A Napa Valley retreat for the senses, Senza ignites your sight, smell, touch and taste experiences. Situated in the heart of Northern California wine country, between downtown Napa and Yountville, this boutique hotel is a retreat for the mind, body and soul.
Owner Ann Hall’s sense of whimsy comes forth with Monarch butterflies suspended in the air, moved by soft Napa Valley breezes. Icelandic statues stand guard in the front of the luxury Senza hotel, welcoming guests to step inside the modern 41 room compound, while an installation of tiny blue butterflies swarm like bees to a hive up the staircase in Senza hotel.
The hotel grounds are divided into five separate buildings; the Parker Mansion dating back to 1870 houses eight rooms, the Senza House includes 12 rooms, in addition to the dining room, reception and lobby, the Hall Building is home to 10 rooms, the Walt Building holds eight rooms and the Cellar House features three rooms. There is also a heated swimming pool with cabanas, separate hot tub, conference room, fitness center (open 24/7) and spa facilities.
After I dropped my bag in the Cellar House king room, I stepped outside on the communal deck to take in the vineyard view and water tower. The two acre property includes pine and redwood trees, in addition to vineyards. No surprise there, as the Hall family is a well-known player when it comes to Napa Valley wines. Tastings may be arranged by appointment only at the exclusive Hall-Rutherford Vineyard, while tasting is open daily at the Hall-St. Helena Winery. Hat tip to the family for offering a nightly wine and cheese tasting hour at Senza that includes a nice selection of neighboring vintners. During my mid-week visit, St. Supery was pouring their 2012 Napa Valley Estate Élu, a Bordeaux blend retailing for $75. that Robert Parker rated very highly – if points are how you select your wines. Personally, I chose my wines like my hotel beds, if it makes me feel good, I like it.
On that note, my Cellar king room #16 was very spacious and light-filled with a kitchenette, fridge & microwave oven. All hotel rooms come with a gas fireplace and generous sized walk-in shower. If you prefer a wood burning fireplace, you’ll want to stay in the Parker Mansion. Rooms come with robes, slippers to take home, free wifi, two bottles of water and a small bottle of Senza lavender mist to spray on your pillow for guaranteed sweet dreams.
Continental breakfast served from 7:30-10 a.m. includes fresh juice, coffee, tea or espresso, yogurt, fruit, cheeses and pastries from nearby Bouchon Bakery in Yountville – yum! Whether you’re headed downtown to do Napa like a local, or looking for things to see and do in Calistoga – up valley, be sure to take time to stop and smell the roses. Afterall, Senza is all about creating an experience that stirs your passions while blending big city sophistication with wine country charm.
Insider Tip
Ask about the California resident rate during the off season. Shhh! It’s like the secret menu at In-N-Out Burger, only better. For additional insider tips follow Northern California Travel Writer @Nancydbrown on Twitter and @SenzaHotelNapa.
Check-In Time: 3:00pm
Check-Out Time: 11:00am
If You Go:
Senza (707) 253-0337
4066 Howard Lane
Napa, California 94558
Hotel review, video and photos courtesy of Lodging Editor Nancy D. Brown. I was a guest of Senza while researching an article for another publication.