Located in northern Napa Valley, Calistoga is a picturesque small town known for its natural hot springs, mud bathes and easy access to nearby wineries. Growing up in San Francisco, it was a frequent weekend getaway for my family, where we would soak all day in the warm and cold pools and then walk to the center of town for ice cream. Whether you’re going with your family, a group of friends or as a couple, this small town is ideal for slowing down and getting away from busy city life. Here are the best Calistoga hot springs that should be on your list.
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Hot Springs Health Benefits
Soaking in Calistoga’s hot springs has been a popular relaxation activity since the 19th century, when locals would bath in the therapeutic waters to treat ailments ranging from skin rashes, to digestive disorders. The sulfur-rich water is also believed to boost your immune system, improve overall body circulation, and help your body release toxins through sweating. Mentally, it helps de-stress your body, including improving your quality of sleep.
Spa Passes For Day Guests
All of the hot springs listed below are part of resorts where overnight guests get priority to the spa facilities. If you’re not staying on property but want to take advantage of a resort’s spa, you can either book a spa treatment or if it’s available there are day passes at select resorts.
Up Valley Inn and Hot Springs
For a contemporary option, this remodeled hotel is the place to go. The outdoor swimming pool and whirlpool are both filled with soothing geothermal waters, and there are eucalyptus-infused steam rooms and saunas to complete the spa experience. The entire property has a “rustic-meets-modern” feel to it and provides a great home base when you’re in town. Take advantage of complementary shuttle passes given during check-in that can bring you to wine tastings, dining, art galleries and more.
Calistoga Spa Hot Springs
This hot springs resort is a personal favorite, because it has four different geothermal pools: an 80-degree lap pool, an adult-only covered whirlpool, a soaking pool that’s always under 100 degrees, and a kiddie wading pool. You can easily spend the day rotating between the pools and lounging in the sun. Resort amenities include remodeled rooms, that have a kitchenette where you can easily cook your own meals; picnic areas, and a fitness center that offers, aerobic, yoga and Pilates classes. There’s also a spa, where you can indulge yourself in massages and volcanic ash mud baths. If you’re not a guest, but have a friend/family member staying at this resort, you can be invited as their plus one for $25 per day.
Roman Spa
This Italian-inspired boutique resort offers both indoor and outdoor mineral hot spring pools, within a tranquil garden that makes you feel as if you’ve been transported to scenic Mediterranean locale. If you want to go all out for a special occasion, there are Roman decor-inspired suites that provide private hot tubs with geothermal waters where you can soak whenever you want without outside disruption. There are also private mineral soaking tubs for two, as well as couples mud baths. Regular hotel rooms have the option to come with a kitchenette. Spa treatments that are 50-minutes or longer include 6 hours of pool use on Sunday-Friday.
Indian Hot Springs
For a taste of luxury, this historic high-end resort is a place worth splurging on. The property offers guests two mineral pools: an Olympic-sized pool and an adult pool, which get their thermal waters from four geysers. The stunning resort boasts 17-acres, where there are numerous activities that will easily fill your days, whether you want to play a game of bocce, want to take a spin on their complementary bicycles, or just relax in the spa (the pre/post spa Buddha Pond area is worth a spa treatment alone). There’s a restaurant on property, but if you’re want more options the center of town is just a few blocks away.
Calistoga Motor Lodge & Spa
For something a bit different, this hotel throwback to 1950’s American road trip culture with all the modern contemporary comforts is a memorable place to stay. Take full advantage of the on-site Moonacre Spa & Baths, where you can soak in the mineral pools, use the co-ed steam room, have a CBD massage, or build your own concoction at the “mud bar,” for a unique take on a mud bath treatment. Join in the Happy Spa Hour, which takes place every Wednesdays from 3-6pm, where you get a complementary glass of wine or champagne after your spa treatment. Rooms are “camper chic,” and come with added features like walk-in rain showers and cloud-soft beds. Use of spa facilities is available for up to two hours before your appointment for day guests.
Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs
If you want to experience a real throwback, this retro hot springs resort still offers “The Works,” which was $3.50 when it first opened in the 1950s for a mud bath, massage, mineral whirlpool bath, and steam room session. Now the price has changed (still at a reasonable price of $149), but the treatment has stayed the same. In true throwback fashion, all spa appointments must be made through the phone. Individual hotel rooms are available on property, whether you’re staying in a restored Victorian house, or one of the bungalows with a separate kitchen area.
Related post: The Best California Hot Springs
What is your favorite Calistoga hot springs resort?
Photo sources: feature photo, Indian Hot Springs, Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs
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