Castello di Amorosa
A 13th-century Tuscan castle winery in Napa Valley, offering tours and Italian-inspired wine tastings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Castello di Amorosa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 13th-century Tuscan castle winery in Napa Valley, offering tours and Italian-inspired wine tastings.
"This castle winery is straight out of a fairytale!"
🏰 Fairytale Vibes Guaranteed
Felt like stepping into Europe! Perfect for photos and a magical escape.
🍇 Delicious Grape Juice
Non-drinkers can enjoy tasty grape juices made from wine grapes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Medieval Castle Exterior
Exterior grounds
A stunning 13th-century Tuscan-style castle replica that transports you to Europe.
Underground Cellars & Caves
Castle interior
Explore ancient-looking cellars, barrel rooms, and a unique dungeon.
Wine & Grape Juice Tastings
Tasting rooms
Sample Italian-inspired wines or enjoy flavorful grape juices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Tours & Tastings
Consider Non-Alcoholic Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏰 Fairytale Vibes Guaranteed
Felt like stepping into Europe! Perfect for photos and a magical escape.
🍇 Delicious Grape Juice
Non-drinkers can enjoy tasty grape juices made from wine grapes.
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Recommended
Explore hidden parts of the castle and learn its history. +1
📸 Bring Your Camera!
Every corner is picturesque, perfect for capturing memories.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏰 Fairytale Vibes Guaranteed
Felt like stepping into Europe! Perfect for photos and a magical escape.
🍇 Delicious Grape Juice
Non-drinkers can enjoy tasty grape juices made from wine grapes.
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Recommended
Explore hidden parts of the castle and learn its history. +1
📸 Bring Your Camera!
Every corner is picturesque, perfect for capturing memories.
⚠️ Stroller Policy
Strict 'no strollers' policy; check in advance if traveling with young children. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Castello di Amorosa offers a visually stunning, fairytale-like experience with its 13th-century Tuscan castle replica and Italian-inspired wines. Visitors praise the unique atmosphere, the impressive architecture, and the delicious grape juice option for non-drinkers. However, some find the experience overly touristy with less personal service, and the strict 'no strollers' policy can be a significant drawback for families.
"We visited on Sunday, and while the castle itself looks beautiful, our experience was really disappointing. They have a strict “no strollers” policy, so we had to leave ours at the entrance — and it got stolen. That completely ruined the visit for us. If you’re coming with kids, be very careful.
The overall vibe is very touristy. We’re from the Bay Area and have memberships at other wineries where the service is always warm and welcoming, but here it was the opposite. The man pouring wines (an older Italian gentleman) was extremely rude on every request — it honestly felt like being scolded by an angry grandfather instead of being hosted.
The cheese plate was also a big letdown — very minimal and not worth it. The only bright spot was the grape juice served to our child, which was delicious and the one thing we actually purchased.
Unfortunately, this visit confirmed for me that highly touristic wineries just aren’t worth it. We won’t be coming back."
Malika Kanatbek
"I celebrated my 28th birthday with my husband and friends and everything was incredible! A place where you will not only find history, it is also a place where you can create new stories and beautiful moments with your loved ones.
I do not have enough time to describe the beautiful experience I had, the staff was super friendly, they explain where each wine you are about to drink comes from. I was served by: Brandon E and he was very kind, I will definitely return to continue making memories.
Thank you very much, and enjoy the trip!
IT IS TOTALLY WORTH IT!!"
Pablo Uriel Cruz Malaver
"Wow, love that castle a lot makes me that I'm in England, Germany, or Italy. The tour is so awesome, the staff there is very helpful and friendly too. The grape vineyards is beautiful and so the flowers too. We picked a couple of grapes to eat too. The grape juice the white and red one was absolutely a taste bomb of fruit and sugary like its homemade in California. The scenic view is so nice too. The misty water spray was helpful for the hot heat to cool off a bit too. Me and my family really enjoyed this experience. We've been there 3 times now. We would love to go back again to explore and taste the drinks there."
Caleb Aguilar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Castello di Amorosa is located in Calistoga, California, about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from San Francisco, depending on traffic. You can drive yourself, or consider ride-sharing services. Some visitors mention using apps like Cliq to offset transportation costs. +1
Yes, parking is available at Castello di Amorosa. It's generally ample, but can get busy during peak times.
Public transportation options to Calistoga are limited. While some visitors mention using ride-sharing, it's often recommended to have your own vehicle or join a wine tour for easier access.
The most common route involves taking Highway 101 North towards Santa Rosa, then transitioning to Highway 12 East towards Sonoma and Napa, and finally taking Highway 29 North to Calistoga.
Yes, Castello di Amorosa is located in Napa Valley, an area with numerous wineries. Other notable wineries nearby include Chateau Montelena and Sterling Vineyards.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the tour and tasting experience. A basic tour and tasting can range from $70-$75 per person. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing and package options.
