UPDATE 10.2.20: Parts of Calistoga Ranch were burned in the Glass Fire in late September. The resort is closed until further notice. 2020 is really the most awful year.
Earlier this summer, we took our pandemic-induced cabin fever to an actual cabin in Santa Barbara. El Capitan Canyon was a beautiful, socially distant, safe, and much-needed break for everyone. Indeed, the toddler still asks to go back to the cabin nearly every day.
As we consider making another quick escape before summer ends, we're dreaming of Calistoga Ranch, an Auberge resort in Napa Valley. The property checks off two important boxes for us—we can drive there (a long drive from LA but still doable) and we can stay in one of 50 free-standing lodges that are perfect for social distancing. Of course, it doesn't hurt that these are luxury lodges outfitted with plush king beds, modern bathrooms, private teak decks, and even an outdoor shower.
The starter lodge, The Deluxe category, can sleep three people, so families of four or more will need to bump up to a one-bedroom or two-bedroom lodge. For those who are considering a multi-gen getaway, Calistoga Ranch also has vacation rentals too.
As for things to do, much of this has been compromised by Covid-19, especially the spa services. However, hiking through the private trails nearby is still doable as is biking and forest by dipping into a private mineral pool on property. Normally there's a Little Ranchers program for children under 12, but these activities can all be arranged privately now. However, the pools are still open. (You can read more of the hotel's health practices here.)
Nearby Napa Valley is largely open for exploration, dining, and shopping, although businesses, restaurants and wineries are restricted to outdoor set-ups. Word is the Napa Valley Wine Train will start chugging again on August 1.
Alas, these luxury lodges remain at luxury prices, perhaps even more so given their free-standing status. Expect to pay around a $1,000 a night for a Deluxe lodge.
BUT if you book through me and Beyond Travel, I'm able to get you a few goodies to sweeten the stay including:
- Full breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom
- Welcome amenity
- $100 USD Resort credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early check-in/late check-out subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Additionally, Calistoga Ranch is running a few specials that offer even more resort credit for your stay which can be used on private dining on your patio and more. If you're interested, email me your dates and I'll get started on checking the rates right away. For more about my travel services, go here.
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