Calistoga

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Calistoga is the original home of the Wappo band of indigenous people who thrived in this area throughout the 1700s, before and during the Spanish occupation. 

The first non-native Americans began to settle in the 1840s, led by Samuel Brannan, California’s first millionaire, the state’s first newspaper magnate, and builder of the Cliff House in San Francisco. Brannan, originally from the East Coast, thought of Calistoga as the West Coast version of the famous Saratoga hot springs in New York State. His plan was to build a similar resort to accommodate the rich and famous from San Francisco. The resort was opened in 1862, located on what is now the Indian Springs Resort.

In 1868, with the completion of the railroad, Calistoga became the hub of transportation for the upper Napa Valley. (California’s second oldest depot still stands on Lincoln Avenue.) The town’s economy was based on silver and mercury mining, agriculture, and tourism; except for the mining, these are still the lifeblood of the local economy.

In 1924, Giuseppe Musante began selling Calistoga Sparkling Mineral Water. The company, purchased by new owners in the 1970s, continues to thrive.

Calistoga offers visitors a flash of the past in a relaxed and comfortable environment. The area has been used as a set for films and the famous writer Robert Louis Stevenson spent his honeymoon here.

Dr. John Wilkinson (1914-2004) of Calistoga is the father of our modern West Coast concept of “spa treatments,” a combination of the usual treatments, alternative therapies, and preventative medical theories. To Wilkinson’s and Brannan’s credit, spas remain what the area is most famous for. The combination of volcanic ash for mud baths, rejuvenating mineral baths, and massages will uplift your body and spirit.

After a visit to Calistoga, you’ll understand why famous people like Natalia Makarova, Mrs. Caspar Weinberger, Mrs. Charles Crocker, Mrs. George Romney, and Rudolf Nureyev were all fans of “Doc Wilkinson” and his alternative therapy and preventative medical theories.

Modern-day Calistoga is still a small town of about 5,500 people that prides itself on its beautiful geography, rich history, relaxed vibe, rejuvenating qualities, and superb wines.