Milliken Creek Inn & Spa

Until recently, the city of Napa was more a rest stop on the way to its eponymous valley. But the past decade has witnessed a flowering of culinary creativity, and the hoteliers have followed suit — it's only in this new Napa that a place like the Milliken Creek Inn & Spa could exist.

More an upscale bed and breakfast than a traditional hotel, Milliken Creek is nothing if not intimate. It’s idiosyncratic as well — a sort of British-Africa theme adds some character, and you can choose any location you like for your breakfast service.

The setting, just a few miles up Silverado Trail from downtown, is as serene as can be; each of the twelve rooms looks out over the Napa river, some from private decks. A color scheme of khaki, chocolate and cream sets a restful tone, and guest rooms include luxuries like fireplaces, king beds, high-end linens and L'Occitane bath products. Flat-screen televisions and wireless internet are standard.

Activities are minimal but well-chosen, including spa treatments and massages with a view of the river, and passes are available for a nearby fitness center. The day's highlight is the Magic Hour wine and cheese reception, an evening hosted by a variety of local vintners. Some will use Milliken Creek as a jumping-off point for trips farther north into the wine country, but it’s quite well suited as a destination unto itself.