Are you currently wishing you were in Thailand (just like I am) but international travel has you at a stand still? Don’t wait, book a long weekend at Bann at Oak Knoll Napa. Now, book that flight to San Francisco, get a rental car, and head to Napa for a much needed getaway!
As a California native, a may be a little biased when it comes to San Francisco and Napa, however, it is an experience to be had over and over! I may also be a little biased from living in SE Asia and loving everything that this amazing part of the world has to offer.
Well, look no further than Napa, and really, who doesn’t love a trip to Napa?!
However, If you haven’t heard of Napa Valley, it is located about an hour and a half outside of San Francisco, California, United States.
Tip: fly into SFO and rent a car to drive through the beautiful hillside.
This hotel, Bann at Oak Knoll is the first hotel project for the San Franciscan restaurateur and chef Lalita Souksamlane, which commiserates 25 years of being a staple to the San Francisco food scene.
Did you know that ‘Baan’ means ‘Home’ in Thai?
Once you step foot into this colorful bed and breakfast, you will feel as you have been transported to Thailand; the only thing missing is the beach. That’s ok, because you will be surrounded by those picturesque vineyards and wine is the second best thing to the beach, right?
Bann at Oak Knoll Napa is on the site of what was formally the Oak Knoll Inn and the opening of this hotel is the in celebrations of Lalita’s 25-year milestone of when she opened her first brick and mortar Osha restaurant.
Bann, like most Napa Valley lodging, it is a beautiful and luxurious boutique hotel, and because of the Thai inspiration, Bann is the bold stand-out from the others. Instead of finding the “farmhouse chic” hotels that Napa is infamous for, you will find in true Thai style, a minimalist luxury of browns and grays.
The house has just five vineyard-facing rooms with each paying tribute to a region of Thailand. There is a long, L-shaped deck that connects all of the rooms as well as three communal pergolas for outdoor dining or lounging, which is meant to transport you to Thailand; outdoor activities is a large part of the Thai culture.
There are three guest sleeping rooms and suites available that are all unique homages to the past, with the modern comforts that make this perfect that the ultimate private and romantic getaway. Throughout the hotel you will find understated opulence in the little intricacies like floor-to-ceiling drapes and hand-painted 18-karat-gold sinks. There is also an extensive antiques collection that is sporadic within the property and rooms, including a series of wooden elephants (elephants are the symbol of Thailand).
Each guest room offers luxurious linens and pillows, a private bath (some have soaking tubs), luxurious signature Bann bath accessories, an expansive deck and sweeping vineyard views.
Upon arrival, guests will be treated to a traditional tea service inside one of the pagodas. There is also fruit, cheese and mini-desserts available for your pleasure. One of my favorites, bubbly, is available if you would prefer that as a welcome. During your stay, there is a 24-hour honor bar, which is stocked inside an antique food that holds a bevy of your favorite snacks.
For breakfast, which you may have seated with other guests, you will a three-course breakfast, in no other fashion that traditional Thai style done by the amazing Lalita (there is a vegetarian option available upon request).
After breakfast, it is a necessity that you take a relaxing dip in the salt-water swimming pool and spa. Once you are refreshed, it is time to head out for a day of wine-tasting at one of the many wonderful wineries nearby. Also, Bann is situated about halfway in between the town of Napa and Yountville, which provides you with endless activities. You could take the Napa Valley Wine Train, a balloon ride, take a tour of the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, or a bike tour with different packages available. You can find more on the Travel + Leisure post HERE.
After a day filled with activities you will want to make a reservation at one of the many delectable dining options available in Napa, as the only meal served at Bann is breakfast (but that will keep you filled well until it’s time for an afternoon snack, to soak up the wine). You can find more on the Napa restaurants HERE.
Have you booked your stay at Bann yet? You can find more on Bann at Oak Knoll HERE.
Bann is also available for event holdings, think a boho-chic Thai style wedding that embodies the four different regions of the country, as well as the concept, “East meets West”, according to Bann’s website.
Make sure to check out my ‘8 Reasons Why Traveling is Good for Your Mental Health‘ if you needed another reason, or many, to book this trip!
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