Autumn in Napa Valley...

We just returned from a spectacular trip to St Helena in California's Napa Valley.  It was a lovely time of year to visit as the vineyards were golden and the trees were starting to turn beautiful fall colors...  

We stayed at the Harvest Inn by Charlie Palmer in St. Helena which had gorgeous grounds and stunning Tudor style architecture.  The lush gardens and artful details throughout the property were exquisite in the early morning light as we walked to breakfast.

Many brick walls and pathways throughout the landscape design created lovely garden vignettes for guests to enjoy.  The array of different trees, some redwoods and others bathed in fall colors, added to the natural beauty of the property.

Breakfast overlooking this beautiful vineyard edged with iceberg roses was another highlight of our stay.  As you might imagine, I was enchanted with all of the flowers and had my camera clicking most of the time.

Some of the most impressive views we encountered were found on the grounds of the magnificent Castello di Amorosa, a winery and castle near Calistoga that certainly dazzles visitors with its grandeur.  The castle, which was the project of Dario Sattui of V. Sattui Winery, is a majestic tribute to 13th century Tuscan style architecture.  

Chateau Montelena in Calistoga was another breathtaking site.  The vine covered walls and extensive gardens at this winery were unforgettable.  Below, is the lovely Chateau facade, covered with Boston ivy...

Another unique aspect of Chateau Montelena is the Asian garden that occupies a large portion of the property.  Beautiful trees and a serene pond featuring a bridge and pagoda are dramatic additions to the natural landscape and celebrate the beauty of the environment. 

The Gilded Bloom now has a companion website called The Gilded Bloom Studio.  Please stop by for more autumn images and inspiration!  I will be updating the studio site with fine art photographs from our journey soon...