Calistoga | Napa Valley https://www.napavalley.com Explore Napa Valley Mon, 09 Dec 2024 21:24:44 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 The 15 Best Wineries in Calistoga https://www.napavalley.com/blog/the-15-best-wineries-in-calistoga/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/the-15-best-wineries-in-calistoga/#respond Tue, 19 Nov 2024 18:00:44 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=1721 Napa Valley's town of Calistoga is a wine lover's haven, offering world-class wine and welcoming tasting rooms. Here are the top 15 Calistoga wineries to visit

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Nestled away at the northern end of Napa Valley, just outside of Sonoma County, Calistoga is known as “Spa Heaven.” Relaxation-seeking visitors come from all over the world to experience the mud baths, massages, facials, and body treatments offered at dozens of Calistoga spas and resorts in the area. While visitors refresh and rejuvenate, they also take in the variety of incredible restaurants and wines from some of the best wineries in Calistoga. The spas in Calistoga, after all, are only equaled by the plentiful offerings of fantastic wines from must-see vineyards.

The Calistoga AVA has one of the warmest climates in the Napa Valley, offset by cool nights thanks to breezes from the Pacific Ocean drawn in through the Chalk Hill mountain gap. The result? World-class wines that visitors can taste at the many welcoming tasting rooms throughout the region. Below, we’ve carefully curated a list of the 15 best wineries in Calistoga. If you’re planning a trip, these are our must-visit tasting rooms and Calistoga vineyards.

Photos Courtesy of Tamber Bey Vineyards

1. Tamber Bey Vineyards

Tamber Bey Vineyards is part winery, part equestrian facility in a gorgeous Napa Valley setting. Located at the Sundance Ranch in Calistoga, a 22-acre equestrian center, the winery itself was once a riding arena. It now features state-of-the-art winemaking facilities and a crush pad with 36 fermentation tanks built for vineyard-designated wines. This means you can sip world-class wines while you visit with resident horses and maybe even see them in action.

Insider Tip: Opt for the Savory Wine Tasting & Cookie Pairing Experience when you book your tasting and ask to try their signature cookies to nibble on creations like the “Lemon Loop,” “Cardamom Crunch,” and “Triple Threat,” all dreamed up to pair with each Tamber Bey wine.

Visit: 1251 Tubbs Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-2100

Frank Family Vineyards
The Miller House at Frank Family, Photo courtesy of Frank Family Vineyards

2. Frank Family Vineyards

Housed in the property’s original yellow Craftsman house, Frank Family Vineyards has one of the most welcoming tasting rooms in the Napa Valley. Tastings take place on the inviting back patio, shaded estate courtyard, in a private room, or in the newly opened Miller House. They also offer four different types of wine clubs to join, from varietal-specific to reserve, and everything in between.

Insider Tip: In addition to their lineup of still wines, including their signature Cabernet Sauvignon, Frank Family Vineyards also produces four different styles of sparkling wine worth exploring.

Visit: 1091 Larkmead Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-0859

Canard Vineyard
Photo courtesy of Canard

3. Canard Vineyard

When Canard Vineyard owners Rich and Carolyn Czapleski first purchased the 25-acre historic property in 1983, they were guided by the simple philosophy that “If you take care of the vines, the vines will take care of you.” This approach has allowed them to not only craft thoughtfully-produced single-vineyard wines that truly speak of the land from which they come, but also create a magical wine haven in the heart of Napa Valley. Wine lovers will swoon over Canard Vineyard’s selection of premium wines made from sustainably grown, dry-farmed grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and other Bordeaux varieties.

Insider Tip: Private tastings are by reservation only, which you can book directly with the winery. Be sure to taste Canard’s Estate and Estate Reserve Zinfandel, which contains fruit from their dry-farmed vines planted over 135 years ago.

Visit: 1016 Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-1149

Explore Calistoga’s Culinary Scene

Need to break up your exploration of the top Calistoga wineries and tasting rooms? Find palate-pleasing bites that range from creative new twists that expand your culinary horizons to elevated favorites that create a cozy, soulful experience.

Teachworth Winery
Photo Courtesy of Teachworth

4. Teachworth

This stunning 75-acre property, situated at an elevation of 850 feet and surrounded by forests, is a memorable place to taste Teachworth’s noteworthy Cabernet wines, offering pristine views of Mount St. Helena and Napa Valley. Make an appointment for the 90-minute tasting to enjoy an in-depth exploration of their long history with Cabernet.

Insider Tip: For a fully immersive experience, book a stay at The Mountain House, offering a luxury getaway with peaceful surroundings, and, of course, sweeping views. The only caveat is that overnight stays are available to members only.

Visit: 4451 St. Helena Highway, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-8432

Photos Courtesy of Sterling Vineyards

5. Sterling Vineyards

This well-known property, located 300 feet above the town of Calistoga, offers some of the best views of NapaValley. Sterling Vineyards was inspired by Greek architecture, and you’ll notice a distinctly Mediterranean feel to the arched bell towers and white-washed walls of this property—Sterling’s founder, Peter Newton, once lived in Mykonos after all. While the design may be influenced by Greece, the wine is all Bordeaux. Fun fact: Sterling was the first California winery to produce vintage-dated Merlot.

Insider Tip: Wine lovers can take to the skies above Wine Country with Sterling Vineyards’ unique gondola experience. All tours and tasting options include a ride to reach the hilltop winery, offering great vistas of Napa Valley’s Calistoga from all angles. It’s a defining feature that, paired with Sterling’s wines, makes this one of the most beloved Calistoga vineyard experiences.

Visit:1111 Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (800) 726-6136

Visit Calistoga

Winter in the Wineries

Explore Calistoga this season with the Winter in the Wineries Passport. Enjoy tastings at 19 wineries and exclusive discounts!

Bennett Lane Winery tasting room
Inside peek of the winery tasting room. Photo courtesy of Bennett Lane Winery.

6. Bennett Lane Winery

They call themselves “The friendliest tasting room in the Napa Valley.” We’d be pretty friendly too if we had racked up as many 90+ rated wines as Bennet Lane has. Bennett Lane specializes in classic Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as Chardonnay and a tasty red blend called “Maximus” that includes a touch of Syrah, Merlot, and Malbec against a Cabernet base.

Insider Tip: Bennett Lane offers two levels for their wine club, including the ‘Date Night Duo,’ two bottles shipped every other month, and the ‘Emperor’s Society,’ which includes access to Reserve wines and special Cabernets.

Visit: 3340 Highway 128, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (877) 629-6272

Take a Spa Day in Calistoga

While you explore the best wineries in Calistoga, take some time to soak in the rejuvenating hot springs or experience a therapeutic treatment that will heal mind, body, and soul. Calistoga is known as a wellness destination, offering up famous mud bath experience, massages, and more.

Brian Arden Wines
Estate view of Brian Arden Wines. Go inside for an amazing food & wine experience. Photo Courtesy of Brian Arden Wines

7. Brian Arden Wines

This small, family-owned winery was founded by Brian Arden, who ventured to Calistoga from Orange County in 2008 on the quest to make quality, boutique Napa Valley wine. While only a few years old, the picturesque Brian Arden Wines vineyard, nestled along the Silverado Trail, has earned loyal fans for its welcoming hospitality and small-production Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc wines.

Insider Tip: Brian Arden has its own garden and dedicated chef, so don’t miss the winery’s spectacular 5-Course Farm-to-Table Wine & Food Experience, featuring a walking tour and several courses of seasonal delights paired with wine.

Visit: 331 Silverado Trail, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-4767

Davis Estates
Photo courtesy of Davis Estates

8. Davis Estates

Situated on a stunning, historic estate in Calistoga that provides views of both vineyards and Napa’s quintessential, undulating terrain, Davis Estates has been quietly turning heads since 2011. Explore the grounds, including the impressive Howard Backen-designed winery, on one of several tastings like the VIP Experience. From visiting the 11,000-square-foot cave to sampling their coveted Phase V wines with a perfectly paired tasting menu prepared in-house, you’ll come to know the winery on an intimate level, and no doubt leave as a lifelong fan.

Insider Tip: Joining the Davis Estates exclusive Founders Club will have you feeling like you’ve stepped onto the set of a Bond movie. Use infrared hand vein scans to gain access to the Cellarium, where you and your carefully selected, lucky few can taste Davis Estates’ beautiful, limited-production Phase V wines.

Visit: 4060 Silverado Trail, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-0700

Photos Courtesy of Tank Garage Winery

9. Tank Garage Winery

Housed in a 1930s-era service station with vintage Americana décor, this winery is one of the hippest in Calistoga. Tank Garage Winery specializes in one-off, limited release California wine blends, with labels that deserve a gallery of their own, created from collaborations with photographers, tattoo artists, designers, and unique brands. Rumor has it there’s even a backroom speakeasy at the winery. For families exploring revered Calistoga vineyards, Tank Garage has a special tasting room inside their Lubrication station that is kid-friendly.

Insider Tip: In 2019, the winery launched an initiative called Tank Cares. Purchase something from this online collection of wine, cool clothing, and tunes on vinyl, and know that a portion of the profits go toward a charitable cause. Since 2019, Tank Cares has raised over $113,500.

Visit: 1020 Foothill Boulevard, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-8265

Looking For a Place to Stay in Calistoga?

If you’re planning a weekend getaway or an overnight in Calistoga, we’ve curated some of the best hotel experiences that can make your trip truly unforgettable. From secluded inns to hot springs spa resorts, find the accommodation that speaks to you.

Lola Wines
It's always a fun time at LOLA. Photo Courtesy Courtesy of Facebook: Lola.

10. LOLA

Seth Cripe left his Florida hometown and drove to Napa Valley at 17 to pursue his dream of becoming a winemaker. In 2008, he established LOLA with the goal of making world-class wines “of purity and soul” at reasonable prices. Today, this boutique winery sources top-quality fruit from various appellations throughout Napa and Sonoma to pour for guests at their welcoming tasting room, “The LOLA House,” in downtown Calistoga.

Insider Tip: Try LOLA’s spectacular Artisanal Series Cabernet Sauvignon, only available direct from the winery.

Visit: 916 Foothill Boulevard, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 342-0623

Theorem Vineyards
Discover breathtaking panoramic views at Theorem Vineyards. Photo Courtesy of Facebook: Theorem Vineyards.

