Planning a Polar Excursion

Linda Rosendorf, Rockville

Napa Valley boasts more than 3,000 rooms, but with many properties on the smaller size, you might have trouble securing a room big enough for three. "The smaller properties can't guarantee a double-double," says Patricia Grant, sales manager of the Napa Valley Conference & Visitors Bureau. To avoid cramped conditions, or having to split up your trio, Grant suggests five larger lodgings in the area.

* Meadowood Napa Valley (800-458-8080, http://www.meadowood.com/) in St. Helena. The upscale property has cottages, suites and family lodges as well as tennis courts, a spa, restaurants and wine programs.

* Villagio Inn and Spa (800-351-1133, http://www.villagio.com/) in Yountville. The sister hotel of the Vintage Inn sits on 25 acres, has 112 spacious rooms and a spa, and is within walking distance of shopping and dining.

* Silverado Resort (707-257-0200, http://www.silveradoresort.com/) in Napa. One of the largest properties in Napa has 423 rooms (including suites), 10 pools, two golf courses, 17 tennis courts, restaurants and a spa.

* Carneros Inn (707-299-4900, http://www.thecarnerosinn.com/) in Napa. The inn has 86 cottages, some of which are suites or have two double beds. Grant compares the inn to a W Hotel -- it's high-end yet hip, with a spa and easy access to wineries.

* Meritage Resort at Napa (707-251-1900, http://www.themeritageresort.com/) in Napa. The new 158-room property rests on eight acres of private vineyards and is scheduled to open its underground cave spa in the spring.

For other options: Napa Valley Conference & Visitors Bureau, 707-226-7459, http://www.napavalley.org/.

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