Hello.
While October isn't considered the "off-season," it's not the absolute
peak season either. October is a nice time to visit. The weather is
usually still nice, and the summer crowds have dwindled to a certain
extent. If you want the absolute off-season with the fewest tourists,
then the December-to-March period is your best bet. However, the
chance of rain during that time is significantly higher.
Here are some sites to take a look at:
Travelcafe.tv page on the Napa Valley:
"BEST TIME TO GO - Although the weather remains beautiful all year
round, most people choose to visit Napa Valley in the summer or during
the September/October harvest. To avoid the crowds, visit Napa in late
fall, spring, or winter. Wineries are open year round and are always
available for tours and tastings. "
http://www.travelcafe.tv/napavalley.html
From Napa.lodging.com:
"Fall is the best time to visit because the grape harvest runs from
late August through October and the weather is perfect - usually dry
and still quite warm. (It?s also the busiest time of year and you need
to make lodging and dining reservations far in advance.) Winter is
quiet, especially January through mid-March, and you won?t have to
fight crowds on the roads or at the wineries."
http://napa.lodging.com/
Wine Country Travel Tips courtesy of Beau Limousine Wine Tours":
"1. The Napa Valley and Sonoma Wine Country is open to visitors all
year round. The peak tourist season is between May and October, and
Saturday is always the most crowded day of the week."
http://www.beaulimousine.com/wine_travel_tips.html
From Sonomatraveler.com:
Rates: High season for Wine Country innkeepers is generally from
April to October; off-season runs November to March. Many inns,
however, make no distinction between the seasons and may charge the
same rate year-round. At those that do recognize off-season, expect to
pay 20% to 30% less. Likewise, mid-week rates may be significantly
less than weekend rates.
http://www.sonomatraveler.com/lodge/notes.html
Also see Winephilosopher.com page about Touring the Napa Valley:
http://www.winephilosopher.com/Touring.%20Napa%20Valley.htm
Good luck. And have a fun trip! |
