Explore Napa Valley, Visit Calistoga
When you live a long way away, it’s a natural assumption to think that the town of Napa is the hub of the valley and the right place to stay to enjoy all the wonderful things to do in Calistoga & Napa Valley. For some, seeking a larger town center, a walk to the theatre or cinema and a wider shopping selection Napa can be the right choice.
However, as a larger town with industrial roots it is not the rural wine country ambiance that many people are actually seeking. For that you need to look, what the locals refer to as, up valley. Our Calistoga inns offer the perfect setting from which to explore the many activities and attractions that this beautiful region has to offer.
At the very top of the valley sits the small country town of Calistoga. Despite its roots as a spa town for vacationers, it remains the most authentic of Napa Valley’s small towns. Here the valley narrows down to give stunning vistas of the Palisades cliffs as you look to the east down the main street of Lincoln Avenue. To the west the view is of the gentle wooded slopes of the Mayacamas range.
The next town south is St. Helena. Known to the locals as the Rodeo Drive of Napa Valley, it’s the place to shop for that special, expensive, something! St. Helena also offers some outstanding dining experiences.
Moving further down the valley you pass through the villages of Rutherford and Oakville, with a number of more rural lodging choices, until you reach the small town of Yountville. Riding the coattails of the world-famous French Laundry (the only restaurant we cannot get you a reservation for) the town has attracted many great restaurants as well as larger lodging establishments and a scattering of smaller inns.
Surrounded by vineyards and some of the finest wineries in the valley, Calistoga is a great base for wine country touring, dining and of course the world-famous geyser, spas and mud baths.
Our Charm
Wine Country Getaways
Discover some of the top places to visit for your memorable Wine Country getaway.
Communal Areas
The Napa Valley offers many world-class dining experiences. We have listed a few of our personal favorites here. OpenTable is a good site for planning, accessing reviews and checking table availability. Search under wine country restaurants or a specific Napa Valley town.
Calistoga
These local restaurants and many more are just a quick stroll into downtown from both of our properties.
Calistoga’s Culinary Gems: Our Recommended Restaurants
- Lovina – Cozy American cuisine in a historic setting with a delightful garden patio.
- Sam’s Social Club – Enjoy outdoor dining with Californian flair at the Indian Springs Resort.
- Evangeline – French-Creole fusion with a charming courtyard patio.
- Bricco Osteria – Indulge in Northern-Italian dishes in an intimate atmosphere.
- Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery – A local favorite for American fare and craft beers with a lively patio.
- Solbar – Imaginative cuisine with a Napa Valley-casual vibe and picturesque terrace views.
- Picobar – Contemporary Mexican cuisine with a twist, set against the backdrop of stunning vistas.
- Truss Restaurant & Bar – Modern Napa Valley dining with a focus on genuine hospitality at The Four Seasons Resort.
- Auro – Michelin-rated fine dining featuring a seasonally inspired tasting menu in an intimate setting.
St. Helena
Just a little down the valley you’ll find many more beautiful restaurants to indulge in in St. Helena.
St. Helena’s Premier Dining Destinations
- Market – Enjoy classic American cuisine in a cozy setting, perfect for a casual yet refined dining experience.
- Cook St. Helena – Dive into housemade pasta and Italian favorites in a warm, family-style atmosphere.
- Goose & Gander – A gastropub offering creative cocktails and American dishes in a charming garden setting.
- Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch – Experience farm-to-table dining with fresh, seasonal ingredients in a rustic yet elegant environment.
- PRESS Restaurant – Savor American classics and an impressive wine selection in a sophisticated space.
- The Charter Oak – Centered around a family-style dining experience, The Charter Oak serves simple, seasonal food with a focus on local ingredients and a hearth at its core.
Rutherford
Rutherford is a small but mighty part of our beautiful Napa Valley.
Embark on a Culinary Journey: Rutherford’s Finest Dining
- Auberge Du Soleil – A Michelin-starred restaurant offering a luxurious dining experience with stunning views of Napa Valley. Indulge in Mediterranean-inspired dishes that highlight the region’s bountiful produce.
