Discover The Top
Things to Do in Napa Valley

Indulge in Luxury: A 3-Day Napa Valley Experience

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Are you in need of a relaxing escape with a hint of luxury and a splash of adventure? Look no further than the Meritage Resort and Spa in the heart of Napa Valley. This 3-day itinerary is tailor-made for wine enthusiasts, luxury travelers, couples, and those planning a girls’ trip.

Are you in need of a relaxing escape with a hint of luxury and a splash of adventure? Look no further than the Meritage Resort and Spa in the heart of Napa Valley. This 3-day itinerary is tailor-made for wine enthusiasts, luxury travelers, couples, and those planning a girls’ trip. With stunning landscapes, world-class wines, and exquisite dining experiences, prepare yourself for an unforgettable getaway.

Day 1 Arrive and Vineyard Stroll

Check-In with a Bubbly Welcome

Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome glass of champagne, setting the tone for your luxurious stay. The resort's warm ambiance and attentive service make you feel at home.

Sunset Vineyard Walk

Once settled, take a leisurely walk through the sprawling vineyards. Stroll among the grapevines and make sure to visit the charming chicken coop. This delightful adventure is best enjoyed around sunset when the golden glow transforms the landscape into a picture-perfect scene.

Dinner at Olive & Hay

Conclude your day with a meal at Olive & Hay, the resort's farm-to-table restaurant. Enjoy California-Italian cuisine with locally-sourced ingredients. Don't miss the seasonal burrata dish featuring jam made from our garden. Pair your meal with Napa wines in the cozy vineyard ambiance. 

Day 2 Indulge and Adventure

Morning Relaxation by the Pool

Start your day by unwinding by one of Meritage's luxurious pools. The serene environment is perfect for leisurely mornings.

Wine Tasting at The Village

Explore the world of wine at The Village of onsite tasting rooms at the Meritage, featuring Trinitas Cellars, Sora Napa, Gen 7 Wines, and Anarchist Wine Co. The tasting rooms offer a delightful experience, guiding you through a selection of exceptional wines that capture the essence of Napa Valley. 

Dinner at Up-Scale Steakhouse, Ember Steak  

End your day with a sumptuous dinner at Ember Steak, where fine food lovers find their paradise. The expertly cooked dishes and cozy atmosphere provide an ideal dining experience. The restaurant's carefully curated wine list enhances every bite, making it a must-visit for any gourmet traveler.

Late Night Bowling at Crush

Add a touch of fun to your evening with a visit to the Crush Lounge. Enjoy a friendly game or two, making it a memorable part of your Napa Valley itinerary.

Day 3 Relax and Explore

Morning Bliss at Spa Terra

Begin your final day with ultimate relaxation at Spa Terra, located within the Estate Cave of the Meritage Resort. This tranquil setting offers a serene start to your day, enveloping you in the soothing atmosphere of an underground retreat. Enjoy luxurious treatments like massages and facials, all designed to rejuvenate your mind and body. After your treatment, relax in the spa’s lounge, savoring the peace before your adventures in downtown Napa.

Exploring Downtown Napa

Your final day invites you to explore the charm of downtown Napa. Discover boutique shops, artisanal cafes, and local art galleries. The vibrant city center offers a mix of culture and leisure, providing a delightful contrast to the serene countryside. Meritage offers transportation, making your journey even more convenient.

Farewell Dinner in Your Room with Vineyard Views

Conclude your luxurious getaway with a farewell dinner delivered via room service, allowing you to savor a delectable meal paired with exceptional wines while enjoying stunning vineyard views from the comfort of your room. Relax and relish the impeccable service and exquisite cuisine, creating a perfect finale to your Napa Valley adventure.

In three days, Meritage Resort and Spa showcases Napa Valley's best. From vineyard strolls to dining, every moment blends relaxation and indulgence. Whether you're a wine lover, a couple seeking romance, or friends on a getaway, this itinerary promises a remarkable experience. Cheers to new memories and luxury in Napa!

Escape to Napa with Black Friday Specials

The Meritage Resort & Spa

Are you dreaming of a vineyard escape that combines indulgence, relaxation, and luxury? Look no further than The Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa Valley, where Black Friday savings make it possible to enjoy an opulent getaway without breaking the bank. 

Discover Black Friday Savings at The Meritage Resort and Spa 

The Meritage Resort and Spa offers a fantastic luxury getaway with exclusive Black Friday deals. Enjoy our best deal of the year when you book by December 4, 2024: 30% off our best available rate and a $30 daily resort credit for stays now through March 2025! 

Whether you're planning a winter escape or looking ahead to a stay through next year, these exclusive savings won’t last long. Book now to take advantage of this amazing offer!  

Give the Gift of Relaxation at Spa Terra 

Escape to a world of tranquility and indulgence at The Meritage Resort and Spa's award-winning underground cave spa. Visit Spa Terra until December 24, 2024, to purchase $250 in gift cards, and receive a $25 bonus voucher to use towards spa retail from January 1, 2025-June 30, 2025.  

Choose from a variety of treatments that incorporate the healing properties of grapes, including massages, facials, and body wraps. Enhance your spa experience with a visit to the relaxation lounge, steam room, or whirlpool.  

Explore Luxurious Accommodations 

At The Meritage Resort and Spa, you'll find a variety of luxurious accommodations designed to provide the ultimate in comfort and relaxation. From elegant guest rooms to spacious suites with private balconies, each space is thoughtfully designed to enhance your stay. 

Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and hills, and take advantage of the resort's top-notch amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, sparkling pools, and exquisite dining options. With its tranquil atmosphere and attentive service, The Meritage Resort and Spa ensures a truly memorable experience. 

Indulge in World-Class Dining 

For culinary enthusiasts, The Meritage Resort and Spa presents an array of dining experiences that highlight the finest culinary offerings of Napa Valley. Guests can indulge in a diverse selection, from Italian-inspired dishes to expertly crafted steaks and sushi, all complemented by a curated selection of exquisite wines sourced from the region's premier vineyards. 

Whether you're enjoying a casual meal at the resort's café or indulging in a multi-course dinner at its Ember Steak, you'll find a diverse menu that caters to all tastes and preferences. With its emphasis on quality and creativity, the dining experience at The Meritage Resort and Spa is sure to delight even the most discerning palates. 

Plan Your Perfect Getaway 

Planning your perfect getaway to The Meritage Resort and Spa is easy with their Black Friday savings and exclusive offers. Whether you're seeking a romantic escape, a fun-filled adventure with friends, or a peaceful retreat on your own, the resort provides the ideal setting for a memorable vacation. 

Take advantage of the incredible savings and book your stay today. With its luxurious accommodations, world-class amenities, and stunning location, The Meritage Resort and Spa offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. 

Immerse Yourself in Wine Country 

Napa Valley is synonymous with wine country, offering a rich tapestry of vineyards, wineries, and tasting rooms that showcase the best of California's wine industry. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious novice, you'll find plenty to explore and enjoy in this renowned wine region. 

Take a guided tour of a local winery, sample a variety of wines at a tasting room, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the vineyards. With its emphasis on quality and craftsmanship, Napa Valley's wine country invites you to indulge in the pleasures of the vine. 

Create Lasting Memories 

A visit to The Meritage Resort and Spa is an opportunity to create lasting memories with loved ones. With our Black Friday savings, exclusive perks, and world-class amenities, our resort provides the perfect opportunity to escape and unwind in style. Whether you're planning a spontaneous holiday escape or looking ahead to travel adventures in 2025, The Meritage Resort and Spa invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty and elegance of one of California's most beloved destinations. Book your stay today and discover the magic of Napa Valley for yourself! 

Top 5 Most Romantic Spots In Napa

The Meritage Resort and Spa

It’s no secret that Napa Valley is one of the world’s most romantic destinations. Located in a breathtakingly beautiful area of Northern California, here are our Top 5 romantic things to do in Wine Country.

It’s no secret that Napa Valley is one of the world’s most romantic destinations. Located in a breathtakingly beautiful area of Northern California, here are our Top 5 romantic things to do in Wine Country.

1. Spa Terra - Meritage Resort and Spa

Nestled within the Estate Cave at Meritage Resort, Spa Terra offers an intimate environment that combines tranquility with unparalleled luxury. Couples can enjoy a variety of deluxe massages, including the Ocean Body Experience combining the Ocean Body Treatment and finishing with nourishing oils and a relaxation massage to lock in deep hydration.

DISCOVER MORE

2. Romantic Fine Dining - Ember Steak

Ember provides an exquisite dining experience, perfect for a romantic evening. Delight in expertly cooked steaks along with a carefully curated wine list from Napa Valley's finest selections. This upscale steakhouse offers an ideal setting for a dinner date to remember. 

RESERVE YOUR TABLE

3. Hot Air Balloons - Above Napa Valley

Get the bird’s eye view of Napa Valley during the early morning from a beautiful hot-air balloon ride over the vineyards. These once-in-a-lifetime rides are wonderful for romantic getaways, special occasion charters and champagne brunches. We recommend Balloons Above the Valley and our Concierge is happy to assist you with reservations.

FLY AWAY

4. Sunset Vineyard Stroll - Meritage Resort and Spa

Enjoy a peaceful walk through Meritage's sprawling vineyards as the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the landscape. This romantic stroll, enhanced by the vineyard's natural beauty, offers a perfect opportunity to share intimate moments with your loved one.

ESCAPE TO THE VINEYARDS

5. Explore Hand in Hand - Downtown Napa

Complete your list with a romantic stroll through downtown Napa. Wander hand in hand as you explore charming shops, art galleries, and delightful eateries. The vibrant atmosphere and quaint streets provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable experience.

EXPLORE NAPA 

The Chardonnay Pinot Classic…An Artful Blend of Wine Experiences

The Meritage Resort & Spa

Mark your calendars, warm up your sipping and swirling game, and prepare to expand your tasting horizons at the preeminent wine event in Napa Valley. The 3rd annual Chardonnay Pinot Classic is almost here! 

Mark your calendars, warm up your sipping and swirling game, and prepare to expand your tasting horizons at the preeminent wine event in Napa Valley. The 3rd annual Chardonnay Pinot Classic is almost here! From June 8th to June 11th you’ll have the opportunity to taste wines
from over 30 vineyards, savor gourmet feasts, attend wine education seminars, mingle with Master Sommeliers and winemakers, and more - all while benefiting the SommFoundation.

Whether you’re a novice sipper or a long-time oenophile, we invite you to sample some of the finest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the world, as well as other quintessential Napa
indulgences. Attend one event, visit for the day, or stay for the entire weekend surrounded by the luxury of The Meritage Resort & Spa. Here’s what you can look forward to:

The Tasting Events
At the heart of the weekend celebration - the tastings! Sample wines from over 30 wineries from around the world. Stroll from tasting to tasting under Napa skies, meet the vintners, compare regional characteristics, and find your new favorite. Live music and endless views of rolling vineyards set the tone. Or opt for a focused event: the California & France Panel-Led Tasting, Domaine Nico Winemaker’s Lunch, Cooking with Comedians Lunch, or the ZD Winemaker’s Dinner offer delicious deep-dives.

Behind the Bottle with Master Sommeliers
There are only 229 Master Sommeliers in the world, with four of them attending the weekend. On Saturday night, two Master Somms will guide you through an educational tasting of some of the finest wines worldwide - including rare vintages they have hand-selected from the SommFoundation’s private cellars. This event is available exclusively to Weekend Passport holders.

Ride & Dine on the Iconic Wine Train
Board the historic Napa Valley Wine Train, and journey through the lush vineyards of Napa in the bygone glamor of 100-year-old railcars. As the picture-perfect views roll by, indulge in a seven-course wine and food educational pairing curated by The Meritage Resort and Spa, The Napa Valley Wine Train, and the vintners of Trinitas Cellars. Sit back and soak in the elegant surrounds of luxury rail travel - it’s a dream-like way to kick off your weekend of wine appreciation.

Bubbles & Balloons Hot Air Balloon Ride
Rise and shine with an unforgettable way to start your day. Gently ascend right from the resort up to the clear skies overhead, and serenely float above the rolling hills and rambling vineyards of Napa Valley. Sip a bit of bubbly and toast to your incredible adventure.

Clink Glasses with Master Sommeliers and Winemakers
Of course, our visiting Master Sommeliers and winemakers will be leading panels and tastings, but they will also be mixing, mingling and participating in events all weekend long. Our approachable setting offers a rare opportunity to engage and enjoy with these aficionados.

The Weekend Passport
Engage in the full suite of curated experiences. The Weekend Passport is your entry to all panel-led tastings, two private winemaker lunches, two private winemaker dinners, and
exclusive access to Behind the Bottle with Master Sommeliers. Opt to extend your amazing weekend by adding the Napa Valley Wine Train wine and food pairing.

Sip and Stay Package
The perfect pairing and the very best way to experience it all. Pair the world-class wines, gourmet indulgences and unmatched experiences with the restful retreat of your luxurious guest room or suite. Privacy, repose and convenience is just an elevator ride away from all of the
action. The Sip and Stay package includes the Weekend Passport with its exclusive access to Behind the Bottle with Master Sommeliers event, and so much more.

SommFoundation
The SommFoundation’s mission is to assist those working in the wine and spirits industry to achieve the highest levels of proficiency and accreditation through scholarships, mentorships and enrichment opportunities. A portion of the proceeds of the Chardonnay Pinot Classic 2023 will be donated to the SommFoundation.

Whether you stay for a grand tasting, or the weekend, we look forward to hosting you at the 2023 Chardonnay Pinot Classic. Cheers!

Crush that Meeting in Napa!

The Meritage Resort & Spa

A meeting in Napa comes with certain expectations - acclaimed wines, gourmet foods, beautiful vistas of rolling vineyards. How can planners raise that bar even higher? Delight your attendees with inventive team-builders and creative add-ons that are pure Napa. From grape-stomping tournaments to culinary competitions, here are our selects for a showstopping Napa meeting at The Meritage Resort.

A meeting in Napa comes with certain expectations - acclaimed wines, gourmet foods, beautiful vistas of rolling vineyards. How can planners raise that bar even higher? Delight your attendees with inventive team-builders and creative add-ons that are pure Napa. From grape-stomping tournaments to culinary competitions, here are our selects for a showstopping Napa meeting at The Meritage Resort.

Cooking with Comedians
Flavors and laughter pair perfectly together at this unique immersive culinary experience. Our expert Chef and a professional comedian team up to perform a fun-filled cooking demonstration for your attendees, brimming with gourmet tastes and laughs.

Napa-Style Competitions
Ignite your attendees’ competitive streak with quintessential Napa fun. Divide your group into teams to engage in a grape stomping competition, custom scavenger hunts, a lawn game tournament, or a blending and bottling competition. When kicking back in Napa, everyone wins.

Hands-On Cooking Class
Swap out your classic group dinner for an immersive, team-building class. Your attendees take over the state-of-the-art kitchen in our Food and Wine Center, as our culinary team guides them through the preparation for a three-course meal, which they then enjoy family-style.

Shake it Up Class
Stir things up with a mixology class led by the experts in cocktail architecture from Fox on the Rox. Your group will learn bar hack tips and tricks, and mix, muddle and meld a creative cocktail to share and savor. Cheers!

Iron Chef Takedown
Bragging rights are on the line. Divide your group into teams who go head-to-head to create the tastiest dish to accompany a Chef-selected menu. Attendees put their strategic, collaborative, and culinary skills to the test to impress the Chef with their creation. After a winner is selected, the group enjoys the Chef-prepared menu along with their accompaniment.

Dine-Around
The perfect fit for a group too large for one restaurant. Our star-rated restaurants, lounges and tasting rooms can work together to accommodate your larger groups. They can revel in farm-to-table fare, French-influenced flavors, elevated bar food and more.

Wine-Around
Groups large and small can step out to our Tasting Village - a lush lawn encircled by three tasting rooms - to sip and savor wines from highly acclaimed boutique Napa Valley wineries. Sample the renowned Chardonnay and Cabernet by Trinitas Cellars, the uncommon varietals from Anarchist Wine Co. or the time-honed classics from Gen 7 wines, who have been perfecting their process since 1832. Or hold a customized tasting experience at our on-site vineyard.

We make it all easy with a DMC on property
Very unique to the region, The Meritage Resort has our own DMC right at the resort for your Bay Area meetings and group events. They will walk you through every step of the process and ensure excellent execution, making sure you crush your next Napa meeting.

The Meritage Resort is a destination within the destination, offering the most meeting space in Napa - over 80,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space. Hold your event in our newly renovated ballrooms, tasting rooms, estate cave, or outside surrounded by our lush lawns and vineyards. CONTACT US TODAY! .

6 Ways To Glowing Summer Skin

The Meritage Resort and Spa

We’ve teamed up with Spa Terra’s Training & Development Supervisor, Kolette Eaves to provide you with 6 ways to keep your skin comfortable and glowing in the Summertime. Follow these tips for your best skin yet!

We’ve teamed up with Spa Terra’s Training & Development Supervisor, Kolette Eaves to provide you with 6 ways to keep your skin comfortable and glowing in the Summertime. Follow these tips for your best skin yet!

1. Consider Changing Your Face Wash

Cleansing your face is the most basic skin care routine that you need to follow, regardless the season. During Summer, the climate is hot and humid. Your skin tends to produce more oil during this time, so you may want to change your cleanser accordingly. Oily skin takes a beating, as your pores can easily get clogged and cause acne, try a foamy cleanser with Salicylic Acid. Dry skin can become red or irritated, use a non-soapy face wash. For normal skin, switch to a gel-based face wash during the hot summer months. Remember to cleanse twice daily for optimal health.

2. Add a Punch of Antioxidants

Invest in serums, moisturizers, and sunscreens that come with an additional punch of antioxidants. Antioxidants brighten your skin, have powerful anti-aging benefits and protect your skin from harsh environmental aggressors like UV and pollution. Vitamin C is an Esthetician fav when it comes to antioxidants! Did you know grapes are high in Vitamin C? Cheers!

3. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water and do not forget to carry a water bottle with you wherever you go. Water keeps your body hydrated and refreshed and helps maintain your skins elasticity. People who drink more water are less likely to suffer from scars, wrinkles, soft lines, irritations and blemishes and they will not show as many signs of aging as those who drink less water.

4. Exfoliate

During Summer, your skin works hard to keep itself healthy and heal any irritation or sunburn. Do your skin a favor and help this process by exfoliating. Gently exfoliate 2-3 times per week to uncover fresh new skin cells and open a way for moisturizing products to penetrate deeply, making them more effective. This is especially important during the hot months when your skin needs extra hydration and protection.

5. Go Easy on the Makeup

Less is more! Your skin needs to breath when the weather is super-hot and humid. Makeup can clog your pores and trigger unwanted breakouts. Try a tinted moisturizer with SPF instead of foundation.

6. DO NOT Forget Sunscreen!

This is the #1 thing that you absolutely cannot forget during the summer. Unprotected exposure to the sun can permanently damage the skin resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, loss of firmness, uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. Protect! Protect! Protect!

The Vacation Workout

The Meritage Resort and Spa

At Meritage Resort and Spa it is our goal to support your fitness and wellness goals during your stay, to assist you in continuing your healthy lifestyle. Stay fit and have fun with weekly classes, weekend-long events, and workouts tailored just for you.

PERSONAL TRAINING

Private training options through Spa Terra include daily 60-minute session or up to 3 60-minute sessions. Reserve classes for yourself, or add in your friends and family to partake in such classes as Flow Yoga, Dance Instruction, Guided Meditation and TRX and Stretch training.

For more information or to book your training session today please call Spa Terra, 707-251-3000.

WEEKLY FITNESS AND WELLNESS CLASSES

Join us every Saturday morning for a hike through our hillside vineyards for the perfect blend of endurance, strength, flexibility and balance. Or explore classes such as Aqua Fusion, Mat Pilates, Yin Yoga, and a Strawberry Supermoon Drum Circle.

RESERVE TODAY

MOONDANCE NAPA

Wellness + Wine…what could be better? Plan a Summer break in gorgeous Napa Valley, and enjoy an utterly relaxing weekend at Meritage and Vista Collina Resorts, June 25-27, 2021. Explore various modalities of soothing self-care – from morning yoga in the breathtaking vineyards to a reflective meditations and 3-course dinners. Join us for a wellness weekend the Wine Country way.

BOOK TODAY

Book our Moondance Napa package, that includes tickets to Friday - Sundays events and get $20 off. The package only includes access for one person, but additional tickets can be added while booking your stay.

BOOK THE WEEKEND

CARAVAN WELLNESS

Meritage and Vista Collina Resorts have teamed up with Caravan Wellness to bring you the best in health and wellness. Boost immunity and transform your wellness physically and mentally in the comfort of your hotel room with classes in meditation, movement, breathwork, fitness, yoga and more.

Just navigate to Caravan Wellness on your in-room TV and enjoy.

Our Favorite Valley Hiking Spots

The Meritage Resort and Spa

One of the top reasons to visit Napa Valley is for its natural beauty (after the wine of course). Escaping into the outdoors is a daily ritual in Napa Valley, and because the valley is a protected Agricultural Preserve.