Yes, reservations are generally required for tours and wine tastings, especially during peak seasons and weekends. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot.
Castello di Amorosa is typically open daily. However, specific hours can vary by season, so it's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, it's possible to explore the castle grounds and some areas without a wine tasting. However, many visitors find the guided tours and tastings enhance the experience. They also offer delicious grape juice for non-drinkers.
Castello di Amorosa has a strict 'no strollers' policy. Visitors with strollers will need to leave them at the entrance, which has unfortunately led to theft for some guests. [^Review]
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond wine tasting, you can take a guided tour of the medieval castle, explore its underground cellars, dungeons, and courtyards, and enjoy the beautiful vineyard views.
While children are welcome, the 'no strollers' policy can be challenging for families with very young children. The grape juice tasting is a hit with kids, and the castle itself is visually engaging. [^Review]
A self-guided exploration might take 1-2 hours, but a guided tour with tasting can extend your visit to 2-3 hours. Many visitors spend longer enjoying the atmosphere and grounds.
They offer various tours, including self-guided tours, guided castle tours that explore more of the interior, and food and wine pairing experiences.
Absolutely! Castello di Amorosa is incredibly photogenic, both inside and out. It's a popular spot for capturing stunning castle and vineyard photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Castello di Amorosa offers cheese and charcuterie boards, as well as other light bites. These are often paired with wine tastings.
Food options typically include cheese and charcuterie platters. Some reviews mention them being minimal, while others found them to be a good pairing with the wines. [^Review]
Outside food is generally not permitted at Castello di Amorosa, as they offer their own food and beverage options for purchase. It's best to confirm their policy directly.
Yes, Calistoga and the surrounding Napa Valley area have many excellent restaurants, ranging from casual cafes to fine dining establishments. You can find options before or after your visit.
La Fantasia is a popular sweet red wine blend from Castello di Amorosa, known for its fruity notes and approachable sweetness. [^SEO Keyword]
📸 📸 Photography
The entire exterior of the castle, the drawbridge, the courtyards, and the vineyard views offer fantastic photo opportunities. Don't miss the interior details during a tour!
Photography is generally allowed inside the castle during tours, but be mindful of other guests and any specific restrictions in certain areas.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful 'golden hour' lighting, enhancing the castle's ambiance. Mornings can also be lovely with fewer crowds.
For professional photography or extensive tripod use, it's best to contact Castello di Amorosa in advance to inquire about their policies and any potential permits required. [^SEO Keyword]
While tours focus on history and wine, guides may point out particularly scenic spots. The castle's architecture itself provides endless photo opportunities throughout the guided experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families should be aware of the strict 'no strollers' policy, which can be a significant challenge for those with infants or toddlers. It's advisable to use baby carriers if possible. While the castle is visually engaging, some areas may be less accessible for very young children due to stairs and uneven terrain. [^Review]
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
While the wines are generally well-regarded, some enthusiasts might find the experience leans more towards the novelty of the castle. It's recommended to explore their specific wine club options or inquire about limited releases for a deeper dive into their oenological pursuits. [^Review]
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
+1Golden hour in the late afternoon offers particularly magical lighting. Be sure to capture both the grand exterior and the intricate details within the castle during your visit. The unique setting guarantees a feed full of envy-inducing content.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Castle's Construction and Authenticity
+1This dedication to authenticity extends to its functionality as a winery. The castle houses a state-of-the-art winemaking facility within its historic walls. Visitors can explore the barrel-aging cellars, the fermentation room, and even a dungeon, all while learning about the winemaking process. The goal was to create an immersive experience that transports visitors directly to medieval Italy.
While it's a modern construction, the castle's design and execution have earned it praise for its historical accuracy and immersive atmosphere. It's often described as a 'Disneyland of Napa Valley' for its unique and captivating presentation, offering a distinct departure from more traditional winery visits.
Wine and Grape Juice Experience
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, the winery offers delicious grape juices made from their wine grape varieties. These juices are praised for their rich, fruity flavors and are a fantastic alternative for designated drivers or guests who don't consume alcohol. This inclusive approach ensures everyone can partake in the tasting experience.
Reviews suggest that while the wines are enjoyable, the overall experience of tasting within a medieval castle setting is the primary draw. Some visitors highlight specific wines like the Brut, while others appreciate the educational aspect of learning about the wine's origin and production during the tasting. [^Review]
Navigating the Castle and Tours
Be aware of the castle's unique features, including its many stairs and uneven surfaces, which are part of its authentic medieval design. While visually stunning, this can present challenges for those with mobility issues. The 'no strollers' policy is also a significant factor for families with young children, as noted in several reviews. [^Review]
Many visitors recommend the guided tour for a more comprehensive experience, noting that the staff are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the visit with historical anecdotes and wine insights. The tours often conclude with a tasting, allowing guests to savor the wines within the castle's enchanting ambiance.
Social
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