Hotel at a Glance: Carlin Country Cottages

Carlin Country Cottages offers private, peaceful bungalows and relaxing mineral pools within walking distance of Calistoga’s gourmet restaurants and hot-spring spas. Just beyond town, you’ll find the dozens of vineyards and wineries that have made California’s Napa Valley such an attractive tourism magnet.

• Hot springs feed the hotel’s outdoor mineral pool as well as the jetted tubs in some suites.
• Explore the area using the property’s free shuttle service.
• Complimentary coffee, tea, and muffins are available throughout the day.
• Stay connected with free WiFi.

Calistoga, California: Down-to-Earth Hamlet in Northern Napa Valley

The story goes like this: 19th-century developer Samuel Brannan wanted to create a West Coast version of Saratoga Springs (renowned at the time for its mineral spas), but he had been drinking when he made the announcement and so the name came out garbled as the “Calistoga of Sarifornia.” This origin myth sounds a little fishy, but nevertheless, Brannan’s vision of creating a relaxing and therapeutic Napa Valley getaway was eventually realized. Thanks to the area’s natural hot springs, a slew of spas sprang up, offering restorative mineral soaks and mud baths. You can still find many such businesses peppered among the restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries lining Calistoga’s quaint, quiet main street, which is set against a backdrop of rolling hills.

Those hills are home to some of Napa Valley’s more than 400 wineries, many of which lie within a short drive of downtown Calistoga. The curious wine lover can choose from a wide array of vineyard experiences, ranging from tours to tastings at wineries modeled on English castles and Tuscan villas. One word of warning: many of these places require reservations, so be sure to book in advance.

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