By: Visit Napa Valley

One of the top reasons to visit the Napa Valley is for its natural beauty (after the wine of course). Escaping into the outdoors is a daily ritual in Napa Valley, and because the valley is a protected Agricultural Preserve, there are more than 53,000 acres of open space to explore. With rugged mountain ranges, redwood-covered creeks, and beautiful lakes all bursting with diverse foliage and wildlife, exploring the region by foot is an optimal way to experience Napa Valley.

Here are some of the best places for hiking in Napa Valley:

Bothe-Napa Valley State Park offers camping, picnicking, swimming, and more than 10 miles of hiking trails that go through stands of coastal redwoods as well as forests of Douglas-fir, tanoak, and madrone. Come after the rains to see the creek full and running and bring a blanket and picnic along the way.

Linda Falls, just north of St. Helena in the small town of Angwin, is one of Napa Valley's best-kept secrets. The falls are just a short hike (less than 15 minutes, even if you’re super-slow) from the trailhead and deliver almost unbelievable sights. During rainy season, water comes rushing over the falls and drops 50 feet. During dry season, the volume slows to a trickle, still beautiful, just in an entirely different way. Get all the details in Hidden Gems of Napa Valley: Linda Falls.

Skyline Park in Napa features over 25 miles of trails. The two-and-a-half-mile main trail leads to Lake Marie at the eastern end. There’s also an alternate route along the ridge trail that is a much more difficult climb. From this trail on a clear day, you can see San Francisco Bay, Mt. Tamalpais and Mt. Diablo.

Westwood Hills in Napa has three miles of trails through beautiful groves of oak trees and grassy meadows and affords expansive views of the city. The park includes benches and picnic tables near the parking lot and along the trails.

Dog-Friendly Hiking

Alston Park in Napa features a fenced dog park and open space trails that are dog-friendly. Half of the park is off-leash, and the other half is on-leash. Take your pup for an exercise and enjoy the view of the town of Napa and walk along vineyards.

Moore Creek Park at Lake Hennessey in St. Helena features more than 6 miles of new trails and is dog-friendly. One trail wraps around the lake so you can enjoy the blue water, or trek the other way to the secret water hole at the top.

Looking for a local guide to lead the way? Active Wine Adventures offers hike & wine, hike & beer, and other awesome outdoor tour options, taking guests to off-the-map locations to experience Napa Valley from a local's perspective.

Springtime In Napa

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Spring is a rejuvenating time of year — especially in Downtown Napa. It’s a time when wildflowers and vineyards awaken, the days are longer and the list of activities to enjoy is even taller.

By: DoNapa

Spring is a rejuvenating time of year — especially in Downtown Napa. It’s a time when wildflowers and vineyards awaken, the days are longer and the list of activities to enjoy is even taller. With average highs in the mid-60s in April and mid-70s in May, it’s a great time to explore by bike, boat or balloon.

Downtown Napa is open and welcoming visitors with activities that put safety first. Here are a few of our favorite ideas on how you can enjoy the outdoors of Downtown Napa like a local this spring.

GET ABOVE IT ALL

Spring is the absolute perfect time to take to the skies to fill your adventuresome spirit while taking in views of the beautiful countryside and vineyards of Napa Valley. With an array of options, planning an unforgettable experience in the sky couldn’t be easier.

Balloons Above the Valley, the first hot air balloon company in the area, offers private packages with your safety in mind. Napa Valley Balloons, Inc. offers rides every day of the week to view what they call “California’s Happiest County.” If you’re looking for a romantic excursion, both companies offer rides for two.

TAKE A HIKE

If you’d like to enjoy wildflowers in bloom while getting in some serious steps, Napa has a trail for every skill level and scenery preference.

You may have heard not to chase waterfalls from pop music, but clearly someone never set out to view a waterfall from the top. Take in that unforgettable sight on the Mt. George Waterfall Hike, a strenuous, five-mile hike that includes some steep trails along a creek to the Silver Mine.

Skyline Wilderness Park has 25 miles of multi-use fire road and single-track trails of various skill levels. During the spring, you can catch some of the unique wildflower hikes offered. California Native Plant Society is hosting three wildflower hikes at Skyline on April 10, 2021. Make sure to pick a time and reserve your spot.

TAKE A STROLL

Downtown Napa is the perfect destination to explore on foot. Visitors will find tasting rooms, craft breweries, boutiques and restaurants spanning several activity-filled blocks

The Napa ARTwalk is a fun way to see beautiful art pieces without stepping foot in a museum, as well as to learn your way around downtown. The ARTwalk is an outdoor exhibit of juried sculptures that you can explore before or after you hit the stores and boutiques of Downtown Napa.

Whatever cuisine you crave, you’ll find it in Downtown Napa and the Oxbow Public Market is a great place to put together a perfect picnic basket. With treats from Oxbow Cheese & Wine Merchant, The Whole Spice and The Olive Press to Fieldwork Brewing Company and Napa Valley Distillery, you may have to plan more than one springtime picnic adventure.

In May of 2021, you can visit the preeminent Chardonnay-focused wine event of the year. The Chardonnay Classic gathers together winemakers, industry professionals and enthusiasts alike to more fully learn and appreciate the vast intricacies and expressions of a simple and humble grape. Set in beautiful Napa Valley at sister properties Meritage Resort & Spa and Vista Collina Resort, guests can enjoy educational sessions, grand tastings and expertly crafted experiential dinners.

TAKE A PICTURE

Families can get a picture with the Easter Bunny himself and enjoy an egg hunt at the scenic Meritage and Vista Collina Resorts on April 4, 2021. Adults can also enjoy an exquisite Easter Brunch featuring a glass of sparkling wine paired with family-style brunch favorites.

If you’re looking for that super unique selfie, visit the outdoor culinary gardens at CIA at Copa. Not only is the location beautiful, but you can get a too-dine-for photo next to the larger-than-life “Fork” sculpture. Using over 8,500 recycled forks, the towering art piece represents Napa Valley’s forward-thinking attitude.

GET ON A BOAT

Spring is a bit chilly for swimming, but it’s the perfect time to explore by boat, kayak and gondola. Napa Valley Paddle offers kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals that include a complimentary paddle lesson. Napa Gondola Tours offers private tours from two to six people with a musical and memorable taste of Venice. Bring your own wine and indulge your senses with a musical and memorable taste of Napa’s scenery.

If you want to go bigger, cruise over to Tideline Marine Group to explore all commercial activities at the Main Street Boat Dock in Napa.

PUT YOUR SPIN ON SPRING

Last but not least, biking is another great way to explore the picture-perfect scenery of Napa’s great outdoors. Many lodging properties offer rentals and you can also get one at a self-serve kiosk by Spinway NorCal, a full service cycling center. They can point you to the Vine Trail, a car-free bike path along the scenic Napa Riverfront through Kennedy Park.

Come “DoNapa Like A Local” and see how we’re keeping safety a top priority. We’ve prepared a collection of informative videos at this link to show how our community is taking safety seriously so you can have a casual good time.

With an abundance of outdoor activities, spring is a sun soaked, fun-filled time to visit Downtown Napa. Explore the current hotel specials and plan a springtime stay in Downtown Napa.

Heston Cakes Recipes

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Join The Meritage Resort as we celebrate International Women's Day with Michelle Heston's cakes on our dessert menu at Olive & Hay. Not able to taste these cakes in person? Here are the recipes to make them at home!

Join Meritage and Grand Reserve Resorts as we celebrate women for International Women's Day and feature Michelle Heston's Lemon and Poppy Seed and Dark Chocolate cakes on our dessert menu at Olive & Hay. Not able to taste these cakes in person? Here are the recipes to make them at home!

Meyer Lemon and Poppy Seed Layer Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Buttercream

Ingredients:

• 3 cups sifted all-purpose flour
• 2 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 and 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 heaping Tablespoon lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 2 teaspoons poppy seeds

Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 8 ounces full-fat brick style cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 5 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt, to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line with parchment, three 8-inch cake pans.

Make the cake: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside.

Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment, beat the butter and sugar together on high speed until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract on high speed until combined, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl as needed. With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients just until combined. With the mixer still running on low, add the buttermilk, lemon zest, and lemon juice and mix just until combined. You may need to whisk it all by hand to make sure there are no lumps at the bottom of the bowl. The batter will be a little thick.

Pour batter evenly into cake pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cakes are baked through. Allow cakes to cool completely in the pans and set on a wire rack. The cakes must be completely cool before frosting and assembling.

Make the frosting: In a large bowl using a hand-held mixer or stand mixer fitted with a whisk or paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the cream cheese and beat until completely smooth and combined. Add confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract with the mixer running on low. Increase to high speed and beat for 3 minutes. Add more confectioners’ sugar if frosting is too thin, more lemon juice if frosting is too thick, add a pinch of salt if frosting is too sweet. (I always add a pinch of salt!)

Assemble and decorate: Slice a thin layer off the tops of the cakes to create a flat surface. Place 1 cake layer on your cake stand, cake turntable, or serving plate. Evenly cover the top with about 1 cup of frosting. Top with 2nd cake layer and evenly cover the top with about 1 cup of frosting. Top with the third cake layer. Spread the remaining frosting all over the top and sides. Refrigerate for at least 30-45 minutes before slicing. This helps the cake hold its shape when cutting.

Dark Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Ganache Glaze

CAKE RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2 ¼ cups white sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease 3 - 9 inch round cake pans. In medium bowl, pour boiling water over cocoa, and whisk until smooth. Let mixture cool. Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt; set aside.

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at time, then stir in vanilla. Add the flour mixture alternately with the cocoa mixture. Spread batter evenly between the 3 prepared pans.

Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Allow to cool in pans for 10 minutes. Then cool on rack until completely cool.

I usually make two batches of chocolate ganache. One that I cool and beat for the filling and another to glaze the cake.

CHOCOLATE GANACE RECIPE

Ingredients:

8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions:

Bring heavy cream to a simmer on the stove top, stirring occasionally. Just as soon as you see a simmer, remove from heat and poor over chocolate chips, swirling the bowl to make sure all chips are covered.

Place lid on chocolate chips to trap the heat and let sit undisturbed (no mixing) for 5 minutes. Remove lid and swirl the chocolate chips with a whisk starting in the center and working outward until smooth.

Once it's velvety, let it sit uncovered at room temperature (70˚F) for about 15 minutes before pouring it over your cake. It was perfect for glazing the entire surface of a cake after about 15 minutes.

How to Glaze a Cake: Place cake on a wire rack over a rimmed platter or rimmed baking sheet. Pour your ganache evenly over the top of your cake until desired coverage is reached. You can lift up the wire rack and re-use the chocolate ganache that drips onto the platter.

For filling: Cool with a piece of plastic wrap set on top of the ganache until completely cool. Beat with a hand mixer until fluffy.

Random Acts Of Kindness

The Meritage Resort and Spa

"Kindness is sharing the best parts of our hearts with those around us." A random act of kindness is a task that one performs out of pure selflessness with the sole intention to put more kindness out there into the world.

FEBRUARY 14-20 IS RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS WEEK!

"Kindness is sharing the best parts of our hearts with those around us." A random act of kindness is a task that one performs for another person out of pure, selfless kindness with the sole intention to put more kindness out there into the world.

WHERE DO I START?

Anywhere! The list of things you can do goes on and on but we've given you some suggestions to get you started.

Think about the last time someone did something for you that made your day, or even just made you smile. How can you replicate that feeling for someone else?

During one of the most stressful years in recent history we could all use a little pick-me-up. We've had to fear interaction and public places, been deprived of hugs and handshakes. It's time to think about what we can do to replace those interactions for the time being.

Lastly, keep it going after this week! There's never a wrong time to be kind!

DAILY ACTIONS

• Day 1 – Pay it forward. Getting your daily coffee fix? If you can, pay for the person in line behind you. Don't want the tiny balance on your gift card? Give it to the cashier to use it on the next order. Often this will start a chain reaction of kindness, or at least make a stranger's day!
• Day 2 – Compliment someone. Try to make it something they may not hear very often such as how you admire their patience, or their willingness to help, or that they are a great parent.
• Day 3 – Show you pay attention. Have a coworker that loves Reeses? Bring them one! Cook your significant others' favorite dish or offer to rub their feet when they tell you they've had a long day.
• Day 4 – Text or call a friend or family member you haven't chatted with in a while. Let them know you're thinking of them. The pandemic has left a lot of people longing for connection and even though you may not be able to see them in person, everyone loves to feel like they still are a part of your life.
• Day 5 - Give someone a hand-written note. In a world of email, and zoom, take a moment to say thank you, or show them that they are appreciated. A card is a simple way to show someone that you took a moment to slow down and think about what they do for you.
• Day 6 – Hold a door for a stranger, or return their cart for them at the grocery store. The best part of "random" acts of kindness is that they can be given to "random" people and have a huge impact.
• Day 7 – Try a random kindness message. Leave a post-it with a kind word on someone's computer, or in a drawer your whole team uses. On of our team member's neighborhood has made kindness rocks: rocks painted with hearts and sayings placed throughout the trails and parks. It's a small gesture that benefits anyone walking past.

The Napa Valley Vine Trail

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a passel of kids, you should check out the Napa Valley Vine Trail. The coalition that built it is a local nonprofit that aims to construct a trail system that will connect the entire Napa Valley. 

By: Kirsten Mickelwait

After a lengthy shelter-in-place, it’s the perfect time to experience the Napa Valley en plein air – the rolling hills are green and cooler temps are perfect for getting out and taking in the beauty of winter in the vineyards. No matter the season, seeing the valley au natural is the way to go.

And there’s no better way to do that than by bicycle. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a passel of kids, you should check out the Napa Valley Vine Trail. The coalition that built it is a local nonprofit that aims to construct a walking/cycling trail system that will connect the entire Napa Valley. Upon completion, there will be 47 safe and continuous miles of level, paved, dog-friendly trail stretching from the ferry terminal in Vallejo to Calistoga.

A roadside map outlines the route of the Napa Valley Vine Trail.

Napa Valley Vine Trail

More than 300 trees have been planted that will eventually shade trail users. Interpretive signs call out special areas of interest. There are shelters for rest stops with bike racks and bike work stations, maps, and other information. And mileage markers indicate your progress.

At present, the continuous section goes from Kennedy Park in south Napa to the north end of Yountville in the valley’s center. Here are some of the things to see and do along the way.

If you want to do the entire trail, start your ride at Kennedy Park a public space on the Napa River with softball fields, sand volleyball courts, picnic sites, and a formal garden.

From there, ride 2.5 miles north on the trail to Oxbow Public Market, a bustling food hall that features restaurants, vendors, local produce, and a riverside deck overlooking the “oxbow” in the Napa River. This is the perfect place to stock up on snacks for your ride.

A woman walks by the Oxbow Public Market in Napa.

Oxbow Public Market

While on First Street, you might want to check out a slew of new retail shops and the brand new Napa Valley Welcome Center, next to the Archer Hotel.

Then head north half a mile on McKinstry Street and Soscol Avenue to see the Rail Arts District (RAD Napa), which is a free outdoor contemporary art installation that runs for two miles along the Vine Trail. Murals, sculptures, landscaping, and parks are transforming these semi-industrial areas and neighborhoods.

A mural at the Rail Arts District featuring the slowing changing image of a man holding a flower pot.

RAD Napa

Now ride 5 miles north. If you’re up for a small detour, take a left on Trower Avenue and head two miles east to Alston Park, 157 scenic acres of hiking trails through grasslands, meadows, groves, a canyon, and a creek. It’s also home to Canine Commons, a popular off-leash dog park.

Back on the Vine Trail, ride 5.5 miles north to Yountville. You’ll be riding parallel to Highway 29 through the center of the vineyard-covered valley floor. When you get to Yountville, another optional detour: Turn left on California Drive and right on Presidents Circle to get to the Napa Valley Museum, an excellent local heritage museum featuring regional art, science and history exhibitions, and educational programs.

Head back the way you came and in one mile you’ll be in downtown Yountville. This town is small, but packed with wineries, restaurants, and shopping. For some wine tasting (please check the updated travel advisory for current restrictions pertaining to wineries and tasting rooms), try Girard Winery, Stewart Cellars, Priest Ranch Wines, Handwritten Wines, or Hill Family Estate. Or opt for a leisurely stroll around downtown and take in more than 40 thought-provoking works of art on the Yountville Art Walk. For a takeaway lunch and ooh-la-la pastries, it’s worth waiting in line at Bouchon Bakery.

Experience an extensive collection of outdoor sculpture with the Yountville Art Walk

Yountville Art Walk

Then take your goodies, get back on your bike, and ride the half mile north to visit the George C. Yount Pioneer Cemetery and Ancient Indian Burial Grounds. Or, if there are kids in your group, Yountville Park is a great finale.

Congratulations! You’ve just gone roughly 15 miles and experienced a rich slice of Napa Valley’s wineries, shops, and local attractions. If you didn’t bring your own bikes or only want to travel the trail one way, Napa Valley Bike Tours has shops at both Yountville (6500 Washington Street) and downtown Napa (950 Pearl Street) locations. They charge a $10 relocation fee for one-way trips, and also have electric bikes for rent.

Mental Health: Wellness Wednesday

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. 

WHY IT'S SO IMPORTANT
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Therefore, mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood

RESOURCES
Become familiar with early warning signs.
If you or a loved one is eating or sleeping too much or too little, pulling away from people or usual activities, has no energy or feels like nothing matters, don't let it go. Make sure they get help, even if YOU are the person they are pushing away.

Know where to seek help.
Call your insurance provider - even the general helpline can get you started in finding the right person. Call the employee assistance program - it's free 24/7! Reach out to someone you trust. Connecting with others in general helps your overall mental health

Take time for you.
Self-care doesn't always have to mean a bubble bath and a facemask - it can be anything that brings you peace and relaxation. Maybe its a puzzle, a long walk, journaling, yoga, listening to a podcast. Find what gives you joy. Maybe its something you didn't expect!

Be kind to yourself.
It may sound cheesy, but as humans we're our own harshest critics. We have a bias towards negativity and tend to assume the worst. Try to reframe things in a positive light and don't beat yourself up.

DAILY ACTIONS:
Day 1 – Have a task that's causing you stress? Take some time to think about how to break it down. Can you jump an entire staircase? No! You take it one step at a time.
Day 2 – Get outside! Mental health dips in the winter (and during a pandemic) due to a lack of Vitamin D. Aim for 15 minutes of sunshine!
Day 3 – Get a good nights rest! Put away your electronics and make sure your room is comfortable. Studies show the optimal temp for sleep is 60-67 degrees.
Day 4 – Get creative! Try a new recipe, do some coloring (it's not just for kids!) or try that Pinterest project you saved. Creativity is linked to well-being
Day 5 - Move. It doesn't have to be a full workout, but dancing around the house, a leisurely walk, any physical activity will increase endorphins and reduce cortisol (the stress hormone).
Day 6 – As Elsa says, "Let it go!" Write about it, talk to a friend or therapist, but don't hold in what is bothering you.
Day 7 – Knock, knock. Who's there? *Insert funny punch line* Laughter helps reduce anxiety, and even just smiling can help lower your heart rate and calm you down.

In-Room Adventures. Fresh New Experiences.

The Meritage Resort and Spa

If you’re feeling like us, you’re more than ready for some fresh new experiences to shake things up! 

If you’re feeling like us, you’re more than ready for some fresh new experiences to shake things up a bit! We’ve rounded up just some of the ways for you to have a new, enriching, indulgent – and safe - experience without even leaving the luxe comfort of your beautiful room (or suite!). From mixology sessions to hula lessons, these add-ons will give you the one-of-a-kind experiences your soul is craving right now.

MIXOLOGY SESSION
Transform your posh room into a private swanky cocktail lounge. Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa’s in-room Mixology add-on includes a custom cocktail kit with top-quality ingredients, tasty lounge snacks and an instructional video. Cheers!

DIY DINE-IN CHARCUTERIE BOARD
All of the delicious ingredients to create the perfect charcuterie board are delivered to your room. Indulge in rich creamy cheeses like burrata and brie, fresh grilled vegetables, savory olives and more – paired with bottle of Trinitas wine. Available only at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa.

PRIVATE CHEF DINNER
Enjoy an upgraded spin on room service with a private romantic dinner for two in your guest room. Curated by Chef Vincent Savignano, the dinner includes a bottle of wine or champagne, chef salad, lobster bisque, filet and garlic shrimp, a chocolate dome and more!

SUBLIME SELF-CARE
Come on, we all need it more than ever! The award-winning Spa Estancia has created a variety of blissful options perfect for self-care, a romantic evening, or a girl’s weekend. Try a “DIY Facial Kit” with signature treatments that will leave you glowing, or opt for the “Serenity Now” treatment with CBD products. “Self Care Isn’t Selfish” and “Birds of a Feather” are designed for duos with DIY facials and couples massage.

