Nestled in the heart of the idyllic Napa Valley Wine Country in northern California, the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs is one of the most amazing hot spring resort complexes in the United States. Its convenient location makes it one of the most sought out thermal pool destinations in the state and promises a vacation filled with adventure and tranquility.
Featuring a wide array of comfort and luxury amenities, this full-service accommodation serves as one of the top complexes that combine an exploration of surrounding landmarks and sprawling vineyards with a calming accommodation complete with soothing mineral pools and extensive spa facilities.
From the many ways in which the resort engages the natural mineral waters for a rejuvenating experience to the many attractions and activities located in the surrounding Napa Valley, this is everything you need to know before visiting the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs, California.
History of Calistoga Spa Hot Springs
Long before American settlers established the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs Resort, the eponymous thermal pool was already a popular site for healing and rejuvenation for the indigenous Wappo Tribe that once resided in the Northern California region.
Evidence of the first human interaction with the hot springs dates back five centuries. From this point, the Wappo people began an annual migration to the thermal pool, where they would erect a temporary village along the Mayacamas Mountain’s western ridges.
The natural mineral waters of the complex remained a secret amongst the local tribe for centuries and were only discovered by American settlers in the 1840s. Two decades later, 2000 acres were purchased in the Calistoga area to create a spa reflective of the one in Saratoga, New York.
While an immediate hit among those that lived in the area upon its opening in 1862, the new hot spring spa became even more popular once Calistoga was connected to the railroad network in 1868.
Over the years, the hot spring resort in Calistoga has passed through ownership and has experienced several name changes. Today, the hot springs feature fully-modern amenities and are one of California’s most prestigious full-service resorts.
Facilities at the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs
Calistoga Spa Hot Springs’ extensive full-service complexes feature many facilities within its property. From luxury accommodation options to several ways to engage the famous mineral waters, these are some of the best services you can expect to find at the resort.
Thermal Mineral Pools
Despite its abundant and fully developed facilities, the biggest draw to the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs remains the natural mineral spring waters that fill the complex’s many soaking pools. Untouched and featuring no added chemicals, these thermal waters offer visitors the same soaking experience once enjoyed by the region’s indigenous Wappo tribes.
The mineral waters within the resort feature natural temperatures of 180 degrees Fahrenheit directly from their underground spring source. Luckily, these scorching waters are cooled to more bearable temperatures before being filtered into one of the complex’s four mineral pools, each offering a unique soaking experience.
The first of the resort’s mineral pools is the sizeable main soaking pool maintained at temperatures just below 100 degrees for a comfortable floating experience. For a slightly warmer bath, the facility also features a smaller whirlpool with waters that average around 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Alternatively, visitors seeking a more active swim can delve into the facility’s large multi-lane lap pool that averages 80 degrees Fahrenheit and offers plenty of space for exercise or water aerobics. The resort’s fourth and final pool is a shallow wading pool ideal for children and visitors traveling with their little ones.
The resort’s thermal pools are handicap accessible and feature natural mineral waters with no added chemicals. As such, visitors receive a soothing therapeutic soak regardless of their pool choice.
Thermal Spa
The Calistoga Spa Hot Springs Resort also features an extensive full-service spa that uniquely engages the water’s natural therapeutic properties for an even more enhanced sense of relaxation and serenity. In addition, the spa offers a diverse catalog of massage and special treatments that are a fantastic way to unwind with an afternoon of pampering.
Among the spa’s more popular treatments are the facility’s famous Volcanic Ash Mud Baths. These specialty treatments engage a centuries-old tradition renowned for removing excess dirt and toxins that improve overall health while soothing joint and muscle pains.
Alternatively, visitors can book one of the spa’s many other treatments, which include personalized massages, mineral water tubs, and fitness and wellness classes. Visitors seeking a sample of everything the spa offers can opt for one of the facility’s packages which offer a combination of treatments for a full day of rejuvenating relaxation.
Attractions Near the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs
Located in the heart of Napa Valley, the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs features several attractions in the surrounding countryside. Situated only one block from Lincoln Avenue, visitors staying at the resort is conveniently located within walking distance of all of Calistoga’s most celebrated museums, restaurants, and shopping centers.
However, no visit to California’s Wine Country would be complete without first visiting one of the many wineries and vineyards that sprawl their way across the valley’s rolling hills. Some of the most celebrated wineries for visitors to tour include the Clos Pegase Winery & Tasting Room, the Brian Arden Wines, and the Vincent Arroyo Winery.
Furthermore, since there are no dining options within the resort, visitors will instead want to explore the city’s vibrant food scene at one of the nearby restaurants. The Evangeline offers a French bistro setting with an upscale ambiance, while Solbar and Sam’s Social Club offer fine-dining American cuisine experiences.
Other activities guests at the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs can engage in during their exploration of the region include hot air balloon tours and nature hikes through the sweeping vineyards or ancient forests.
Accommodations Options at Calistoga Spa Hot Springs, California
The Calistoga Spa Hot Springs is not open to day visitors and is reserved solely for overnight guests. Luckily, the full-service resort offers some of the best accommodation options within Napa Valley directly within its complexes.
The hotel features four room options, a king, queen, double queen, and a queen suite. All options feature luxury amenities, including small kitchenettes, cooktops, refrigerators, and LED TVs. All options are also available with additional accessible features.
The area contains many spa/resort locations and if you are looking for different options on your visit the Mount View Hotel & Spa and the Indian Springs Spa and Resort also come highly recommended.
Getting to the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs, California
The nearest airport to Calistoga is in San Francisco, just under a two-hour drive south of Calistoga. The easiest way to reach the hot springs from San Francisco is via private vehicle, with the route to the resort being reasonably straightforward.
Alternatively, visitors can arrange a shuttle service to Napa Valley from the San Francisco International Airport. Once at the resort, the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs offers complimentary on-demand shuttle services within the city limits.
Details
- Address: 1006 Washington St, Calistoga, CA 94515, United States
- Phone: +1 707-942-6269
- Admission: $247 (USD)
- Facebook Page: Calistoga Spa Hot Springs
- Website: https://www.calistogaspa.com/
- Email: info@calistogaspa.com
- GPS Coordinates: 38.57998, -122.57708
