We’re obviously fans of Calistoga. It’s filled to the brim with Napa Valley charm, but beyond the obvious good food and great wine, restful spa services, amazing people, and beautiful setting, there’s even more to experience just bubbling under the surface. As you’re prepping for your wine country getaway Up Valley or officially checked in for a stay at the Mount View Hotel, here are a few suggested insider tips to really get to know what makes Calistoga so special.
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With hundreds of acclaimed wineries in the region, where to begin? Our recommendation: book a winery tour with a local company. Not only can they assist with curating a day of fabulous tastings, you can also park your car and enjoy hassle-free touring with a private driver at the helm. Beau Wine Tours offers several Napa Valley-specific tours and additionally pick-up service from five regional airports.
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For those who prefer two wheels over four, Calistoga Bike Shop has premium bike rentals AND also self-guided winery tours. Whether you’re feeling adventurous exploring on your own or need a bit of guidance, It’s a great way to get in a bit of extra exercise and have the opportunity to taste the awarded wares of the region.
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For your inner artist or curator, Calistoga plays a big part in Napa Valley’s Arts in April events. This includes the dynamic and extraordinary ENGAGE Art Fair, which connects inspiring artists with collectors and art fans all while thinking outside of the typical art fair model. While these special events only run every April, artist Carlo Marchiori calls Calistoga home, and his famed residence and studio, Villa Ca’Toga, is open for daily tours, a must-visit for those intrigued by the talented artist’s murals and Venetian culture.
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You can also enjoy Calistoga’s impeccable sights via two bike paths recommended by the city. And when you prefer a bit more guidance behind the handlebars, Getaway Adventures provides their most popular ride, Calistoga Sip ‘N Cycle, which includes 3 – 4 local winery stops, a Grapes 101 lesson with a knowledgeable tour guide, and a curated picnic between the vines.
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Napa Valley is famous for its fresh and innovative fare. A visit to downtown’s Cal Mart to pick up snacks and local items is a must, and for your wine country picnic, they have the goods to make it delicious. If crafting your own picnic is not in the cards, we suggest visiting a winery that offers food and wine pairings or a deli or kitchen on site. Tamber Bey Vineyards has an unexpected pairing of wines and fresh-baked cookies. St. Helena’s Charles Krug (just south of Calistoga) offers Cucina di Rosa, an Italian kitchen and salumeria serving up cheese and cured meats to pair with their wines Also in St. Helena, V. Sattui has an artisan deli to pick up freshly made panini, salads, pastas, hundreds of cheeses, desserts, and selected specialty items.
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Calling all outdoorsy types, Calistoga is more than just wine-filled and spa centric. Our rustic home base also has plentiful outdoor activities. For the best views in Napa Valley, take a stroll up Oat Hill Mine Trail. For even higher sights, hop into one of Calistoga Balloons’ baskets for an early morning hot air balloon ride over northern Napa Valley. And for those looking to stay at a lower elevation, a visit to the Old Faithful Geyser of California is a fun way to take in the region’s surroundings with the awe-inspiring geyser, picnic grounds and bocce, and the cutest fainting goats. Calistoga also has its own Petrified Forest for those intrigued by the now dormant Mt. St. Helena.
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Leave some extra space in your suitcase, because downtown Calistoga is packed with charming shopping. Whether you’re looking for something distinctly wine country or items from shoes to books, a stroll down Lincoln Avenue (Calistoga’s main street) is a must.
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Because of the temperate climate in Napa Valley, any time of year is great to visit Calistoga. But, there are perks for coming during different seasons. For those looking for small crowds and cooler days, a visit during winter months may check your boxes. In addition, Visit Calistoga offers their annual Winter in the Wineries Passport typically during the months of December – February. This ticket to Calistoga fun features complimentary tastings at 17 local wineries, along with discounts at local merchants and hotels — Mount View Hotel & Spa included!
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During summer months, expect much warmer, but dry, weather here in town, and one of our favorite summertime activities is Calistoga’s weekly Concerts in the Park. Highlighting a local winery and live music, the casual, weekly concerts in Pioneer Park are a great way to spend a relaxing night in town.
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Park that car (or forget renting one), because you’re not going to need one during your stay in Calistoga. Not only is downtown easily walkable, the Calistoga Shuttle makes exploring wine country easy, with on-demand pickup and free transportation during designated hours. (Note: if you have appointments you might want to hire transportation from Beau Wine tours as this free option is not on a schedule)