[…] We also had an unforgettable dining experience at Olive & Hay. You can read more about that here. […]
My sisters and I have an inside joke that if a hotel has a bathroom it’s a resort.
This joke was derived from a trip we took in the Philippines many years back. It seemed each property we visited called themselves a resort when they were anything but. So we started to make light of the situation by saying that if the hotel had a bathroom, it was a resort.
Fast forward several years later (and a few kids later), the “resort” designation is still casually used by many properties all over the world.
So, what is a resort and what differentiates it from a standard hotel?
A resort is a self-contained commercial establishment that tries to provide most of a vacationer’s wants, such as food, drink, lodging, sports, entertainment, and shopping, on the premises.
For me, the question I ask myself is:
Can I get everything I need to have fun on this property without having to leave?
If the answer is yes, then it’s a resort! *queue the fireworks!*
Vista Collina Resort and Spa has it all.
Let me explain!
Vista Collina is located in the world-renowned Napa Valley. From the moment you check-in, you’re welcomed with a glass of prosecco. It was such a lovely way to start a vacation. I felt pampered already and I hadn’t even gotten to my room yet!
I had the fortunate opportunity to stay here during #mommylockdown2020. [To learn more about Mommy Lockdown, click here.]
I stayed in a Deluxe King Guestroom and it was fantastic! Super clean, amazing balcony views, and the bed was as comfy as it was luxurious.
I don’t know about you, but sometimes I have a hard time walking around barefoot in hotel rooms because well…they just don’t feel or look clean. That was not the case here. My room was spotless!
Let’s go through some of the amenities that give Vista Collina the distinction of a resort.
The pool.
There’s a heated outdoor pool with towel service. That means you don’t have to lug around the towels from your room all the way to the pool. Which means you don’t need to call the front desk later to replenish your bath towels. Heck, yes!
The pool area also has nicely appointed cabanas for those who want to luxuriate in style. Did I mention there’s a poolside bar? I could spend hours just hanging out by the pool.
The food.
On site is a locally sourced Wine Country market at Fivetown Grocery. Here you’ll find everything you’d need to create the ultimate picnic. I ordered a sandwich and matcha latte and enjoyed it out on the lawn. If self-service isn’t your style, they also offer a Lawn Butler to help assist you in putting together the perfect picnic spread.
The cafe. 
Wine. 
The deli. 
The lawn.
If you’re looking for formal dining, Olive & Hay is just a few steps away at The Meritage Resort. Executive Chef Jose Mejia and the entire Olive & Hay staff made for a dining experience I won’t soon forget! Tip: Order the crispy cauliflower mushrooms. You’ll thank me later!
Olive & Hay
Wine tasting.
A Napa Valley getaway just isn’t complete without wine tasting. And get this- Vista Collina has 9 tasting rooms on property. Say what?!
See. Didn’t I tell you there was no reason to leave this place?
The feeling.
Aside from all the wonderful amenities, the service I received at Vista Collina made for an impressive experience. I felt taken care of the whole time I was there. I felt pampered and most importantly, safe. The staff at Vista Collina is first-class.
Vista Collina is the perfect place to stay in Napa Valley hands down. I can’t wait to visit again with the family. The kids would love the pool and the huge lawn.
Thank you, Vista Collina, for hosting our stay!
For more behind the scenes look, check out my Instagram highlight folder under Vista Collina.
I’m still dreaming about this place! 💖
Looks like you had a great trip. We have stayed in some of those places too and for us…if its at least clean its suitable.
This one definitely had all the bells and whistles!
That is a gorgeous resort! I hope to get to Napa Valley one day to check it out. The food looks delicious.
I hope you do as well!!!!
I agree, looks like there is no reason to leave. I would spend a lot of time at the wine tasting.
Everything we tasted was amazing!
You had me at welcome glass of Presecco, lol. What a great resort. PS. I love the story about how you and your sister classify resorts!
LOL! Thank you! 😅
This looks like a fabulous destination for a girls getaway or couples weekend.
Yes! I hope to have a girls trip here soon!
Great location and resort for an adult getaway.
It has absolutely everything you’d want in a getaway!
This resort looks like a dream and honestly, who doesn’t love Napa?! Definitely want to look into planning a stay here!
You’re so right! Napa is such a great place!
This looks like a great place. The cabanas look amazing. Those brussel sprouts!!
They were cooked perfectly!
This looks like an amazing resort! The cabanas are incredible!
It was super fun!
Looks like a cool resort to get away
Looks like a great girls weekend! And not that far from me. I’ll have to check it out some day!
Great definition of a resort, so funny how different places can interpret differently. This place looks fab!
I don’t know what mommy lockdown is, but if it would take me to a resort like this without the kids, I’m in!
This looks like a lovely resort with great food!
Wow! Your resort photos are stunning and make me want to visit as soon as possible!