Designed to Travel: An Inside Look at Meadowood Napa Valley
Interior design maven Christine Gachot and her fellow designer husband John open up their travel diaries
There are a handful of hotels around the world that are so special, travelers have got to experience them to fully understand just how special they are—the “if you know, you know” kind of places. To truly grasp the amazing hospitality, from the atmosphere to the cuisine and all the thoughtful touches in between, a visit is necessary. A hotel that certainly falls within this category is Meadowood Napa Valley.
Meadowood is a family run resort and spa within the Harlan family’s prolific portfolio that also includes several wine estates and a members’ club. What was once a local country club, William Harlan transformed into a refined retreat in the late 1970s—part hotel, part private club, part culinary destination for locals, San Franciscans, and global travelers alike. On 250 acres, most of which is forest, Meadowood’s 36 guest room cottages sit secluded, tucked into the lush landscape of the property. It is relaxing and peaceful, with a proximity to nature that is celebrated. Thoughtful sightlines and paths connect guests to three miles of hiking trails, multiple swimming pools, tennis and croquet courts, a restaurant and café, and one of the world’s most beautiful spas.
Making an Entrance…
My journey to Meadowood was totally unplanned. It was October 2022, and John and I were in California for the San Francisco Fall Antiques Show. While at the fair, a client introduced me to the lovely Amanda Harlan who runs Meadowood with her parents and brother. She graciously offered to set up a tour of their Napa Valley Reserve members’ club while we were in the area.
It was early Friday evening when we arrived at Napa Valley Reserve. As expected, it was stunning—nothing short of magical. Elegant, warm, and completely in tune with the land. With local, national, and international members, the club offers an opportunity to experience the wine growing process—the Harlans exposing the Reserve community to their own family traditions.
Our host suggested we take a look at Meadowood, just up the hill from Napa Valley Reserve. The sun had nearly set, and the light was fading, so we accepted the invitation to sit down for dinner.
Come Hungry (and Thirsty!)…
The food was beautiful, and the wine delicious. It was all so regional and fresh. We started with a bottle of Reeve Kiser Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019 and a charcuterie board—the bread was dangerously good. I followed it with the grilled swordfish, served with local tomatoes and olives (my traveling companion, James Gersten, swears it’s the best he’s ever tasted).
Every dish was perfect, thoughtfully adorned with local fresh herbs and edible flowers. And every bottle of wine we enjoyed was fabulous: with the first, we were plotting our return—with the second, we were serious about spending the night. So, bolstered by some liquid courage, I walked up to the hostess stand late into the evening and just threw it out there: “Is there any possibility of staying for the evening?”
The team at Meadowood floated around the property like they had all just had a glass of wine. Where there is formality at other hotels, there is a casual nature at Meadowood that feels authentic and easy. Everyone is so friendly and kind. Our inquiry was met with genuine warmth—the way they so seamlessly handled our requests was hospitality at its finest. Fortunately, they were able to accommodate us! Time for a third bottle of wine…
Rest Your Head…
Eventually, we made it to our suite, which was as charming as ever. The entire property incorporates materials that feel authentic to its setting. The guest rooms are crisp and cozy with white wainscotting and perfectly placed windows that embrace the surrounding nature. A fireplace, beautiful sheets, and a private terrace made the cottage feel residential.
We woke up with the sun to see all the beautiful vegetation that envelops the resort. The air was brisk—it was harvest season in Napa and the valley was glowing in peak fall colors. It almost felt like East Coast spring with the foliage in bloom, yet somehow, I could breathe!
That Extra Mile…
The team generously offered us an early morning tour of the resort grounds. If you’ve only heard rumors of Napa, Meadowood is quintessentially it. From the fresh smells of nature to the eye candy of lush vegetation and mouthwatering dishes, it’s a sensory overload in the best way.
The spa is breathtaking—visually mind-blowing. The most authentic materials are perfectly aligned. None of it feels contrived. Whereas the guest rooms are a bit brighter, the spa is a little more wabi-sabi with rich texture and deep colors. Live edge stone, textured wood, and several areas that are open to the elements, the spa felt incredibly organic.
Make Yourself at Home…
Given that our stay was incredibly impromptu, our thoughtful host guided us to the Estate Boutique where we shopped an exquisitely curated collection. We ended up with more than we needed.
Next thing we know, we’re lounging poolside. John took a dip while I sipped a fully loaded Bloody Mary that was nearly as tasty as the dinner we’d had the night before. Meadowood is still a local country club, and the element of community was notable even during our short stay. Evening diners caught up at each other’s tables. At the pool, people knew the team very well—by name, always. The friendliness went both ways.
Don’t Miss…
On our way out, the Meadowood team insisted we visit their friends at Charter Oak for lunch. Saturday in St. Helena—the restaurant was busy, but they kindly accommodated us. Open flame cooking and a beautiful garden where we dined outside, Charter Oak didn’t disappoint. We were toasting to our spontaneous adventure when Amanda Harlan walked in. We all got a kick out of telling her our story—“We’re such hotel junkies, dressed head to toe in clothes from your boutique!” It was a hilarious, full-circle moment.
That was my first time staying elsewhere than the hotel where I already had a reservation, but it probably won’t be my last. It’s no surprise that this happy accident occurred at Meadowood—a place where genuine hospitality was felt at every turn. From the generosity that Amanda showed us with her thoughtful invitation to tour, to the warmth the entire team displayed from the moment we stepped foot on property. They were welcoming, gracious, and incredibly friendly. California casual or California kindness? There seems to be a whole lot of both at Meadowood.
Next Trip…
I am definitely going back—this fall, I hope! And I’ll plan my stay in advance this time, so I can be sure to experience the spa. A customized treatment is top of my list, for sure. I’d also love to play tennis and have a meal or two at the Forum restaurant and Terrace Café.