Day Trip to Calistoga, California: A Guide to Spas and Wineries

Calistoga is a charming small town in Napa County, California, renowned for its hot springs, wineries, and historical allure. While northern Napa Valley boasts many beautiful areas to explore, Calistoga is the best. It is home to several of California’s premier spas, retreats, and wineries, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Here’s a rundown of things to do and see while in Calistoga, California:

Calistoga Natural Hot Springs

Famous across the state for its hot springs, mineral pools, mud baths, and massage packages, Calistoga is Napa’s #1 spot for spas. The area’s original inhabitants, the Wappo Indians, recognized the local waters’ healing properties. Today, there are hot spring resorts that fit every taste and budget. Many of them offer day-use guests use of their facilities.

Indian Springs Resort Calistoga

Indian Springs Resort sits on the original spa site in the Napa Valley and dates back to 1860. The 17-acre property contains four thermal geysers that produce hot mineral water. The waters fill the Resort’s pool, creating unique mud for the baths. Indian Springs mineral and mud baths are reputed to release toxins while relaxing and rejuvenating you. Indian Springs is located at 1712 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga, California. Visit the Resort’s website for reservations.

Calistoga Spa Resort Volcanic Ash Mud Baths

Located one block from downtown, Calistoga Spa Resort features four spring-fed mineral pools, mud baths, and massage services. Day-use guests can use the pools from 10 am to 9 pm, and overnight guests can use them from 8 am to 10 pm. Volcanic ash mud baths are one of Calistoga Spa Resort’s most popular spa treatments. 1006 Washington Street, Calistoga. Visit the Resort website.

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort Mud Baths

This Calistoga resort is famous for inventing mineral water massage, a technique Dr. John H. Wilkinson developed in 1952. Treatments include signature mud baths using local volcanic ash, detoxifying wraps, and mineral water massages. The atmosphere of the Resort is laid-back and has a retro vibe, emphasizing health and relaxation. Address: 1507 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga, California. Resort website.

Wine Tasting in Calistoga, CA

As difficult as it may be to drag yourself from enjoying a hot mineral pool or soaking in a mud bath, wineries, restaurants, and other sights in this corner of Napa Valley must be explored.

Chateau Montelena Winery

Constructed in 1888 by its founder Alfred Tubbs, the Chateau is unique in the Napa region. Montelena resembles an English Gothic castle made from stone and built on the side of a hill. The thick walls make it easy to regulate and maintain a steady temperature, which, in turn, aids in producing top-notch wines, such as 1429 Tubbs Ln Calistoga, California, which are pet-friendly. Website.

Castello di Amorosa “Castle of Love”

It is highly recommended that you visit Castello di Amorosa. Wandering the halls of this Tuscan-inspired “Castle of Love” will transport you back in time. Choose to explore on your own or join a guided tour—Castello di Amorosa partners with the Napa Valley Wine Train to provide visitors with an unforgettable adventure. The Castello also offers wine and cheese pairing tours and customized private tastings for groups 4045 St Helena Hwy Calistoga, California. Website.

Family-owned Wineries

Smaller, family-owned wineries can be found all over Calistoga. Some offer bed and breakfast style accommodation; many have excellent on-site restaurants, and virtually all offer guided tours and tastings. Rare and specialty wines can be purchased in the winery stores, making great gifts for those left home.

Downtown Calistoga Tasting Rooms

There are about a dozen tasting rooms in the Calistoga downtown area. Olabisi Wines at 1226 Washington St, Huge Bear Wine on Lincoln Avenue, and Tank Garage Winery in a 1930 gas station on Foothill Blvd are popular places to taste wine. Romeo Vineyards and Cellars on Lincoln Ave are pet-friendly if your four-legged friend is along on this trip.

Calistoga Dining Options

The food and drink experience can often be combined, with many wineries offering meals that pair wines with perfectly matched, freshly cooked dishes. If you are only spending a day in Calistoga, then downtown is the best place to get a bite to eat. Restaurants with outdoor patios usually don’t mind if your four-legged friend joins you outside while you dine. Here are a couple of dining options for your day trip.

Buster’s Original Southern BBQ

Enjoy the best BBQ in Napa Valley at Buster’s! Indulge in tri-tip, ribs, pulled pork, BBQ chicken, and all the delicious fixings. Both indoor and outdoor dining options allow you to savor Southern BBQ. Buster’s is conveniently located downtown at 1207 Foothill Blvd. Plus, you can enjoy live music every Sunday during the summer!

Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery

Napa Valley is renowned for its wine, but the Calistoga Inn is the perfect place to visit if you prefer beer. The inn serves 100% of its brewery’s production. The restaurant offers outdoor dining along the Napa River and indoor dining with garden views. It is open for breakfast daily on the dog-friendly patio. Address: 1250 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga, California.

Old Faithful Geyser Calistoga

If you’re traveling with children, visit Old Faithful Geyser. This impressive geyser shoots a stream of scalding steam up to 75 feet into the air every thirty minutes. Along with the geyser, several other attractions, including a small herd of fainting goats, are on site. Old Faithful Geyser is at 1299 Tubbs Lane, Calistoga.

Where is Calistoga, California?

Calistoga is located in the upper Napa Valley, about seventy miles from San Francisco. Calistoga blends luxury with a laid-back atmosphere, making it an appealing destination for those looking to experience Napa Valley’s wine culture alongside relaxing geothermal waters. Spoil yourself with meals prepared by award-winning chefs, enjoy a massage, or sample wines from some of Napa’s top producers.

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