TAKE WINE COUNTRY IN-ROOM
Indulge inside (or poolside, your choice!) with “Meritage Delivers” packages. Sip and savor local Napa wines in a tasting flight, or select something sweeter like a seasonal hot cocoa charcuterie board with chocolate bombs, cookies and chocolate-dipped candy canes. Treat all of your senses with the “Bubbles & Bubbles” package from Spa Terra with sparkling wine, lavender bubble bath and a “bubbly” Aura candle. All available at Vista Collina and The Meritage Resort & Spa.

UP-LEVELED SPA KITS
Pamper yourself in the comfort of your guest room with new in-room spa kits created by renowned Aarna Spa at Paséa. Treat yourself to a skin care ritual customized by our professionals for a personalized in-room facial. Unwind with a DIY massage with Balinese oils and pressure point instructions. Rejuvenate with a sleep kit with elixirs to help you achieve a restful sleep and wake up refreshed. Enjoy some in-room hydrotherapy with a Shower Butler filled with soothing chamomile products, exfoliating loofah and eucalyptus mister. No need to choose just one!

HULA + MAI-TAI MIXING
Why simply Indulge in this iconic Tiki cocktail when you can learn how to create it yourself. Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort provides the Mai Tai glasses, signature Ko’a Kea Mai Tai mix, fruit wedges and all the extras you need to mix up a mean Mai Tai. After a few sips of those fresh fruity flavors, shake it up with in-room virtual hula lessons provided in partnership with local dancers.

So grab your travel buddy, or some friends from your pod and get in on a little bit of adventure – safely - during these non-adventuresome days. Your spirit will thank you.

Six-Day Self-Love Reset

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Practicing self-love is as easy as trying one of the Six-Day Self-Love Reset’s self-care strategies every day.

While we often have no problem loving others – listening with compassion, showing appreciation, providing support through challenges – we sometimes have difficulty treating ourselves with the same level of kindness and grace. It’s not always second nature to practice self-care, and actively attend to our emotional and spiritual needs.

However, there are endless benefits to prioritizing self-love. When your mind and body are in a good place it’s easier for you to live healthily, rebound from setbacks, and accomplish your goals. Additionally, when your tank is full you’re in a better position to help those around you.

This Six-Day Self-Love Reset was developed to help you prioritize personal growth and live with intention.

Day 1

Relaxation rooms. Tranquil treatments. Soothing scents. Spas are inherently peaceful places to unwind and rejuvenate. Create a spa environment in the comfort of your home to bring the spa to you. Light lavender and rosemary candles (both scents reduce cortisol levels), apply your favorite face mask, slather on some hydrating lotion, then close your eyes and tell Alexa to play peaceful spa music. No spa products? Create a DIY Spa Day at home from our experts.

While we often have no problem loving others – listening with compassion, showing appreciation, providing support through challenges – we sometimes have difficulty treating ourselves with the same level of kindness and grace. It’s not always second nature to practice self-care, and actively attend to our emotional and spiritual needs.

However, there are endless benefits to prioritizing self-love. When your mind and body are in a good place it’s easier for you to live healthily, rebound from setbacks, and accomplish your goals. Additionally, when your tank is full you’re in a better position to help those around you.

This Six-Day Self-Love Reset was developed to help you prioritize personal growth and live with intention.

Day 1

Relaxation rooms. Tranquil treatments. Soothing scents. Spas are inherently peaceful places to unwind and rejuvenate. Create a spa environment in the comfort of your home to bring the spa to you. Light lavender and rosemary candles (both scents reduce cortisol levels), apply your favorite face mask, slather on some hydrating lotion, then close your eyes and tell Alexa to play peaceful spa music. No spa products? Create a DIY Spa Day at home from our experts.
Day 2
Nature and self-love go hand-in-hand. Spending time in the great outdoors reduces stress, offers overall health benefits, and helps you sleep better. There are many ways to incorporate Mother Nature into your routine – go for a brisk walk, do yoga in your backyard, or sit on your porch and let the sun shine on your face for even just a minute of your day.

Day 3
The importance of getting a good night’s sleep can’t be overstated. There are so many benefits to this particular aspect of self-care, including enhanced productivity and concentration, better athletic performance, and a stronger immune system. These tips can help you get quality zzzzzz’s:

• Draw a warm bath with CBD salts
• Light a candle
• Enjoy a cup of chamomile tea
• Turn off your phone thirty minutes before bed
• Read a book or meditate before falling asleep

Day 4
When you nourish your body with foods that make you feel good your mind and spirit benefit, too. Eat a well-balanced diet, cut back on foods with little or no nutritional value, and drink plenty of water. Self-awareness of what you put in your body and how it makes you feel is a key component of the Six-Day Self-Love Reset.

Day 5

Start each day by practicing positive affirmations. When you begin your morning on an optimistic note, you set yourself up for a great day. And if things don’t go as planned you’re better prepared to deal with them. Affirmations can be practiced for manifesting specific goals or as a tool to help fill your life with positivity and gratitude.

Day 6
Where do you spend most of your time? Whether it’s your home, office, or somewhere else it’s vital to make it a sanctuary where you feel comfortable, calm, and happy. Eliminate clutter, get a few plants, and fill your space with items and images that make you feel great and help you be your best self.

Practicing self-love is as easy as trying one of the Six-Day Self-Love Reset’s self-care strategies every day. Soon, they’ll become second nature and you’ll find yourself living your life with purpose and positivity.

Healthy Homes

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Whether you own or rent, we spend a lot oftime at home! Take some time this week to make sure your home is helping you stay healthy!

OUR HOUSE:
Whether you own or rent, we spend a lot of time at home - especially during shelter in place! Take some time this week to make sure your home is helping you stay healthy!

THE SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF A HEALTHY HOME:
KEEP IT DRY - Moisture in homes has been linked to a wide range of health problems, from respiratory problems to lead poisoning, from accidental injury to asthma.
KEEP IT CLEAN - A clean home helps ensure that people are not exposed to contaminants and chemicals, and that pests don’t have food, water, and a place to live.
KEEP IT PEST-FREE - Studies show that there is acausal relationship between mice and cockroach exposure and asthma episodes
KEEP IT SAFE - Most childhood injuries occur at home. Falls, poisoning, and burns are the three most common residential injuries for children.
KEEP IT CONTAMINATE-FREE - Homes have many potential contaminant exposure risks, including lead, radon, pesticides, volatile organic compounds (VOC’s),tobacco smoke, carbon monoxide, and asbestos.
KEEP IT VENTILATED - Studies show that respiratory health is related to access to fresh air, increasing a home’s fresh air supply reduces moisture, improves air quality, and increases respiratory health.
KEEP IT MAINTAINED - Neglected homes are more at risk for moisture, pest, lead paint and accidental injury than homes that are properly maintained.

DAILY ACTIONS:
Day 1 – Look for signs of mold in your home and find the source of the moisture. Make sure bathrooms have exhaust, or add a dehumidifier.
Day 2 – Take stock of where your chemicals a restored as well as food. Establish cleaning responsibilities in your household.
Day 3 – Check the backs of your cabinets and drawers for any signs of pests. Be proactive and make sure your home is routinely checked and sprayed as needed.
Day 4 – Most people with kids have child-proofed their home, but is it adult proof? Inspect your home for sharp corners, and always make sure your burners are turned off after cooking.
Day 5 - Does your home have a carbon monoxide alarm? When was the last time your air filters were replaced? Do you know where your water comes from? Make sure you know what you're exposed to
Day 6 – Open a window or turn on fans to ensure air is circulating in your home. It may be time to get those ducts cleaned too!
Day 7 – Create a calendar and set reminders to change batteries in your smoke detector, deep clean your carpets, etc.

Visualization – The Key To Realizing Your Dreams

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Visualization is about harnessing the power of those thoughts.

A new year is a time of joyous celebration and, for many, thoughtful self-reflection and goal setting for the year ahead. No matter your intention – from more confidence, to a healthier body, to better job performance – visualization is a powerful exercise that can help you manifest the life you want.

Here are a few self-discovery tips, incorporating your senses, to help maximize your visualization practice.

Sight
Where do you want to be at the end of 2020? Lay it all out on a vision board. Clip images from magazines and newspapers, print out things you see online, grab old photos or take new ones…basically anything that inspires and motivates you goes up on the board. You can also pin up items, perhaps a dried flower or string of beads, from places or events where you’ve felt powerful, energized, and rejuvenated. The idea is that each item on your vision board symbolizes the feelings and experiences you want in your life. Get creative and have fun!

Make sure your vision board is in a spot where you’ll see it every day. Each time you look at it, it will prompt you to think about what you want; each visualization you do will lead you closer to actualizing your potential.

Sound
One of the most effective ways to set a mood is through sound. Just as your vision board will evoke certain feelings when you look at it, your favorite songs can do the same on your journey of self-discovery. Choose a few songs that align with the feeling (joyful, triumphant, satisfied, excited, peaceful, etc.) behind the visuals on your vision board, and play them when you sit down to visualize what you’d like to accomplish throughout the year.

Taste
Cleanse your palate and kick-start each visualization session with a wellness tonic such as warm lemon water with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or a green juice with lots of vegetables. This healthy habit will quickly become part of the ritual of your daily practice.

Touch

Walk barefoot in the grass to experience grounding. Grounding yourself to the earth puts you at ease, connects you to nature, increases your energy levels, decreases stress and tension, and helps improve sleep, all of which can benefit your visualization practice.

Smell
We live in a fast-paced world with near-constant stimulation and distractions. However, focus and concentration are key components of effective visualization. Essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, lemon, and patchouli offer properties – from enhanced alertness to promoting a sense of calm and relaxation – that can augment our ability to focus and concentrate.

Ever-present in our minds, thoughts impact our lives in countless ways. An important self-discovery technique, visualization is about harnessing the power of those thoughts. When combined with the astonishing influence of our five senses – how we make sense of the world around us – mental imagery is a potent tool we can use to help with our inner transformation as we create the future of our dreams.

Let Love Rule: Micro-Weddings & Minimonies

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Whether a palm-lined beachfront, a cozy garden courtyard, or a gorgeous mountainside, outdoor wedding venues have always been desirable.

SOME THINGS WE KNOW ABOUT LOVE:

Love will always prevail. Love knows no bounds.
And love doesn’t care if there is a global pandemic. With engagement season upon us, happy couples continue to say “yes!” when popped that magical question. And while these times are a bit uncertain and planning can feel precarious, there are so many solutions, safety measures and new approaches that ensure a safe celebration and blissful day.

Weddings have been reimagined – they’re outdoors, they’re intimate, they’re hyper-personalized. The result is a blissful, sublimely romantic event that brings couples and their guests closer, with the wonderful side effect of being both eco- and budget-friendly. Let love rule!

Outdoors is In
Whether a palm-lined beachfront, a cozy garden courtyard, or a mountainside with a sweeping vista, outdoor wedding venues have always been desirable. And now, current safety measures have only increased the appeal of these classic spots – with the open air, ample ventilation and plenty of space to accommodate for social distancing. Select a venue in sun-drenched SoCal, romantic Napa or exquisite Hawaii and you can’t go wrong.

Small is Big
With the safety of guests in mind, couples are inviting only their nearest and dearest, giving rise to a new wave of small celebrations, with Minimonies, Microweddings and Elopements leading the way.

What is a Minimony?
For those who want to have the ceremony now and the reception at a later date, a minimony is the perfect answer! A minimony is a small-scale commitment ceremony held in the company of a few friends and family. Often, a minimony is a precursor to a larger ceremony and event to be held at a later date. The beauty of a minimoney comes in the chance to highlight your own love story and put the commitment that you are making to one another front and center. A gorgeous venue, heart-felt vows and true love make for a heart-melting, magical moment.

Micro-wedding, Macro-happiness
Why postpone bliss? With 10 – 50 guests in attendance from ceremony to reception, a microwedding has everything that you love in a traditional wedding, but on a more intimate scale. A smaller guest list has big benefits – fewer people to please, less stress and the chance to maximize your dollar-per-attendee ratio. It also allows for greater creative flexibility and the ability to create a highly personalized experience for your wedding guests. From the first welcome to the last goodbye, you and your new spouse can enjoy a deeper level of connection with each and every guest and create lifelong memories.

Elopements
Is there anything more romantic! Traditionally, elopements were impromptu, unplanned events where a couple would secretly run off to tie the knot. Passion trumped planning. Recently elopements have evolved, with venues offering options that include the coveted highlights of a classic wedding paired with the simple coordination of an elopement. Think 20 of your nearest and dearest gathered for a lush garden ceremony, toasting with bubbly, cake by candlelight, then everyone retiring to the luxe comfort of their rooms. Wedded bliss!

Idyllic Venues
A smaller guest list opens up gorgeous possibilities for venues that are not available for larger celebrations from hidden nooks to breathtaking vistas. The Meritage Collection offers a variety of romantic vistas, all paired with exceptional service and delicious food to delight each of your guests.

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ENDLESS OCEAN VIEWS
Say “I do” where sun meets sea on the Ocean Lawn. Paséa Hotel & Spa is beachfront modern oasis offering the quintessential Huntington Beach wedding.

HAWAIIAN SPLENDOR
Start forever in a private paradise with an idyllic Kauai nuptial at Ko’a Kea Resort & Spa at Po’ipu Beach.

Serene Garden Sanctuary
Nine acres of gardens, verdant lawns and lush alcoves await for your discovery. Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa, one of San Diego’s top wedding venues invites you to say your vows amidst swaying olive trees or by sparkling fountains

WINE COUNTRY DREAM WEDDING
Treat yourself and your guests to the dramatic and romantic vistas and views among the vineyards at the award-winning Meritage Resort and Spa.

IDYLLIC NAPA WEDDING
The newest upscale resort, Vista Collina Resort offers a rooftop terrace and romantic gazebo for a celebration with unparalleled vineyard vistas. With creative shifts to traditional favorites and an abundance of fabulous outdoor wedding venues, 2021 weddings will be as beautiful, memorable and fun as ever! Proof that love wins. And when love wins, we all win.

New Year's Resolutions For Your Health

The Meritage Resort and Spa

What better way to start the New Year than with a commitment to your Health and Well-being?

NEW YEAR - NEW YOU
What better way to start the New Year than with a commitment to your Health and Well-being?

PLANNING IS KEY
Dream big – An ambitious goal is inspiring and motivating
Focus on one goal at a time
For long term success, a detailed and sustainable action plan is key.
Instead of seeing it as all or nothing, look at your goals as a continuum. Every decision moves you closer to your ultimate success.
Learn to adapt when encountering setbacks. The path forward is not always a straight line.

DAILY ACTIONS
Day 1 – Integrate exercise! Try incorporating activity into your daily routine. Jog to the mailbox, climb the stairs in stead of taking the elevator and park a little further away.
Day 2 – Practice self-care! One easy way is to squeeze 10 minutes of self-care in for yourself every morning. Take note of things you are grateful for, meditate or go for a brisk walk.
Day 3 – Embrace cleaner products! Some beauty and cleaning products are filled with toxic chemicals that pollute our bodies and homes. Slowly change your products for natural alternatives.
Day 4 – Head back to the kitchen! The advantage of cooking your own meals is that you gain more control over the nutritional quality of your meals.
Prepare your food with fresh ingredients that taste great and are good for you.
Day 5 – Conquer clutter! One way to reduce stress and boost your mood is to work on clearing out the clutter in your home and office. Clean up and open your life to more positive energy.
Day 6 – Saving money is good for you! Make a commitment to organize your finances and reduce financial stress.
Day 7 – Unplug Daily! Take time to reconnect with yourself. Your brain and body need time to recover – being “on” 24/7 is not healthy.

Spirit Of Giving

The Meritage Resort and Spa

The true Spirit of giving is doing for others with no expectation of gain. It may be a gift you bought, one you made, or the gift of time. Giving means different things to different people.

THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
The true Spirit of giving is doing for others with no expectation of gain. It might be a gift you bought, one you made or the gift of time to benefit others. Giving means different things to different people.

GIVING IS GOOD FOR YOU

Giving makes us feel happy
Giving is good for our Health
Giving Promotes cooperation and social connection
Giving evokes gratitude
Giving is contagious

DAILY ACTIONS
Day 1 – Smile and be friendly! Sometimes the simplest little things can put a warm feeling in someone else’s heart and make their day a little better.
Day 2 – Teach! Take the time to teach someone anew skill you know. This could be teaching your grandma to use email or your co-worker a valuable computer skill.
Day 3 – Send a nice email! Just a quick note telling someone how much you appreciate them for something they did can go a long way.
Day 4 – Show appreciation publicly! Praising someone on a blog, in front of a coworker or family member is a great way to make them feel better about themselves.
Day 5 – Be patient! Sometimes people can have difficulty understanding things or learning to do something right. Learn to be patient with them.
Day 6 – Call a charity to volunteer! Volunteering is one of the most amazing things you can do.
Day 7 – Stop to help! The next time you see someone in need of help, stop and ask how you can help.

Celebrate The Holidays At The Meritage

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Virtually every year, I have taken at least one trip up to Wine Country with friends to taste some wines and eat around town. 

By: My Kat Life

Virtually every year, I have taken at least one trip up to Wine Country with friends to taste some wines and eat around town. However, things have been a bit different this year in terms of hanging out with friends. I was grateful for the opportunity to visit both The Meritage and Vista Collina (sister resorts) in Napa to experience some holiday cheer.

Looking for a fun family experience this holiday season? Add Merry Meritage Christmas at The Meritage to your list! The following experiences take place at the resort through December 20th.

HOLIDAY BRUNCH AT OLIVE + HAY EVERY SUNDAY
Enjoy holiday brunch items like the Gingerbread Pancakes topped with gingerbread crumbs and whipped butter, and Panettone French Toast topped with whipped cream and rum-infused maple syrup. Tables are socially-distanced on their outdoor patio complete with heat lamps to keep you nice and toasty. Mom couldn’t resist the Winter Mushroom Omelet filled with roasted wild mushrooms, baby spinach, and goat cheese with roasted potatoes and piquillo marmalade on the side. I went with the Americano Burger, an akushi patty topped with lettuce, tomato, pickle, cheddar, two poached eggs, and roasted potatoes on the side. My burger was delicious and I was so stuffed afterwards; I couldn’t believe there were two eggs on it! Tinsel and Royal Teas every Saturday and Sunday

This afternoon tea experience is great for families with young ones, but I love a good afternoon tea, so I couldn’t resist. I’m still a child at heart anyway. Select from tea, juice, or sparkling wine for adults and enjoy assorted sandwiches and freshly baked cookies. Mom went with a hot tea and I took the opportunity to indulge with a glass of prosecco. We enjoyed the turkey, ham, cucumber, and peanut butter & jelly sandwiches and snickerdoodle and chocolate chip cookies. We couldn’t finish it all, so we got the rest boxed up to enjoy in our room later in the evening.

The kiddos are bound to enjoy photo opportunities and storytelling by a magical princess (we were graced by Snow White’s presence during my visit), and Santa might make an appearance too! The floor-to-ceiling wall of the Vintner’s Room was open, allowing fresh air to flow through the indoor space and tables were socially-distanced.

FOOD TRUCK ON THE LAWN EVERY FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY
Find the food truck on The Lawn to grab a meal, a cocktail, wine by the glass, or beer. There are ample tables and chairs placed around the lawn for you to relax and enjoy your food. Want more options? Hop over to Fivetown Grocery for meats, cheeses, snacks, and even souvenirs.

ARTISAN HOLIDAY MARKET EVERY SUNDAY
The resort curates a number of local artisans from locally-made soaps and lotions to jewelry.

Thank you Vista Collina for a lovely getaway and fun holiday experience! A night away from home was just what we both needed and we thoroughly enjoyed experiencing some early holiday cheer and two resorts at the same time!

Enjoy a calm walk after brunch around the Meritage Resort, then head across the street to the Vista Collina to enjoy nine wine rooms to taste wines on their patios and enjoy holiday festivities on the Lawn. Having so many options for enjoying quintessential Napa (its wines) makes your stay relaxing with no driving involved. The Meritage and Vista Collina resorts are enough to explore in a day, but if decide to stay longer (which I strongly encourage), the resort is a short drive from downtown, which features many noteworthy eateries, and numerous wineries all around town.

Hope to see you again soon Napa (and Sonoma)!

Best Cocktail Recipes For Holiday...

The Meritage Resort and Spa

DrinksGiving is the ultimate homecoming celebration, in-person or virtually. Celebrated the night before Thanksgiving.

As you are returning home for Thanksgiving weekend or staying in Napa and celebrating virtually, stop by Olive & Hay or Crush Lounge to put some extra cheer in your holiday season. Catch up with your family over drinks and laughter. Don't feel like going out? No problem, here are some holiday cocktail recipes you can make yourselves:

SOFTBALL

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Monkey 47 Gin
• 1/4 oz St. Germain
• 1/4 oz lavender syrup
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• 1 oz blood orange juice
• Ginger Ale
• One lemon wheel place inside rock glass with lavender sprig for garnish

Instructions:

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add Gin, St. Germain, lavender syrup and lemon juice
• Cover and shake until mixed and chilled, about 8 and 10 seconds. (in general, the drink is ready by the time the shaker mist up)
• Strain mix into a rock glass filled with ice
• Top it off with ginger ale
• Add the blood orange on top

CRUSHER MULES

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Grey Goose
• 6-8 leaves mint leaves
• 4 blackberries
• 1/2 oz lime
• Top it off with ginger beer
• Mint leaves as a garnish

Instructions:

• In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mint leaves and blackberries. Add ice to the shaker. Add vodka, lime juice.
• Cover and shake until mixed and chilled, about 3 to 5 seconds. (In general, the drink is ready by the time the shaker mists up)
• Open shaker and pour entire mix into a rock glass filled with ice.
• Top it off with ginger beer.

