A Brief History on the Town of Calistoga
The hot springs in Calistoga were first discovered by the Wappo tribe at the base of Mount St. Helena more than 500 years ago. Because indigenous people were always in tune with their environments and had a deep connection with all the elements around them, the healing properties of these hot springs were well known to them long before European settlers arrived.
As time went on, word about the “healing waters” quickly spread and soon enough, American settlers were quickly choosing to settle in nearby communities of what would soon be Calistoga. This then attracted more settlers and visitors to the area, creating the foundation for the development of a must-visit destination. It wasn’t until Samuel Brannan, a prominent businessman and journalist, played a key role in establishing Calistoga as a hot springs resort destination. After visiting the area in the mid-19th century, Brannan invested heavily in it with the vision of creating a resort similar to Saratoga Springs in New York but with the added allure of California’s climate and scenery. His efforts helped him manifest Calistoga as a hot springs resort destination.
As the community progressed and the California Pacific Railroad was established, Calistoga was finally founded in 1868, and was already known as a tourist destination largely because of its hot springs. Over the years, Calistoga has maintained its reputation as a retreat for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation at its many spas and hot springs. The city’s charm is enhanced by its commitment to preserving its 19th-century atmosphere, as seen in its ban on fast-food franchises, and its support for a walkable downtown area that allows easy access to its hot springs and other attractions. When you walk through this town, you’ll 100% feel the charm and spirit that has graciously carried the town’s integrity throughout the years.
The hot springs of Calistoga have played such a huge role in the city’s history, and it’s a no brainer that you have to soak in at least one of them and have a spa day in this town.
Where to Stay in Calistoga: Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort Review
To get your feet wet (no pun intended) and get to know more about Calistoga hot springs, I recommend booking a stay or a daytime spa pass at the Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort, located just steps away from downtown Calistoga.
Picture this: checking into your room, going to the spa for a mud bath treatment and massage, spending the afternoon soaking in the geothermal mineral water pools, and then having a hearty dinner in downtown.
This quaint boutique hotel has all the basics that you need on a quick weekend getaway, minus the gym. Embracing a Tuscan elegant vibe with a California twist, the Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort offers guests a unique fusion of relaxation and luxury. The resort also offers a handful of outdoor areas, where you can bask in the sun and read a book in between soaks.
The Spa: Experiencing a Mudbath at Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort
There’s no better way to experience your first ever mud bath than at Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort.
Side note: I now fully understand why Louis Litt was obsessed with mudding, because after my experience, I am so hooked.
The Mudbath Treatment was such an interesting and memorable experience. From soaking in a unique blend of volcanic ash, peat moss, and geothermic waters, this 55 minute experience guarantees muscle relaxation and joint relief, detoxification, exfoliation, and improved circulation, just to name a few.
After soaking in the mud for 20 minutes, you take a geothermic bath where you’re given a clay mask and sugar scrub to indulge in during your soak.
Once finished, you’re then taken to a cooling room where a cold towel is placed on your head and cold cucumbers are laid on your eyes.
I loved our facilitator, Kate, who made the process so fun and comfortable. She made us feel like we were in great hands.
I absolutely recommend anyone to do this. You feel so alive after and your skin is just irresistibly soft.
During my mud soak, I rubbed the mud all over my face to really get the full benefits. I just know I’ll be glowing for days.
Swimming Through Geothermal Pools at Roman Spa Resort
The Roman Spa Resort and Spa offers 3 geothermal pools (all at varying degrees) and saunas (M & F separated) for all its guests. If you love basking in the sunshine, swimming in water that won’t dry your skin out but instead enrich it and give it a beautiful glow, and a peaceful ambient setting, this is the place for you.
There are many Calistoga spas that I would love to try out after this, and I can honestly say this was the best first time experience ever.
Calistoga Hot Springs Resort to Experience: Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort Review
The hospitality at Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort and Spa was incredible and I look forward to returning. I seriously cannot recommend this spa enough. If you’re looking to experience Napa Valley hot springs this season, this is it.