11. Theorem Vineyards

This Diamond Mountain property features not only breathtaking panoramic views but also one of the most historically significant clusters of buildings dating back to the 1800s. Owners Kisha and Jason Itkin have worked to integrate as much of this history as possible, while also building a state-of-the-art winery and tasting salon.

Insider Tip: Theorem tapped legendary Napa Valley winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown to create world-class wines that express the character of the sites and soils in which the fruit is grown. Theorem’s “Hawk’s Prey,” a single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, and their Diamond Mountain Merlot, are some of the finest examples of this vision come to life. Like many of the best wine tastings in Calistoga that are featured on this list, Theorem’s tastings are by reservation only.

Visit: 255 Petrified Forest Road, Calistoga CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-4254

Larkmead Cellars
Every tasting experience at Larkmead Cellars is unique, taking place on the tranquil patio. Photo Courtesy of Larkmead Vineyards.

12. Larkmead Vineyards

Founded in 1895, the estate at Larkmead Vineyards is one of the oldest family-owned properties in Napa Valley. Each tasting experience is personalized and unique, taking place on the tranquil patio, and includes an in-depth tasting of Larkmead’s lineup of truly stunning premium wines.

Insider Tip: Larkmead’s flagship wine, “Solari” Cabernet Sauvignon, pays homage to owner Kate Solari Baker’s parents, Larry and Polly Solari, who purchased the estate in 1948. The wine reflects the remarkable terroir of one single plot of vines and is considered one of the finest expressions of Napa Valley cabernet.

Visit: 1100 Larkmead Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-0167

Wine is Only the Beginning of Your Getaway

Calistoga’s many famous vineyards and tasting experiences are only the beginning of what this area in Napa Valley has to offer. There are plenty of unique dining experiences, natural environments to explore, and Instagram-worthy views to take in. Find other activities to break up your many visits to Calistoga’s wineries.

Clos Pegase
Photo courtesy of Clos Pegase

13. Clos Pegase

This iconic Napa Valley winery makes wines exclusively from its 450 acres of estate vineyards located in many of Napa’s premier growing regions, including Calistoga. This means the winery is deeply involved in the winemaking process, from grapevine to wine, farming vineyards to winemaking specifications in order to produce world-class bottlings. The stunning property features 20,000 square feet of caves that offer the perfect temperature and humidity for barrel aging, a Cave Theater for events, and a Heritage Garden with a collection of rare, drought-tolerant plants and trees.

Insider Tip: While all wines on offer at Clos Pegase are top notch, for a real indulgence, take home a bottle of the winery’s limited-production, reserve-tier “Hommage” series wines—including their single-vineyard Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon—which are an annual tribute to Clos Pegase’s oldest Carneros vines.

Visit: 1060 Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-4981

Amici Cellars
Pour, sip, and repeat at Amici Cellars. Photo Courtesy of Facebook: Amici Cellars

14. Amici Cellars

This family-owned and operated winery overlooking the Palisades is less than five minutes from downtown Calistoga. The family firmly believes winemaking starts in the vineyard—through the soil, climate, and grape growers—and Amici Cekkars wines reflect the painstaking care taken in each plot of land through to the final product in the glass.

Insider Tip: Amici offers two tiers of wine club memberships. Both offer access to both Reserve and Vineyard Designated wines.

Visit: 3130 Old Lawley Toll Road, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 967-9560

Schramsberg Vineyards
Photo courtesy of Schramsberg Vineyards

15. Schramsberg Vineyards

While Napa Valley is indeed famous for its amazing Cabernet Sauvignon, there are also some gorgeous sparkling wines to be found. For over 50 years, Schramsberg Vineyards—”America’s House of Sparkling Wine”—has been crafting classic method bubbly as well as still wines. The property features candlelit 130-year-old caves that house up to 2.7 million bottles of aging sparkling wine, which are a bit eerie and a bit romantic at the same time. Visitors who stop by Schramberg can take part in a cave tour, either as a group with other visitors or privately.

Insider Tip: Sign up for one of the winery’s “camp” programs and join other wine enthusiasts from around the country for a three-day, hands-on, totally immersive behind-the-scenes look at how Schramsberg sparkling wines are made from vineyard to glass.

Visit: 1400 Schramsberg Road, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (800) 877-3623

Conclusion:

Sure, Calistoga charms with hot springs and beautiful scenery, but its world-class wines shouldn’t be overlooked. Whether you’re soaring above the vineyards, savoring a glass of bubbly, or discovering exclusive wines not found on supermarket shelves, each of these 15 best wineries in Calistoga promises a memorable experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

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A Perfect Winter Getaway to Calistoga and Napa’s Up Valley https://www.napavalley.com/blog/winter-weekend-getaway-to-calistoga/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/winter-weekend-getaway-to-calistoga/#respond Fri, 01 Nov 2024 18:00:55 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=40542 No need to wait till summer to visit Calistoga, as this charming town in Napa’s Up Valley makes a dreamy home base for a winter weekend getaway to Wine Country.

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While winter in other parts of the world can be a bit, well, frightful, winter in Napa Valley is something special. The busy harvest season has calmed down, there are less crowds of people, and everyone is feeling a little more relaxed and joyful as the holidays and New Year draw near. All these reasons, and more, make winter one of the best times to visit Calistoga, a charming community in the northern region of the Napa Valley known for its relaxing hotels and inns, intimate restaurants, world-class wine, and therapeutic hot springs. Oh, and did we mention it’s surrounded by some of the most picturesque landscapes in Northern California? Sounds dreamy, doesn’t it? 

In case that’s not enough to convince you, if you visit between December 7, 2024 and February 9, 2025, you can take advantage of the Calistoga Winter in the Wineries Passport and receive complimentary tastings at nearly 20 of the finest wineries throughout Calistoga and surrounding areas like St. Helena and Lake County. Plus, you’ll get access to discounts at Calistoga lodging and spas. The best part? Each Passport costs $80 per person and is valued at over $800 in wine tastings alone. So, pack your bags and kiss those winter blues goodbye, because a winter weekend in Napa’s UpCountry awaits. 

Visit Calistoga
Photo Courtesy of Visit Calistoga

Day One

Midday

Welcome to Napa Valley’s “Up Valley”! Before you check in to your hotel in Calistoga, plan to venture 30 miles north to start your weekend by wine tasting in Lake County. This laid-back region, home to over 30 wineries, is one of Northern California’s best kept secrets, and as a Passholder, you’ll get to enjoy complimentary tastings at three of its top wineries. Stop at Six Sigma Winery to sip Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon in the middle of a 4,300-acre working ranch. Besides wine, you can purchase ranch-raised meat, local cheeses, and crackersall the fixings to make your own picnic to enjoy with your wine. Nearby, the boutique Fults Family Vineyards showcases a variety of limited-production red wines from their tasting room, which looks out over the 45-acre property. 

Photos courtesy of Wild Diamond Vineyards

Another Lake County winery to check out is Wild Diamond Vineyards, situated high on the foothills of Red Mountain, where you can enjoy beautiful views while sipping Bordeaux varietal wines.

Afternoon

Now, it’s time for the scenic drive back to Calistoga to check in to your accommodation. There are plenty of options when it comes to places to stay in Calistoga (with discounts available on lodging for Passport holders), so you really can’t go wrong. Consider booking at The Bergson, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Calistoga. Each of the 22 rooms and suites features elegant decor and luxurious amenities designed to help you unwind, such as fireplaces, jetted tubs, and feather beds. Nearby, the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs is another great choice right in town. Book a spa treatment, like a mud bath or a massage, then follow it with a dip in one of the four geothermal outdoor mineral pools. 

UpValley Inn
Photo courtesy of UpValley Inn

But wait, there’s more! Up Valley Inn & Hot Springs is a lovely boutique hotel, offering contemporary guest rooms, on-site mineral pools, and complimentary bikes for cruising around town. And for a truly plush and pampered stay, don’t miss the Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley. Here, five star luxury comes in the form of chic guest rooms overlooking the vines, highly personalized experiences, and acclaimed restaurants serving innovative cuisine.

Evening

End your first day with dinner at Evangeline, a popular French bistro “with a Creole soul” in downtown Calistoga. The covered garden patio is a nice place to savor comforting bistro classics like steak frites, as well as creole-inspired dishes like gumbo and shrimp étouffée.

Day Two

Morning

If your hotel doesn’t offer complimentary breakfast, be sure to pay a visit to House of Better at Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort to start your day off on the right foot. From light, healthy fare like nut and seed granola with organic yogurt, to heartier breakfasts such as the New Mexican breakfast burrito, every dish seamlessly highlights local ingredients alongside Chef Trevor Logan’s love for Southwestern fare.

Tamber Bey Vineyards
Photo courtesy of Tamber Bey

After breakfast, head to your first tasting appointment at Tamber Bey. This equestrian training facility and sanctuary, home to more than 20 horses, is also a working winery and tasting room, where you can sample single-vineyard, single-varietal wines and Bordeaux blends while admiring the horses. Another must-stop on your Winter in the Wineries Passport tour is Bennett Lane Winery, known for its friendly service, relaxed atmosphere, and bold Bordeaux blends. 

Photos courtesy of Sterling Vineyards

If you’re up more for wine tasting in Calistoga, don’t miss Sterling Vineyards—not just for its wines but for the entire experience, which includes a scenic gondola ride up to the hilltop winery and sweeping views of the region. If you’re needing fuel up with some food, book the Founder’s Experience to sample wine alongside gourmet food pairings. 

Finally, if you feel like getting out of Calistoga, head 11 miles south to visit Charles Krug, located in St. Helena. One of the most historic properties in Napa Valley, Charles Krug has earned a reputation for its fine expression of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. 

Looking for more of Calistoga’s best wineries?

From stunning views to acclaimed wine, we’re sharing where to sip in style with our roundup of the Top 15 Wineries in Calistoga.

Late Afternoon

After wine tasting, head to downtown Calistoga to peruse the many shops. Stop by Blackbird for artisanal finds for the home and tabletop, as well as toys and games for kids, then check out Field Trip, a moody shop featuring curated gifts, houseplants, and flowers. Calistoga Pottery, also downtown, is where you’ll find a wide variety of pottery items made by Jeff and Sally Manfredi, who have been making pottery together for 40+ years. 