LA MARGHERITA

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Don Julio
• 2 oz strawberry puree
• 1 oz lime Juice
• 1 oz Basil simple syrup
• 4 cherry tomatoes
• Basil salt rim & basil leaf for garnish

Instructions:

• Place 4 cherry tomatoes in a mixing glass. Muddle the tomatoes just enough to break juice, add lime juice, basil syrup, Don Julio and Strawberry Puree. Shake and pour into rocks glass.
• Top with garnish

IL COLLISEUM

Ingredients:

• 2 oz High West Rye
• 1 oz Averna
• 3 dashes of orange bitters
• 1/2 oz Luxardo Marichino
• 1/2 oz brown sugar syrup
• Orange peel to garnish

Directions:

• In a mixing glass, add all ingredients. Stir until frost appears on glass. Strain into a rocks glass with ice.

Bake The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie

The Meritage Resort and Spa

We asked Chef Lesage from The Meritage Resort and Spa to share with us his favorite holiday cookie recipe. Now we want to share it with you.

When we approached Chef Vincent Lesage and asked him what his favorite holiday cookie recipe is, we got an instant answer ... "This is the best chocolate chip cookie you will ever have. Just follow the steps and make sure you measure everything in grams, which makes the recipe much more precise."

Here is an early holiday gift from our Meritage family to yours. Enjoy!

HOLIDAY CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

Chef Vincent Lesage | The Meritage Resort & Spa and Grand Reserve

Ingredients:

• 130g of butter (1 cup)
• 130g of brown sugar (1 cup)
• 98g of sugar (¾ cup)
• 4g of salt (1 teaspoon)
• 240g of AP flour (2 cups)
• 2.5g of baking soda (0.5 teaspoon)
• 20g of dark cocoa powder (2 tablespoon)
• 61g of eggs (1 eggs)
• 221g of chocolate chip (2 cups)
• 100g of cocoa nibs (3/4 cup)

Instructions:

• In a mixer, add the butter and both sugars.
• Blend until smooth.
• Add the eggs, blend for a minute, and add the flour, cocoa powder and baking soda.
• Fold in the chocolate chips and cocoa nibs.
• Put in the fridge for one hour.
• After an hour, make little ball of cookie dough on a sheet pan with a parchment paper. Cook for 8 minutes at 340.

Women In Wine

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Spa Terra will be featuring a different winery and winemaker each month and offer an opportunity to learn about the Women in Wine of Sonoma and Napa Valley with a complimentary splash. 

Spa Terra will be featuring a different winery and winemaker each month and offer an opportunity to learn more about the Women in Wine of Sonoma and Napa Valley with a complimentary splash. This series will be featured during the months of November 2020 - March 2021, for guests of Spa Terra.

We hope you will join in celebrating these inspiring and dedicated Women in Wine with us! Find our featured wineries and winemakers here.

Explore the different mediums below to learn more about Women in Wine of Sonoma and the Napa Valley.

Forbes Article: The Women Behind Some of Napa and Sonoma's Best Wines
In the male dominated wine industry, it is necessary to shine a spotlight on women in the business. While female winemakers and women owned wineries attract rightful attention, the axiom “wine is made in the vineyard” illuminates an ignored sector in this growing awareness. Although the number of female vineyard workers has increased in Napa Valley and Sonoma from 5% to 30% between 2013 and 2017, historically only about 25% of vineyard manager positions are held by women.

Napa Valley Vintner's History of Wine in the Napa Valley
Take a minute and learn about how this world-famous region took root and held through the Great Depression, Prohibition, and a host of other challenges that it faced but persevered into what it is today.

WINE WOMEN Radio Hour
The “WINE WOMEN Radio Hour” is a weekly show co-hosted by women from the WINE WOMEN organization. The show is broadcast locally on KSVY 91.3 FM in Sonoma on Tuesdays at 3pm. It is now also available as a downloadable podcast on the Radio Misfits Podcast Network across the U.S.A.

Wine Country Women of Napa Valley by Michelle Mandro

Wine Country Women of Napa Valley celebrates 65 of these leading ladies, showcasing their accomplishments, lifestyles, treasured family recipes, and of course, their favorite wines and pairings.

Walkable Wineries

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Here are a few of the most accessible urban wineries and tasting rooms you can get to on foot, depending on the town you’re in. 

By: Kirsten Mickelwait for Visit Napa Valley

Sure, you can hire a car and explore those out-of-the-way wineries along the back roads. But why spend half your day on the road when there are so many excellent tasting rooms within an easy walk? Here are a few of the most accessible urban wineries and tasting rooms you can get to on foot, depending on the town you’re in.

Napa

Alpha Omega Collective – Enjoy terroir-driven wines offered in flights, by the glass and bottle service in an inviting setting inside a perfectly-situated historic building at the corner of First and Randolph streets, across from the Archer Hotel.

Walt Wines – A brand new tasting room in the heart of Napa. Located in the Oxbow district, this hip, new tasting room is packed full of awesome.

Mark Herold Wines – This is another Oxbow neighbor, a colorful and funky tasting bar featuring great Cabernets and other varietals.

Back Room Wines – This is a great one-stop-shop if you’d like to taste a variety of different labels.

Bounty Hunter – Another fantastic spot for sampling a wide range of labels. This place offers more than 400 top-shelf wines, with 40 wines poured by the glass. Great barbecue, too!

Yountville

Atelier by JCB – An over-the-top tasting experience in a flamboyant venue that also sells jewelry, candles, perfumes, and merchandise by Baccarat.

Priest Ranch – Taste its current releases with an artisanal cheese or chocolate pairing.

Stewart Cellars – A gorgeous stone complex featuring the Tasting Hall and NOMAD Heritage Library with a beautiful courtyard for lingering.

Jessup Cellars – The Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet, and Pinot Noir you’ll taste here are available only at the tasting room, in select restaurants, and online.

St. Helena

The Saint – Classic meets edgy at The Saint, an 1890's bank-turned loungy wine bar in downtown St. Helena that features a repertoire of delicious cult and boutique wines from around the world.

Orin Swift Cellars – This venue, right in the center of St. Helena’s shopping mecca, offers meticulously crafted wines of many varietals — perhaps the only thing more gorgeous than the wines are the labels.

Clif Family Tasting Room – Clif Family combines a love of wines with a love of cycling. They also produce an extensive line of condiments and other foods. The casual back patio is often the site for live music and the Bruschetteria, its own food truck.

Calistoga

Olabisi Wines – This charming tasting room is just off the main drag of Lincoln Avenue and features limited production of Cabernet, Pinot Noir, Petite Sirah, and Chardonnay.

August Briggs Winery – A wide rotating selection is served at this intimate tasting room right on Lincoln Avenue — several full-bodied reds as well as Chardonnays, Pinot Blanc, and Rosé.

Tank Garage Winery – Right on the main highway of 128, this fun and funky spot is a former 1930s-era gas station and pours “one-off,” uniquely crafted wines.

Fall Self Care

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Autumn is a natural time for self-reflection and thankful hearts. It creates awareness for changing of the seasons and with that, we shed our summer mind and give in to the cooler comforts of fall. 

Bake a pie

• There is something so meditative about slowing down, grabbing your favorite family recipe (or just a tasty one from Pinterest) and following the instructions. We love to share these occasions with those we love and carve out time to peel some apples and sweeten our relationships.

Slow down and savor the moment with a 10-minute meditation

• Setting intentions and focusing on mind, body, and soul for just a short amount a time has so many wonderful benefits. From relieving insomnia and reducing blood pressure to creating space for joyous moments. Carve out 10 minutes at the beginning or middle of your day and spend some time with you. Need a little guidance, our director of wellness, Kenzie Vath, has a couple of meditation videos to guide you.

Decorate pumpkins

• Every year we carve the same pumpkin. Big knife, lots of elbow grease, crooked teeth. This time hone your skill by adding to your gourd instead of taking away. With each bead, feather, paint stroke, set a new intention for positive energy you want to have reflect this season. At the end of your intension session, take a moment to admire your positivity.

Treat yourself to a hot stone massage

• Many of us have had the joy of a massage. Not only are there so many wonderful healing benefits to a massage, but it also allows us to connect body and mind. Set some time aside to visit a spa and before your therapist begins take a few deep breaths and scan your body finding awareness to every inch from the top of your head to the slight wiggle of your toes. Need to make a reservation, visit Aarna Spa, Spa Estancia, The Spa at Ko’a Kea or Spa Terra.

Visit a Farmer’s Market

• Like us, mother nature loves fall. Bringing us a plentiful harvest of ripe fruits and vegetables. Take a stroll to your local farmer’s market and enjoy the spectrum of colors of produce in-season such as mushrooms, onions, beet tops, artichokes, and of course pumpkins.

Make a soup or stew

After your farmer’s market visit, celebrate with a hearty stew or soup. With each sip mindfully connect with every flavorful ingredient and take a minute to savor the warmth of the fall harvest.

Write down what you want to let go of

• This year has brought a whirlwind of emotions for us all. As the seasons change, we can begin to set on a new path of positivity and optimism. Shed those negative feelings and the things you would like to let go of. Then, set your intentions by writing down a couple of words that you want the next few months to be inspired by.

Try out a new hobby – knitting or quilting

• We love knitting or quilting in the fall months because not only has it demonstrated to lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety and stress, slow the onset of dementia, and reduce loneliness, but it also provides a cozy, warm result that you can share with a loved one or enjoy for yourself.

Grab your favorite sweater and warm socks and go for a nature walk

• Cozy is the word that comes to mind for us when it comes to fall. So, grab your favorite sweater or hoodie, slip on a pair of warm socks, and set forth on a nature hike. Take a moment to reflect on the sounds, the surrounding, the touch of cool breeze on your skin, and all the beauty that Mother Nature has in store for your stroll.

Enjoy a cup of tea or pumpkin latte

• Tea has been a calming and comforting ritual throughout history. It helps calm and center the mind along with providing rich antioxidants. Pour yourself a tasty tea and take a moment to mindfully experience every flavor and note. This will bring a sense of grounding, peace, and gratitude into your daily life. Not a tea lover? Pumpkin spice lattes might be your thing. Check out our own recipe of the infamous brew.

Alternative Creamers Taking Over National Coffee Day

The Meritage Resort and Spa

It may seem like a simple morning beverage, but the truth is there are thousands of ways to dress up your traditional cup of joe.

THE BUZZ IS ALL ABOUT THE CREAMER

Coffee has been a staple in international culture since the 15th century. This highly addictive caffeinated beverage is to blame for the early risers and over achievers. It’s what is in your morning cup that matters.

Many Americans dowse their perfectly brewed coffee with acidic creamers, artificial sugars, artificial flavors galore.

What does your morning cup of joe look like? Black, cream, sugar?

It may seem like a simple morning beverage, but the truth is there are thousands of ways to dress up your traditional cup of joe. Today alternative creamers are all the rage. From almond to coconut and soy to oat milk. Milk companies and alternative options even have their own category of barista blends in major supermarkets. Many of these options are delicious but are also a healthier choice to a traditional powdered creamer and Splenda. The MC collection offers healthier options for your cup of joe. We’ve brought on dairy free, plant-based creamers from Laird Superfoods. Carefully crafting the healthiest most delicious latte for our guests.

Since we are big fans of Laird Superfood products, we introduced our Laird Turmeric Latte at Blend Café, our coffee shops located at The Meritage Resort and Spa, Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa and Paséa Hotel & Spa.

There is so much you can do with coffee besides just starting your day with a sip of this magical beverage from a cup. Here are our top two recipes to say goodbye to Summer and hello to Fall:

COCONUT COFFEE ICE CREAM RECIPE (with Functional Mushrooms!)

Coconut Coffee Ice Cream
Serves 6-8

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews
• 1 13.5-ounce can of full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 cup brewed Laird Superfood Mushroom Coffee
• 2 tsp vanilla paste or pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp fine-grain sea salt
• 1/2 cup vegan mini dark chocolate chips, plus more to sprinkle on top(optional)

Directions:

• Put all ingredients except for the chocolate chips in a high-speed blender and blend until completely smooth, about 1-2 minutes on high speed.
• Pour mixture into your ice cream maker and churn until you get a soft-serve consistency, about 20-40 minutes depending on the machine. Add the chocolate chips and churn for a further 2-3 minutes.
• Transfer the mixture to a loaf tin and cover with parchment paper or plastic wrap. Freeze for 2 or more hours, until the desired consistency is reached. Once completely frozen, you will need to remove the ice cream from the freezer about 15 minutes before serving to soften it up.

PUMPKIN SPICE COLD BREE RECIPE

Enjoy Pumpkin Spice hot or cold this season! This cold brew pumpkin spice coffee is the perfect beverage for those end of summer and early fall warmer days!

It’s made with real ingredients and sweetened with Organic Coconut Sugar, so you can feel good about enjoying it again and again! We’ve added a boost of Performance Mushrooms to ours (feel free to omit)!

Pumplin Spice Cold Brew

Time to Make: 5 Minutes (after preparing Cold Brew overnight)

Serves 2

Ingredients

• 6 Tbs Laird Superfood Medium Roast Ground Coffee
• 3 cups filtered water
• 2 Tbs Laird Superfood Pumpkin Spice Creamer
• 1 tsp Performance Mushrooms (optional)
• 1 1/5 cups oat milk or preferred plant milk of choice

Directions

• In a French press, add the ground coffee and water to steep overnight or at least 12-24 hours in the fridge.
• When ready, strain and prepare cups with ice.
• Froth together the pumpkin creamer and performance mushrooms with the plant milk.
• Pour the cold brew over the ice and layer the pumpkin creamer mixture on top and enjoy

Click here for more Laird Superfood recipes

New Beginnings: The Fall Equinox

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Hello Fall! Autumn has arrived with crisp weather in the Northeast and Pacific Northwest, apple picking and pumpkin spice lattes at local coffee shops.

Today, September 22, 2020, marks as the Fall equinox. Many of you might be wondering what the fall (also knows as autumnal) equinox is. On the fall equinox (“Equinox comes from the Latin words “aequi,” which means equal, and “nox,” or night. ), the amount of daylight is nearly equal to the hours of darkness. The equinox happens for just a moment.

Fall begins in the northern hemisphere while spring begins in the southern hemisphere. Marking the first day of fall for all us in the northern parts of the world. So welcome fall, were glad to have you.

Many of us are ready for new beginnings. Going back to school, getting your hair done for the first time in months, pulling out scarves and boots preparing for the cool weather. All of these actions create change in our environment. Change may feel scary at times or it may just be what you need in this very moment. Come embrace a new change or start a new beginning for today’s Fall equinox.

According to history.com "The people of the British Isles have given thanks at fall harvest festivals since pagan times. Harvest festivals traditionally were held on the Sunday nearest the Harvest Moon. Early English settlers took the harvest festival tradition with them to America. These tradition festivals, once celebrated around the equinox, formed the basis of American Thanksgiving, which we now celebrate in November."

Feel free to make your own traditions:

Burning Ritual: write down old thoughts, past habits and emotions you are ready to release. Carefully burn away those old habits and make space to bring in new ones.

Appearance: Maybe it is time for a change of appearance. Have you been wanting to express yourself more? Maybe a new outfit, hair color, eyeshadow or a new pair of shoes. Make a positive shift to the person you want to look at in the mirror every morning.

Friends: Meet someone new this season. I know it might not seem easy, but the world is at your fingertips with our social media platforms. Use your platform for good. Connect with like-minded people and notice your true self igniting.

Space: It’s time to clean, purge and create space in your closet, kitchen, garage; you know where its most needed.

Love Yourself This Labor Day Weekend

The Meritage Resort and Spa

reat yourself to some self-love this Labor Day, from bike rides to hiking trails, to a dip in the pool and enjoying a relaxing bubble bath.

Rest, Relax and Rejuvenate this Labor Day

Every year, the first Monday of September is a day that honors the American Labor Movement, rewarding hard work and achievement by providing a day off from labor. We know that not everyone receives this special day off. But if you are among the lucky to have this day off, have you thought about how to use your time?

We recommend you treat yourself to some self-love this Labor Day, from bike rides to hiking trails, to a dip in the pool and enjoying a relaxing bubble bath.

Over the past few months, we have provided our followers and guests with some wonderful tips and tricks to staying healthy and mindful. Here are some snippets from those blogs to kick-start your Labor Day agenda.

THE ART OF STAYING BUSY

Staying healthy and positive is crucial, especially now, and it’s important to look for ways to de-stress. I’ve compiled some helpful tips to help you maintain a Zen-state-of-mind while staying indoors.

• Mind Health: If you know me, you know I will recommend a spa experience at home, any day, any time, but there are many ways to keep your mind healthy. Try puzzles, brain games, or trivia. These are great ways to stimulate thought and creativity while keeping your brain nourished and working.
• Fresh Air: It can do wonders for your state of mind. Take some time to go on a family walk for at least half an hour everyday around your neighborhood or parks.
• Yoga/Pilates: YouTube is loaded with yoga tutorials for everyone, and so many local fitness studios are taking the time to schedule daily yoga and Pilates classes on their Facebook and Instagram Live Pages. Some of our favorites include Sweat Salt (local Pilates studio in San Diego), Sweat In San Diego’s Facebook Page, OBE Fitness, Melissa Wood Health and Tone It Up YouTube videos!
• Meditation: You don’t need much for this one, but it is so helpful to keep you and your family calm and focused. Apps like Calm or Headspace can guide you through easy meditation for all levels.
• Journaling: I am a big fan of journaling. This is a mindful practice that aids in reducing stress and anxiety.

SPA AT HOME WITH ITEMS FOUND IN YOUR PANTRY

Looking to relieve stress without leaving the house? We’ve got you. Head to your pantry, grab these items, and then fill up the bath! We recommend bath water temperatures between 95°F to 100°F / 35°C to 37°C for maximum effectiveness. Take deep breaths and enjoy a moment of relaxation.

• Epsom Salts: The main benefit of Epsom salts is magnesium, which releases when Epsom salt is dissolved in water. Magnesium is vastly underrated, often deficient, and the fourth most abundant mineral in the body. It’s been used for hundreds of years to treat conditions such as insomnia, fibromyalgia, and constipation. Today, magnesium is a resource used to fight anxiety and mood swings. It’s also a natural muscle soother and athletic performance enhancer as it helps with circulatory health, blood pressure, and nerve function.
• Baking Soda: The main benefit of baking soda is to treat skin irritations - be it eczema, pH imbalances, psoriasis, even the chicken pox. Baking soda soothes and relieves, it purifies, detoxes, and boosts immunities.
• Almond Oil: Almond oil has a whole slew of benefits, as it’s filled with vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper. It’s also packed with antioxidants, and is anti-inflammatory, and immunity boosting. Almond oil in your hair softens and strengthens. It penetrates strands with biotin and protects with a natural SPF.
• Coconut Oil: Coconut Oil is 90% saturated fat with small amounts of mono and polyunsaturated fats which have antimicrobial properties. As a result, coconut oil helps with several skin issues including acne, cellulitis, folliculitis, and athletes’ foot. It’s said that coconut oil can also prevent hair breakage, tame frizz, and cure dandruff through anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Essential Oil Bath Add-Ons: Even if you don’t have a diffuser in every room, there’s a good chance you have at least one essential oil in your house. Any of which are great to add to plain bath water, or on top of baking soda, almond oil, coconut oil, or Epsom salts.

UNPLUG THE ELECTRONICS AND PLUG INTO FAMILY TIME

We are all guilty of streaming our favorite Netflix series, scanning social media for hours, or playing games on our iPhones. Before long, a family of five is scattered alone in five different rooms, hooked to their favorite technology. During this extra time you have as a family, it’s important to take the opportunity to connect away from the TVs, iPads and phones.

Need some ideas? How about these oldies but goodies: Monopoly, Jenga, Pictionary, jigsaw puzzles, Scattergories, 5 Second Rule or even the Sequence Game.Not into games?Try watching a movie as a family, or taking a neighborhood walk.

Additionally, you can share stories at the family dinner table about how you met your spouse, the adventures you had as a teenager, and interesting life experiences your family may not yet fully know.

The key is to appreciate and maximize this time as a family, together.Though life is presenting challenges, the flipside is having the gift of time at home with your family.Cherish these moments – the laughter, the stories, and most of all, cherish the people who matter most.

SPA AT HOME: UNMASKING FACIAL TIPS

While wearing a face mask has been this season's must-wear accessory, they can wreak havoc on your skin.

