Known for its mineral hot springs and prime location in the heart of California’s Wine Country, Calistoga is an indulgent getaway destination. Activities range from family-friendly bike trips to hot springs and wine tasting in rustic barns to quaint cottages and Italian-style castles.

Things to do

Hot spring spas in Calistoga have drawn travellers to the region since the 1960s. Mineral baths often utilise volcanic ash mud and accompany services, such as shiatsu and Thai massages, yoga classes and reflexology sessions. You can find both public and hotel-based spas throughout downtown.

As part of California’s vast wine country, Calistoga wineries offer wine tasting in unique structures, such as barns, simulated castles and country cottages. Visit Frank Family Vineyards, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, to experience a progressive three-room wine tasting with sparkling, red and white wine. Don’t miss the underground cellars, escape tunnels and Italian frescoes at the medieval-inspired Castello di Amorosa.

Rent an electric bike to take a self-guided wine-tasting tour in the small communities. You can also drive along the Silverado Trail, which was once used by the silver rush of the 1850s and now hosts over 40 wineries straddling five towns, including Calistoga.

Dining in Calistoga centres around the downtown area, with many eateries and pubs scattered along Lincoln Avenue and Washington Street. For brunch, join locals at the sophisticated Solbar for black sesame crepes and yellowfin tuna sliders. In the evening, relax in a red leather booth while enjoying prix-fixe Italian dinner at Barolo.

Getting around

Downtown Calistoga is pedestrian-friendly and cycling is a popular way to visit the wineries. Shuttles and limos offer wine tours, while rental cars are available at Sacramento International Airport, about a one-hour drive from Calistoga.