Six Ways to Explore Charming Calistoga

Calistoga, a quaint town located in northern Napa Valley, is home to exquisite vineyards, famed geothermal hot springs, miles of nature, and a charming downtown scene featuring boutique shops, art galleries, tasting rooms, dining experiences, and much more.

Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley is in the heart of it all, providing guests access to the best of everything Calistoga has to offer. Discover this historic town with these six pursuits in mind:

An Authentic Grape-to-Glass Experience

With the warmest microclimate in the Valley, Calistoga is best known for its cabernet sauvignon and zinfandel blends. Across acres of vineyards and several tasting rooms in the area, visitors are afforded the opportunity to taste a delicious variety of wines produced from the unique terroir of the Calistoga American Viticultural Area (AVA), home to some of the oldest estates in wine country. Among these gems is the historic Chateau Montelena, an estate with a 14-decade legacy and ties to the Judgment of Paris, which produces classic wines promoting balance, elegance, and age-ability. At Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley, guests enjoy a front-row seat to the wine-making experience as part of Elusa Winery's 4.7 acre (1.9 hecatre) on-site organic vineyard.

Eat, Drink, Shop, Repeat!

A variety of boutique shops, restaurants and bars make for an enjoyable day out on the town. Start by browsing for exquisite antiques and vintage treasures at Roam Antiques and Design. If you are lucky enough to be out on a Saturday morning, pop over to the Calistoga Farmer’s Market for the freshest selection of produce from local farms and ranches. A few not-to-miss items include infused olive oils, artisan cheeses, and fresh-cut flowers. For a mid-day pick-me-up, stop by Flourish Chocolate for a delectable treat by Chef Holly Peterson, a world-renowned chocolatier. After a long day, unwind with a glass of cabernet sauvignon and delicious dinner at TRUSS Restaurant and Bar. TRUSS is a spirited dining destination befitting of Napa Valley’s legendary culinary scene, offering seasonal menus with both a la carte and curated coursed options, alongside expertly selected fine wine pairings. Guests will enjoy stunning views of the vineyards and Mayacamas Mountains.

Holistic Healing Traditions

Samuel Brannan founded Calistoga in 1859, and was specifically intrigued by the town’s geothermal hot springs that were said to provide incredible healing powers. Since then, people from across the globe have sought out this small town to unwind and relish in these soothing baths. Naturally heated, these hot springs render a true connection with the Earth’s natural wonders. For a luxurious experience, Spa Talisa at Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley delivers a tranquil oasis, centred on holistic healing for the mind and body and featuring rejuvenating offerings that take guests on a wellness journey through a beautifully landscaped outdoor relaxation garden, luxurious treatments using and premium products from Napa and Italy, a nail bar, curated retail, and more.

Majestic Trailheads

Calistoga features access to several diverse trails that offer memorable hiking and biking experiences. Oat Hill Mine Trail, located just on the outskirts of town within Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, offers a moderate hike with stunning vistas, beautiful wildflowers, and pet-friendly trails. The Petrified Forest takes visitors back in time to witness majestic petrified redwoods that were turned to stone 3.4 million years ago by a volcano. The unique site is a fascinating place for friends and family to walk around and experience the lush natural surroundings.

Adrenaline-Pumping Safari Adventures

Safari West is a unique, incredible opportunity to experience an African Safari right here in Northern California wine country. With more than 400 acres (160 hectares) of adventure, it’s a thrill to tour though the private wildlife preserve via Jeep, and come face-to-face with hundreds of species. In true wine country fashion, visitors have the option to book private, custom excursions that combines a safari adventure with wine tasting.

Birds-Eye Calistoga Views

See the flaming colours of a Napa Valley sunrise on a hot air balloon ride. Soaring 2,000 feet (600 metres) above the ground, sights of breath-taking panoramas of lush mountains and vineyards are abundant. Enjoy the ride with friends, loved ones, and family, or book a private experience for a more intimate morning. The magical ride closes with a post-flight wine toast as the perfect way to kick off a day here in Calistoga.