Calistoga

 

Located at the northernmost tip of Napa Valley, Calistoga is a tranquil and rustic town with more natural ambiance than some of the surrounding valley towns. Calistoga is best known for its specialty mud baths (immersion in hot volcanic ash), wineries, and naturally-occurring hot springs. The name “Calistoga” actually comes from “California” and “Sarasota Springs,” an east coast New York town also popular for its hot springs.

 

Calistoga is a rural-yet-refined place to live surrounded by scenic vineyards and known for its water roots––literally, as the town has an abundance of hot springs pools and mineral-rich waters that make it ideal for luxury spas. The chic, easygoing, and outdoors-oriented community is especially compelling to those looking for a serene place to retire or wine lovers, and vacationers attracted to the intimate bed and breakfasts, resorts, luxury lodgings, and choice restaurants. And like other Wine Country towns, Calistoga offers spectacular wines from the high-elevation vineyards and wineries.

Calistoga is a diverse place to live with a long and legendary reputation as a spa town. It’s even home to its own mini-Old Faithful Geyser, similar to the famous Yellowstone feature, albeit on a much smaller scale. This area has attracted people for more than a century to its hot springs, and those seeking connection to the land will appreciate the large rugged land parcels available for custom builds.

 

You’ll find more land available for your dollar in Calistoga, with a mixture of larger plots and smaller homes scattered throughout. Here, you’ll find historic bungalows and fixer-uppers available depending on what you’re looking for in this pastoral village. Generally, Calistoga is a little more affordable than other Napa Valley towns, though there are pricier luxury estates available for those interested.

As Calistoga is a revered spa town, there are multiple exceptional resorts and luxury lodgings in the area. Perched on 17 wine country acres with gardens, ponds, paths, and plenty of open space, the Indian Springs Resort is a historic, family-owned resort and spa designed with modern and period-style accommodations. Four thermal geysers provide mineral water for two swimming pools and the spa’s renowned mud baths.

 

Solage is an Auberge premiere resort boasting luxurious amenities, soothing spa facilities, and innovative-yet-classic dining. The 22 acres of gorgeous grounds make for a fresh and vibrant retreat that effortlessly combines the rustic sensibilities of wine country with cosmopolitan glamor.

 

When it comes to wineries, Chateau Montelena Winery is perhaps the most notable in all of Calistoga. Renowned for winning the white wine section of the 1976 Judgment of Paris, this stone castle produces some of the region’s most coveted wines.

 

Just three miles from the Old Faithful Geyser of California is the European-style Calistoga Inn, a pared-back experience offering a casual, comfortable stay where you can dine and enjoy some respite in the heart of wine country. The inn also features a stellar outdoor restaurant and the Napa Valley Brewing Company.

Calistoga residents enjoy many events and holiday celebrations throughout the year, including a patriotic Fourth of July parade that unites the community to celebrate the nation’s birthday and the town’s unique culture. During the summer, Calistoga hosts a Concerts in the Park series, generally at Pioneer Park. The event is a fun way to relax with your family by watching live musical performances, picnicking on the lawn, and sipping wine!

 

Come winter, participate in the special Winter in the Wineries, an annual tradition that features numerous top-notch wineries in Calistoga, Lake County, St. Helena, and Pope Valley. These participating wineries allow guests to explore awe-inspiring wine-growing regions along with complimentary tastings and discounts at Calistoga shops, lodgings, and spas.

 

One of the town’s largest annual events is the Calistoga Food & Wine Grand Tasting. Join Calistoga winegrowers for a pilgrimage to 40+ Calistoga AVA wineries with live music and gourmet food pairings. Walk around to taste wine from the participating venues and treat yourself to an incredible afternoon unlike any other.

The Calistoga Joint Unified School District serves Calistoga and the surrounding area. The district includes Calistoga Elementary and Calistoga Junior/Senior High.