- Meadowood – Known for its elegant setting and exquisite cuisine, Meadowood is a modern American restaurant that has earned accolades for its innovative approach to fine dining.
- Rutherford Grill – A staple in the heart of Napa Valley, Rutherford Grill presents American comfort food with a sophisticated twist, complemented by a robust wine list.
Yountville
Just before you hit Napa and leave wine country, you’ll find some of the nicest restaurants in the Napa valley in Yountville.
Yountville’s Dining Delights: A Curated Selection for Food Lovers
- Bistro Jeanty – A cozy bistro offering home-style French cuisine by Chef Philippe Jeanty, perfect for a taste of France in the heart of Napa Valley.
- Ad Hoc – Part of Thomas Keller’s culinary empire, Ad Hoc presents family-style dishes in a relaxed setting, where comfort food is elevated to an art form.
- Mustards Grill – A long-standing go-to for its hearty American grill fare and a lively atmosphere, Mustards Grill is a staple in the Yountville dining scene.
- Bottega Napa Valley – Celebrity Chef Michael Chiarello’s Italian kitchen offers a menu of elevated Italian dishes, each highlighting local, artisanal, and house-made ingredients.
- Bouchon Bistro – Another gem from Thomas Keller, Bouchon Bistro serves up classic French bistro fare in a vibrant, bustling setting.
- RH Yountville Restaurant – A unique dining experience that combines a wine country atmosphere with an upscale American menu, RH Yountville is a feast for the senses.
- The French Laundry – Synonymous with fine dining excellence, The French Laundry by Thomas Keller is a culinary experience that’s both iconic and unforgettable.
Discover the Essence of Calistoga Your Gateway to Rejuvenation and Relaxation
Nestled in the picturesque Napa Valley, Calistoga is renowned as the Western haven of hot springs, a legacy that dates back to its founding. Today, this tradition thrives, offering an array of experiences from time-honored mud baths to the opulence of modern luxury resorts.
Our esteemed Local Spas offer A Sanctuary for the Senses, we are delighted to assist you in reserving your very own restorative treatment. Each spa is a sanctuary where the healing powers of geothermal waters and mineral-rich mud treatments offer a transformative experience, here are some of the most renowned.
Indian Springs
Experience the historic charm of Indian Springs, where you can enjoy the therapeutic geothermal pools and a range of his and hers spa treatments against the backdrop of the original art deco buildings.
Golden Haven
Enjoy a simple and unpretentious take on the traditional thick Calistoga mud baths for couples, in this unassuming spa.
Solage
Elevate your wellness journey with innovative therapies inspired by Calistoga’s rich mud and mineral water heritage in an environment of world class luxury with mountain views and a dedicated spa complex.
Explore the Best of Napa Valley: A Guide for Visitors
Napa Valley is not only a paradise for lovers of spas, wine, and gourmet cuisine but also a treasure trove of unique experiences that cater to a wide range of interests. Here’s a list of activities that showcase the diversity of attractions in our beautiful valley:
- Festival Napa Valley – Immerse yourself in culture with Festival Napa Valley, an annual celebration of the arts that brings together world-class performances and culinary delights in July.
- Napa Valley Film Festival – Experience the glamour of the Napa Valley Film Festival, a November event that combines cinematic brilliance with the region’s famed hospitality and wine.
- Napa Valley Balloons – Experience the valley from new heights with a serene hot air balloon ride, offering unmatched views and a peaceful escape.
- Triple Creek Horse Outfit – Embrace the cowboy spirit or simply enjoy a tranquil horseback ride through scenic trails with Triple Creek Horse Outfit.
- Old Faithful Geyser of California – Witness the reliable eruptions of Calistoga’s Old Faithful Geyser and the charming antics of the resident fainting goats.
- The Petrified Forest – Explore the world’s largest petrified trees at Calistoga’s Petrified Forest, a fascinating destination for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
- Safari West – Get up close with exotic animals on a safari adventure right in the heart of wine country.
- Calistoga Farmers Market – Purchase fresh produce and shop for crafts and gifts.