Calistoga Chamber
Photo Courtesy of Calistoga Chamber

If more wine is what you’re after (hey, it is Wine Country, after all), then stroll over to Tank Garage Winery, a winery and tasting room inside a converted 1930s gas station with a hip, welcoming vibe and a focus on small-lot, natural wines.

Evening

For a casual dinner (and a break from the wine), stop into Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery, where you’ll find brews on tap and a diverse food menu featuring everything from elevated pub fare to hearty, seasonal mains. Before the night ends, unwind by one of the fire pits on the garden patio—the perfect spot for conversation and a nightcap.

Calistoga Inn
Calistoga Inn, Restaurant and Brewery, Photo Courtesy of Calistoga Inn

Day Three

Morning

It’s almost time to head home, but before you leave, grab a pastry and coffee from Sam’s General Store then walk over to Picayune Cellars for one last wine tasting before hitting the road. Or, even better, plan ahead to enjoy a rejuvenating late morning spa treatment at Dr. Wilkinson’s before bidding Calistoga, and the lovely Napa Valley, adieu.

Photos courtesy of  Dr. Wilkinson’s

The annual Winter in the Wineries Passport is held in partnership with the Calistoga Chamber and Visit Calistoga. Passports can be purchased online and are valid from December 7, 2024 through February 9, 2025.

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Top 10 Winery Tours in Calistoga https://www.napavalley.com/blog/winery-tours-calistoga/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/winery-tours-calistoga/#respond Wed, 23 Oct 2024 08:00:40 +0000 http://www.napavalley.com/?p=19608 Calistoga is full of great wineries to seek out, and these 10 winery tours in Calistoga rise to the top with the wine tasting and tour experiences offered.

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Calistoga is known for wellness and wineries, a perfect pairing if ever there was one. The quaint town in Napa Valley boasts hot springs, mud baths, and some of the best wineries in Napa. Here we explore 10 Calistoga wineries and a bike tour that rises to the top with the wine tasting and tour experiences they offer guests. From wine tours through caves to a tour on two wheels, here are the top winery tours in Calistoga to seek out.

Tamber Bey

Photos courtesy of Tamber Bey

Pony on over to Tamber Bey, a family-run winery and ranch just a few minutes from downtown Calistoga that combines great wines and spectacular horses. The name is a nod to owner Barry Waitte’s first two Arabian horses, Tamborina and Bayamo. Today the winemaking facility is a converted covered riding arena, and the ranch is home to more than 20 horses. During any visit, guests have the chance to sip great wine and mingle with the horses.

Oenophiles should opt for the Collective Experience Tour & Tasting. Available for groups of two to six people, the tasting features current releases alongside library wines, as well as a look inside Tamber Bey’s wine production and horse operations. Because you’ll be touring the working ranch, comfortable shoes are recommended.

Tasting Fee: $175 for the Collective Tour & Tasting
Visit: 1251 Tubbs Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-2100
Reservations: Required.

Sterling Vineyards

Sterling Vineyard
Photo courtesy of Sterling Vineyards

You’ll notice a distinctly Greek feel to much of the architecture at Sterling Vineyards, an homage to owners Michael Stone’s and Peter Newton’s love of the Greek Isles. While they might be inspired by Greece, the wines at Sterling are all Bordeaux in style, despite their California roots. You’ll have to see for yourself how this melting of cultures, heritage, and inspiration has molded the winery into something special in the Calistoga AVA.

European architecture aside, the true star of the show at Sterling Vineyards is the aerial gondola—the only winery gondola in the world—which you’ll use to ascend to your tastings, including the Tour and Terrace Experience. Your visit starts with a tasting of three wines, followed by panoramic views of Napa on the Southview Terrace as you enjoy two more wines and a gourmet cheese board.

Tasting Fee: $85 for the Tour and Terrace Experience
Visit: 1111 Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (800) 726-6136
Reservations: Strongly recommended.

Canard

Photos courtesy of Canard

The vineyards at Canard are a testament to Napa grapes, including some of the property’s Zinfandel vines that were planted an incredible 135 years ago. Grapes are still plucked today from these very limbs and used to make Canard’s coveted Reserve Zinfandel. The winery produces only nine wines a year, each representative of a single vineyard, using traditional and sustainable dry farming methods.

Canard’s Reserve Tasting & Tour showcases the best of the winery and includes a tour of the estate and its historic vineyards. You’ll also be indulging in some of their best wines, like the Reserve Zinfandel and Rosé Coucher de Soleil, paired with cheese, charcuterie, and the expertise of a winery principle. If you snag a reservation at Canard—consider yourself lucky! Every tasting is private, and they’re only offered Wednesday through Saturday.

Tasting Fee: $150 for the Reserve Tasting & Tour
Visit: 1016 Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-1149
Reservations: Required.

Getaway Adventures Bike Tours

Getaway Adventures
Photo courtesy of Getaway Adventures

If you’re looking to burn calories as you sip, and take in some of Calistoga’s top wineries, join the Sip ‘n Cycle tour from Getaway Adventures. During the day-long adventure you’ll pedal 12, thankfully flat, miles through the beautiful backroads of northern Napa Valley. Along the way your guide will educate you on the area and the wines of Calistoga. You’ll pop into wineries like Bennett Lane, Envy, Summers, Lava Vine, August Briggs, Frank Family, and more to swirl and sip, and to enjoy a lavish Wine Country picnic lunch.

Tasting Fee: $250 per person
Visit: Meets in Logvy Community Park: 1401 N Oak Street, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (800) 499-2453
Reservations: Required.

Visit Calistoga

Winter in the Wineries

Explore Calistoga this season with the Winter in the Wineries Passport. Enjoy tastings at 19 wineries and exclusive discounts!

Bennett Lane Winery

Photos courtesy of Bennett Lane Winery

Despite its reputation for producing highly acclaimed wines, Bennett Lane Winery has retained a refreshingly down-to-earth atmosphere, making it one of the most welcoming wineries in Napa Valley. Known for its bold Cabernet Sauvignon and nuanced Bordeaux blends, this Calistoga gem offers an inviting and relaxed tasting room where guests feel like family.

For a more immersive experience, book the Estate Tour Experience—a guided journey through the winery’s vineyards and production facility that gives an insider’s look at their winemaking process. Limited to just 10 guests, this intimate tour culminates in a tasting of four carefully selected wines, providing a true “grape to glass” experience. Just keep in mind, this tour and tasting is available only on Fridays and Saturdays.

Tasting Fee: $75 for the Estate Tour
Visit: 3340 Highway 128, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-6684
Reservations: Required.

Brian Arden Wines

Brian Arden Wines
Photo Courtesy of Brian Arden Wines

Brian Arden is a boutique winery located along the Silverado Trail. With a small team of highly educated wine lovers, three dogs and two winemakers on hand, Brian Arden Winery runs as small family business producing less than 2,500 cases a year.

Great wine and great food are a classic pairing, and the Chef Experience Tasting at Brian Arden does it perfectly. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be welcomed with a glass to sip on your guided tour of the gardens, vineyards, and wine making facilities. The tour ends with a food-paired tasting either in the open chef’s kitchen or on the wrap-around patio. Expect to taste epic hand-crafted Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals alongside seasonal fare from their Executive Chef.

Tasting Fee: $225 for the Chef Experience Tasting
Visit: 331 Silverado Trail, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-4767
Reservations: Required.

Planning a Trip to Calistoga?

Make your visit to Calistoga even more memorable. We’ve got the scoop on Calistoga’s best hotels, the town’s top restaurants, and the best wineries in Calistoga to visit. And don’t forget to make time for R&R with any of these top spas in Calistoga.

Davis Estates

Photos courtesy of Davis Estates

Davis Estates is the perfect midday stop during a day of wine tasting in Calistoga, particularly for their Cave Tour and Tasting. In 2011, the Davis family purchased the century-old estate and did a massive renovation, including building an 11,000-square-foot cave. The caves not only store wine, they also offer spaces for tasting and serve as an art gallery to display the large art collection owners Mike and Sandy Davis have accumulated over the years.

After a tour of the impressive caves you’ll be given a private space in the tasting room. Ask for the outdoor terrace when booking to sit on the large swinging sofas to enjoy both the food and wine and the beautiful Calistoga landscape. You’ll taste through a flight of the vineyard’s current releases, perfectly paired with seasonal bites created by their Executive Chef.

Tasting Fee: $125 for the Cave Tour and Tasting
Visit: 4060 Silverado Trail, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-0700
Reservations: Required.

Storybook Mountain Vineyards

Storybook Mountain Vineyards
Photo courtesy of Facebook: Storybook Mountain Vineyards

With a property originally owned by the Brothers Grimm in the late 1800s, and a fairytale setting, it’s no surprise that Jerry and Sigrid Seps renamed the estate Storybook Mountain Vineyards when they purchased the 90-acre property in 1976. Today the family-run vineyard is known for its luscious Zinfandels as well as Cabernet Sauvignon, red Bordeaux varietals, and Viognier.

Plan to book the Vineyard, Cave, and Redwood Grove Experience where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the organically farmed vineyards, explore the three caves, and then cap it off with a tasting in the beautiful redwood grove. A delight.

Tasting Fee: $50 per person
Visit: 3835 Highway 128, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-5310
Reservations: Required.

Clos Pegase

Clos Pegase
Photo courtesy of Clos Pegase

Great wines and great design come together at Clos Pegase, with a winery designed by acclaimed architect Michael Graves. With 410 acres of vineyards and more than 20,000 sq. ft. of caves, Clos Pegase produces estate wines from 11 different varieties of grapes.

Oenophiles looking to dive deep into all things Clos Pegase will enjoy the Estate Tour and Tasting, which includes a guided tour of the heritage gardens, vineyards, winery facility, and cellar, and culminates with a tasting of estate wines in the cave theater.

Tasting Fee: $70 for the Estate Tour and Tasting
Visit: 1060 Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-4981
Reservations: Required.

Schramsberg

Schramsberg
Photo courtesy of Schramsberg

Cheers to bubbles! And in Calistoga, no one does sparkling wine better than Schramsberg. The winery, housed in a beautiful Victorian mansion, dates to the 19th century and got its second wind in the 1960s when it was restored by the Davies family. Schramsberg wines have been served at official state functions by every president since Richard Nixon.

Choose the Cave Tour and Sparkling Wine Tasting to sample five limited varieties of Schramsberg bubbles, along with a peek into the expansive cave system—among the largest caves in Napa Valley. If you are visiting in spring or fall and want a deep dive into the world of wine consider attending Camp Schramsberg. Summer camp was never like this, with a hands-on, behind-the-scenes look at the making of sparkling wine during a three-day immersive experience.

