The 4-Hour Rule: Yountville

What do we talk about when we talk about Napa?

Probably a bunch of sh*t you’ve already seen, done and Instagrammed five times before.

But today, we present one exception to that rule: Vintage House, a just-opened hotel in the heart of Yountville with 80 private bungalows spread across 22 pristine acres.

We’ve got everything you need for a decadent trip up north, from Carrera marble and a wood-burning fireplace to a private tour of one of Napa’s most secluded spots.

WHERE TO STAY

Vintage House, just opened in October, is the beneficiary of a “multi-million” dollar investment, with 80 bungalows on The Estate Yountville — a 22-acre expanse including this hotel, another scheduled to open in the spring, a spa, and retail space. Vintage House’s prime offering is the bungalow-style Villa Suite, with balcony, king-sized bed, a wood-burning fireplace, and either soaking tubs or rain showers.

WHERE TO EAT

You’ve probably already been to French Laundry — instead, try the almost equally pedigreed Redd from chef Richard Reddington — or his considerably more laidback pizza place, Redd Wood, for wood-fired pizzas, pasta, and charcuterie. Bonus: Redd Wood offers continual service, making it a smart stop if you’re wiped out after a long afternoon tasting wines and want an exceptionally early dinner. (More time in front of the fireplace, natch.)

WHAT TO DO

Stop by the original Bouchon Bakery for breakfast — a bacon cheddar scone never hurt anyone — and pack up a lunch for a trip to the vineyards (we’d go with the Brie.L.T. sandwich and a French dip). Napa Cellars was founded in the 1970s, with zinfandels and cabernet sauvignons; now the focus is on a French-oak chardonnay — as well as picnicking, which is permitted here; just be sure to buy your wine locally (like, at Napa Cellars, as no outside alcohol is permitted).

WHERE TO HIKE

Visiting the Archer Taylor Preserve takes some advance planning: Access requires a request, by email, 48 hours in advance. See here for details — or check with the Land Trust of Napa Valley, which offers guided tours here and to other protected spots, like this New Year’s climb up Mt. Saint Helena. Note that the Land Trust is still contending with some wildfire damage on some of the properties it oversees; check their site for details.