The Shangri-La Hotel in Sydney Australia lights up the city

There’s lots to do and see in the lively city of Sydney, Australia.  Check out the harbor, go on a wine tasting tour in Hunter Valley, hang out on the beaches, or take in the exciting nightlife.

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View from Artesa Winery in Napa

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, now is the time to start planning your romantic getaway. Thanks to our current Mayor of San Francisco, Gavin Newsom, you have this beautiful and upscale choice less than two hours from the city.

Carneros Inn Cottages

The Carneros Inn, a Plumpjack Resort is a jewel at the entrance to Napa Valley. It is a perfect escape and location for a weekend wine tasting or just relaxing. My husband and I stayed in a cottage soon after the resort opened a couple of years ago and had a very relaxing weekend – starting with sampling wines at the gorgeously modern hillside (and near by) Artesa Winery.

The second time we returned, we stayed in a two-bedroom cottage that is part of The Orchard, their small group of luxurious homes on the resort property that are for sale. Each time our experience just gets better and better.

As you pull into the property just past Domaine Carneros/Taittinger Winery, if you are coming from San Francisco, follow the signs to the Registration up on the hilltop. As you check in the staff offers you a chilled glass of local champagne, then gallantly escorts you to your cottage via a quiet electric golf cart.

Cottage patio and outdoor shower

One of my favorite features in their cottages is the outdoor shower. Inside your bathroom, your shower glass door opens to the outside allowing you to experience the slightly decadent and often romantic alfresco shower.  And the heated floor in the bathroom warms your feet as you dry off.

Each 450 square foot cottage comes with a wood burning fireplace for a romantic evening with room service or a lazy morning before check out.

The property has a few restaurants to choose from now, starting with the roadside Boon Fly Cafe, but I recommend The Farm for an intimate dinner for two – and ask for the table that faces the fireplace for a great view during your meal. Bring something warm to layer on after dinner then definitely consider having a night cap outside on one of the couches around the fire pit before heading back to your cottage.

The Carneros Inn is the perfect blend of warmth and luxury with an easy drive from the Bay Area – and a great romantic escape.