A Fine Napa Valley Luxury Hotel in Wine Country

1801 First is a Romantic and Historic Boutique Inn in Downtown Napa

Nov 1, 2009

Romance and comfort in Napa Valley wine country is found at 1801 First, a historic, luxury boutique hotel a short walk from downtown Napa's wine tastings and restaurants.

No prizes for guessing that the luxury 1801 First hotel is on First Street, a short walk from downtown Napa, the heart of Napa Valley's wine country. Within minutes of arriving at this boutique inn, guests could be out enjoying the wine tastings in the many wine shops and winery outlets in Napa itself, without worrying about needing a designated driver.

1801 First is obviously well-located, with a good choice of some of Napa's finest restaurants almost on the doorstep, and many more just a short taxi ride or car drive away. The whole of Napa Valley can also be explored from this historic house in Napa Town.

Historic Napa Valley Lodging

It isn't surprising to learn that this elegant and stylish Queen Anne Victorian house was designed by an architect. It was built in 1903 by William Corlett as a family home and preserves many of its historic design features.

In the 1990s it was transformed into the luxury boutique inn that it is today by owners Tom and Darcy Tunt, who kept the integrity of the house while refreshing it with contemporary style. It retains that turn-of-the-century charm, however, in its quiet location convenient for downtown Napa.

Napa's Romantic Luxury Hotel

A browse through the guestbook shows that 1801 First is a great place for those special occasions. Guests leave glowing praise for the inn's part in helping them enjoy the perfect honeymoon, anniversary surprise, birthday treat, or other special celebrations.

What could be more romantic than renting the detached private cottage at the rear of the inn, with its two-person Jacuzzi, king-sized bed, and a two-way fireplace glowing in between the two? It gives all the comforts of the inn, and the bonus of its central Napa location, but with private seclusion.

1801 First's Romantic Luxury Rooms

In addition to the private romantic retreat of the Carriage House, 1801 First also has two cozy cottages in its attractive garden at the rear of the house.

In the main building are just five luxurious suites, all differently decorated but all blending the historic atmosphere of the original house with the latest modern comforts. Some rooms have oversized bathtubs, others have raised beds or window seats, but all have fireplaces, separate sitting areas, high-speed internet, and a complimentary gourmet cooked breakfast.

Wining and Dining at 1801 First in Napa

1801 First's breakfast is a true gourmet treat. Home-baked muffins and croissants, fresh-baked bread, fresh fruit, a range of organic local produce, tasty surprises such as yogurt with honey and figs, and a choice of delicious hot dishes such as potato pancakes served with poached eggs, smoked salmon, and caviar.

In the early evening, equally tasty complimentary appetizers are served, along with free wine tastings from some of the Napa Valley vineyards. The hors d'oeuvres might be served in the garden with is relaxing fountains in summer, or in winter inside in the lounge to the gentle background of soft jazz music.

Luxury Hotel Amenities at 1801 First

1801 First doesn't have its own spa, but guests can enjoy soothing in-room massages, facials, and even heated stone therapy, all in the privacy of their own room. A morning massage followed by breakfast in bed is also a pretty romantic way to start the day.

The inn also offers a concierge service to help with planning those Napa Valley wine tours and other local attractions such as historic downtown Napa walking tours, shopping tours, and tours of the local arts and craft galleries. In short, 1801 First provides all the luxury Napa hotel comforts any visitor could want, whether or not it's a special celebration.

1801 First Contact Details

Unique Inns

1801 First is a member of the Unique Inns organization. For further information on all Unique Inns in California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and in British Columbia in Canada, and to make online bookings, visit the Unique Inns website.

The copyright of the article A Fine Napa Valley Luxury Hotel in Wine Country in California Travel is owned by Donna Dailey. Permission to republish A Fine Napa Valley Luxury Hotel in Wine Country in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.