Tasting Fee: $85 for the Cave Tour and Sparkling Tasting
Visit: 1400 Schramsberg Road, Calistoga, CA 94515
Contact: (707) 942-4558
Reservations: Required.

Conclusion

A trip to Napa Valley’s Wine Country is a must for any wine lover. Whether you opt for a cave tour to learn more about the terroir, varietals, and winemaking process of your favorite Calistoga wines, or turn your tasting into more of an adventure with a cycling tour, these Calistoga winery tours have everything needed for a memorable day in Northern Napa Valley.

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Calistoga Harvest Table Returns to Napa Valley https://www.napavalley.com/blog/calistoga-harvest-table/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/calistoga-harvest-table/#respond Fri, 30 Aug 2024 08:00:33 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=25404 Calistoga Harvest Table returns to downtown Calistoga for the sixth year, offering the chance to savor local wine and food while celebrating the harvest season.

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Calistoga has no shortage of things to see and do any time of year, but one of the town’s most unique experiences is certainly the Calistoga Harvest Table event in September. The uber-popular event, which takes place on Sunday, September 8, 2024, returns to downtown Calistoga for another fabulous year, celebrating the bounty of harvest season and drawing crowds to experience a memorable evening of local food and wine.

Visit Calistoga | Tim Carl
Photo Courtesy of Visit Calistoga | Tim Carl

What is it?

Calistoga Harvest Table is a chance to savor the local wine and food of the Calistoga area. In fact, the event takes over downtown Calistoga with one impressively long table (a 1,000-foot table to be precise), making for an incredible al fresco dining experience not to be missed. On hand for this beloved Napa Valley tradition will be 12 local restaurants and over a dozen Calistoga wineries, kicking off with a “social hour” at 4:30pm followed by a seated dinner at 6:00pm. 

Visit Calistoga | Tim Carl
Photo Courtesy of Visit Calistoga | Tim Carl

The Details

Each of the participating restaurants will have a unique menu on offer, with varying prices. Just choose which menu looks the best, purchase your ticket, and get ready for a delectable evening under the stars right smack in the middle of downtown Calistoga. Participating wineries will have stations throughout the event, so you can buy glasses or bottles of wine to go with your meal. 

Here are the participating restaurants serving up mouthwatering cuisine at this year’s Calistoga Harvest Table:

  • Cafe Sarafornia
  • Calistoga Inn, Restaurant & Brewery
  • Evangeline
  • House of Better
  • Hydro Bar & Grill
  • Johnny’s Restaurant & Bar
  • LocalQ 707 at the Lab
  • Lovina
  • Mangia Mi
  • Pacifico Restaurante
  • Picobar 
  • TRUSS
Visit Calistoga | Tim Carl
Photo Courtesy of Visit Calistoga | Tim Carl

And here’s the list of participating wineries:

  • Amici Cellars
  • AXR
  • Bennett Lane Winery
  • Chateau Montelena Winery
  • Elusa
  • Exit West
  • GRO 
  • Joseph Cellars
  • Lawer Estates
  • Maria Concetto
  • Picayune Cellars
  • PV Napa Valley
  • TWOMEY
  • Work Vineyard

 

Why not make a weekend out of it? From laid-back lodges to five-star getaways, family-owned eateries to farm-to-table restaurants, plus destination-worthy hot springs, Calistoga is home to a variety of places to stay, great restaurants to savor, and things to do and see. Check out our Calistoga Guide for more inspiration. 

Visit Calistoga | Tim Carl
Photo Courtesy of Visit Calistoga | Tim Carl

We hope to see you at this year’s Calistoga Harvest Table to kick off another wonderful harvest season in Napa Valley!

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Top 8 Things to Do in Calistoga https://www.napavalley.com/blog/things-to-do-in-calistoga/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/things-to-do-in-calistoga/#respond Mon, 13 May 2024 07:00:33 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=15040 While wine tasting may be a given, Calistoga charms even non-wine drinkers with its array of unique activities. Here are the top 8 things to do when visiting.

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While Napa Valley certainly draws visitors for its world-class wineries and vineyard views, there’s much more to Napa than just wine, and nowhere is this more evident than in Calistoga. Located in the northern part of the Napa Valley, Calistoga is a great place to go wine tasting, no doubt, but it’s also home to some truly unique attractions, hot springs spas, local shops and eateries, and some of the most picturesque scenery in the region.

When you’re ready to experience all that this small town has to offer, read our guide to the top eight things to do in Calistoga.

Soak in Thermal Hot Springs

If there’s one word that should be associated with Calistoga, it’s relaxation, and thanks to the area’s numerous mineral pools and spas, it’s easy to make R&R a top priority when visiting. More than just a stress reliever, Calistoga’s hot springs are known for their many therapeutic benefits, including easing sore muscles, relieving arthritis pain, promoting healthy circulation, and calming skin conditions, while mineral-rich mud baths and massage treatments purify toxins to leave you feeling totally blissed out.

Indian Springs Resort | Visit Calistoga
Mineral Pool at Indian Springs Resort, Photo Courtesy of Visit Calistoga

When you’re ready to experience the rejuvenating benefits of the area’s mineral waters, you’ve got options. Many of the hotels and inns in and around Calistoga offer access to their own on-site mineral pools, including Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort, Calistoga Spa Hot Springs, Solage, and Golden Haven Hot Springs Spa & Resort, making it easy to experience Calistoga’s hot springs at your leisure. Or, you can check out the historic, Olympic-sized mineral pool at Indian Springs Resort. While hotel guests get free access to the pool, Indian Springs does offer limited day passes for a fee, available when booking a spa treatment.

Visit a Geyser

Just a few minutes outside of town is Old Faithful Geyser, where one can witness the spectacular sight of water shooting up into the air every 30 to 40 minutes. While the main attraction is the regular eruption of this famed geyser, naturally, a visit offers a more well-rounded experience than one might expect, thanks to picnic grounds with bocce courts and cabanas, a garden area featuring native plants and grasses, an on-site geology museum, and an animal farm, where you’ll find goats, sheep, and llamas. Llamas and pygmy goats and geysers, oh my! It all adds up to a memorable afternoon in Calistoga.

Go On a Hike For Sweeping Views of the Area

When the great outdoors are calling, Calistoga’s Palisade Trail is the spot to go. Though the 10-mile round trip, 2,000-foot climb hike is challenging, experienced hikers will be rewarded with beautiful natural scenery and some of the most spectacular views in all of Napa Valley. Just don’t forget to bring your water, as it can get hot in the sun. For a shortened version, opt to hike along the lower Oat Hill Mine Road, a four-and-a-half-mile round trip trek that provides equally wonderful scenery along the way.

Explore An Ancient Forest

If a unique outdoor experience with the family is what you seek, don’t miss a visit to Calistoga’s Petrified Forest. This preserved ancient forest is a sight to see, featuring a majestic display of fossilized redwood trees—the result of being buried in lava over 3 million years ago. Walk along the trails on your own to explore this ancient phenomenon, or opt for a guided tour for a deeper understanding of how this forest came to be.

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Winter in the Wineries

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Sip & Shop in Downtown Calistoga

It’s easy to get wrapped up in Calistoga’s natural surroundings, but it’d be a shame to not spend some time exploring downtown Calistoga. Calistoga has lots of boutique shops and tasting rooms all within walking distance, which makes it easy to sip and stroll all afternoon.

Visit Calistoga
Photo Courtesy of Visit Calistoga

Plan to peruse the assortment of artisanal goods for the home and garden at Blackbird, shop for antique goods and vintage posters at Rags to Riches, and check out Calistoga Pottery for their selection of handmade pottery. Also downtown is Copperfield’s Books, featuring a wide range of books from local and international authors, Flourish Chocolate, offering one-of-a-kind chocolate creations, and Monastery Books and Gifts (yes, actually located inside a Christian Monastery for women) for a selection of spiritual books, homemade goodies, olive oils, teas, and honey. You’ll also find a variety of art galleries and clothing shops around town that are worth popping into.

Tank Garage Winery
Photo Courtesy of Tank Garage Winery

When you’re ready to whet your palate with some locally made wine, Calistoga’s tasting rooms offer something for everyone. Located in a vintage 1930s gas station, Tank Garage Winery charms with its hip vibe and limited-edition blends and natural wines, while nearby T-Vine Winery offers a friendly ambiance and single-vineyard wines from some of the last remaining old-vine vineyards in California. Around the corner on Lincoln Avenue, Olabisi features limited production wines from a husband-and-wife-duo.

Visit a Nearby Winery

You could easily stay in town to taste great wine, hopping from tasting room to tasting room, but it’s certainly worth jumping in the car and driving a few miles to explore some of the surrounding wineries.

Sterling Vineyards
Photo courtesy of Sterling Vineyards

Just three minutes from downtown Calistoga, Sterling Vineyards offers more than just Napa Valley wines to taste. The winery is perched atop a picturesque hillside, providing visitors with epic views while they taste. What makes this winery unique, though, is that it’s accessible by aerial gondola—and the journey to the top is as memorable as the destination itself.

Also a few minutes from town, but in the opposite direction, is Tamber Bey Vineyards. This winery is unique in that it’s located at a working equestrian facility, and every part of the wine tasting experience reflects the owners’ love of horses and wine. Tour the winemaking facility, which was once a covered riding arena, before sampling wine in the courtyard of the original barn, where you can sip wine while admiring the horses. Be sure to add a picnic lunch or savory cookie pairing to really round out the experience.

Tamber Bey Vineyards
Photo courtesy of Tamber Bey

At Brian Arden, the best way to experience the great wine and hospitality of this super small, family-owned winery is to book the Chef’s Experience Tasting. You’ll not only get to tour the winery’s picturesque grounds, featuring a culinary garden, chickens, and estate vineyard, but you’ll also be treated to a seated wine and food pairing experience featuring five seasonally-inspired courses.

Another smaller, hidden-gem winery is Canard, which only recently reopened its 25-acre property to visitors. From their sustainably-grown, dry-farmed grapes, owners Rich and Carolyn Czapleski carefully produce nine single vineyard wines to showcase the complexity of their estate’s terroir. Don’t miss the Estate Zinfandel, sourced from the property’s nearly 140-year-old Zinfandel vines.

