By Fran Endicott Miller

It’s natural to think of the Napa Valley as one ‘place.’ But the 30 north to south miles that comprise this verdant valley feature distinct towns, each with individual personalities. There’s Yountville with its Michelin-starred cuisine, Rutherford with its concentration of Cabernet producers, and St. Helena with its quaint downtown shopping district. To the north, Calistoga encourages guests to slow down and unwind. The historic town’s official motto is ‘Relax, you’re in Calistoga,’ a directive easily followed thanks to its famous mud baths and geothermal pools, such as those found at Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort.

Calistoga is definitely having ‘a moment’ thanks to its natural hot springs Once considered slightly passé and definitely old school, ‘taking the waters’ is cool again. Millennials are discovering what their parents and grandparents well knew – that the healthful benefits of Calistoga’s naturally occurring geothermal pools are tangible. But only a few spots in town are provided the privilege of tapping into those naturally occurring waters, and Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort is one of them.

Family owned and operated since 1975, the resort is a Mediterranean-esque refuge within the larger oasis of Calistoga. It features three geothermal pools and an on-site spa, The Baths at Roman Spa, at which some of the best local healers are dedicated to the health and wellness of guests. Located just a block off of Calistoga’s main street and within walking and biking distance of the town’s galleries, shops, restaurants and tasting rooms, the resort’s wellness offerings – as well as its bucolic grounds featuring a barbecue patio, multitude of sitting areas, and well appointed rooms – make it the home-away-from-home choice for repeat visitors who value its varied amenities. 60 rooms in 14 varying types provide choice for families, couples, and girlfriend getaways. A select collection of rooms feature luxurious bedding, cozy robes and slippers, and glass walk-in showers; two rooms feature luxurious dual-sided fireplaces and two person, geothermal Jacuzzi tubs. 

“Treatments at our boutique spa are a great way to round out your wine country trip, as it’s the perfect spot to rejuvenate and recharge amidst a wine and cuisine focused getaway,'' said spokesperson Elyse Quast. “We provide an authentic Calistoga mud bath experience with an incredible staff of healers dedicated and focused on the guest’s health and wellness. And there is no denying, it’s fun to get a little dirty too!”  

The spa offers facials, massage, and non-segregated mud and mineral baths, meaning couples can enjoy their mud bath, shower, and mineral bath together within one private room – a Calistoga anomaly. The large outdoor pool serves as a central and convivial gathering spot and is kept at a refreshing 92° – 96°F. A large indoor pool is kept at 100°F, and a small, adults-only outdoor pool runs at 104°F. 

Quast reveals her ideal day at The Baths at Roman Spa, “Upon arrival, I recommend a soak in the pools prior to a mud bath experience, and then a massage. It’s the perfect combo; mud baths naturally pull toxins and detoxify the body while relaxing muscles. There is simply no better form of relaxation. Then, head out for dinner at one of the great local restaurants, or grill your own meal in our barbecue area. After dinner, enjoy local wines and conversation around and in the pool, or within the beautiful gardens that are seasonally landscaped. It’s special here – it’s a quaint, charming oasis.”

Sam's General Store

Travel Tip: For breakfast, walk over to newly opened Sam’s General Store at Brannan Cottage Inn where you’ll find gourmet coffee and pastries, and a charming fireplace-warmed living room in which to enjoy them. 

For the requisite wine tasting, visit Picayune Cellars, also within walking distance of Roman Spa. Within her whimsical retail environment (where you’ll find the perfect gift for anyone on your list), proprietor Claire Ducrocq Weinkauf shares with guests her small lot varietals and her passion for winemaking.