A 14th century Tuscan castle in the middle of Napa Valley? No, your eyes are not deceiving you.
This is the surprise that greets many visitors to California’s wine country.
Castello di Amorosa is a winery located near Calistoga, California, that was built by Dario Sattui, a fourth-generation vintner who wanted to honor his Italian heritage and his great-grandfather Vittorio, who founded a winery in San Francisco in 1885. Sattui bought the property in 1993 and spent 14 years constructing an authentically styled 14th century Tuscan castle, using the same techniques and materials as medieval builders.
The castle has 107 rooms on eight levels, and boasts all the features that you would expect to find in a castle such as a moat, a drawbridge, a courtyard, a torture chamber, a chapel, and a great hall with frescoes and a 500-year-old fireplace.
But don’t be fooled by the feeling that you’re traveling in Tuscany, this is an American winery that produces mainly Italian-style wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Muscato. Castello di Amorosa is open to the public for tours and tastings, concerts, and festivals. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone who loves architecture, wine, or romance—or just the romance of medieval history.
This stunning castle hosts the annual Midsummer Medieval Feast that features authentic medieval activities, such as jousting, archery, falconry, sword fighting, live music, dancing, storytelling, and crafts from the period.
And of course, you can’t miss the delicious food and wine that the castle is famous for.
You can also just admire the fantastic views of the Napa Valley with its lush green hills and rows upon rows of vines.
What to See and Do:
If you’re planning to visit for more than a day, then you will be happy to learn that the area offers many other places of interest that will make your trip even more memorable.
Calistoga was built around its numerous hot springs, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of spas in the area where you can relax, detox and enjoy pampering for your body and mind.
If this is what you are looking for then the Solage Resort might be your ideal destination.
Here are some of the many sites to see besides the Castello di Amorosa:
– Old Faithful Geyser of California: If you’re looking for a natural wonder, you can’t miss this geyser that erupts every 15 to 30 minutes, shooting water up to 60 feet in the air. You can also visit the geology museum, the petting zoo, and the picnic area on the grounds.
– Petrified Forest: For a glimpse into the past, you can visit this forest that was turned into stone by a volcanic eruption millions of years ago. You can walk among the giant redwood fossils, learn about the history and geology of the area, and admire the views of Mount St. Helena (this is not Mt. St. Helens) , a peak in the Mayacamas Mountains that has flanks in Napa, Sonoma, and Lake counties of California. At 4,342 ft, it’s the 44th highest peak in California.
– Safari West: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a safari tour of this wildlife preserve that houses over 900 animals from Africa and Asia. You can see giraffes, zebras, rhinos, cheetahs, and more as you ride in an open-air vehicle or walk along the trails. You can also stay overnight in a luxury tent or cottage for a truly immersive experience.
-The nearby town of Calistoga, only a few minutes away, is the place to go for restaurants, spas and shopping.
Where to Eat:
Whether you want to enjoy some authentic Italian cuisine, sample some local wines, or try something new and exotic, you’ll find something to suit your taste and budget.
– La Piazza: This cozy and elegant restaurant offers a variety of dishes from different regions of Italy, such as pizza, pasta, risotto, and seafood. The ingredients are fresh and organic, and the service is friendly and attentive. You can also enjoy a glass of wine from their extensive list, or a dessert from their pastry chef. La Piazza is located just a few minutes away from the castle, on Highway 29.
– Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch: This farm-to-table restaurant serves American classics with a twist, using ingredients from their own organic farm and ranch. You can savor dishes like grass-fed beef burgers, wood-fired pizzas, grilled salmon, and roasted chicken. The restaurant also has a wine bar, a cheese shop, and a general store. Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch is situated on Main Street, about 10 minutes away from the castle.
– Bouchon Bistro: The noted upscale French bistro owned by Thomas Keller is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a menu of classic dishes like onion soup, steak frites, escargots, and duck confit. The atmosphere is cozy and lively, with a zinc bar and a fireplace. The restaurant also has a bakery next door, where you can buy delicious fresh bread, pastries, and coffee. Bouchon Bistro is located on Washington Street, about 15 minutes away from the castle.
Where to Stay:
Whether you want a cozy bed and breakfast, a luxurious resort, or a family-friendly hotel, you can find something that suits your needs and budget.
– The Bergson: This charming inn features elegant rooms with fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and balconies. You can savor a complimentary breakfast every morning, sip wine in the afternoon, or relax in the garden. The inn is conveniently located within walking distance of downtown Calistoga and a short drive from the Castello di Amorosa.
– Mount View Hotel & Spa: This historic hotel, in downtown Calistoga, offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, such as flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. You can also indulge in a massage or a facial at the spa, soak in the mineral pools, or enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant. The hotel is only a few minutes away from the Castello di Amorosa by car or bike.