Finally, serious Cabernet fans won’t want to miss a visit to Larkmead Vineyards, one of the oldest family-owned wineries in Napa Valley. This tranquil winery offers a personalized tasting experience tailored to each group’s preferences, along with an idyllic Wine Country setting looking out at the vines.

Savor Gourmet Fare

Whether you’re hungry for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Calistoga’s restaurants and cafés offer a perfect mix of casual ambiance and good food.

For gourmet coffee and a scrumptious pastry or breakfast sandwich, stop by Sam’s General Store, located in the original cottage of Calistoga’s legendary founder, Samuel Brannan. Or, grab a selection of goods to curate your own picnic lunch later in the day. The long-standing Cafe Sarafornia is another top spot for the breakfast/lunch crowd, where a menu of comforting classics is offered all day from this quaint, casual spot. While the southwestern-inspired breakfast and lunch offerings at House of Better are a delight, it’s worth dining here for the unique homemade pies alone. Green chili apple pie, anyone?

House of Better | Dr. Wilkinson’s
Photo courtesy of House of Better | Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort

One of the most popular restaurants in town for dinner is Evangeline, a French bistro “with a Creole soul” in downtown Calistoga. The covered outdoor patio makes for a lovely setting to enjoy the restaurant’s French bistro classics and creole-inspired dishes. Down the road Sam’s Social Club is another worthy dining choice, where California focused-cuisine highlights fresh, local ingredients in a playful, creative way.

Go Rogue Sampling Beer

We know, we know… you probably didn’t come to Napa Valley to try beer. But the Calistoga Inn, Restaurant & Brewery is a great pit-stop for a brewski. Its Napa Valley Brewing Company was actually the first brewery that opened up post-Prohibition. Today, the brewery puts as much love and care into making their Pacific Pale Ale and Blitzen IPA as if they were fine Cabernets. Sit in their Beer Garden—one of the best outdoor spaces in UpValley—and don’t forget to order up some grub from the Calistoga Inn Restaurant.

Conclusion

Calistoga may be best known for all things rest and relaxation, but it’s certainly no snooze-fest. Whether you’re the active outdoorsy type or a dedicated foodie, there’s a wide variety of things to keep you entertained in this small corner of Wine Country. Get started planning your trip by reading up on the best 15 wineries in Calistoga. Enjoy!

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Guide to a Weekend in Calistoga https://www.napavalley.com/blog/calistoga-weekend-guide/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/calistoga-weekend-guide/#respond Mon, 01 Apr 2024 17:00:13 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=13224 For a relaxing getaway to Napa Valley, don't overlook Calistoga, where visitors will be met with mineral baths, great wine, tasty food, and worthwhile sights.

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Travelers looking for a relaxing vacation in Wine Country should pay attention to the small town of Calistoga. Visitors to Napa Valley’s most northern city can mingle with farmers, grape growers, winemakers, and locals just by walking down the street or stopping by one of the many restaurants or tasting rooms the town has to offer. Sipping wine and relaxing by a geothermal mineral pool are the main attractions, but charming Calistoga has much more to offer.

Staying in Calistoga

Calistoga hotels focus on relaxation. Many boast heated mineral pools warmed from the rich mineral water that runs below the town and on-site spa offerings for ultimate rejuvenation without leaving the property.

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort and Mineral Springs

1507 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-4102

The recently renovated Dr. Wilkinson‘s perfectly blends nostalgic charm with a hip vibe and modern amenities. This modernized retreat offers everything needed for a perfect Calistoga getaway, including luxe rooms with plush bedding and mid-century decor; mouthwatering food and drink at the on-site restaurant, House of Better; healing mineral pools; and a plethora of restorative treatments at the spa. Opt for the signature mud treatment for a true Calistoga experience.

The Inn on Pine
Photo courtesy of The Inn on Pine

The Inn on Pine

1202 Pine Street, Calistoga, California 94515, (707) 942-6829

The Inn on Pine is surrounded by vineyards but is only a few minutes walk to downtown Calistoga. It offers 13 rooms outfitted with Wine Country inspired decor and plush beds, alongside in-room fireplaces and soaking tubs. Take a dip in their on-site hot tub, or pay a visit to their dry sauna for a relaxing way to end the day.

Visit Calistoga

Winter in the Wineries

Explore Calistoga this season with the Winter in the Wineries Passport. Enjoy tastings at 19 wineries and exclusive discounts!

Wine Tasting in Calistoga

Calistoga is home to wineries of all sizes, and we have a feeling you’ll love tasting your way around this northern part of the Valley.

Bennett Lane Winery tasting room
Inside peek of the winery tasting room. Photo courtesy of Bennett Lane Winery.

Bennett Lane

3340 Hwy CA-128, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-6684

Known for offering friendly service with its wines, Bennett Lane tasting room offers a variety of tasting experiences, including the Estate Tour Experience where a personal wine expert will lead you around the vineyards, as well as through a tasting of four Bennett Lane wines. If you’re a Cab Sauv lover, you might also be interested in the Ruby Fox Tasting which focuses on two of their Ruby Fox Cabernet Sauvignon vintages.

Frank Family Vineyards
Photo Courtesy of Frank Family Vineyards

Frank Family Vineyards

1091 Larkmead Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-0859

Set within the winery’s original Craftsman house is Frank Family Vineyards’ tasting room, where seated tasting experiences include samples of current release still and sparkling wines—many of which are exclusive to the winery. If Cabernet Sauvignon is your preferred varietal, don’t miss the Wines of Winston Hill Tasting, highlighting single vineyard Cabernets. For something slightly more elevated, book an experience in the winery’s chic new Miller House.

Tamber Bey Vineyards
Photo courtesy of Tamber Bey

Tamber Bey

1251 Tubbs Lane, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-2100

You’ll notice something a little different about Tamber Bey as soon as you arrive. This winery is home to not only beautiful wines but also beautiful horses! Tamber Bey is a family-run operation of equestrian lovers through and through and their hardwork and dedication comes through in their wide variety of wine offerings. Book their Courtyard Experience which lets you choose your tasting flight of vineyard-designated wines or dig a little deeper in the Collector’s Tasting, a private experience geared towards collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Brunch in Calistoga

Calistoga brunch is a must for visitors looking to go wine tasting in the afternoon. Many restaurants are open for brunch on weekdays, as well as weekends.

Cafe Sarafornia
Photo Courtesy of Cafe Sarafornia

Cafe Sarafornia

1413 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515 (707) 942-0555

Cafe Sarafornia serves a traditional diner breakfast with a Wine Country twist. Seasonal dishes such as the Brannan Benedict—two poached eggs, avocado, bacon, and their very own gravy sauce on an English muffin—grace the menu, and portions are big, so bring your appetite.

Solage
Photo courtesy of Solage

Solbar

755 Silverado Trail N., Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 226-0800

Solbar is a Michelin-recognized hotel restaurant and bar that is trendy yet approachable. Guests are treated to farm-fresh, seasonal ingredients, from breakfast to late-night lounge snacks. While the interior of the restaurant is beautifully designed, it’s hard to beat starting your day with an al fresco meal on the expansive patio. At night, it’s also the place to be to enjoy the 20-foot long fire pit.

Lunchtime in Calistoga

If you are planning early morning or evening adventures in Calistoga, there are no shortage of places to grab a bite to eat midday.

Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery

1250 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-4101

The Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery is for travelers who are looking for a casual lunch and a place to grab a beer (refreshing after a day of wine tasting). The outdoor patio with fire pits stretches along the Napa River and all the beer is made in the historic water tower.

Sam’s Social Club
Photo Courtesy of Facebook: Sam’s Social Club

Sam’s Social Club

1712 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-4913

Sam’s Social Club is a favorite stop for brunch, lunch, and dinner in the Calistoga restaurant scene, known for its thoughtfully composed seasonal comfort foods. Stop by between wine tastings to try their Seared Ora King Salmon Sandwich or Pork Schnitzel.

Dinner in Calistoga

After a day of exploring northern Napa Valley, it’s time to kick back, relax, and savor the many amazing flavors of the region.

Evangeline
Photo Courtesy of Evangeline

Evangeline

1226 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 341-3131

Evangeline is casual French fare with a Creole twist. Tables are mostly patio seating, so make sure to bring layers when dining here, but it’s worth it to enjoy an al fresco evening sipping an Old Fashioned and noshing on Fried Pickles, Steak Frites, and savory Gumbo Yaya.

Lovina
Photo Courtesy of Facebook: Lovina

Lovina

1107 Cedar Street, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-6500

The sign “Great Food” outside their small patio isn’t just good marketing, it’s a promise to guests to expect nothing but delicious eats at Lovina. Formerly known as the Calistoga Kitchen, Lovina dishes up heart-warming comfort food with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. Stop in for dinner (or brunch!) and dig in to a basket of warm sourdough with kale, pistachio pesto butter with their famed Wine Forest Risotto, and if you happen to stop by on a Wednesday night, enjoy discounted bottles of wine from their extensive list of Napa favorites and no corkage fees.

Adventures in Calistoga

There is much more to Calistoga than wine tasting. Travelers from all over the world visit here to experience the mineral pools, unique sites, and bountiful Wine Country shopping.

Safari West | Cheryl Crowley
Safari West, Photo Courtesy of Cheryl Crowley

Plan to visit Safari West, a 400-acre wildlife sanctuary outside of Calistoga. Where else can you find giraffes, antelope, and lemurs in Wine Country? They also offer glamping, for a more comprehensive outdoorsy experience.

Also worth checking out is the Old Faithful Geyser of California, located just north of downtown Calistoga. Get up close and personal as the geyser erupts every 20 to 30 minutes.

Downtown has many local shops with unique gifts. Walk along Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga’s main street, and experience shops owned by locals including Ca’Toga Galleria D’Arte and Copperfield’s Books.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, Calistoga is an idyllic corner of Napa that’s just waiting to be explored both on foot and through your tastebuds. With a homey, rustic feel that perfectly balances out Wine Country luxury, there’s no denying that this is one of the best corners of Napa to discover.

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Calistoga Hot Springs: Soak, Steam, Rest, Repeat https://www.napavalley.com/blog/calistoga-hot-springs/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/calistoga-hot-springs/#respond Thu, 28 Mar 2024 16:17:33 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=33247 With its geothermal hot springs, Calistoga has a renowned history as a place of healing. Here are some of our favorite resorts and spas for your R&R getaway.

