travel
Calistoga:
A GEM OF A TOWN
by joseph schmitt
On the north end of Napa Valley is the picturesque
town of Calistoga, California. Famous for its nearby
wineries, great food, hot mineral waters and artistic
offerings, this little gem of a town seems to have
retained much of its charm of yesteryear. The walk-
able downtown and surrounding area is also fun to
explore on bike as you take in the small town’s pro-
gressive vibe. It’s hard to miss the friendly demeanor
and an overriding holistic approach to eating and
Inside Pride Mountain Vineyards Cave
drinking, as well as relaxing and exploring—all such
things we travelers live for.
Where to stay:
Solage (solagecalistoga.com) is a new brand from
Auberge Resorts that debuted in Calistoga in 2007.
The accommodations are cozy cottage-like studios
that scatter the property amidst native grasses
and large oaks. The stylish communal atmosphere
found throughout the resort’s 22 sprawling acres is
complimented by the beach cruisers found outside
each studio. The 130-foot adult swimming pool
and hot tub mirror the nearby family pool with hot
tub and cabanas. The Yoga & Movement Studio is a
beautiful addition to the state-of-the-art gym, while
nearby hiking, biking and jogging trails round out a
balanced fitness menu. With less than 90 suites and
studios on such a large, open property, the privacy
and exclusivity one finds here comes at a fraction of
the price of her more famous sister hotels.
Chateau de Vie (cdvnapavalley.com) brings a
touch of Bordeaux to Napa Valley with its quaint bed
Pride Mountain Vineyards in Napa Valley Owner / Chef Felipe at Chateau de Vie
and breakfast accommodations and surrounding
Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards. Proprietors Felipe herbs from an extensive onsite culinary garden, and The husband-and-wife team (chef and pastry chef,
Barragan and Peter Weatherman deliver personal has brought his southern style of cooking by way of respectively) at JoLé (jolerestaurant.com) shows us
touches, such as a freshly prepared seasonal break- an outdoor smoker. His new interpretation of “wine what a restaurant should be—independently owned
fast and afternoon cheese and wine service. Peace- country cuisine” is enjoyed in a decidedly relaxed and operated with updated family recipes and food
ful, understated elegance abounds on lush grounds, and social environment, either poolside, on the patio that comes right from the farm to the table. Their
shaded outdoor patio dining and a heated pool and or inside the bistro’s communal dining room and bar. wine menu offers three sizes from which to choose:
spa. Located just minutes from downtown Calistoga, A popular gathering place for local winemakers and by the glass, a small carafe, or full bottle. You’ll also
the intimate property with its first-class amenities is other residents, Sharp’s delectable offerings at Solbar find a nice selection of Old World (European) wines
a prime choice for romantic endeavors. pair nicely with lively conversation and meeting new as well as New World and Napa Valley selections. Save
friends. room for desert and consider pairing the Bing Cherry
Where to dine and drink: A common approach to cooking in Calistoga is and Almond Turnovers with a Sonoma County Port
Brandon Sharp, executive chef at Solbar (solageca- the use of fresh and local ingredients. You won’t find or the Coconut Cream Pie with a Riesling Spätlese.
listoga.com/dining), harvests vegetables, fruits and much in the way of fast food or chain restaurants here.
54 RAGE monthly | september 2009
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