• "Unmasking” DIY facial: Masks can trap oil, sweat and dirt on your skin and you might find “hot spots” where parts of the mask cause irritation from frequent adjusting. A two-step treatment focused first on a gentle cleansing and exfoliation should become part of your daily ritual. Cleanse prior to putting your mask on and then after you take it off for the day, cleanse again and exfoliate. Make sure to find products that are good oil and dirt fighters, without compromising the skin's barrier.
• The T-Zone has been replaced with the Mask Zone: Heat will cause more moisture where you wear your mask, that may lead to enlarged pores, congestion and even breakouts. Spot treatment with salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy are key for the inflamed areas.
• Create healthy hydration by lightly tapping in a quick-absorbing hyaluronic serum followed by a lightweight moisturizer. During the day you still want to have the SPF when possible because UV rays can be sneaky, even under a mask!
• Inflammation relief: The ultimate “unmasking” relief comes from your trusty Jade Roller or Gua Sha. Soothing passes under the eyes, across the forehead, and across the cheek bones not only reduces puffiness, but it can help tame the redness and calm the skin. Pro Tip: although naturally cold, placing your covered skin care tools in the fridge adds an extra moment of chill.
• Make a statement with your lashes…and that’s it: Ditch the make-up! You're beautiful just as you are, and your skin will thank you for the break.

Go From Dull Skin To Glowing After Wearing A Face Mask

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Sometimes we don’t realize the effect stress has on our skin until the damage is already done. This is where good daily skincare routines can help.

Have you ever finished a long week of work, only to realize your skin is dull and congested from wearing a face mask all day? In today’s world of pandemic, stress levels are at an all-time high. We are all facing increased work hours, multi-tasking and overall volume of tasks. The added stress and wearing a face mask all day long can wreak havoc on our skin, leaving us with dull, irritated, or even inflamed complexions. Sometimes we don’t realize the effect stress has on our skin until the damage is already done. This is where good daily skincare routines can help.

https://youtu.be/35l5hLm8I3E

Mc Master Tips: Pampering Your Pup

The Meritage Resort and Spa

When it comes to puppy love, Paséa Hotel & Spa knows a thing or two. From an 1,100 square foot dog park, to in-room dog amenities, and a pet package including a spa day for your pup, this hotel knows how to treat a four-legged traveler. 

Massaging Your Pet + Dog Meditation
Vanderpump Dogs Zoom Meeting
Friday, August 7th at 5 p.m. PST

Join the Paséa Hotel & Spa team for a 10-minute anatomy walk though of your pooch on how to properly give them a massage taught by the expert Aarna Spa therapist.

Followed by a 10-minute guided meditation for both dog and owner by Pacific Hospitality Group’s Corporate Director of Wellness. Guided meditation will utilize stress relieving sounds that are made for dogs combined with a really simple visualization of dog and owner playing in a park.

This is a small donation class benefitting the Vanderpump Dog Foundation which supports dog rescue efforts around the world. Attendees will be entered into a raffle to win a free stay at Paséa Hotel & Spa.

Top 6 Things To Do In Napa This Summer

The Meritage Resort and Spa

It’s no secret there’s something special about Napa Valley. Located in a breathtakingly beautiful area of Northern California, it boasts an ideal blend of soil, climate, and terrain along with vintners dedicated to perfecting their craft.

It’s no secret there’s something special about Napa Valley. Located in a breathtakingly beautiful area of Northern California, it boasts an ideal blend of soil, climate, and terrain along with vintners dedicated to perfecting their craft.

1. Napa Restaurants, Wineries & Tasting Rooms

Napa Valley is excited to welcome you back with a full glass and renewed spirit. Beginning Thursday, July 9, wineries and restaurants will be open for outdoor service only. With limited capacity, advanced reservations are required for wine tasting and strongly suggested for dining. Click through to a list of open businesses.

WHAT'S OPEN?

2. Napa ARTWalk ‘Sense of Place’

The Napa ARTwalk is a biannual, rotating exhibition of juried sculptures created by artists from the Western US and displayed in Downtown Napa, California. The theme for the sixth Napa ARTWalk Exhibition is ‘Sense of Place’. A jury of arts professionals selected eight sculptures to prompt the contemplation about the symbolic and physical relationship we have to the environment in which we live.

LEARN MORE

3. Golf

Two picturesque golf courses in Napa Valley, Chardonnay Golf Club and Eagle Vines Golf Club, lie just two miles from The Meritage Resort and Spa. Enjoy 18 holes in the morning and wine tasting by the afternoon, offering the perfect golf vacation for the avid golfer and wine enthusiast. The Guest Services Team at The Meritage Resort and Spa can arrange your tee times, lunch, club rentals and transportation to and from the courses. As a guest of our resort, you are able to reserve tee times at both Napa Valley courses up to 60 days in advance through our Concierge.

4. Napa Valley Gondola

The Napa Valley Gondola sightseeing cruises are perfect for romantic couples or groups up to six. Sip some wine, listen to the songs, and relax. The tours are always private, and while tours are popular for couples, there are tours set up for larger groups. No matter which tour you choose, the gondolier will indulge your senses with a musical and memorable taste of Venice all while touring around Downtown Napa.

BOOK YOUR TOUR

5. Hot Air Balloons

Get the bird’s eye view of Napa Valley during the early morning from a beautiful hot-air balloon ride over the vineyards. These once-in-a-lifetime rides are wonderful for weddings, special occasion charters and champagne brunches. We recommend Balloons Above the Valley and our Concierge is happy assist you with reservations.

FLY AWAY

6. Downtown Napa

The city has undergone a renaissance, becoming a world-class destination in its own right. Endless tasting bars let you check out small and large producers before heading up further up the valley. Craving nature? Hike the Bay Area Ridge Trail from the river to Skyline Park. Art lovers will find heaven among the sculpture gardens and galleries of 200-acre Di Rosa or along the city's downtown. We also recommend wine tasting tours across Napa County, including Napa Valley Wine Country Tours.

DO NAPA

Celebrating With The Collection

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Celebrations and holidays are a little different this year and this weekend will see less fireworks and block parties than we are used to.

Celebrations and holidays are a little different this year and this weekend will see less fireworks and block parties than we are used to. So we wanted to share with you how we’re celebrating across our Meritage Collection of hotels, while working closely with our individual county and California State authorities and adhering to strict social distancing and sanitization protocols.

Paséa Hotel & Spa, Huntingtion Beach
Paséa has added “Safe and Sounds” balcony concerts for their guests. Every Friday and Saturday night odd room numbers will enjoy the show at 6 p.m., followed by even room numbers seeing the show at 7 p.m. from their balconies.

Every Friday on the Huntington Beach Pier, Art-A-Faire features more than 50 vendors selling unique, hand-made gifts and crafts. From knitted scarves to turquoise jewelry and surf-related merchandise, you can find something for everyone on your shopping list.

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa, La Jolla
Estancia will be celebrating tucked inside their lush, sprawling gardens. The Secret Garden Lounge offers celebrated Baja coastal inspired cuisine with a Southern California twist paired with fresh, hand-crafted cocktails, cold beers, and refreshing wine offerings. Relax, dine, and sip under the cool southern California nights.

The live fireworks show may be cancelled, but the Port of San Diego created a TV Show special, Big Bay Boom, to celebrate our nation’s independence with the best of the last 20 years of Fireworks!

Meritage Resort & Spa and Vista Collina Resort, Napa
Our Napa resorts will be celebrating this weekend with launch of Live on the Lawn. Taking place on The Lawn, the spacious outdoor venue adjacent to Vista Collina Resort, Live on the Lawn brings resort guests and the Napa Valley community together with live music, a gourmet food truck, a cocktail bar, wine tastings and more in a sprawling environment every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. On Saturday, the resort will be offering kids crafts and activities as well as a fireworks light display.

Spa At Home: Unmasking Facial Tips

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Unmasking SOS Facial Tips. While wearing a face mask has been this season's must-wear accessory, they can wreak havoc on your skin. We have tips from our pros for a beautiful “unmasking” DIY facial.

While wearing a face mask has been this season's must-wear accessory, they can wreak havoc on your skin. Below are tips from our pros for a beautiful “unmasking” DIY facial:

Masks can trap oil, sweat and dirt on your skin and you might find “hot spots” where parts of the mask cause irritation from frequent adjusting.

A two-step treatment focused first on a gentle cleansing and exfoliation should become part of your daily ritual. Cleanse prior to putting your mask on and then after you take it off for the day, cleanse again and exfoliate. Make sure to find products that are good oil and dirt fighters, without compromising the skin's barrier.

The T-Zone has been replaced with the Mask Zone.

Heat will cause more moisture where you wear your mask, that may lead to enlarged pores, congestion and even breakouts. Spot treatment with salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy are key for the inflamed areas.

Create healthy hydration by lightly tapping in a quick-absorbing hyaluronic serum followed by a lightweight moisturizer. During the day you still want to have the SPF when possible because UV rays can be sneaky, even under a mask!

Inflammation relief

The ultimate “unmasking” relief comes from your trusty Jade Roller or Gua Sha. Soothing passes under the eyes, across the forehead, and across the cheek bones not only reduces puffiness, but it can help tame the redness and calm the skin. Pro Tip: although naturally cold, placing your covered skin care tools in the fridge adds an extra moment of chill.

Make a statement with your lashes…and that’s it.

Ditch the make-up! You're beautiful just as you are, and your skin will thank you for the break.

Working From Home With Pets

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Pets brighten up even the best days. And we know some of you may be working from home still. So, in celebration of National Take Your Dog to Work Day, we are giving you some tips to make your at-home work day with your new coworker, more relaxed and stress-free.

Pets brighten up even the best days. And we know some of you may be working from home still. So, in celebration of National Take Your Dog to Work Day, we are giving you some tips to make your at-home work day with your new coworker, more relaxed and stress-free.

ENTERTAIN THEM

When you’re working from home, you may notice your pets requiring more of your attention. They may not be used to you being home this often and are simply excited. When you need time to focus, find ways to entertain them. Leave toys out or introduce new ones. Put the TV or radio on to relax your pets. We recommend searching “relaxing videos for pets” on YouTube; there are videos 8-15 hours long.

TAKE BREAKS

You still need to take breaks while working from home. Pets not only brighten our day but lower our blood pressure at the end of a stressful one. So, take breaks throughout the day to leave you feeling mentally and physically refreshed. Go outside or take a short walk with your dog when they need a potty break.

BACK TO BASICS

We love our pets, but the last thing we need during that important Zoom call, is our cat jumping up on the desk or dog barking for our attention. With more time at home together, go back to the basics and reinforce some good habits. By teaching them how to lay down and introduce calming behaviors, teach your dog how to relax when needed. You may just have to leave your pet outside the room for your meeting, then snuggle them straight after.

INCREASE OFFICE COMMUNICATION

If you are in the office, having your dog with you may allow you to interact with your coworkers in a whole new way. Dogs are a great icebreaker, and once your coworkers hear that your pup is in for the day, you may see more visitors to your workstation than ever before. It’s pretty obvious they will be a fun factor at work, but the better moods of your team members and communication and teamwork that may follow, will be beneficial to your overall work life.

When it's time for a reward for you and your pup, book a room at any of The Meritage Collection hotels and enjoy many amenities from private dog parks to dog beaches and special treats for your pet.

Cooking With The Collection

The Meritage Resort and Spa

The Meritage Collection has tapped all of their executive Chefs—from Hawaii to California—and they have compiled their favorite recipes (cocktails included!) for you to make at home. Here is a new chicken dish for you to try from Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort Chef Noelani Planas!

Have you been scrolling through Pinterest and overwhelmed with the number of recipes at your fingertips? We’ve been there too! Lucky for all of us, the Meritage Collection has tapped all of their executive Chefs—from Hawaii to California—and they have compiled their favorite recipes for you to make at home. Here is a new chicken dish for you to try from Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort Chef Noelani Planas!

Chef Name: Chef Noelani Planas of Red Salt
Property Name: Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort
Recipe Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

• 2 large chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise
• Flour for dredging
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter divided
• 1 whole head garlic clove peeled
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Parsley chopped (optional)

Instructions:

• Cut the chicken in half lengthwise so you have 4 smaller cutlets. Sprinkle them with some salt & pepper and coat them in the flour.
• Add the olive oil and 1 tbsp of the butter to a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, sauté the chicken for 4-5 minutes/side or until it's nice and golden. Take the chicken out of the pan and set it aside.
• Reduce the heat to medium (or even med-low if using cast iron) and add the rest of the butter to the pan. Let it melt and then add the garlic cloves. Cook them for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until they're lightly browned on the outside.
• Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic powder to the pan. Let it bubble for around 4 minutes or until the liquid is noticeably reduced.
• Stir in the cream and add the chicken back into the pan. Let it cook for another 5 minutes or so, until the sauce is reduced, and the chicken is cooked through. Serve with freshly chopped parsley, if you wish.

You may substitute items or add. I like to add mushrooms and spinach at the end. You can serve with orzo pasta, rice or potatoes. Bon Appetit!

Virtual Drinking Games

The Meritage Resort and Spa

These days, there’s a tremendous sense of community even if all our connections are happening virtually. Which is why we’ve compiled 10 virtual drinking games to play with friends, colleagues, and family members alike.

These days, there’s a tremendous sense of community even if all our connections are happening virtually.We’re allliving for phone calls, Zoom chat rooms, Instagram Live, any and all memes we can send to the group chat.

Which is why we’ve compiled 10 virtual drinking games to play with friends, colleagues, and family members alike. Whether you’re down the street from one another or transatlantic, our goal is to continue providing you with a fun means of connection and a way to forget your worries for a bit.

Of course, please drink responsibly!

DUCK DUCK GOOSE

1. Gather 5+ friends on zoom, webex, teams or alternate virtual conference room of choice. Ensure that video & sound are on.
2. Set so that you can see everyone's faces at the top, and whomever is speaking is largest at the bottom.
3. Everyone opens a canned beverage.
4. Pick one person who is “goose” (rotates to the right).
5. “Goose” says "duck (name of friend)" "duck (name of next friend)" going around the virtual room.
6. “Goose” then decides when to stop and says "GOOSE (name of friend)!" Both “geese” imbibe their beverage and drink as fast as possible.

Whomever finishes last or gives up first is the new “goose.”

MUSICAL CHAIRS

1. Gather 5+ friends on zoom, webex, teams or alternate virtual conference room of choice. Ensure that video & sound are on.
2. Set so that you can see everyone's faces at the top, and whomever is speaking is largest at the bottom.
3. Pick one DJ (rotates to the right).
4. DJ picks a song and presses play.
5. Everyone sings along.
6. DJ stops the song.
7. Whoever's face is the largest when the song stops has to drink.

GOING TO THE STORE

1. Gather 5+ friends on zoom, webex, teams or alternate virtual conference room of choice. Ensure that video & sound are on.
2. Set so that you can see everyone's faces at the top, and whomever is speaking is largest at the bottom.
3. The first person begins by saying, "I'm going to the store and I need to get toilet paper" (or any other quarantine necessity).
4. After that, the ensuing players repeat the item that the previous players said... but add another item to the list, i.e. "I'm going to the store and I need to get toilet paper, beans, water and crackers, and ... pasta."
5. Continue on until someone messes up; whoever messes up first takes a drink.

TRUE OR FALSE

1. Gather 3+ friends on zoom, webex, teams or alternate virtual conference room of choice. Ensure that video & sound are on.
2. Set so that you can see everyone's faces at the top, and whomever is speaking is largest at the bottom.
3. Download dice rolling app. (i.e. dice dice)
4. Create a communal list of nouns related to quarantine. i.e. water, snacks, toilet paper, etc.
5. First person selected picks a noun and rolls dice (not letting anyone see what number rolled).
6. If you roll an even number, you need to tell a true story from your life involving the noun. If you roll an odd number, you make a story up.
7. Everyone listens to your story and guesses if it's true or false.
8. If they're wrong, they drink; if they're right, you drink for every person who guesses correctly.

BINGO

1. To be played alone or with friends.
2. 1 box = 1 drink.
3. 1 row = 1 shot.
4. Board attached.

Wine Glassware Class & Virtual Tasting

The Meritage Resort and Spa

To get the scoop on how exceptional wine glasses help you savor more of the great Napa wines offer, join us and Riedel for a wine glass webinar on Wednesday June 24th, from 5:30PM to 6:30PM PST, in partnership with Trinitas Cellars.

We like to think our Meritage Resort and Spa property lies right at the heart of Northern California wine country. The iconic Napa Grape Crusher statue, that rests atop the knoll above our resort, is not only symbolic of the unyielding dedication and passion of our founding Napa Valley vintners, but of all the committed growers and producers that make up this world class region today. With all of Northern California wine country at our doorstep, it is only fitting that we place a bottle of Napa Valley’s Trinitas Cellars in every single room for guests to enjoy (only for those 21 or older, of course) across The Meritage Collection. We simply cannot get enough, or share enough, of the magic of Napa. So last month we invited our guests to participate in a workshop with world renown glassmaker Riedel to get the scoop on how exceptional wine glasses help you savor even more of what great Napa wines have to offer. We all had so much fun, that we’re doing it again. For those of you who participated in the last tasting, do not worry, Trinitas Cellars is featuring two new wines. If you already have the kit, all you will need are wines.

Join us and Riedel for a wine glass webinar on Wednesday June 24th, from 5:30PM to 6:30PM PST, in partnership with Trinitas Cellars. This tasting will feature Trinitas Cellar’s 2017 Sauvignon Blanc and 2017 O’Neill Vineyard Pinot Noir. During the interactive webinar, you will get to learn about Grape Varietal wine glasses from Riedel representative Susan Durbrow and about Trinitas Cellars wines from Garrett Busch. Click here to learn more about this unforgettable experience and limited time offer.

Here is some of the information that we picked up from the last tasting!

SHAPE MATTERS!

Most people do not realize that the glass is an instrument to convey the wine's message. Riedel discovered in the 1950s that the shape of a glass influences the bouquet and taste of wine. The key factor in determining the relationship between fruit, acidity, tannin and alcohol is the grape variety. Riedel, with the help and support of the world's greatest palates, was able to create shapes in which the wine, vinified from specific grape varieties, seemed to improve. As Georg Riedel says, “No one blames the glassmaker, they blame the winemaker.”

“MESSAGE” OF WINE

There are 4 components which come together to translate the “message” of the wine: Bouquet, Texture, Flavor and Finish.

• BOUQUET: Grape varietal specific stemware is re­sponsible for delivering the quality and intensity of the wine's aroma.
• TEXTURE: Grape varietal specific stemware highlights the exciting and diverse styles of "mouthfeel" in wine (watery, creamy, silky, velvety).
• FLAVOR: Grape varietal specific stemware creates a ba­lanced interaction between the fruit, minerality, acidity and bitter components of a wine.
• FINISH: Grape varietal specific stemware offers a pleasant, seamless, harmonious, and long-lasting aftertaste.

As the Riedel Family well knows, we can talk until we are blue in the face and you still may not believe these glasses can make a difference. The only way to know is to try them for yourself. Come on and join us. We just might change your wine life….

The Oceans Were Made For You And Me

The Meritage Resort and Spa

For the many people who don’t live by the ocean it may seem that your daily choices don’t affect our vast waters. But shockingly they do! Our Director of Wellness and Sustainability Kenzie Vath has provided best practices to maintain clean oceans.

World Oceans Day
For the many people who don’t live by the ocean it may seem that your daily choices don’t affect our vast waters. But shockingly they do!

Even though the coastal life is a minority in sunny Southern California we are all part of a larger whole. The packaging we use and how we dispose of that packaging are conscious decisions we can make to support a cleaner environment. Here are a few best practices to maintain clean oceans from our Director of Wellness and Sustainability, Kenzie Vath:

• Reduce Plastic Usage: Ongoing usage of plastics can have a negative impact to your health. Be sure to only buy BPA free plastics to avoid toxic exposure from microplastics. Single use plastics are the main culprit to the large garbage patches in our Pacific Ocean. Try switching over to reusable resources for your everyday plastic products. Here are a few of my personal favorites. PS Always remember to Recycle!
• Reusable water bottle by Byta
• Reusable shopping bag by Baggu
• Reusable food wrap by World Market

• Support Companies working to keep our oceans clean. Many of our coastal properties sell products from companies such a 4Oceans doing their part to clean our oceans.
• Volunteering is another great way to connect with your community and show love to mother earth. Participate in a local beach clean up.
• When eating seafood lean towards sustainable options. A great resource for knowing what is best to eat in your area is the Seafood Watch guide. You will find a recommendation list for the following seafood options; best choices, good alternatives and avoid.

Join us to keep our oceans clean and thriving. Happy World Oceans Day!

Hawaiian Flavors Cooking Class

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Explore the flavors of the garden isle with native Kauai chef, Noelani Planas. Join the Ko'a Kea team as chef guides you through making flavorful poke bowls and coconut mojitos.

Hawaiian Flavors Cooking Class - POSTPONED
Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort’s Facebook Live

STAY TUNED FOR NEW DATES AND TIMES.