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Most people know what a hot spring consists of (a natural source of hot or warm water), and that Calistoga is known for its mineral baths of all kinds. But how does it work, and why is this relaxation practice good for you?

One thing we’ve learned is that because heated water holds more dissolved solids, hot springs have a high mineral content, which means it’s all the better for a soak. And while there may not be a ton of scientific research into its health benefits, we do know that this practice of using heat to release toxins is tens of thousands of years old.

“Quiet nights, warm soaks—welcome to Calistoga.”

With its geothermal hot springs of mineral water running underground, Calistoga has a renowned history as a place of healing. Over 50 years ago, members of the Wappo tribe were the first to discover a natural volcanic hot spring near the foot of Mount St. Helena. The rest is spa-history, with visitors coming from far and wide to take part in the curative powers of Calistoga, by relaxing in a mineral-rich hot spring or a volcanic mud bath.

The health benefits may mostly be based on anecdotal evidence, but there’s no denying the zen-like state one emerges with after a long, hot soak. If it makes you feel better and more relaxed, that’s half the battle, isn’t it? We’ve rounded up some of our favorite spa experiences that offer that famed Calistoga mineral water for your next trip to Wine Country. Get ready to soak, steam, rest, and repeat.

Calistoga Spa Hot Springs
Photo Courtesy of Facebook: Calistoga Spa Hot Springs

Because one healing geothermal mineral pool isn’t enough, Calistoga Spa Hot Springs has four, and each is heated to a different temperature to suit all preferences. Have a soak in the outdoor whirlpool, which can get as hot as 104° F (perfect for year-round dips), or enjoy the Soaking Pool and its 100° F waters. If you’re itching for some exercise as well as rejuvenation, the multi-lane lap pool is heated to a cool 80° F, and the wading pool is perfect for wee spa guests.

Quick insider tip—If you have a friend who just wants to join in on their geothermal mineral pools, they can accompany you as your guest for a $25 fee.

1006 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-6269

UpValley Inn & Hot Springs
Photo courtesy of UpValley Inn & Hot Springs

Commitment is the word we’d like to use for UpValley Inn & Hot Springs, as they are one of the few properties that have their swimming pool and whirlpool 100% fed by Calistoga mineral water drawn from their on-site geothermal well. Once you’ve soaked to your heart’s content, indulge the body a little more in their handcrafted dry sauna and steam room. And with the crisp, refreshing decor and tranquil guest rooms on-site, you’ll never have to rouse yourself from your state of zen.

Feel like exploring beautiful Calistoga, but haven’t made plans past your spa experience? Fear not, you’ll be able to with the town’s complimentary shuttle service, providing on-demand transportation to dining, wine tasting, shopping, and other Wine Country activities, creating the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

1865 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-9400

Dr. Wilkinson’s
Pool time at Dr. Wilkinson’s. Photo courtesy of Dr. Wilkinson’s
Dr. Wilkinson’s
Relaxation awaits. Photo courtesy of Dr. Wilkinson’s

Founded in 1952 by holistic wellness advocate, Dr. Jon Wilkinson, Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Spa is an homage to his dedication to the healing waters of Calistoga. Doc recognized the restorative properties of these mineral pools, which range in temperature from 85°F to 104°F. Plush daybeds and private cabanas are on offer for guests and include towel service and access to two outdoor pools and one indoor pool.

While staying at Dr. Wilkinson’s feels like a treat enough with its mid-century modern inspired interiors and palm-fringed pools, the true star of the show is in their unique treatments. Whatever you do, don’t skip out on the Volcanic Ash Mud Bath, revered for its detoxifying properties—which you might need after a few days of wine tasting.

1507 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-6258

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Winter in the Wineries

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Indian Springs Spa, Buddha Pond
Buddha Pond. Photo courtesy of Indian Springs

You’ll immediately notice Indian Springs‘ eastern influence in both the spa treatments and special features around the property, like the Buddha Pond, which makes for an excellent spot to meditate, or the Himalayan Salt Room. Their signature treatment is the luxurious Indian Springs Mud Bath Ritual. You’ll soak away the day in a luxuriating mud bath while sipping on refreshing cucumber citrus water. Then it’s time to wrap up your detox with a session in the infrared sauna and, of course, a nap wrapped in a flannel blanket. Talk about pampering!

If playing in the mud isn’t quite your cup of tea, book the Pure Goat Milk and Rose Bath or the Indian Springs Salt Glo to help rehydrate your parched skin. Of course, the mineral pools are the true pièce de résistance. Swim laps in the Olympic-sized mineral pool, built in 1913, or find a secluded oasis at the Adult Pool that’s exclusively for the grown ups.

1712 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 709-8139

Mount View Hotel
Photo courtesy of Visit Calistoga

To make relaxation an art, start your getaway at Mount View Hotel & Spa. Take a dip in the mineral waters of the hot tub and then recline in style in a cabana by the heated pool. There are also a myriad of bath-related treatments to choose from at the spa, from oxygen baths to mineral mud baths. And for those who want a little more outside the box experience, the spa also offers Cannabidiol (CBD) oil massages. We’re willing to bet you don’t see that on the menu at your local day spa.

Mount View Hotel & Spa has also adopted a “cause integration” to hospitality and donates 50% of its profits to charity, to causes such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Ole Health, Project Ceres, and more. So if you’re civic-minded, you can relax easy knowing that while you’re laying your head at night, your stay is changing the world for the better.

1457 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-1500

olage
Photo Courtesy of Solage

This Auberge Resort takes the Calistoga hot springs spa experience up a notch. Artfully designed and ecologically conscious, Spa Solage includes updated twists to the renowned Calistoga mud and mineral water therapies. If you’re in town celebrating a romantic weekend, check out the Starlight at the Bathhouse experience, where you can soak, steam, and retreat in private under the stars. Sparkling wine and a shared dessert too? Don’t mind if we do.

When you’re ready for some social interaction, take advantage of Solage’s social events, with pool parties, sound meditation workshops, film festivals, and of course, learning to be a winemaker for a day.

755 Silverado Trail, Calistoga, CA 94515, (866) 942-7442

Golden Haven has private, mineral mud bath rooms to accommodate duos, as well as individuals who want a little silent soak time. For a more communal, less muddy experience, check out their hot springs pool, which is heated by the hot springs mineral water and emerges from the ground at between 140-150° Fahrenheit.

With 28 rooms, Golden Haven also has space for an overnight stay, so you can remain in that totally zen state of mind. For the truly exclusive experience, book one of their hot springs rooms, which feature a private, two-person whirlpool spa. Best of all, the water that feeds this hot tub comes from the same underground hot springs source used throughout the resort. Doesn’t get more private than that.

1713 Lake Street, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-8000

Conclusion

There’s no better way to end a trip to Napa (or begin one for that matter!) than by relaxing in the restorative water of Calistoga’s mineral-rich spas. Start with a Wine Country getaway, plan for a tasting or two, and add a long soak at any of these spas and you have a guaranteed recipe for rest and relaxation. Go ahead and book your stay—we promise you’ll already start to feel the stress melt away.

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7 Best Spas in Calistoga https://www.napavalley.com/blog/best-spas-in-calistoga/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/best-spas-in-calistoga/#respond Wed, 27 Mar 2024 15:55:31 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=12360 Calistoga may be known for its healing hot springs and mud baths, but there are many more opportunities for wellness at these top seven spas in Calistoga.

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Originally inhabited by the Wappo Native American tribe, who believed in the healing power of the hot springs that defined the region, Napa Valley’s town of Calistoga has long had a magnetic pull for those seeking rest and rejuvenation. In the late 1800s, developer, entrepreneur, and Calistoga founder Samuel Brannan saw the tourism potential for these hot springs, ultimately opening the Calistoga Hot Springs Hotel on the land he purchased in the area.

In time, Calistoga became known for these natural hot springs, and a wellness destination was born, with unique therapeutic treatments to go with it, such as the famous mud bath—a now-iconic spa treatment that, according to one spa-goer, “feels like you’re simultaneously floating in mid-air while an elephant is sitting on you.” Think cozy-weighted-blanket-meets-breezy-hot-air-balloon-ride. It’s incredible.

Take a load off after your Wine Country adventures at one of these seven soothing spas in Calistoga.

One of the early pioneers of Calistoga’s wellness scene, this longstanding property has been helping people take a load off for more than 70 years, when chiropractor and onetime Calistoga mayor Dr. John “Doc” and his artist wife Edy Wilkinson first founded the hotel and launched Calistoga’s original mud bath in 1952. Guests can enjoy the spa’s extensive selection of mud baths, geothermal mineral pools, mineral baths, falling water treatments, and massages, along with a broad suite of unique add-ons like CBD enhancements, aromatherapy, hot-stones, and sound therapy.

Treatment to Note: Go big or go home during your Napa spa getaway with The Works. This signature experience was a founding treatment back in 1952 and is still offered today. First, immerse yourself in a 107-degree mud bath made from mineral-rich volcanic ash, Canadian peat, and mineral water (along with Doc’s secret formula). Then, shower off and soak in a mineral water hydrotherapy pool, enjoy a cleansing steam, wrap up in a cool blanket, and take in a massage.

1507 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-4102

Calistoga Spa Hot Springs
Photo Courtesy of Calistoga Spa Hot Springs

Located in downtown Calistoga, this hotel and spa is the perfect home base for your Napa Valley wellness getaway. Guests can enjoy a range of services from Swedish and deep tissue massages, mud, mineral, and steam baths, and reflexology, as well as access to a fitness studio, including yoga, Pilates, boot camp, and TRX classes. Spa guests also have access to the hotel’s four geothermal pools, ranging from 80 to 104 degrees.

Treatment to Note: Experience the healing properties of dirt in the signature Volcanic Ash Mud Bath treatment, an ancient ritual said to detoxify the body, improve joint and muscle pain and circulation, and replenish the soul.

1006 Washington Street, Calistoga, California, 94515, (707) 942-6269

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Calistoga

Winter in the Wineries

Explore Calistoga this season with the Winter in the Wineries Passport. Enjoy tastings at 19 wineries and exclusive discounts!

