Fine Dining and Fireplaces
I found many reasons to stay on the zenlike, landscaped grounds. When I was ready to wander into Napa, the personable and attentive front desk staff was ready to assist with restaurant recommendations, directions, or private winery tours. On their recommendation, I chose Celadon for dinner. Just down the road in downtown Napa, Celadon's outdoor courtyard, warmed by heaters and lined with brick walls, looked inviting. I chose instead to dine inside, where "global comfort food" is served in a setting akin to an art gallery. The meal was quite memorable, beginning with the Macadamia Nut Crusted Goat Cheese with Port Poached Figs, Apples and Crostini, moving on to Pan Roasted Mussels with Applewood Smoked Bacon, Tomatoes and White Wine, and finishing with Chocolate and Hazelnut Mousse Bars, Fresh Berries and Chocolate Sauce.
I was so full when I returned, I couldn't really enjoy the mini bar. Covered by a daily resort fee, it is well stocked with red, white and sparkling wines, gourmet snacks from Dean & Deluca, sodas and beer.
Breakfast is included, too, served where ever you fancy. And what a breakfast. A basket of goodies, including quiche or yogurt with granola, from renowned and exclusive restaurant French Laundry (just try to get a reservation fewer than two months in advance). Ensuite on the balcony is an obvious choice, but guests can request breakfast served anywhere on the grounds. I set up one of the provided bamboo trays and pulled a palm-covered chair next to the fireplace, where I spent a couple of hours lingering over the newspaper and tea.
Milliken Creek Spa
Honestly, there was only one thing that was going to rouse me from the fireside breakfast: a visit to the spa. I had hoped to try the signature treatment, the "Milliken Trio" -- ninety minutes of focus on hands, feet and head. It wasn't in the cards this trip, so I opted instead for a traditional massage. The spa, built out of a beautifully renovated historic building, is intimate in scale with a calming Asian influence.
Inspiring Surroundings
Warm, welcoming, stylishly inviting, this sublime Inn on the Napa River has made my list of favorite places in the world to spend -- no, savor -- time.
"People tell me they want to stay here and write a novel," owner Lisa Holt told me.
I just might do that next time. If I can pry myself away from the fireplace long enough.
Pictures of Milliken Creek Inn:
• Photo Tour of Milliken Creek Inn
• Pictures of Room Eight