Each of these experiences offers a unique way to discover the wonders of Napa Valley. Whether you’re soaring above vineyards, enjoying a film under the stars, or getting up close with nature’s marvels, there’s something here to enchant every visitor. Enjoy your journey through the heart of wine country!
Transportation in Napa Valley
For guests seeking to explore the scenic wineries of Napa Valley, there are numerous transportation options to suit every preference. Here are some recommended choices that promise convenience and a memorable experience.
Napa Valley Wine Train
A unique journey that combines fine dining with a tour of Napa’s wineries.
The Napa Valley Wine Train is a unique and enchanting experience that transports you through the heart of Napa Valley in the comfort of beautifully restored vintage rail cars. As you embark on this 36-mile round-trip journey from Napa to St. Helena, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the valley, gourmet cuisine, and the opportunity to visit some of the region’s most celebrated wineries.
This luxurious train ride is more than just transportation; it’s a step back into the golden age of travel, combining the romance of train travel with the beauty of Napa Valley’s wine country. With various experiences available, from exclusive winery tours to exquisite dining journeys, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers something for every taste and occasion.
For more information and to book your journey, visit the Napa Valley Wine Train and enjoy the ride!
Bicycles
Biking in Napa Valley offers a unique and immersive way to experience the region’s stunning landscapes and world-famous vineyards.
Discover the Best Bike Rentals and Tours in Napa Valley
Napa Valley is a cyclist’s paradise, offering serene landscapes and a variety of trails that cater to all levels of biking enthusiasts. For guests at our Calistoga Inns looking to explore the valley on two wheels, here’s a list of the top places to rent bikes or embark on a guided bike tour:
- Calistoga Bikeshop – Your go-to destination for self-guided wine tours, guided excursions, and a wide selection of rental bikes. Located in the heart of Calistoga, they specialize in customizing experiences to fit your adventure level.
- Getaway Adventures – Known for their Sip ‘n Cycle tours, Getaway Adventures offers a unique way to experience Calistoga’s famous vineyards and wines, complete with a delicious picnic lunch.
- Napa Valley Bike Tours & Rentals – With more than 40 wineries within 5 miles of their Yountville location, they offer guided bike tours, self-guided adventures, and a variety of rental options to enjoy the stunning views of the valley.
Each of these providers offers a unique way to discover Napa Valley’s charm. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride through vineyards or an adventurous tour of the valley, these bike rentals and tours will enhance your wine country visit. Remember to book in advance to secure your spot on these popular tours. Happy cycling!
Limousine
Traverse the valley in pure luxury and style with one of our favorite limousine tour services.
Luxury Limousine Services in Napa Valley: Travel in Style
- Windsor Wine Tours – Offering intimate and personalized wine tour experiences, Sip and Swirl Tours provides a delightful way to explore Napa Valley’s wineries with elegance and comfort.
- Beau Wine Tours – Known for their distinctive Napa wine tours, Beau Wine Tours ensures a luxurious journey amidst the romantic vines and rolling hills of the wine country.
- Napa Valley VIP Limo – Specializing in high-end limousines, Napa Valley VIP Limo offers a range of services for private, corporate, and special event transportation throughout the valley.
- Napa Valley Tours & Transportation – With a diverse fleet and experienced drivers, they provide seamless and enjoyable journeys to the valley’s most sought-after destinations.
- California Wine Tours and Transportation – Enjoy professional and friendly service with California Wine Tours, catering to all your transportation needs for wine tours and special occasions.
These limousine services are dedicated to providing an unforgettable travel experience as you discover the beauty of Napa Valley. Whether you’re here for the wine, the scenery, or the luxury, these limo rentals will elevate your visit to new heights.
Shuttles
This convenient, local shuttle is perfect for hopping around town.
Calistoga Shuttle: Your Complimentary Passport to Explore
Guests of Wine Way Inn and Craftsman Inn can enjoy the convenience of the Calistoga Shuttle, an on-demand, eco-friendly transportation service that’s complimentary for all our guests. Whether you’re visiting wineries, restaurants, or spas, the Calistoga Shuttle provides door-to-door service in and around Calistoga.
Enjoy the ease of getting around Calistoga and make the most of your wine country experience with this complimentary shuttle service.