Indian Springs Spa, Buddha Pond
Buddha Pond. Photo courtesy of Indian Springs

Simply reclining by the Buddha Pond as you sip cucumber-citrus water and enjoy the soothing water sounds of the geyser-fed pond is zen enough at Indian Springs Resort. However, there is much more on offer at this historic Napa Valley retreat. In addition to their iconic Olympic-sized hot springs mineral pool, Indian Springs features an enormous selection of classic and personalized wellness treatments, including CBD and deep-tissue massages, specialized facials for men, women, and teens, mud baths, scrubs, and even a luxurious Pure Goat Milk and Rose Bath experience.

Treatment to Note: The Holistic Facial, exclusive to Indian Springs, incorporates sound healing with Tibetan singing bowls, Ayurvedic Marma point therapy, Gua Sha stone facial massage, and a decadent regimen of natural and organic masks, serums, and moisturizers designed to restore the natural biome of the skin.

1712 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 709-8139

Spa Solage at Solage Calistoga
Relaxation Room at Solage Calistoga. Photo Courtesy of Solage Calistoga

A member of the ultra-luxurious Auberge Resorts Collection, no detail is overlooked at Solage Calistoga. The hotel’s expansive spa and wellness facilities comprises 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space centered on Calistoga’s mud and mineral water therapies. Visitors can experience a full spectrum of temperatures in Spa Solage’s geothermal pools, from Wim Hof-style cold to soothing bathwater warm; detox in an infrared sauna or eucalyptus steam room; get pampered with one of many massage, facial, or mud therapy treatments; take a class at the state-of-the-art fitness center; or simply enjoy an environment of calm on the gorgeous Solage grounds. 

Treatment to Note: The Solage Signature Mudslide is an absolute must. This three-part treatment features a mineral-enriched mud treatment, a dip in a private soaking tub with geo-thermal mineral waters, and a rest in one of Spa Solage’s unique sound chairs. Once you’re feeling on top of the world, kick back with a fireside craft cocktail at Solbar. 

755 Silverado Trail N, Calistoga, CA 94515, (866) 942-7442

Roman Spa
Photo Courtesy of Facebook: Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort

Nestled in the heart of Calistoga, Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort is a true oasis of rejuvenation. Guests can indulge in a variety of spa treatments, from massage and aromatherapy, to facials, mud and mineral baths, and couples’ experiences, all set amidst Napa Valley’s splendor. Staying overnight? Take the spa experience to your room in one of the resort’s Splendido Suites, complete with Roman Spa-like bathrooms, two-person whirlpool tubs with geothermal waters on tap, and in-room dual fireplaces.

Treatment to Note: Sink into a luxurious Mineral Bath, filled with geothermal water that flows from deep in the earth below the spa. Once you’ve applied a clay mask and exfoliated your stress away with a sugar scrub, rinse off and marinate in your new sense of well-being in the relaxation room.

1300 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-4441

Mud treatment at Golden Haven Springs Resort
Photo Courtesy of Facebook: Golden Haven

Specializing in spa treatments for couples and friends, Golden Haven is the perfect spot for a quick getaway to reconnect with a loved one over some rest and rejuvenation. This Calistoga spa offers a wide range of treatments, from massages and facials to mud and herbal mineral baths. If you prefer to extend your bliss, Golden Haven offers overnight accommodations in one of their 28 rooms, all of which include complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee, tea, bottled water, and bike use. Some even feature an in-room hot springs spa for a little extra pampering.

Treatment to Note: Golden Haven has treatment rooms that can accommodate up to four people at the same time. Book one of the various Couples and Friends Spa Packages and bond over a combination of mud and mineral baths, cool down wraps, and massage treatments together.

1713 Lake Street, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-8000

Moonacre Spa
Photo courtesy of Facebook, Calistoga Motor Lodge

If it’s vintage vibes you’re going for, check in to MoonAcre Spa for a relaxation experience unlike any other. Part of the charming Calistoga Motor Lodge, a pet-friendly, retro-style motel, MoonAcre is a playful take on the classic Calistoga bathhouses of the 1880s. Hotel and day guests looking for an easygoing communal experience laced with fun and a bit of whimsy can enjoy one of the many treatments on MoonAcre’s extensive spa menu, from seven different types of massages, to facials, to mud bath and mineral soak experiences, and even private wellness classes for individuals and small groups. MoonAcre Spa also prides itself on the use of organic and locally-sourced products as part of its commitment to sustainability and holistic wellness.

Treatment to Note: The CBD Mineral Soak is said to be the perfect hangover cure, which may come in handy after a day of wine tasting in Napa. Let all your cares melt away as you luxuriate in a restorative bath infused with organic CBD and a blend of lavender and bergamot essential oils.

1880 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-0992

Conclusion:

Whether you’re in desperate need of a little R&R after one too many wine tastings or are simply in pursuit of a little pampering, Calistoga is Napa’s one-stop shop for all things self-care. Laze away your days beside the mineral spas, book in for a couple’s massage, or partake in a detoxifying mud bath… there’s no wrong way to spend your well-earned spa time in Wine Country.

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10 Napa Valley Tasting Rooms Open After 5 p.m. https://www.napavalley.com/blog/open-late-wineries-napa-valley/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/open-late-wineries-napa-valley/#respond Wed, 21 Feb 2024 08:00:43 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=15904 Wine tasting is traditionally a daytime activity, but there are a few Napa Valley wineries open late. Here are the top Napa wineries open until 5:30 p.m. or later.

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One might think that it would be easy to taste wine in Napa Valley at almost all hours of the day, but while there are lots of bars and restaurants that offer excellent wines by the glass and bottle, “last call” for tours and wine tastings at most Napa wineries is well before the sun sets over the vineyards.

Still, if you’re not much of a daytime drinker or are looking to keep tasting Napa Valley wines into the late afternoon/early evening, there are a few excellent wineries and tasting rooms where you can snag a reservation (or even walk in) until at least 5:30 p.m., including one that’s open until midnight.

Please note that hours of operation are subject to change and it’s always a good idea to check with the winery before visiting. Additionally, some wineries may have limited hours during certain seasons or days of the week.

PEJU Winery

PEJU
Photo Courtesy of PEJU Winery | Katie Gallogly

If you want to taste most of this small family-owned winery’s estate-grown wines, including the popular Cabernet Franc, you have to either join their wine club or visit the winery’s tasting room. The latter sits inside one of the more recognizable buildings in Napa Valley, a copper-roofed, stone-faced building with a 50-foot tower at the end of a Sycamore tree-lined driveway and surrounded by gorgeous gardens with meandering walkways and outdoor sculptures. (Be sure to make time for a self-guided tour.) At PEJU, reservations are recommended for all wine tastings and pairings, which are seated, with the last one offered at 5 p.m.

8466 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573, (707) 963-3600

Arch & Tower

Arch & Tower
Photo Courtesy of Arch & Tower

Part of the larger Robert Mondavi Estate, Arch & Tower is the legendary wine label’s newest addition (and the only place to taste from the Mondavi portfolio while the iconic winery undergoes renovations this year and next). Located in the center of downtown Napa, Arch & Tower serves as a spot for unique events and experiences with beautiful views overlooking the river. Tastings include the Napa Exploration, The Taste of To Kalon, and The Legend Lunch, all paired with a select menu of everything from small bites to three course meals, depending on which option you choose. Arch & Tower is open daily, although their schedule does vary seasonally. Hours are from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm and tastings are only available by appointment until 4:00 pm. Some tastings, like The Taste of To Kalon, can only be reserved until 2:45.

930 3rd Street, Napa, CA 94559, (888) 766-6328, ext. 2

Lithology, The Lounge

Lithology Lounge
Photo courtesy of Lithology

Alejandro Bulgheroni, the mastermind behind Lithology, has brought together an all-star team to craft small-lot wines from esteemed vineyards throughout Oakville, Rutherford, and St. Helena. Explore the stunning portfolio of wines at the brand’s downtown tasting room and bar, known as The Lounge. Here, you can get a taste of the winery’s precision and care, with the last tasting starting at 4:30 pm (the tasting room is open until 6 pm).

1040 Main Street, #101, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 690-9923

Domaine Carneros

Domaine Carneros
Courtesy of Domaine Carneros | Aubrey Anzelmo

There is nothing quite like sitting on the terrace of the Château at Domaine Carneros while sipping sparkling wine and looking out at the vine-covered vineyard hills of Napa Valley’s Carneros AVA. It is truly an idyllic Napa Valley experience, especially when paired with caviar, crème fraîche, and potato chips. Reservations (available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) are required, and the last pour is at 5:00 p.m. Be sure to give yourself time to tour the beautiful formal gardens as they are truly spectacular.

1240 Duhig Road, Napa, CA 94559, (800) 716-2788

Alpha Omega Collective

Alpha Omega Collective
Photo Courtesy of Alpha Omega Collective

Three very different wineries collide to form the Alpha Omega Collective in downtown Napa. Vintners Robin and Michelle Baggett pride themselves on producing the best varietals from across the world—including Burgundian wines at SLO’s Tolosa, Bordeaux-inspired wines at Napa’s Alpha Omega, and Mediterranean reds from Perinet in Spain’s Priorat. Select from three different tasting options, including their Signature Flight ($50), Curated Flight ($75), and Flagship Flight ($100). Not interested in a full tasting? They also offer wine by the bottle and glass. Should you start to get a bit snacky (don’t we all during a wine tasting?), Alpha Omega Collective encourages sippers to order from The Dutch Door, their next door neighbors who focus on sustainably made and locally sourced American classics. Tastings are by reservation only and run from noon until 7:00 p.m.

1245 First Street, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 294-6960

Louis M. Martini

Louis M. Martini
Photo Courtesy of Louis M. Martini

This historic St. Helena winery is best known for being one of the first wineries to open in Napa Valley after Prohibition and has built a reputation around its world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. The renovated historic winery has large glass walls that let in tons of natural light from outside, as well as one behind the Crown Bar in the main tasting room that offers wine tasters a view into the expansive oak barrel room. Louis M. Martini offers food pairings, an underground cellar experience, and cabana tastings, but that aforementioned bar is where guests who want to taste wine in the late afternoon will be. The winery is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week, and reservations are required with the last one at 4 p.m.