Join us for a virtual Hawaiian Cooking class. Explore the flavors of the garden isle with native Kauai chef, Noelani Planas. Join us live from Kauai as chef guides you through making flavorful poke bowls and coconut mojitos. Tune in to Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort's Facebook Live and enjoy some a guided cooking class from the comfort of your own home.

Below you will find a shopping list and a link to purchase the Trinitas Cellar wines so they may deliver before our cooking class.

Our Hawaiian dishes include:

• Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl
• Shoyu Poke Bowl
• Coconut Mojito

SHOPPING LIST:

SHOPPING LIST

RECIPE CARDS:

RECIPE CARDS

Dishes are paired with Trinitas Cellars wines. Purchase link and pairings coming soon.

Information on Executive Chef Noelani Planas:

Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort’s Executive Chef Noelani Planas is native to Kauai and brings more than 25 years of culinary experience ranging from fast-paced casual dining to large event banquets, and quality, in-room dining. She started working in the kitchen when she was just 15 years old, training under notable chefs including Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Wolfgang Puckand Joel Robuchon when she was Chef de Partie at his Las Vegas outlet--the city’s only three Michelin-star restaurant. She later returned to Kauai where she was Chef de Cuisine at the St. Regis Princeville Resort before overseeing culinary operations at Ko’a Kea.

Cooking With The Collection For National Hamburger Day

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Life’s new reality: you’re home now for at least a few weeks with your kids, not knowing how to fill time since playdates and outings are limited.

Sunny days are ahead, bringing picnics and backyard barbecues along with it. In honor of National Hamburger Day, May 28th, we have tapped the shoulders of our Meritage Collection chefs, and asked them to share the recipes of each restaurant’s delicious burgers.

Burger: Shishito Burger
Location: Tanner’s Treehouse at Pasea Hotel & Spa

Ingredients:
8 oz Burger Patty
Serrano Aioli:
8 each Egg yolks
2 bunches Cilantro
8 each Serrano Peppers (sliced)
2 each Lime, Juice of
2 each Lemon, Juice of
2 qt Blended Oil
To Taste Salt and Pepper
Tempura Batter: (For Shishito Peppers)
4 1/2 cups Tempura Flour
4 cups Soda water
Potato Bun
3 each Shishito Peppers, Tempura Fried
2 oz Slized White Cheddar
Charred Napa Cabbage Julienne
Citrus Vinaigrette
1 cup orange juice
¼ cup grapefruit juice
¼ cup lemon juice
½ cup lime juice
¼ cup white wine vin
¼ cup champagne vin
½ Tbs dijon mustard
1 Tbs maple syrup
2 cups blended oil
To Taste Salt and pepper
1 Tbs Xantham Gum

Method:
For the Serrano Aioli:

• Place Lime Juice, Lemon Juice, Cilantro, and Serrano Peppers in a blender. Blend until juice consistency, set aside.
• In a blender add the egg yolks in the blender, blend slowly until you have fluffy ribbons, keep at a consistent med - high speed. Begin to slowly add oil into the blender until you get a "mayo" texture. Add the Lime Juice mixture and blend until well incorporated.

NOTE: if blender gets too hot let it cool down or the emulsion will break.

For Tempura Batter:

• In a large mixing bowl mix the tempura flour and soda water.
• Look for a thin pancake batter consistency. To test, fry one shishito. Add more tempura flour if too thin or add more water if too thick.

For Napa Cabbage:

• Cut head of Napa Cabbage in half and grill until flat side has a nice char.
• Julienne Napa Cabbage.
• Toss in Citrus Vinaigrette.

For the Citrus Dressing:

• Add all ingredients in large bowl, except oil.
• Blend with hand blender, and slowly add in oil until proper viscosity is reached.
• Adjust seasoning as needed.

To Cook:

• Cook Burger to desired temperature. Toast hamburger buns. On both sides of the bun put a dollop of Serrano Aioli. On the bottom bun add Charred Napa Slaw and place burger on top.
• De-stem Shishito Pepper, dip into tempura batter, let drip so there is no excess, slowly drop into fryer at 350 degrees until golden brown. Place on top of patty, close burger. EAT!

Burger: Mustangs Burger
Location: Mustangs & Burros at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

Ingredients:
8oz Special blend Ground Beef (50%chuck/25%short rib/25%brisket)
½ Yellow Onion Caramelized
2 each Butter Lettuce Leaves washed
2 each Tomato Slices (heirlooms are preferred)
.75 oz Sliced Pepperjack Cheese
1 each 4.5” Brioche Bun
To Taste Salt and Pepper

Method:

• Finely slice the onion. Saute the onion in 1 tbsp of olive oil on medium heat. Stir the onion as needed throughout the cooking process until they are caramelized a dark brown color and set aside.
• Heat up your grill until it reaches 375 degrees. Season the beef patty with salt and pepper. Grill for 2 minutes then turn the patty 45 degrees and grill for two more minutes. Flip the patty over and repeat the process.
• Toast the bun in the oven on low broil, or on the grill for 20-30 seconds.
• Melt the cheese over the patty.
• Build your burger as follows (you can spread ketchup, mayo, mustard on bun before you build). Bottom Bun, Tomato, Burger with cheese, Onions, lettuce, top bun.

Burger: The “Americano Burger”
Location: Olive & Hay at The Meritage Resort & Spa

Pickling Brine Ingredients:
2 qts Champagne Vinegar
1 qt Sugar
1 qt Water
150 g Calamansit Vinegar
Fresh Pickled Cucumbers Ingredients:
1 Cucumber thinly sliced on mandolin
Pickling Brine
Dijon Aioli Ingredients:
Equal parts Dijon Mustard (Louit Freres) and Garlic Aioli

Method:

For Pickling Brine:

• Combine vinegar, sugar, and water in a pot and bring to a boil. Cool mixture. Once cooled stir in Calamansit vinegar. Store in fridge. Brine can be prepped in a large batch and used as needed.

For Pickled Cucumbers:

• Thinly slice cucumber and place into a container. Cover cucumbers with cold pickling brine and allow to sit until needed.

For Dijon Aioli:

• In a mixing bowl combine Dijon mustard and garlic aioli. Whisk to combine.

Burger Assembly:
1 each Bouchon Brioche Bun
Italian Spice Seasoning
Kosher Salt
1 8oz Burger Patty
1 slice Sharp Cheddar
2 oz Dijon Aioli
2 pcs Lettuce
2 slices Tomato
4 pcs Fresh Pickled Cucumbers
3 slices Fresh sliced onion

Method:

• Season burger with Italian spice seasoning and kosher salt and grill burger to your desired temp. Add cheddar cheese and allow to melt.
• Grill brioche bun and spread with Dijon Aioli. Add lettuce, tomato, pickled cucumbers, and onions. Add burger to top and enjoy!

Unplug The Electronics And Plug Into Family Time

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Life’s new reality: you’re home now for at least a few weeks with your kids, not knowing how to fill time since playdates and outings are limited.

Life’s new reality: you’re home now for at least a few weeks with your kids, not knowing how to fill time since playdates and outings are limited.It wasn’t so long ago you could say, “head to Jenny’s house,” or “play at the pool,” but those options are currently off the table.However, now there’s the opportunity to use this time to bring the family together, connect and develop deeper relationships with your spouse, children, aunts, uncles, parents and grandparents.

In order to do this, we have to unplug from our devices. We are all guilty of streaming our favorite Netflix series, scanning social media for hours, or playing games on our iPhones.Before long, a family of five is scattered alone in five different rooms, hooked to their favorite technology. During this extra time you have as a family, it’s important to take the opportunity to connect away from the TVs, iPads and phones.

Need some ideas? How about these oldies but goodies: Monopoly, Jenga, Pictionary, jigsaw puzzles, Scattergories, 5 Second Rule or even the Sequence Game.Not into games?Try watching a movie as a family, or taking a neighborhood walk.

Additionally, you can share stories at the family dinner table about how you met your spouse, the adventures you had as a teenager, and interesting life experiences your family may not yet fully know.

The key is to appreciate and maximize this time as a family, together.Though life is presenting challenges, the flipside is having the gift of time at home with your family.Cherish these moments – the laughter, the stories, and most of all, cherish the people who matter most.

Spa At Home With Items Found In Your Pantry

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Looking to relieve stress without leaving the house? We’ve got you. Head to your pantry, grab these items, and then fill up the bath!

Looking to relieve stress without leaving the house? We’ve got you. Head to your pantry, grab these items, and then fill up the bath!

We recommend bath water temperatures between 95°F to 100°F / 35°C to 37°C for maximum effectiveness. Take deep breaths and enjoy a moment of relaxation.

Epsom Salts

Benefits: The main benefit of Epsom salts is magnesium, which releases when Epsom salt is dissolved in water.

Magnesium is vastly underrated, often deficient, and the fourth most abundant mineral in the body. It’s been used for hundreds of years to treat conditions such as insomnia, fibromyalgia, and constipation. Today, magnesium is a resource used to fight anxiety and mood swings. It’s also a natural muscle soother and athletic performance enhancer as it helps with circulatory health, blood pressure, and nerve function.

Use: Add 2 cups of Epsom salt to bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes.

Before/After: Be sure to drink extra water when you’re done as baths with Epsom salt can be dehydrating and detoxifying.

Baking Soda

Benefits: The main benefit of baking soda is to treat skin irritations - be it eczema, pH imbalances, psoriasis, even the chicken pox.

Baking soda soothes and relieves, it purifies, detoxes, and boosts immunities.

Use: Add between 5 tablespoons to 2 cups of baking soda to the bath. The amount depends on the condition you wish to treat. Swirl it around to dissolve. Soak for 10 to 40 minutes.

Before: Be sure to drink extra water when you’re done as baths with baking soda can also be dehydrating.

After: To get rid of remaining toxins and residue rinse off and exfoliate with a loofah or washcloth.

Almond Oil

Benefits: Almond oil has a whole slew of benefits, as it’s filled with vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper. It’s also packed with antioxidants, and is anti-inflammatory, and immunity boosting.

Almond oil in your hair softens and strengthens. It penetrates strands with biotin and protects with a natural SPF.

Use: Add 1- 2 tablespoons of almond oil to the bath, or a tablespoon to your hair in a mask-like fashion.

You can also use it to help lighten under eye circles by gently massaging a small amount under your eyes before going to bed at night (repeat for several weeks). It should increase blood circulation and decrease inflammation.

Before: Check whether your oil is pure, cold pressed, and ideally organic.

After: Be sure to drink a little extra water to re-hydrate.

Coconut Oil

Benefits: Coconut Oil is 90% saturated fat with small amounts of mono and polyunsaturated fats which have antimicrobial properties.

As a result, coconut oil helps with several skin issues including acne, cellulitis, folliculitis, and athletes’ foot. It’s said that coconut oil can also prevent hair breakage, tame frizz, and cure dandruff through anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Even if you aren’t fighting a skin condition, coconut oil can be great for improving hydration, especially in dry winter weather. It can even help heal cracked skin.

Use: Add 1- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to the bath or a tablespoon to your hair in a mask-like fashion.

After: Be sure to drink a little extra water to re-hydrate.

Essential Oil Bath Add-Ons

Even if you don’t have a diffuser in every room, there’s a good chance you have at least one essential oil in your house. Any of which are great to add to plain bath water, or on top of baking soda, almond oil, coconut oil, or Epsom salts.

Use: Add 1-5 drops of essential oil to the bath water. If you don’t have a bathtub, a few drops of essential oil can be added to shower walls to have similar effects.

Lavender: Easily accessible and palatable, lavender is beneficial for calming the body both physically and emotionally. It’s also great for relieving headaches, anxiety, and insomnia.

Peppermint: Peppermint is great at relieving sinus congestion, improving digestion, relieving nausea, and increasing blood-flow.

Rosemary: Less universal in bath products, rosemary is great for relieving aches and boosting the immune system.

Lemon: Lemon is a favorite flavor and scent, great at improving circulation and lymphatic flow. It’s antibacterial and antiviral. And of course, can improve mood.

Sources

Disclaimer: while we have a multitude of great resources at our fingertips, please be sure to do your own research, factor in age, health, and talk to your doctor. No matter how natural items are, new substances can cause skin irritations and reactions. It’s always a good idea to test ingredients on a small bit of skin.

Magnesium: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/epsom-salt-benefits-uses#benefits

Baking Soda: https://www.healthline.com/health/baking-soda-bath#purpose

Almond Oil: https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/almond-oil#1

https://www.healthline.com/health/almond-oil-for-dark-circles#uses

Coconut Oil: https://www.healthline.com/health/baking-soda-and-coconut-oil

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coconut-oil-and-skin#section4

Essential Oils: https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-use-essential-oils#benefits

Keto Live Cooking Class

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Explore the flavors of Napa-Valley with a keto twist. Join Chef Vincent Lesage as he guides you on a light, keto menu to get you ready for those days in the sun, with wine pairings from Trinitas Cellars.

Napa-Inspired Keto Cooking Class
Meritage Resort's Facebook Live
Saturday, May 23rd at 1 p.m. PST

Join us on Saturday, May 23rd for a virtual Napa-Inspired Keto Cooking Class with Chef Vincent, just in time for Memorial Day and more sunny days ahead. Tune in to Meritage Resort's Facebook Live, where Chef Vincent Lesage will be leading you through these light and easy keto dishes you can do at home.

Below you will find a shopping list for your keto meal and a link to purchase the Trinitas Cellar wines so they may deliver before our cooking class.

Our Keto meals include:

• Cauliflower and Cheese Dip with Napa Valley Market Vegetable Crudité
• Dry Rub BBQ Ribs with Keto BBQ Sauce featuring the 2015 Trinitas Mataro
• Napa Cabbage Coleslaw and Avocado Dressing
• Keto Cioppino: Zoodle Pasta with a Spicy Seafood Stew featuring the 2016 Trinitas O’Neill Vineyard Pinot Noir
• Instant Pot Short Ribs Taco
• Strawberry Frosé and Low-Carb Simple Syrup featuring the new release 2018 Trinitas Rosé

SHOPPING LIST

If you are unable to attend the class, here are your recipe cards:

RECIPE CARDS

Our Keto meal is paired with Trinitas Cellars wines. Purchase now to be delivered before the class.

• 2015 Trinitas Mataro
• 2016 Trinitas O’Neill Vineyard Pinot Noir
• 2018 Trinitas Rosé

PURCHASE HERE

Information on Executive Chef Vincent Lesage:

As Complex Executive Chef of The Meritage Resort and Spa and Vista Collina Resort, Vincent Lesage is responsible for all of the culinary programs across the Napa campus. Born and raised in Paris, Lesage was surrounded by the rich flavors and techniques that define French gastronomy. He graduated from the Institut Paul Bocuse in Écully, France before training at some of the world's most celebrated establishments, including The Ritz Paris, and the Michelin three-star restaurants L'Astrance and Bras.

Shapes & Pleasures – Wine Glassware 101

The Meritage Resort and Spa

At Meritage Collection, it is no secret we love wine. No, like we really love wine. That is why we put a bottle of Trinitas Cellars Wines from Napa Valley in every single room

At Meritage Collection, it is no secret we love wine.No, like we really love wine.That is why we put a bottle of Trinitas Cellars Wines from Napa Valley in every single room (only for those 21 or older to enjoy, of course). So it’s no surprise that our passion for wine has us exploring all aspects of the art of the grape and why we reached out to our friends at Riedel to get the dish, or, in this case, glass, on glassware.

In fact, our friends at Riedel are co-hosting a wine glasses class on Thursday May 28th, from 5:30PM to 6:30PM PST, in partnership with Trinitas Cellars so you can learn from the experts about the importance of stemware and the proper pour. You will not only get a chance to put your taste buds to the test, but also acquire a professional Riedel glass set at an extraordinary value. Click here to learn more about this unforgettable experience and limited time offer.

In the meantime, below are some tips and tricks to whet your appetite.

AROMAS

Did you know that 70% of flavor comes from aroma? That’s why food tastes so bland when you have a blocked nose. Wine aroma can be generally broken up into four categories: fruit and floral; earth and spice; oak (or tannin); and alcohol. When you put your nose deep into a wine glass and smell, the wine should offer different aromatic characters that create one harmonious expression – just like all the instruments in an orchestra. An incorrectly shaped glass will distort the aroma profile, like a drum that plays off beat or an out of tune violin.

SIZE MATTERS

As well as enveloping aroma, the size and shape of your glass will affect how the wine is directed onto and delivered across your palate. This is based on the rim diameter, curve of the lip, and how far you need to tip your head back to drink. With a RIEDEL Varietal-Specific Glass, you’re using a product that has been tried and tested by some of the world’s greatest wine experts, to ensure it’s the perfect loudspeaker for both aroma and flavor.

THE POUR

Ok, we are guilty of the over pour, but our friends at Riedel say, maybe that’s not a good idea. We already know that each glass you choose for your wine should be sized specifically with space for wine aromas, so they say make sure your glass is never filled right to the top and recommend you only pour to the widest point in the bowl.

WHERE TO BEGIN

If you’re starting a collection and trying to decide what types of wine glasses to buy, we recommend picking a few shapes based on your favorite varieties of wine. Whether that means you have a collection of only white wine glasses, or only red wines glasses, or a couple of each, our rule is to never compromise on the wines you love!

Movies And Milkshakes

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Listen up, friends, families and loved ones: You don’t want to miss out on the best milkshake recipes for your next movie night indoors.

Listen up, friends, families and loved ones: You don’t want to miss out on the best milkshake recipes for your next movie night indoors. Throw open the cupboards and freezer, rev up the blender and get ready to make some of Crush's most delicious milkshakes at home.

Executive Chef of Crush at The Meritage Resort and Spa, Vincent Lesage, has shared some of the restaurant’s signature milkshake recipes for the whole family to enjoy (one just for the adults).

Chef Vincent and his daughter LOVE to watch Secret Life of Pets, together. What special movie will you be watching with your loved ones?

Crush Milkshake Recipes:

S’mores Milkshake

• 2 Scoops Chocolate Ice Cream
• 2 Tablespoon Chocolate Syrup
• 1 Cup Whole Milk
• 5 Graham Crackers
• Half of a Banana
• 1 oz of Vodka (or more, depending on your mood)
• 1 Tablespoon Peanut Butter
• 2 Scoops Vanilla Ice Cream

Blend together and top with marshmallows and graham crackers

The Elvis Milkshake (Spiked)

• Half of a Banana
• 1 oz of Vodka (or more, depending on your mood)
• 1 Tablespoon Peanut Butter
• 2 Scoops Vanilla Ice Cream

Blend together and finish off by garnishing with a pretzel stick

Let us know what milkshakes you make yourself at home, and which to try, next!

Since We Have Some Time...

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Trying to stay healthy when our daily activities are limited is rough, no question about it. But try taking this time to look at the positives!

Trying to stay healthy when our daily activities are limited is rough, no question about it. But try taking this time to look at the positives! All of those things that have been on your “when I have time” list can now be checked off. Below are 12 ideas for ways to spend this new gift of time we’ve all received.

1. ^{_{Remember those pants in your closet that you haven’t worn in 10 years? Clean em’ out!Along with all of the items that, if they disappeared tomorrow, you wouldn’t notice.}}
2. ^{_{While you’re at it, clean those parts of your house you may have been overlooking lately. How’s that balcony looking after the last three storms? How many dust bunnies are living under you bed? Time to tackle them!}}
3. ^{_{Clean out those kitchen cupboards. Anyone else have salad dressing from 2014?}}
4. ^{_{Clean up your computer files. All those pictures you wanted to organize by trip—let’s do some dragging!}}
5. ^{_{Bring out the spices! All those recipes you’ve been ripping out of magazines? Get going, Emeril!}}
6. ^{_{Did anyone really see all the Oscar nominated movies? This is the perfect time to catch up.}}
7. ^{_{All those books you keep buying from Amazon but then move to your bookshelf? Crack them open and actually read them!}}
8. ^{_{Gyms are closed but chances are you have about 10 exercise apps on your phone you’ve downloaded but haven’t actually used. Put that athletic wear you’ve been wearing to good use and work up a sweat.}}
9. ^{_{That black mark on the wall in the hallway, or that bathroom door that creaks every time you close it? Let’s fix those now.}}
10. ^{_{Remember how you’ve said, “I would like to learn Spanish,” bought the program and left it sitting in the box? Ahora es un buen momento!}}
11. ^{_{One of the keys to happiness is always having something to look forward to. Create a list of where you plan to visit when this is all over. And it doesn’t need to be that safari in South Africa right now. Perhaps it’s as simple as going to your favorite restaurant.}}
12. ^{_{Times are hard.But take a moment and create a list of everything you are grateful for and review that every day you wake up, then again and every night before you go to bed. Keep adding to it as the days progress.Gratitude keeps us moving forward, even in the face of adversity.}}

Ways To Give Back - National Nurses Day

The Meritage Resort and Spa

In recognition and celebration of National Nurses Day, our Meritage Collection family extends their gratitude and thanks to the nurses and countless healthcare workers on the front lines during this time.

In recognition and celebration of National Nurses Day, our Meritage Collection family extends their gratitude and thanks to the nurses and countless healthcare workers on the front lines during this time.

