Calistoga

One of the least developed towns in the famed Napa Valley, charming Calistoga boasts a lovely old-fashioned main street and some wonderful natural springs with hot mud baths. Drink the local waters as well as the wine, and retreat to a romantic inn or stylish and secluded luxury hotel. There's an extensive array of accommodation to choose from, catering to a range of tastes and budgets. The best places to stay in Calistoga reflect the town's laid-back, low-key vibe, and promise something a little different from the rest of Napa Valley. These are undoubtedly some of the top places in California to relax and unwind!

Napa Valley's biggest draw is its world-class wine, and there are wineries aplenty offering tours and tastings in the Calistoga area. Stroll through picturesque vineyards, delve into the wine-making process and sample the region's best creations will the help of an expert guide -- you'll sound like a sommelier in no time! For a sense of the region's past, head to the excellent Sharpsteen Museum, founded by Oscar-winning Disney animator and producer Ben Sharpsteen, whose original work is also on display. If it's the great outdoors that you're after, the Bothe-Napa State Park promises hiking, cycling and camping in spectacular surroundings. Thrill-seekers, on the other hand, will love catching a race at the Calistoga Speedway -- the views of the mountains from the grandstand are also seriously impressive!

Be it superb farm-to-table fare accompanied by a glass or two of the good stuff, a dip in a hot mud bath or kicking back at a gorgeous rural retreat, the best places to stay in Calistoga offer a Napa Valley escape to remember.

For boutique chic

• The Francis House is a sumputous adults-only property. Napa Valley's only authentic French Second Empire building, the hotel has five beautiful bedrooms, with exposed stone walls and refined decor. Complete with a gorgeous pool, salt room, sauna and billiards table, this is an idyllic couples' retreat. One for honeymooners!
• The Bergson is an appealing hideaway with gabled porches and a couryard garden. The 21 fresh rooms feature stylish Cape Cod design, with bright splashes of colour and pattern. The free-standing tubs are a real treat, as are the private balconies. A quirky B&B within easy reach of Calistoga's vineyards and eateries. Trendy and romantic.
• Cottage Grove Inn is a gorgeous collection of sixteen cosy cottages with deep soaking tubs, wood-burning fireplaces and big beds tucked under vaulted ceilings. Nestled amidst leafy gardens, yet within walking distance of Calistoga's shops and restaurants, this is an excellent pick for a secluded escape. Also pet friendly!

For Luxury & a Spa

• Calistoga Motor Lodge features 50 ultra-chic rooms with a funky retro influence, and a truly spoiling spa. The three pools are filled with locally-sourced geothermal waters, whils the Moonacre Spa specialises in unique treatments, including body scrubs with grape seeds and a cleansing massage using a heated linen poultice. Hip, characterful and enormously restorative.
• Indian Springs is a super-cool Calistoga institution spread across 17 acres. Following a recent makeover, the elegant rooms ooze understated, contemporary style, with French doors leading to private balconies flooded with sunshine. Take a dip in the geyser-fed swimming pool and unwind with soothing mineral soaks or signature mud bath treatments at the indulgent spa. Book one of the two houses if travelling with family or friends! Wonderfully luxurious.
• Solage Calistoga is a vibrant Napa Valley escape, offering striking suites and studios for couples and families. The show-stopper is the extensive 20,000 square foot spa. Try the Ultimate Purifying Soak for gentle rejuvenation. Borrow a bike to explore the area and feast at the bar and restaurant before retiring to your fresh, sophisticated suite or studio, designed using natural materials and crisp, clean lines. Kids will love the activities and the grown-ups will adore the wellness focus of this superb haven.

For a cosy inn

• Brannan Cottage Inn offers six elegant bedrooms in a prettily-painted downtown Calistoga house. Moments from restaurants and wineries, rooms boast statement wallpapers and period furnishings, whilst homemade breakfasts are served on the sunny terrace. A grown-up, Victorian B&B for quiet couples.
• Craftsman Inn is a quaint, family-run escape in a renovated 1912 family home. The five spacious rooms are named after Napa Valley mountains, the vine-laden garden is a gorgeous place to relax, and the central location is ideal for exploring Calistoga. A tranquil B&B choice within walking distance of both Golden Haven and Indian Springs Mud Baths.
• Embrace Calistoga is a pretty, five-bedroom inn fusing old-world luxury with modern comforts for a gorgeous stay. Set on Calistoga's main street, this sophisticated spot serves epic brunches, as well as lovely wine and cheese tastings each evening - sometimes accompanied by live music, or chats with local winemakers. Very grown-up, intimate and ideal for wine-loving couples.
• Calistoga Wine Way Inn has the honour of being the oldest B&B in Calistoga. Featuring a Cape Cod-style façade with a vine-clad porch and eight old-school bedrooms with four-poster beds, this is a lovely hideaway. Expect excellent recommendations from the owner-managers, who will happily steer you towards the best local vineyards to suit your personal taste, and also run cookery classes complete with expert wine pairings. Great value!

For a rural vineyard escape

• Chateau de Vie is a peaceful, four-bedroom chateau surrounded by lavender-filled gardens. Large rooms overlook the vineyards beyond, and there are gourmet breakfasts to enjoy, as well as a picturesque pool. Pick this place for its tranquil elegance and vineyard setting.

For an apartment or cabin

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Calistoga?

• Fly to Santa Rosa Airport, and hop into a taxi for the 30 minute drive to Calistoga.
• Napa Valley is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between June and September for the warmest weather. If you're keen to skip the crowds and make the most of some great hotel deals, time your trip for May or October when temperatures are also cooler.

Still not sure?

• Explore our pick of all the best wine hotels in the Napa Valley.
• Widen your search to include the best places to stay in California.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Calistoga