254 St. Helena Highway S, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 968-3362

Priest Ranch Winery

Priest Ranch Winery
Bacon & Wine Tasting Experience at Priest Ranch Winery

Priest Ranch Winery is known for adventurous yet approachable wine made with minimal intervention. The tasting room is located in the heart of Yountville and features a large oak table and floors made with wood from the ranch, as well as a glass, temperature-controlled wine fridge that holds over 1,000 bottles. Walk-ins are welcome, and reservations are available until 6 p.m. (although if you want to explore something unique and pair your wines with bacon, the last reservation for that guest experience is 4:30 p.m.).

6490 Washington Street, Yountville, CA 94599, (707) 944-8200

John Anthony Vineyards

John Anthony Vineyards
Photo Courtesy of John Anthony Vineyards

It’s somewhat difficult to find a place to taste wine after dinner in Wine Country, but at John Anthony Vineyards’ tasting lounge in the heart of downtown Napa, you can enjoy late night tastings. Sample the popular small-production Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon from the outdoor patio, in the tasting room, and in the private Reserve Room until 10 p.m., Sunday – Wednesday, and midnight on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. You can walk in, but reservations are encouraged.

1440 1st Street, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 265-7711

St. Clair Brown Winery & Brewery

In the event that there is someone in your group who doesn’t enjoy wine, or if you just want your furry friend to join you, this pet-friendly winery AND brewery is the place to go. Located in the Rail Arts District of Napa proper, St. Clair Brown’s greenhouse tasting room is the only place to get your hands on their hand-crafted wines and beers, which are produced in extremely limited quantities – best enjoyed with small garden-inspired share plates. Tasting reservations are available from noon until 6 p.m. Friday through Monday. Private bookings are also available from Tuesday through Thursday.

816 Vallejo Street, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 255-5591

Acumen Wine

Acumen Wine
Photo courtesy of Acumen Wine

Perched on the slopes of Napa Valley’s Atlas Peak, Acumen crafts mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc. Guided by famed Winemaker Phillip Titus, these wines express Napa’s mountain terroir through their small production PEAK wines and their vibrant and alluring Mountainside wines. Acclaimed for their beauty, balance, and age-worthiness, you can try these wines at the Acumen Wine Gallery in downtown Napa. Reservations are required and the tasting room is open Thursday through Monday until 6 p.m. (and Tuesday and Wednesday by appointment)—perfect timing for enjoying a late afternoon glass before dinner.

1315 First Street, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 492-8336

Conclusion:

So, whether you’re looking to fit in “just one more” tasting, or are getting a late start on your day of Napa explorations, you’ll have some great options for tasting your way through Napa Valley as the sun goes down over this magical valley

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The 6 Best Hotels in Calistoga https://www.napavalley.com/blog/best-hotels-in-calistoga/ Mon, 19 Feb 2024 22:52:18 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=58420 Napa Valley’s Calistoga is a must for spa and wellness seekers, and these top Calistoga hotels have everything needed for an idyllic getaway.

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Napa Valley is known worldwide for its prized vineyards, but it’s the charming town of Calistoga at the region’s northernmost tip that offers its own alluring reasons to visit—rejuvenating natural hot springs, boutique-lined shopping strips, stellar hiking trails, and irresistible eateries.

Beyond its geothermal geysers and relaxing spas, Calistoga has a plethora of swanky resort-style retreats, so no matter how you define relaxation, this collection of hotels has got you covered.

Hot Springs Retreats

After a day of sipping and seeing, slip into a state of deep relaxation at these Calistoga retreats’ detoxifying hot pools and mud baths—some of Northern California’s most-prized and best-kept secrets.

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs

1507 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-4102

Operated by the same family since 1952, Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs has welcomed guests with the same iconic neon sign for more than six decades. Renovated accommodations have a comfortable, mid-century modern feel, and groups can even reserve a restored 1924 Victorian house that sleeps 15. Millions have experienced its spa, which boasts three geothermal pools brimming with natural mineral water, and many guests enjoy the indoor mineral pool as well, which is kept at a balmy 103°F.

Insider Tip: Sink yourself deep into a mud bath in one of the garden’s open-air spa tubs—their proprietary mud mixture includes organic Canadian peat mixed with volcanic ash from nearby Mount St. Helena, topped off with warm natural mineral water.

UpValley Inn & Hot Springs
Photo courtesy of UpValley Inn & Hot Springs

UpValley Inn & Hot Springs

1865 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-9400

Named after Calistoga’s advantageous northern placement within the Napa Valley, the UpValley Inn & Hot Springs is a boutique wellness destination and Napa fan-favorite. UpValley’s pool and hot tub are 100% natural mineral water—fed by the on-site geothermal well and the steam room is refreshingly scented with eucalyptus essential oils. Make it a day at any of the surrounding wineries, take a complimentary cruiser bike for a spin, or hike the Oat Hill Mine Trail that’s a quick five-minute walk away from your room.

Insider Tip: If you prefer a more secluded accommodation with all the hotel amenities, book UpValley’s “Hidden Apartment”—a private, smartly furnished one-bedroom space that’s away from the après-winery hubbub.

Boutique Hotel Charm

Surround yourself in elegance at these quaint Calistoga gems, each offering stylish accommodations and personalized service to make for a restful, unforgettable Wine Country retreat.

Embrace Calistoga, an Inn in Napa Valley, CA
Photo courtesy of Embrace Calistoga

Embrace Calistoga

1139 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-9797

Treat yourself to a five-star stay at the historic, adults-only Embrace Calistoga, a luxuriously renovated 1873 bed and breakfast in the heart of Napa Valley Wine Country. Here you’ll experience unmatched hospitality from owners Brent and Chris, including plush bathrobes, generous wine and cheese happy hours, and delicious bedtime chocolates. You’re sure to feel like family when you sit down for freshly squeezed orange juice, bottomless French-press coffee, and Chris’s gourmet breakfasts on Embrace Calistoga’s beautiful wraparound porch.

Insider Tip: Make sure to grab yourself a complimentary snack pack and area map from Embrace Calistoga before you leave for a long day of Napa wine tasting and touring.

Advertiser Content

Calistoga

Winter in the Wineries

Explore Calistoga this season with the Winter in the Wineries Passport. Enjoy tastings at 19 wineries and exclusive discounts!

The Bergson
Photo courtesy of The Bergson

The Bergson

1010 Foothill Boulevard, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-5755

What The Bergson lacks in size, it makes up for in elegance—its luxurious rooms and suites feature fireplaces, feather beds, jetted tubs, and private balconies. Take breakfast outside on the intimate garden patio or eat in your room, cocooned in a fluffy bathrobe. Just minutes from downtown Calistoga, The Bergson offers many guest-exclusive specials for local restaurants, spas, wineries, and activities.

Insider Tip: Planning a quick getaway? The Bergson doesn’t require a two-night minimum stay like many of the surrounding Calistoga hotels

The Inn on Pine
Photo courtesy of The Inn on Pine

The Inn on Pine

1202 Pine Street, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-6829

The Inn on Pine is surrounded by vineyards but is still just a hop, skip, and a jump from Calistoga’s enchanting downtown scene. Each of the Inn’s 13 comfortable guest rooms are quaintly decorated and many include a jetted whirlpool tub, as well as a gas fireplace. Outdoors, a pool and hot tub boast epic mountain views—perfect for grabbing that bottle you bought during the day’s wine tastings and soaking it all in. Our favorite part? The generous continental breakfast and fresh cookies daily.

Insider Tip: Hit up the detoxifying FAR Infrared Sauna at The Spa at EuroSpa next door—it uses heat energy to relax muscles, reduce stress, and relieve joint pain.

Luxe Resorts

World-class hospitality meets iconic vineyard views at these premier Napa Valley resorts with amenities and delicacies that are straight from pages of your most sumptuous storybook.

Four Seasons Resorts
Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Resorts

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley

400 Silverado Trail North, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 709-2100

Plan a legendary Wine Country getaway—the kind that only the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley can deliver. As the only Napa Valley accomodations with an on-site winery, organic working vineyard, and Michelin-starred restaurant, Auro, the Four Seasons offers unparalleled fine dining and grape-to-glass experiences. Select from stylish guest rooms, expansive suites, or private, multi-bedroom villas and do stop by the grand stone Spa Talisa to unwind with a mud bath or vineyard scrub.

Insider Tip: The Four Seasons can arrange for a private chef to prepare a dinner party for you and your group, so you can sit back and worry only about memory making.

Solage Calistoga
Photo courtesy of Solage Calistoga

Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection

With its sophisticated guest suites, massive outdoor swimming pool, award-winning Spa Solage, and geothermal pools with mountain views, the Solage Calistoga epitomizes Up Valley luxury. You’ll truly be living the good life in Wine Country as you ride complimentary bikes around town, take a cold plunge and revel in a eucalyptus steam room session, savor farm-to-table fare at Solage’s top-rated restaurant, Solbar, and sip whiskey by firelight.

Insider Tip: A meal or two at Solbar is certainly worth your while, but for something on the more casual side, don’t miss the tacos at the resort’s poolside bar, Picobar. Pair it with guacamole, featuring whipped avocado, seeds, nuts, and goat cheese, and you’re set.

Honorable Mentions

Best Western Stevenson Manor
Best Western Stevenson Manor

Location is everything and the Best Western Stevenson Manor has classic guest rooms and suites within steps from it all. Start your Napa adventure with a hot breakfast buffet, call it a day in the heated pool and hot tub, and have yourself a nightcap from the in-room wet bar.

Calistoga Inn
Calistoga Inn

If you want a cozy, economical Wine Country option with on-site dining, look no further than the historic Calistoga Inn. Get the most bang for your buck at this centrally located inn, complete with live music from the inn’s own restaurant and brewery right outside your front door.

Indian Springs Calistoga
Indian Springs Calistoga

This self-proclaimed “modern bohemian retreat” comprises diverse Mission Revival-style accommodations on 17 sprawling acres lined with palm trees and lush gardens. Plus, there’s plenty to do while on the property: spa treatments, lawn games, children’s play areas, and even one of the largest natural thermal pools in California.

Calistoga Spa Hot Springs
Calistoga Spa Hot Springs

Though situated in the middle of downtown Calistoga, this hotel’s rooms and amenities are as tranquil as any far-flung Napa Wine Country retreat. Adding to its appeal is the spa, which features volcanic ash mud bath treatments and a mineral water-filled hot tub that could tempt you away from traveling anywhere beyond the resort.

The post The 6 Best Hotels in Calistoga first appeared on NapaValley.com.

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