operated by Balloons Above The Valley. It
turned out to be a disappointment, though,
through no fault of the balloon company.
There are many different options, but I
chose to get up at the crack of dawn to be
able to be in the balloon as the sun rose
and then see the splendor of the Napa Val-
ley from a hot air balloon. But on this day,
there was a wind issue in Napa, so we were
shipped some 30 miles down the highway
and took a trip over tomato fields and ol-
ive groves. Nothing against tomatoes and
olives, but it just wasn't the same or what I
had signed up for.
As for accommodations, the top of the line
hotel is the Auberge du Soleil, which many
consider to be the most luxurious boutique
hotel in the Napa Valley. It has a Michelin
restaurant, your own terrace, an award-win-
ning spa, complimentary use of a Mer-
cedes-Benz, and your package of goodies
upon arrival includes a bottle of wine. The
view from the restaurant is enough to make
your stay special all by itself. All of this,
however, will be reflected in your final bill.
Some vacations disappoint; some are exact-
ly what you expect. Not Wine Country, Napa
or Sonoma. It will take you well beyond your
highest expectations. Guaranteed.
Auberge du Soleil
Auberge du Soleil
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