From the moment you drive up to this tranquil resort, it is clear that a huge part of what this resort is about is the gorgeous property it occupies. Calistoga Ranch, an Auberge Resort, boasts a 157-acre site in the pristine Napa Valley off of the scenic Silverado Trail.
I immediately felt a serene welcome as I passed through the canopied, majestic oaks at the entrance and approached the Reception area. The staff greeting was warm and friendly and they addressed me by name, which always adds a personal touch.
The check-in process was easy. I did inquire about an upgrade and was immediately told there was nothing available. I always pay special attention to the check-in process to see how willing the staff is to accommodate you in the best room possible. Having said this, it was the Thanksgiving weekend so I do believe they were close to or at full capacity.
The Property and Lodges
The whole concept behind this property is to participate in an indoor/outdoor living experience. With that in mind, the unique aspect of this resort is that the lodges are individual units and within the individual unit, there are two separate living spaces connected by a large, outdoor living deck.
As the bellman opened the front gate to my unit, I walked onto an outdoor living deck with two large deck chairs with upholstered cushions, a small dining table, a fireplace and a peaceful forest view.
To the right was a dwelling where the bedroom was located, with what I eventually discovered was a heavenly mattress and a fluffy, white down comforter that made me feel like I was wrapped in a blanket of clouds. Then my heart fluttered a little as I walked into a large, dreamy master bathroom with a soaking tub and separate shower, dual sinks, walk-in closet with robes and slippers, eco-friendly bath amenities, and then I might have actually sighed as my eyes zoned in on the outdoor shower with a large rainfall shower head ~ truly mimicking taking a shower in the rain.
The second dwelling is a large living space with comfy living room style furniture (sofa turns into a bed), an additional half-bath, a fireplace that can be seen from both the inside of the unit and from the outdoor deck, and a kitchenette consisting of a mini-bar that hosts free amenities for all originally stocked items.
Now it may seem strange to think that you have to walk outside to get from the bedroom unit to the living room unit, especially if you are in your jammies, but most of the units are positioned high enough from the walkway or in such a manner that it maintains your privacy…plus remember, those lush robes are provided for your use! Believe me, I’m no exhibitionist, and I felt perfectly comfortable and really enjoyed the aspect of the fresh air while walking back and forth and spending time on the deck.
All the units are designed to reflect the rustic beauty of the surrounding environment with a serene color palate, wood accents, granite counters, along with natural finishes and accents bringing the outside in and vice versa.
I stayed in the Bay Forest Lodge #104. I have to say that I think this is one of the most comfortable and well designed resort rooms that I have stayed in. It really felt like home away from home…with added amenities. My only comment on this particular unit is that it is located on the corner of a walkway intersection where all the staff frequently drive by in their carts for housekeeping and room service and it seemed a little busy in the morning hours as I was trying to peacefully drink my coffee on the deck.
After walking the property and analyzing the location of the lodges, it is my opinion that some of the best units are the Oak Creek Units #128-#132. These units back up to a creek area and seem to offer a little more privacy and are a little farther away from the reception area. In total, there are only 48 guest lodges and 27 privately owned lodges.
Spa
Just walking around the property is a spiritual experience because of the beauty and serene nature of it; however, if you feel like you’re needing a little more pampering and rejuvenation, it will be found at the resort spa, The Bathhouse. The Spa is situated amongst the oaks with fireplaces, and quiet pavilions with outdoor garden showers and private soaking tubs. The treatments incorporate ingredients indigenous to the region and take advantage of the bounty of the local area incorporating milk, nuts, honey, fruits and grapes as the basis for all body masks and exfoliations.
Just walking around the property is a spiritual experience because of the beauty and serene nature of it; however, if you feel like you’re needing a little more pampering and rejuvenation, it will be found at the resort spa, The Bathhouse. The Spa is situated amongst the oaks with fireplaces, and quiet pavilions with outdoor garden showers and private soaking tubs. The treatments incorporate ingredients indigenous to the region and take advantage of the bounty of the local area incorporating milk, nuts, honey, fruits and grapes as the basis for all body masks and exfoliations.
Other amenities on the property include a yoga deck, several hiking trails and the main swimming pool overlooking the vineyards.
Dining
Calistoga Ranch’s private restaurant, the Lakehouse, is exclusively open to the resort’s guests and lodge owners. The casual elegance of the restaurant is welcoming and the setting is nestled among the oaks with glass walls blurring the line between the indoors and outdoors. The expansive decks with large fireplaces overlook Lake Lommel where guests can enjoy dining under the stars.
The property has an on-site vineyard and private wine label and offers guests the opportunity to share and participate in the process of wine tasting, and winemaking by learning the art of pruning, joining in the harvest and the crush.
The property also offers special events in their Wine Cave, which is also a great location for wedding parties and private dinners.
What about Fido?
To say this property is dog-friendly is an understatement. My two 100lb German Shepherds came along for the ride on this trip and were ecstatic to find two fluffy beds, bowls, and dog treats in a wine bottle awaiting them. Needless to say, they made themselves at home quite quickly and enjoyed hanging out on the deck.
Summary
The Napa Region offers too much to list in a few sentences but know that you will not be bored here, even if you are not a wine lover. The wineries are world famous here, however, this area is also well known for its healing waters and spas, adorable downtown shopping, golf and so much more. I highly suggest placing this area on your travel itinerary and the Calistoga Ranch would be an excellent choice to call home for a few days.
If you would like more information on this property or help in booking a stay, please contact me using the contact box below.
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