To jumpstart travel and thank healthcare workers for their tireless efforts, Meritage Collection has united with the hospitality industry, MMGY Global and hsmai to launch Buy One, Give One.

Buy One, Give One is a “vacay layaway” program with amazing travel offers to purchase future travel now, while also giving back. For every $500 Gift Voucher you buy for yourself, the Meritage Collection hotels pledge to give one complimentary night gift vouchers to local charitable organizations to distribute as a “thank you” to healthcare workers who have been tirelessly working on the front lines, to redeem for future leisure stays.

OUR CONTRIBUTIONS:

Paséa Hotel & Spa will be donating to American Nurses Association.

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa will be donating to UC San Diego Health.

Meritage Resort & Spa and Vista Collina Resort will be donating to Queen of the Valley.

Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort will be donating to American Nurses Association.

The Art Of Staying Busy

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Maintain a Zen-state-of-mind while staying indoors. We asked our Area Director of Spa, Brisa Huezo, for tips on the art of staying busy and relaxed while we all stay safely at home

Are you feeling like you are running on information overload? Same here! We asked our Area Director of Spa, Brisa Huezo, for tips on the art of staying busy and relaxed while we all stay safely at home.

Staying healthy and positive is crucial, especially now, and it’s important to look for ways to de-stress. I’ve compiled some helpful tips to help you maintain a Zen-state-of-mind while staying indoors.

Set a Schedule

Maintaining a sense of predictability for yourself and your family is more essential these days than ever before. I suggest creating a schedule for everyone in the household. This does not have to be an hour by hour scenario (which can cause even more stress), but more along the lines of “between the hours of X and X...” This is merely to keep some kind of structure and order in the house. You can assign blocks of time for studies, reading, play, art, outdoor activities and meditation, and the most important, HUGS!

Put Away Your PJs

You might not want to hear this but...try not to stay in your pajamas all day! Take time to dress up, even if that means your “cute” comfy clothes. The way we look influences the way we feel.The same goes for the rest of the family, it’s a way to easily uplift each other and instantly feel better.

Everyone Contributes

Even the smallest person in the family has the ability to contribute to the household. Keeping a checklist of everyone’s duties for the day or week is an easy way to keep stress at a minimum. If we don’t have to keep asking for things to get done around the house, the day can be less stressful and exhausting. In our home, for example, we “reward” completion of a checklist with a family movie and picnic in the living room at the end of the day.And so far, all the chores have been done – even by my 3 year old!

Mealtime

Keeping meals healthy is key to keeping your body as healthy as possible.Limit your amount of sugar (especially with kids … you know what I mean) alcohol and junk food. That means, try not to have wine until 4 p.m. if you can! Fruits and veggies contain tons of immune-boosting benefits. For example, carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin contain carotenoids to help make your immune system stronger.You can make a delicious and healthy soup with these ingredients, and don’t forget to add lots of garlic for added benefits. Pro tip: add a naturally fermented food to your diet.Think sauerkraut, kimchi, kafir, apple cider vinegar or plain Greek yogurt, to help strengthen your immune system.And bonus! Fermented foods help curb cravings for carbs and sugars.

Mind Health

If you know me, you know I will recommend a spa experience at home, any day, any time, but there many ways to keep your mind healthy. Try puzzles, brain games, or trivia. These are great ways to stimulate thought and creativity while keeping your brain nourished and working.

Fresh Air

It can do wonders for your state of mind. Take some time to go on a family walk for at least half an hour everyday around your neighborhood or parks.

Just Dance

This category made it to our daily schedule at home and is highly suggested! We dance to our favorite tunes around the house for 10 or 15 minutes. It’s fun, it’s silly and it’s great for boosting morale.

Yoga/Pilates

YouTube is loaded with yoga tutorials for everyone, and so many local fitness studios are taking the time to schedule daily yoga and Pilates classes on their Facebook and Instagram Live Pages. Some of our favorites include Sweat Salt (local Pilates studio in San Diego), Sweat In San Diego’s Facebook Page, OBE Fitness, Melissa Wood Health and Tone It Up YouTube videos!

Meditation

You don’t need much for this one, but it is so helpful to keep you and your family calm and focused.Apps like Calm or Headspace can guide you through easy meditation for all levels.

Journaling

I am a big fan of journaling. This is a mindful practice that aids in reducing stress and anxiety.

Sleep

At least Monday through Friday, try to keep the same bedtime. Avoid watching the news at least an hour before you go to bed and instead, opt for breath work to calm your mind and set the mood for a restful sleep.How about that book you’ve been wanting to read, and you haven’t had time for?Now it’s the time. Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep for adults and 8-10 hours for the younger ones in the house.

Try to Stay Calm

For the sake of your health, your family, and everyone around you, stay calm.Stress and fear are contagious and disruptive. Shifting our focus and energy on helping those in need is a great way to aid others and gain personal fulfillment. Feeling a sense of purpose during this time and being part of the solution can bring joy to our hearts and energy to keep moving forward.

With love and gratitude,

Brisa Huezo

How To Surprise Mom With Extra Pampering This Mother's Day

The Meritage Resort and Spa

A mother’s love is instant and endless; her support, guidance, and affection stay with you your entire life. She celebrates with you during the good times, lifts you up during the bad, and lets you know you are loved every day. Tell her just how much she means to you with a relaxing Mother’s Day surprise

A mother’s love is instant and endless; her support, guidance, and affection stay with you your entire life. She celebrates with you during the good times, lifts you up during the bad, and lets you know you are loved every day. Tell her just how much she means to you with a relaxing Mother’s Day surprise. Located in one-of-a-kind California destinations, the spas of The Meritage Collection offer luxurious treatments and inspired amenities for a little pampering time she will love.

Our three unforgettable spas are offering a special. When you purchase mom a gift certificate for a 50-minute service, she will be upgraded to an 80-minute service gift certificate for mom to enjoy when our spa's resume operation.

SPA ESTANCIA | LA JOLLA, CA

A hidden gem tucked away on 10 beautiful acres of gorgeous gardens in sun-drenched San Diego, Spa Estancia at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa offers mom a relaxed retreat set in our tranquil gardens. Recognized as one of Southern California’s top resort spas and just named “Best Spa” by San Diego Magazine, the 7,000-square-foot spa is a sanctuary for her to relax and rejuvenate.

SPA TERRA | NAPA VALLEY, CA

Give mom an unforgettable visit to one of the most unique spas in Napa Valley. Spa Terra, at The Meritage Resort and Spa, is located in an underground Estate Cave and features locally inspired services that use indigenous ingredients, such as California citrus, lavender, and cabernet grape seed. Our Mother's Day Specials, created to relax and rejuvenate, are sure to give mom much needed time for relaxation.

AARNA SPA, HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA

Named by American Spa Magazine as one of the "Top Spas in the U.S.", Aarna Spa at Paséa Hotel & Spa is a Balinese-Inspired Orange County spa that sets a new standard for relaxation. Mom will be transported to an oasis set with a serene relaxation lounge, a private outdoor spa garden, spacious treatment rooms, and separate men's and women's facilities. 

Purchase any of the gift certificates online by visiting the spa websites in the links above.

Facebook Live: Fool Proof Mother's Day

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Mother's Day is right around the corner, so show her some love with a fool proof dinner with Estancia Chef, Vincent Savignano. Tune in live on Facebook as he guides you through an easy-to-prepare meal to treat mom

FOOL PROOF MOTHER'S DAY
Estancia La Jolla Facebook Live
Saturday, May 9th at 1 p.m. PST

Join us on Saturday, May 9th for a virtual fool proof Mother's Day Cooking Class with Chef Vincent. Tune in to Estancia La Jolla's Facebook Live, where Chef Vincent Savignano will be leading you through this easy to do Mother’s Day Brunch you can do at home to show mom some love.
Below you will find a shopping list for your grilling meal and a link to purchase the Trinitas Cellar wines so they may deliver before our cooking class.

Our Mother's Day Brunch Class Demonstration Includes:

• Cucumber Cups
• Prawn Salad
• Avocado Toast
• Chocolate Covered Strawberries

SHOPPING LIST

If you are unable to attend the class, here are your recipe cards:

RECIPE CARDS

About Chef Vincent Savignano:
Chef Vincent, known as “Chef V” in the kitchen, has more than 25 years of experience in the culinary and hospitality industries and has honed his craft in more than seven states, including Arizona, South Carolina and Washington.A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, Savignano was Director of Food & Beverage and Culinary Services at Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Resort for six years and Executive Chef at Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle's Southport for two years. At Estancia, he approaches each dish personally and has created a variety of gluten-free options loved by guests and locals alike. “I always tell my team to prepare the dish like you’re cooking for your own mother or father. It’s important and I take it personally.”

How To Properly Pair Dinner + Wine For A “Night In,” According To A Certified Sommelier

The Meritage Resort and Spa

The Meritage Resort and Spa’s Assistant Director of Food and Beverage and Certified Sommelier, Mike Lee, shares how to best pair dinner with the perfect Trinitas Cellars Carneros Chardonnay or Pinot Noir for a cozy night in, so you can feel like a true wine pro at home.

The Meritage Resort & Spa's Assistant Director of Food and Beverage and Certified Sommelier, Mike Lee, shares how to best pair dinner with the perfect Trinitas Cellars Carneros Chardonnay or Pinot Noir for a cozy night in, so you can feel like a true wine pro at home.

THE WINES

“Stock up on Trinitas Carneros Chardonnay and Pinot Noir during this time of self-isolation.,” says Lee. “These wines are full bodied and well balanced. They show generous fruit characteristics, lovely floral notes, and are perfect food pairing options when you’re going to be cooking at home or preparing for a “Netflix Night” cozied up on the couch. Create a cheese plate with medium-soft to hard cheeses for either wine, or break out the popcorn for movie night!”

For the white wine lovers, Trinitas Cellars' 2016 Carneros Chardonnay offers a sweet aroma of lemon curd, dandelion, beeswax, honey, and vanilla. Intense flavors of Meyer lemon and honeycomb are accompanied by an incredibly smooth texture.

ACCOMPANIMENTS

“Pair the Carneros Chardonnay with home-cooked comfort foods like grilled chicken with corn and sweet potatoes, pasta Alfredo, mushroom & cheese risotto or turkey pot pie,” recommends Lee.

Alternatively, red wine lovers will appreciate the aromatics of the 2016 Pinot Noir -- full of enticing aromas of cherries, cranberries, wildflowers, and vanilla -- as a smooth velvety texture glides across the palate with flavors of ripe black cherry and strawberry followed by notes of caramelized vanilla.

Offers Lee, “The Carneros Pinot Noir works beautifully with garlic & rosemary roasted pork loin, barbecued chicken, duck confit with lentils, or Chinese takeout.”

5 Zoom Backgrounds To Inspire Your Next Conference Call

The Meritage Resort and Spa

As most of us have shifted to working from home with social distancing measures restricting our ability to meet in person, online meetings have become the new normal. 

As most of us have shifted to working from home with social distancing measures restricting our ability to meet in person, online meetings have become the new normal. So instead of your living room or home office as your backdrop, why not brighten up those virtual meetings for you and your team members with some inspiring views from the beautiful hotels in The Meritage Collection? Sunset by the pool anyone?

To download, right click the photo(s) of your choice to save it to your computer. Then, sign into your Zoom web portal to upload your new background, or check out the platform's website for full instructions.

• The sunset backdrop through Napa wine fields at The Meritage Resort

• A beach sunset over the inviting pool at Paséa Hotel & Spa

• Rise and shine with a breathtaking view of the Kauai coast at Ko’a Kea Hotel & Spa

• Cozy up by the pool at Estancia La Jolla

• A morning stroll through the vineyards at Vista Collina Resort

BONUS: How can you say no to a Hawaiian Sunset at Ko’a Kea?

Cooking With The Collection

The Meritage Resort and Spa

The Meritage Collection has tapped all of their executive Chefs—from Hawaii to California—and they have compiled their favorite recipes (cocktails included!) for you to make at home. Time to spice things up first with Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa Chef Vincent Savignano

Have you been scrolling through Pinterest and overwhelmed with the number of recipes at your fingertips? We’ve been there too! Lucky for all of us, the Meritage Collection has tapped all of their executive Chefs—from Hawaii to California—and they have compiled their favorite recipes (cocktails included!) for you to make at home. Time to spice things up first with Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa Chef Vincent Savignano!

Chef Name: Vincent Savignano
Property Name: Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
Recipes: Vegan Corn Chowder, Nosh Bars & Baja Spritz and Green Goddess

VEGAN CORN CHOWDER
Ingredients:

• 4 cups Yellow Onion, small diced
• 3 TBS Chopped Garlic
• 2 cups Celery, small diced
• 2 cups Carrot, small diced
• 3 cups Red Bell Pepper, small diced
• 3 cups Poblano Pepper, small diced
• 3 quarts Yukon Potato, peeled & diced
• 1 TBS Ancho Chile Powder
• 1 Canned Corn
• 1 TBS Smoked Paprika
• 1 TBS Ground Cumin
• 1 gallon Water
• 6 cans Of Coconut Milk
• ¼ cup Fresh Thyme chopped
• 3 TBS Cornstarch
• 4oz Cold Water
• Salt & Black Pepper to Taste
• 5 dashes of Tabasco

Instructions:

• In a large pot, heat 2 oz olive oil, sauté the first seven ingredients for 2-3 minutes, until they begin to soften. Stir in the ancho powder, cumin, paprika and a little salt.
• Add the can of corn with juice, the water and coconut milk. Stir to mix thoroughly, bring up to a low boil for about 4 minutes.
• Add the potatoes to the soup and the fresh thyme, bring back to a boil and then simmer for 15 minutes.
• Mix the cornstarch with the water to create a slurry, this should be the thickness of heavy cream.
• Turn up the heat and boil the soup, add the slurry making sure to keep stirring until it begins to thicken (add enough slurry to achieve a thick chowder consistency).
• Simmer for 3 minutes, remove from heat. Stir in the tabasco and salt & pepper to taste.

NOSH BARS
Ingredients:

• 1.5 Cup Ripe Banana (mashed)
• 1 TSP Vanilla Extract
• 2 Cup Gluten-Free Rolled Oats (Pulsed)
• 1.5 Cup Dried Cherries (rough chop)
• 1.5 Cup Walnuts (rough chop)
• 1.5 Cup Sunflower Seeds
• 1.5 Cup Pepitas
• 1.5 Cup Sliced Almonds
• 1/4 Cup Hemp Hearts
• 1 TSP Cinnamon
• 1/4 TSP Sea Salt

Instructions:

• Preheat Oven to 350 degrees
• Mold dough into small rectangular bars
• Bake in the oven for 18-20 minutes
• Cool in the pan for 15 minutes and then transfer to the cooling rack for an additional 30 minutes

BAJA SPRITZ

Ingredients:

• 1oz Mezcal
• 1oz Grapefruit Juice
• 1oz Aperol
• 1 Grapefruit
• Sparkling Water
• Chipotle/Sugar (1/3 Chipotle Powder & 2/3 Sugar)

Instructions:

• Combine mezcal, grapefruit juice and Aperol in a tin and shake hard.
• Wet the top of a wine glass with citrus juice, we use lime juice & then rim the glass with chipotle & sugar.
• Strain into a wine glass.
• Fill with ice and top with a grapefruit and sparkling water.
• Garnish with a large grapefruit twist.

GREEN GODDESS COCKTAIL:
Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Blanco Tequila
• Chopped Cucumber
• .75 oz Triple Sec
• 1.5 oz Lime Juice
• 1.5 oz Simple Syrup

Instructions:

• Muddle Cucumber, Lime & Simple Syrup
• Add Tequila & Triple Sec
• Add Ice and shake hard
• Strain into Collins glass
• Fill with Ice
• Garnish with Cucumber Ribbon and or Edible Flowers

Virtual Tasting With Garrett Busch

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Join our Proprietor, Garrett Busch, for an unforgettable virtual tasting experience that pairs two of our acclaimed red wines with one of the greatest steaks you will ever find. The Manhattan Filet from Snake River Farms. Select your kit, mark your calendar, and get ready to fire up the grill in late August!

Snake Rive Farms Virtual Tasting with Garret Busch
Friday, August 21
5 to 6:30 pm

Join our Proprietor, Garrett Busch, for an unforgettable virtual tasting experience that pairs two of our acclaimed red wines with one of the greatest steaks you will ever find. The Manhattan Filet from Snake River Farms. Select your kit, mark your calendar, and get ready to fire up the grill in late August!

The featured tasting kit contains a bottle of our 2015 Petit Verdot and 2015 Old Vine Petite Sirah with 2 Manhattan Filets. It's ideal for two tasters. We are also offering kits that contain the same bottles of red wine, but with 4 and 6 steaks, for those who will be joining with a group. If you are looking for more than 6 steaks, just let us know and we can arrange a special order.

Over the years, Garrett has proudly perfected his very own steak recipe that has won over our Trinitas family. During the tasting he will show you how he loves to prepare his Manhattan Filet. You can plan to cook along with him, or cook ahead of time so you can sit back and enjoy the demonstration. Either way, please be sure to read the prep instructions. If you plan to cook ahead of time, here is a great video to get you started.

Click this link at 5:00PM Pacific time, on Friday, August 21st, to join in on the fun!

*Please note kits for this experience must be ordered by August 16th. Steaks will ship separately and will arrive about 2 days before the event. Each kit will include printed prep instructions that can also be viewed here.

Easter Brunch Live Cooking Class

The Meritage Resort and Spa

We will miss our guests' smiling faces this year for Easter brunch so we wanted to do something special for you to enjoy at home. Join us live from the Napa Valley Food & Wine Center as Chef Mackenzie Rupp guides you step-by-step through a home made Easter dinner with wine pairings from Trintas Cellars wines.

Easter Brunch Cooking Class
Vista Collina Resort's Facebook Live
Saturday, April 11th at 1 p.m. PST

As Easter approaches, we know that it will be a little different this year. Easter Brunch will be more intimate, but that doesn't mean you have to miss out on those tasty dishes. Join us on Saturday, April 11th for a virtual hands-on cooking class set from The Village Food & Wine Center in Napa, CA at Vista Collina Resort. Tune in to Vista Collina Resort's Facebook Live, where Chef Mackenzie Rupp will be leading you through this delicious and elevated meal paired with Trinitas Cellars wines in the comfort of your own home.

Below you will find a shopping list for your Easter meal and a link to purchase the Trinitas Cellar wines so they may deliver before our cooking class.

Our Easter Brunch three-course meal includes:

• Spring Waldorf Egg Salad
• Brown Sugar and Dijon Pork Loin with Chardonnay Creamed Spinach & White Cheddar Potato Gratin
• Carrot Cupcakes with White Chocolate Cream Cheese Icing

SHOPPING LIST

*We suggest washing produce and dicing ingredients, peeling and slicing potatoes, and making your hard-boiled eggs prior to the class. Video below to prep you for the class.

If you are unable to attend the class, here are your recipe cards:

RECIPE CARDS

Our Easter meal is paired with Trinitas Cellars wines. Purchase now to be delivered before the class.

• 2018 Rose
• 2016 Carneros Chardonnay
• 2014 Cabernet Francis, Cabernet Franc

PURCHASE HERE

Information on Chef Mackenzie Rupp:

As Chef de Cuisine of Vista Collina Resort, the talented Mackenzie Rupp works alongside the resort’s Executive Chef Vincent Lesage. In her role as chef de cuisine, Rupp helps to oversee the property’s Fivetown Grocery; special events and private celebrations; as well as lead hands-on cooking classes and demonstrations at the on-property Food & Wine Center.

At an early age, Rupp began cooking and soon realized her love for culinary cuisine would drive her to attend The Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Scottsdale. Prior to joining Vista Collina Resort, Rupp began her career as a commis at The Arizona Biltmore Resort in Phoenix, Ariz., then quickly rising to become a supervisor cook, overseeing the hors d'oeuvre production and banquet events at The Royal Palms in Scottsdale, Ariz. As she continues to grow as a leading chef at Vista Collina Resort, Rupp looks forward to the continuous opportunities to pursue the use of seasonal ingredients, new cooking techniques and new presentations. Rupp is known to write down recipes for guests and loves to share both anecdotes and techniques, incorporating an intimate and personal nature to her career.

Top 5 Spring Things To Do In Napa

The Meritage Resort And Spa

Springtime in Napa has never been more enjoyable. From wine tasting and award-winning dining experiences to music festivals and hot air balloon rides, there is nothing more captivating than Napa in spring.

Springtime in Napa has never been more enjoyable. From wine tasting and award-winning dining experiences to music festivals and hot air balloon rides, there is nothing more captivating than Napa in spring.

1. Wine Tasting

The Village at Meritage Resort and Spa curates the best of Napa Valley to create a unique Wine Country experience, the centerpiece of which is our on-site tasting rooms. Open from 11am-7pm daily, the tasting rooms showcase boutique wines – each with their own unique style and history – and one classic microbrew, offering a taste of what Napa Valley has to offer right here at Meritage Resort. We also recommend wine tasting tours across Napa County, including Napa Valley Wine Country Tours or Napa Valley Wine Train.

