Welcome to Calistoga and St. Helena California where wellness meets indulgence. Discover luxurious spas, scenic vineyards, and gourmet dining as you embark on a journey that uplifts your body and spirit. Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, these gems promise to transform your vacation into an unforgettable wellness retreat. Join me as I explore the best of Calistoga and St. Helena, where every moment is designed to help you live well, thrive mindfully, and travel with purpose.

“Napa Valley is a haven of elegance and wellness, where each vineyard and spa invites you to savor life’s finest moments.”

— LiveThriveTravel.com

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Prioritize Wellness

Prioritize your wellness in Calistoga and St. Helena California by indulging in wellness activities. Start your wellness journey with a yoga session. Unwind at top-tier spas, or enjoy fresh, farm-to-table dining that emphasizes organic and locally sourced ingredients. The mild, Mediterranean climate allows for outdoor activities year-round, from scenic hikes to tranquil vineyard strolls.

Highlights and Hidden Gems

St. Helena is a haven for food and wine enthusiasts. Tour some of Napa Valley’s most prestigious wineries, participate in exclusive tastings, and dine at Michelin-starred restaurants. Visit landmarks like the Culinary Institute of America for culinary demonstrations or cooking classes. Outdoor adventurers will love the hiking trails, scenic bike routes, and *hot air balloon rides providing breathtaking views of lush vineyards and rolling hills. In essence, St. Helena offers travelers a harmonious blend of luxury, wellness, and adventure, making it the ideal destination to live, thrive, and travel.

• Bothe-Napa Valley State Park: Perfect for hiking, picnicking, and immersing yourself in nature. Yoga classes are occasionally held in these serene surroundings. The park is located 5 miles north of St. Helena and 4 miles south of Calistoga on Highway 29/128
• Elmshaven Historic Site: A lesser-known historic landmark offering a peaceful setting for reflection and mindfulness. Elmshaven is an easy 1.5 hour drive from San Francisco and about 15 minutes from the Napa Valley City of St. Helena 

Mindful Restaurants and Cultural Experiences

• Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch: This farm-to-table restaurant incorporates sustainably-farmed ingredients. Enjoy a meal knowing you’re supporting eco-friendly practices.
• Napa Valley Olive Oil Manufactory: Family-owned since 1931, this gem offers an array of locally produced olive oils. A tasting session here feels spiritual. Located two blocks east of Highway 29 behind The Charter Oak restaurant, the shop, housed in an old white barn, has sold oil, salumi, cheeses, and imported Italian foods since the 1930s. Externally nondescript, you’d never guess it’s an Italian specialty foods haven. Inside, your senses come alive with the sight of walls covered in historic business cards, the aroma of creamy cheeses and cured meats, the feel of the original stone olive mill, and the sound of old ladies conversing in Italian. – Matt Villano

• Culinary Institute of America: Engage in cooking classes that focus on wholesome, organic ingredients, embodying the essence of mindful eating.
• Beringer Vineyards: The oldest continually operating winery in Napa Valley.

Shop for Mindful Treasures

Artefact Design & Salvage: Find unique pieces that enhance your home’s ambiance. Choose from sustainably sourced furniture, decor items, and artisanal crafts to promote mindfulness at home.

Eco-Friendly Journey

Travel Sustainably for wellness in Calistoga and St. Helena California. Opt for biking or walking when exploring downtown St. Helena. Many attractions are within a short distance, making it easy to reduce your carbon footprint. Exercise your heart within the best road cycling routes around St. Helena. In celebration of the California sunshine, St. Helena “encourages visitors to make the most of our walkable community, and fully experience St. Helena one step at a time” with 10K Steps in St. Helena.

Budget-Friendly Activities

• Budget friendly Wine Tasting: Some wineries like Sutter Home offer tastings under $20, allowing you to enjoy the Napa Valley experience without breaking the bank. Stay on the lookout for Napa Valley’s Summer Wine Passport. This past summer’s passport ran from June 1 – Aug  31.
• Visit Local Markets: The St. Helena Farmers Market is perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Buy fresh, local produce, and engage with the community.
• Public Art Walks (Summer): Take a self-guided tour of St. Helena’s public art, an enriching experience that’s easy on the wallet.

Calistoga is a charming town located in the northern part of Napa Valley, renowned for its natural hot springs, mud baths, and wellness spas. It offers a unique combination of relaxation, natural beauty, and top-notch wellness experiences. The town is surrounded by rolling vineyards and scenic landscapes, providing a serene backdrop for rejuvenation and self-care.

History and Highlights

Founded by Samuel Brannan in 1859, Calistoga quickly became a sought-after destination for its geothermal hot springs. Today, it’s cherished for its old-world charm, artisanal shops, and eco-friendly attractions. Founded in 1854, St. Helena has retained its historic charm with well-preserved architecture and a down-to-earth vibe. The town’s long history of agriculture and winemaking sets the perfect backdrop for an immersive escape focused on wellness and sustainability.

Wellness Experiences

Hot Springs:

• Calistoga Hot Springs Resort: Known for its geothermal hot springs pools, offering varying temperatures for a soothing soak.
• Indian Springs Resort: Features mineral pools heated by natural geysers, providing a relaxing and therapeutic experience.

Mud Baths:

• Golden Haven Hot Springs: Offers individual and couples mud baths, where you can experience the therapeutic benefits of volcanic ash mud.
• Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs: A historic spa offering signature mud baths combined with mineral water soaks.

Spa Treatments:

• Solage, an Auberge Resort: Offers a full-service spa with a variety of treatments, including massage therapy, facials, and detoxifying body treatments.
• Mount View Hotel & Spa: A wellness hotel offering customized spa packages, including massages, hydrotherapy, and wellness rituals.

Fitness & Wellness Activities:

• Yoga Classes: Numerous resorts and spas offer yoga sessions, either indoors in well-equipped studios or outdoors in beautiful settings.
• Hiking & Biking: Explore nearby trails like the Oat Hill Mine Trail for hiking or rent bikes to tour the picturesque Napa Valley vineyards.
• Wine Tasting: While primarily known for its wellness, Calistoga’s proximity to Napa Valley’s vineyards allows for wine tasting tours and vineyard walks.

Healthy Dining:

• Farm-to-Table Cuisine: Many local restaurants emphasize fresh, organic ingredients sourced from nearby farms, enhancing the wellness experience.
• Vegetarian & Vegan Options: Numerous eateries offer health-conscious menus with vegetarian and vegan options to complement your wellness journey.

Calistoga’s combination of natural geothermal resources, luxury wellness spas, and scenic beauty makes it a prime destination for those seeking a comprehensive wellness experience. Whether you’re looking to soak in hot springs, indulge in spa treatments, or enjoy healthy dining, Calistoga offers a tranquil retreat for mind, body, and soul.

Calistoga and St. Helena not only offers wellness and serene landscapes but also an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life while promoting living well. Both are renowned for their exceptional vineyards and wine tasting experiences. While you’re indulging in the local flavors, it’s also interesting to explore how sustainability plays a role in winemaking. For more insights, take a virtual trip to the Finger Lakes region with our article on Sustainable Travel in the Finger Lakes to discover sustainable winemaking practices in another famous wine region.”