Calistoga is a feast for the senses. The small town peeking out from the foothills of Mount Saint Helena is in the heart of the Napa Valley’s winemaking country and is also well known for its culinary scene, resorts and spas. Spend the day exploring vineyard-laced hills and historic wineries or treating yourself to hot spring spas and volcanic mud baths.
Award-winning wineries are Calistoga’s main draw. Sample magnificent chardonnays at the historic Chateau Montelena Winery, which made a name for Californian wines when it won major prizes in the 1976 Paris Tasting. Discover the passion of a fourth-generation Italian winemaker when you explore Castello di Amorosa situated within a period-perfect reconstruction of a medieval castle. The gorgeous architecture of the hilltop Sterling Vineyards pays homage to the Greek island of Mykonos, while Tamber Bey Vineyards has a rich equestrian heritage.
Taste the creations of renowned chefs when you visit Calistoga’s excellent restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Solbar. The town has a selection of prestigious restaurants, where you can pair local wines with delicious regional fare and experience a culinary tradition that stretches back to the 1880s. Learn about the town’s history at the Bale Grist Mill Historic Park and the Sharpsteen Museum.
Rejuvenate your mind and body at Calistoga’s hot springs and mud baths. You can see an erupting geothermal geyser, known as the Old Faithful of California,or take advantage of the mineral-rich waters that flow beneath the town. Visit one of a wide range of hot spring spas and resorts to experience a hot soak, sauna or massage. A popular treatment is a mud bath in Calistoga’s rich volcanic ash.
Calistoga is less than 2 hours’ drive from the international airports in San Francisco, Oakland and Sacramento. Santa Rosa’s regional airport is 45 minutes away. You can also explore the region via the scenic Napa Valley Wine Train. Accommodations in Calistoga include picturesque ranch hotels, resorts and cozy cottages.