EXPLORE MORE

2. Golf

Two picturesque golf courses in Napa Valley, Chardonnay Golf Club and Eagle Vines Golf Club, lie just two miles from The Meritage Resort and Spa. Enjoy 18 holes in the morning and wine tasting by the afternoon, offering the perfect golf vacation for the avid golfer and wine enthusiast. The Guest Services Team at The Meritage Resort and Spa can arrange your tee times, lunch, club rentals and transportation to and from the courses. As a guest of our resort, you are able to reserve tee times at both Napa Valley courses up to 60 days in advance through our Concierge.

3. Hot Air Balloons

Get the bird’s eye view of Napa Valley during the early morning from a beautiful hot-air balloon ride over the vineyards. These once-in-a-lifetime rides are wonderful for weddings, special occasion charters and champagne brunches. We recommend Balloons Above the Valley and our Concierge is happy assist you with reservations.

FLY AWAY

4. Downtown Napa

The city has undergone a renaissance, becoming a world-class destination in its own right. Endless tasting bars let you check out small and large producers before heading up further up the valley. Culinary star power abounds in Napa with acclaimed restaurants. Craving nature? Hike the Bay Area Ridge Trail from the river to Skyline Park. Art lovers will find heaven among the sculpture gardens and galleries of 200-acre Di Rosa or along the city's downtown. Meritage is pleased to offer a complimentary daily shuttle to downtown Napa, located only a few miles away.

DO NAPA

5. Artist for a Day

Spend the afternoon painting with acclaimed Napa Valley landscape artist, Tim Howe, locally known as “The Artist of Napa.” This is your opportunity to unlock your inner artist for the first time or to hone your skills with a pro as you capture the incredible beauty of the Napa Valley. After the three-hour session, you will go home with your original painting as a special memory of Wine Country. You'll be amazed by what you can create as you are guided through the entire artistic process step-by-step. Painting in the vineyards “en plein air” literally means painting “in the open air.” All materials are provided.

SCHEDULE YOUR CLASS

DIY Spa Day From The Pros

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Looking for a way to add a little relaxation and Zen time into the household? Normal life can get so hectic that we sometimes let those small, yet most precious, moments slip away from us. 

Looking for a way to add a little relaxation and Zen time into the household? Normal life can get so hectic that we sometimes let those small, yet most precious, moments slip away from us. That is why during this time, it’s important to enjoy every moment and take advantage of being with your loved ones--but in a blissful way, of course! That’s why our Spa Director, Brisa Huezo, (a hard-working mom of three) is spilling the details on how to curate the perfect spa day at home for the family.

AMBIANCE

“The most important aspect of a spa is the ambiance,” says Brisa. “And that can be easy to duplicate in your home!” She suggests starting by putting on your cozy robes and slippers, then turning on some relaxing tranquil music, spraying some aromatherapy in lavender or eucalyptus, and turning on the kettle to make some calming tea (preferably in fancy cups, just for fun).

MANIS + PEDIS

You can then begin the pampering with pedicures and manicures and remember: it’s not about perfection, it’s about having fun together. While you wait for your nails to dry, take a sip of that calming tea and enjoy the moment. We recommend chamomile for relaxation, cranberry to help boost immunity or Estancia’s favorite, mint to help with digestion, skin, hair and comfort.

DIY HOME FACE MASK

Once your nails and toes are dry and looking fabulous, it’s facial time! Brisa shared her favorite DIY face mask that’s safe for kids. And bonus: you can probably find all the ingredients necessary right in your refrigerator.

“Put some plain yogurt, honey, oats, avocado, and a smashed banana in a bowl and mix it together until you have a mask consistency,” she says. “Then apply it to your face for about 20 minutes.”

TAKE TIME FOR YOU

After applying that mask to your face, it’s time to create a cucumber eye mask! Slice the cucumbers and apply it over your eyes for a nice cooling and hydrating feel.Then sit back while enjoying the relaxing music along with light bites such as fruit and almonds, fresh veggies and hummus or chocolates.

Remember, the spa experience is about slowing down, focusing on the present moment, and selfcare. You can make it as fancy and as fun as you wish, it’s up to you on how to create YOUR perfect spa day.

Couchella A.K.A How To Party Together In A Time Of Social Distancing

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Stay connected and be social with your friends and family.

Though having to be physically confined to home with social distancing as an important initiative that’s currently in place, this doesn’t mean you can’t be social in other ways. Enter, our ideas on how to keep the party going--while still maintaining a safe distance, of course.

Netflix Party & Chill – host a virtual movie night with friends. Keep hearing all the fuss about Tiger King? Wanting to re-watch Gilmore Girls in a judgement-free zone? Destined to inspire your own baking contest with The Great British Baking Show? Simply download the Google Chrome browser extension for free, choose a show or movie you’d like to watch, create a party, share the URL to invite friends, and get your Netflix Party on. https://www.netflixparty.com/

Skype Happy Hours – Facetime, Skype, Zoom, and more offer ways to see each other while keeping in line with keeping home. Why not make your own favorite cocktail at home and catch up with friends with a virtual “cheer” and some face-to-face time? One of our favorites is from Tanner’s Treehouse Lounge at Pasea:

Recipe:

• 2 oz Ketel One Cucumber Mint Vodka
• ¾ oz fresh Lemon Juice
• ¾ oz simple syrup
• ½ oz St. Germain (or any elderflower liqueur)
• Chopped Cucumber (chop 3 slices)

Directions: Combine all ingredients into a shaker with cubed ice. Aggressively shake for 10-15 seconds. Pour into a rocks glass and top with crushed ice. Garnish with a fresh cucumber slice.

Virtual Game Nights – Mario Kart Championships anyone? Nintendo Switch is making it easy to find friends and play virtually with a variety of fun games like Mortal Kombat, Mario Party, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and more. Just be careful of Rainbow Bridge, no matter if you’re Princess Peach herself, no one stays on for long. Otherwise, fun phone apps like Words with Friends, Uno Friends, Scrabble, and more can keep the friendly competition going on the small screen.

Get Sweaty with Friends – Fitness apps and technology have come a long way so find your friends virtually or get coaching with apps like Nike Train Club or Peloton, now offering 90 days of fitness classes for free on their app.

Volunteer from Afar - Looking to make a difference with your newfound downtime? There’s a variety of ways to volunteer virtually whether solo, with friends, or to make new ones. Opportunities range from United Nations Volunteers to help organizations working for peace and development to Smithsonian Digital Volunteers to help transcribe historical documents, or Project Gutenberg whose goal is to create the largest digital library in the world.

Concerts from your Couch – Artists like Coldplay, John Legend, Charlie Puth, and Pink have all hosted Instagram Live Streams of performances from their homes. Make some new friends with a virtual concert watching session from your social media feed and feel the uniting power of music.

Send Digital Postcards or Postcards Digitally – Want to send grandma a little note to say hi? Proud of that dish you just made of your dad’s famous recipe? Missing your BFF’s birthday? Send a digital postcard with an app like Postale or take advantage of the free online Postcard Maker through Canva. If snail mail is more your style, send an actual postcard from the ease of your cell phone with the app MyPostcard, which will stamp and mail all of your postcards worldwide from anywhere to everywhere.

How To Organize Your Home Office To Boost Productivity

The Meritage Resort and Spa

“In its highest and purest form, good Feng Shui signifies perfect alignment between inner and outer worlds.” - Lada Ray

We are what we eat. And we are as productive as the space in which we work. In today’s world, separating work from our families can bring some challenges which can result in negative work performance. Let’s start with the purpose of “Feng Shui.” The literal translation means “wind and water”. This traditional Chinese concept guides us with basic guiding rules of how-to live in harmony with our surroundings:

Guiding Rule #1: AIR + LIGHT:
Feng Shui is all about bringing energy into the space. Assure there is good lighting – both artificial as well as natural - and a fresh flow of air. Those are two basic guiding principles of creating the right work environment. Allow the natural light, also called the super nutrient, along with light walls and good air circulation to bring more energy into your workspace.

Guiding Rule #2: COMMAND CENTER:
Carefully planning the right position of your desk is one of the steps of Feng Shui principles. Having a solid wall behind you with additional wall decorations, furniture or a plant establishes a powerful command position. The location of your desk and direction you are facing allows you to see any upcoming opportunities. Facing a wall simply communicates a lack of interest and any collaboration.

Guiding Rule #3: DÉCOR THAT INSPIRES:
Having a harmony of colors that bring energy to the room with simple and functional furniture will increase one’s creativity, focus and level of productivity. Consider a nice balance of artwork, plants and enough space for storage.

Guiding Rule #4: FUNCTION + INTENTION:
What is the office intended for? A full-time home office space requires a much more comfortable chair and larger storage then a place where you just check your personal email once or twice a week. Don’t be afraid to invest in good quality furniture if you are planning on spending most of your day in this home office space. You may also consider a standup desk, or even better, a treadmill desk. Even though it can be hard, try to avoid sharing a single office space with other people. Lastly, never put storage furniture in the office that is not related to work. Storing toys, for example, will make your children think they can come in anytime they please to get what they want which will greatly distract you. Don’t even allow them to do homework or draw in your office. It only creates a distraction and makes them think it’s their space as well.

Guiding Rule #5: STORAGE VS CLUTTER:
In just a couple of words, limit clutter. Nobody can be very effective with piles of paper, no filing cabinets and way too much stuff on your desk. This also applies to your filing system of digital files. Plan accordingly based on the type of work you do.

“In its highest and purest form, good Feng Shui signifies perfect alignment between inner and outer worlds.” - Lada Ray

These Venues Are Sure To Leave A Lasting Impression On Attendees

The Meritage Resort and Spa

CORPORATE & INCENTIVE TRAVEL - You truly feel like you’re in a fancy resort in wine country. It does a great job of marrying wine country appeal and business.

MEETINGSNET - Meritage Resort and Spa, as one might expect of a Napa, Calif., property, pays homage to the area’s most famous product, wine.

WINE CAVE

Quotient Technology Inc.’s national sales meeting early last year, which included 188 attendees, was set at Meritage Resort and Spa in California’s Napa Valley. To start, the destination and resort were an excellent fit for this group.

“Napa Valley is always an appealing location, especially since my group comes from all over the United States,” Downing says. “And the resort checked off many boxes of things I was looking for to run a successful program. It encompasses everything needed to create a great experience for a large, diverse group. Its amenities, charm, layout and service level make it a top choice for my program.”

And, she adds, “While the Meritage is tucked away in a business park, you would never know it. You truly feel like you’re in a fancy resort in wine country. It does a great job of marrying wine country appeal and business.”

Downing notes that having two ballrooms available to her was ideal as it allowed for multiple breakouts and varying setups required for different parts of the meeting. “Two ballrooms met the needs of our ever-changing schedule. From a boardroom meeting to a large general session and everything in between, the resort was able to accommodate.”

Within the resort’s 80,000 sf of indoor and outdoor event space, Downing says Carneros Ballroom is a favorite. “Carneros Ballroom was my go-to choice as it’s beautiful, well laid out and fit all of my breakout needs as well.”

But Spa Terra and Grand Estate Cave really set the bar high for the meeting. “The spa and wine cave are true jewels of the property,” Downing says. “My guests were wowed by them.”

The wine cave served as the setting for an awards dinner. Approximately 125 guests attended. Downing describes the set-up as a mix of tall and low farm tables, benches and chairs, as well as a small stage for the DJ, a dance floor, buffet/bar and selfie wall. “There was white with green ambience up-lighting, and the decor was simple and rustic, with plaid linens and succulent centerpieces.”

The group used A/V for sound, “and there were videos playing on a few LCD screens on poles,” Downing notes. “The wine cave at The Meritage, while being a unique venue, lends itself well for a variety of events. No matter what takes place here, the one constant is its warm and welcoming ambiance.”

In addition to the wine cave, Downing points out that there are other exceptional spots for different kinds of activities. “We can’t forget bowling at Crush Lounge, the resort’s casual venue with six bowling lanes, and there’s the well-thought-out [tasting] Village across the street,” she says.

She added that her attendees also appreciated, “wine upon check-in, being able to walk in a vineyard and all of the resort’s unique spaces.”

To anyone considering the Meritage Resort and Spa, Downing says, “Absolutely utilize the unique venue spaces. Get creative as to where you host your meeting; weather permitting, use the outside venues. Your guests will love it. Crush Lounge and the taco truck for a casual event are a must. There are also several great wineries not far from the resort in Carneros Valley, including Domaine Carneros, Artesa and Etude, all of which can handle large groups, so you’re covered.”

My goal, she says, “is always to bring this group together in a setting where they can have successful, impactful, motivating meetings while also having an equal balance of taking in the local culture, cuisine and more. The Meritage Resort and Spa has exactly what’s needed.”

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7 Weekend Getaways To Take With Your Sister That You Probably Never Thought Of

The Meritage Resort and Spa

ELITE DAILY - You ladies are no strangers to a good sip or two. The Meritage Resort & Spa in Napa Valley is truly the place for you.

Think about the one person you would do absolutely anything with. If you have a sister, she's probably the first person who pops into your head. She's your ride or die, and no matter what's going on in your life, you're always ready for adventures with her. Planning fun weekend getaways to take with your sister is what you live for, and if you can both experience something new, you are here for it.

Ever since the two of you were building forts in the living room or pitching tents in the backyard, your imaginations have always planted creative ideas in your heads. Now that you're older, that wanderlust hasn't changed, and even if you aren't necessarily hopping on a plane for a weekend getaway, you're ready to explore. It might seem like the two of you have done it all, but that's only because you always have the itinerary jam-packed when the two of you get together.

Make Reservations at a Wine Spa

You ladies are no strangers to a good sip or two. The Meritage Resort & Spa in Napa Valley is truly the place for you. Wine is one of the most relaxing drinks ever, and while you are being pampered during a mani and pedi, there's no other place you'd rather be.

Oh, and don't forget that right across from you is your other half. That's the icing on the cake.

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Wine Country Romance: Valentine’s Day Dinner In Napa

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Celebrate your love with an intimate Valentine’s Day dinner at Napa’s newest destination for farm-fresh fare, Olive & Hay.

Celebrate your love with an intimate Valentine’s Day dinner at Napa’s newest destination for farm-fresh fare, Olive & Hay. Featuring rustic yet refined dishes inspired by one of the world’s most romantic countries, this elegantly casual restaurant at The Meritage Resort and Spa incorporates the best aspects of both Italian and Wine Country dining. The award-winning Napa and Sonoma Valley wine list is comprised of some of Northern California’s most approachable wines. Both innovative and traditional, Olive & Hay an entirely modern approach to Napa Valley cuisine.

Airy yet cozy, the classically designed space is bathed in soothing tones of green, gray, and cream for an elevated, yet approachable dining experience that encourages connection and relaxation. What better atmosphere for a romantic evening? Olive & Hay is offering a special Valentine’s Day dinner on February 14th, 15th, and 16th featuring a four-course tasting menu with paired wines and live music to set the mood. Cost is $85 per person and reservations are available by calling (707) 251-3090 or at OpenTable.

Top 5 Reasons To Visit Napa This Winter

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Winter in Wine Country is absolutely magical. Vivid green hills and vibrant yellow mustard flowers stretch as far as the eye can see.

Winter in Wine Country is absolutely magical. Vivid green hills and vibrant yellow mustard flowers stretch as far as the eye can see. Crisp, sunny days spent exploring the region’s best wineries end with cozy nights enjoying Napa Valley’s amazing seasonally inspired, farm-to-table fare. It’s a wonderful time of year to visit, and The Meritage Resort and Spa, ideally located in Napa, provides easy access to everything this legendary destination has to offer.

1. New Year’s Eve Celebration
Ring in the New Year at The Meritage Resort and Spa’s 2020 New Year’s Eve Celebration. Choose from two spectacular dinners – an extensive Wine Country-inspired buffet in the Carneros Ballroom or a candlelight dinner in the underground Estate Cave. Tickets to each include complimentary admission to our not-to-be-missed after-party, featuring live music from Entourage Dance Band.

BUY TICKETS

2. Candlelight Yoga
Wrap up the weekend, and prepare for the week ahead, with a deeply relaxing, gentle flow yoga class in the serene setting of The Meritage Resort and Spa’s Estate Cave. Continue the self-care after class with a healthy juice crafted by our acclaimed culinary team. Restorative and nourishing, Candlelight Yoga is the perfect way to warm your soul on a winter weekend.

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3. Napa Lighted Art Festival - January 11 - 19, 2020
Just after the twinkling holiday lights are packed away Napa lights up in an entirely different way. The Napa Lighted Art Festival is a unique lighted art walk featuring original artwork from local and international artists. Light displays are projected onto buildings throughout Downtown Napa and the city of Napa, creating stunning and innovative installations via light art, video art, 3D video mapping projections, lighted sculptures, and projects that use technology or interactivity.

LEARN MORE

4. Napa Truffle Festival - January 17 - 20, 2020
Truffle experts from around the world gather to share their knowledge of the highly prized Périgord black truffle at the 10th annual Napa Truffle Festival. Festival goers partake in interactive truffle programs at The Westin Verasa Napa and The CIA at Copia, truffle orchard tours/dog training demos at Robert Sinskey Vineyards, winery truffle lunches prepared by master chefs, wild mushroom forays, and a Truffles & Wine Dinner at La Toque. Oxbow Public Market hosts a Festival Marketplace, free to the public, on Monday, January 20 featuring an à la carte menu of truffle items, cooking demos, specialty food products, local wines, and fresh truffles for sale.

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5. Napa Valley Restaurant Week - January 26 - February 1, 2020
Discover Napa Valley's Terroir to Table® Dining during Napa Valley Restaurant Week. Epicureans, visitors and locals alike, discover the valley’s culinary delights through multi-course prix-fixe menus for lunch ($20 or $30) and dinner ($38 or $48) everywhere from world-famous Michelin-Star rated restaurants to hidden gems. Whether trying much-anticipated new restaurants or revisiting old favorites, Napa Valley Restaurant Week is the perfect time to explore this legendary food and wine destination.

PLAN AHEAD

Stay Well, And Thrive, While On The Road

The Meritage Resort and Spa

The right environment is key to maintaining inner peace and wellbeing while away from home.

Travel can be many things – eye-opening, exhilarating, exhausting. Despite our best efforts, the stress of crowds, long lines, and stepping away from our daily routines often takes its toll. The right environment is key to maintaining inner peace and wellbeing while away from home.

Located in desirable, wellness-oriented destinations – from Napa to Huntington Beach to La Jolla to Kauai – the hotels and resorts that comprise the Meritage Collection offer services and amenities that encourage rejuvenation and restoration. Read on to see how they can help you thrive during your next travel adventure.

Grab the girls for a memorable midweek getaway at oceanfront Paséa Hotel and Spa in beautiful Huntington Beach. #WineWednesday Yoga was created to provide calmness and relaxation via gentle flow guided Vinyasa yoga, in the soothing Balinese-inspired spa, followed by relaxing wine time featuring stellar Napa-based vintages.

Lovely La Jolla plays host to the ultimate girls weekend at Holistic Umbrella’s Self-Love Wellness Retreat (February 8-10) at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa. Let the best of this wonderful weekend of wellness – including fitness classes, self-love speakers, and carefully crafted meals – inspire you to set healthy intentions and maintain a sense of wellbeing long after you return home.

Indulge in soothing self-care on your next Wine Country escape. Available to guests of The Meritage Resort and Spaand Vista Collina Resort, the deeply relaxing Candlelight Yoga Social offers a gentle flow yoga class, in the sanctuary of the underground Estate Cave, followed by a smoothie tasting. Plus, a $20 certificate toward a future treatment at the award-winning Spa Terra.

The sand and surf of Po’ipu Beach is the ultimate setting for unwinding and focusing on self-care. The Spa at Ko’a Kea, at Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort, draws from the lush natural landscape of Hawaii to create a peaceful, calming sanctuary. Expertly trained therapists deliver massages, wraps, and facials using Kauai clay, moisturizing nut oils, locally grown coffee and sugar, and native blooms.

Select hotels and resorts also offer calming, soothing plant-based CBD treatments. Known for its natural pain relief and anti-inflammatory healing properties, CBD is used to decrease inflammation within muscles and joints allowing for more effective, relaxing treatments. Perfect for soothing sports-related injuries or unwinding during a hectic business trip.

No matter which destination you choose, mindfulness can go a long way toward maximizing wellness while away. Be fully present in each moment and savor the experience of being right where you are.

Best Of The West Winners

The Meritage Resort and Spa

MEETINGS TODAY - We asked. You voted. Here are the Best Of 2018 award winners!

California

• The Meritage Resort & Spa
• Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
• Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa
• The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
• Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa
• Hotel del Coronado
• JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
• Terranea Resort
• Hyatt Regency Sacramento
• Paradise Point
• Rancho Bernardo Inn
• U.S. Grant Hotel
• Fairmont San Francisco
• Hyatt Regency San Francisco
• DoubleTree by Hilton San Jose
• Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
• Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel