Expect all of your senses to be stirred in Napa Valley. It begins visually with an infinite patchwork of sun-soaked vineyards cradled by the rocky Vaca Range to the east and the green Mayacamas Mountains to the west. Lording over this majestic acreage are castles and magnificent estates inviting you to come and kick back, to taste and enjoy some of the finest wine in the world. Experience an adventure in sensory pleasure. Take a stroll through a vineyard. Crumble the volcanic soil between your fingers. Dust the soil off your shoes and listen to the sounds of nature. Taste the terroir in each wine. Smell the nuances in each heavenly pour. Life here revolves around the growing seasons and at it's heart, Napa Valley is an agricultural community focused on celebrating life's simple joys. Come delight in its beauty and savor the pleasures of eating, drinking and enjoying life abundantly. Each year, more than three million visitors arrive to experience the premium wineries packed into this small valley. Napa's bachnalian muse seduces people from all walks of life. For the newcomer, the options (and cost) can be overwhelming, but don't worry. Napa Valley offers something for everyone, whatever your budget. Writer and photographer Sharon Pieniak searched for the valley's real heart and soul. She made it her mission to research and visit as many wineries as possible and to learn about life here - of the vines and their people. Hunting down every trail and sampling as many restaurants as possible, Sharon discovered that a visit to wine country is even more enjoyable with non-wine activities mixed in. This guide is a collection of experiences that showcase the best of Napa Valley's many varied layers. Step off the unsurprising tourist track and take a joyride beyond the valley floor. Spend some time with eclectic art collections. Dive into new culinary territory with expert chefs. Learn some viticulture. View some living history. Get lost here, and you'll find more than you bargained for. Whatever your budget, style or taste, prepare to be amazed.
