style.

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Stanly Ranch in Carneros

Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection

This 700-acre ranch features 135 quaint private cottages, many of which have outdoor showers and fireplaces, plus even more villas and home residences. It’s set to open in late 2021 as a beautiful, picturesque escape among the rolling vineyards. According to a press release, the resort will have a “great lawn” with an espresso bar and bakery; a casual restaurant and bar featuring local ingredients; bocce ball, outdoor concerts, and barbecues; a pool surrounded by a lavender garden; a spa and fitness center; and more.

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Fleetwood in Calistoga

Photo by Emma K. Morris, courtesy of Fleetwood

This beautiful Italian- and Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in Calistoga creates amazing wood-fired pizzas and more in a gorgeous yet casual dining space. Chef Drew Glassell’s creative, seasonal menus are driven by local produce that reflects the Napa Valley environment. Their brand-new location features both indoor and outdoor tables, private event spaces, and a seasonal events calendar with live music and more.

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Faust Wines in St. Helena

This stunning winery stands out for its location in a restored 19th century farmhouse mansion surrounded by expansive vineyards and mountain views. You can participate in wine tastings both in their lovely outdoor space or in their new indoor tasting room at the estate. The ranch setting provides a unique wine tasting experience that you won’t find elsewhere.

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Featured image: Michael Warwick via Shutterstock