Relaxation and Romance at Mount View Hotel and Spa
Finding the perfect accommodations can ensure a trip’s success and create lasting memories. On a recent romantic trip to Calistoga, I chose the Mount View Hotel and Spa. What impressed me most was their focus on relaxation, with plenty of romance packages from which to choose. Their suites are individually decorated with a separate sitting room, comfortable beds, luxury linens, and cozy robes. The artists’ cottages have an added bit of romance with a patio for sipping wine and a private outdoor Jacuzzi tub under the stars. Regardless of the room choice, accommodations include breakfast in bed.
There are many spa treatments and packages from which to choose, but one of the more romantic is the Couple’s Indulgence: 25-minute hydrotherapy mud bath and 50-minute couple’s massage. Many people don’t like traditional mud baths, which makes this a good option. The bathtub (for two) is filled with herb-infused mud. You receive all of the benefits of the detoxification of the mud treatment without feeling claustrophobic or experiencing the sulfur smell. Instead you can enjoy lavender- or pine-scented mud. After a quick shower, it was followed by a heavenly massage.
After experiencing the treatments, the outdoor pool was the perfect place to engage in more relaxation. During Hollywood’s Golden Age, celebrities would flock to the Mount View Hotel and Calistoga’s spas. It’s easy to envision the glamorous parties that were held at the pool, heated to a comfortable 84 degrees. As the sun began to set, it was time for a quick dip in the outdoor Jacuzzi before enjoying a glass of wine on the private patio to celebrate a relaxing day.
Mount View Hotel is celebrating 100Years of Hospitality this year. Never fear, this beautiful and historic property has modern amenities to make your stay comfortable. The hotel received a face-lift a few years ago with guest room upgrades, and the property is looking better than ever. Rooms have comfortable feather beds, down duvets, an assortment of comfortable pillows, soft terry robes, and Aveda bath products.
The hotel was voted the Best in the North Bay by the Bohemian, and general manager Andrea DeTrinidad brought home the third-place award of “Hotelier of the Year” 2011 by the world-wide Boutique Lifestyle and Lodging Association (BLLA). You don’t have to feel guilty about enjoying the luxury – they are part of the Green Hotels Association and have implemented sustainable operating practices to reduce energy consumption. Celebrate their Happy 100 with a package offering: Stay two nights and get the third night free, complimentary Cabernet tasting at seven local wineries, commemorative 100 Years of Hospitality Wine Glasses, and breakfast in bed. Take advantage of their myriad of spa and romance packages.
Mount View Hotel and Spa is the official sponsor of the Napa Valley Film Festival, which is fitting since it has entertained film icons during its storied past. Legends such as Carole Lombard and Jean Harlow and several first ladies have visited.
Dine at one of the two popular restaurants on property. Barolo, a chic Italian Trattoria, serves fresh, local ingredients along with local wine by the glass or bottle. It has a welcoming vibe in its lounge-like space. Happy hour specials are quite extraordinary, with $2 cocktails. JoLe offers a farm-to-table menu that changes daily. Medium plates encourage sharing and sampling the variety of delicious choices. After a full day of relaxation, dining and drinking wine, the private Jacuzzi under the stars beckoned.
Details: Mount View Hotel and Spa is located in the heart of downtown Calistoga at 1457 Lincoln Avenue. Contact: Guest Services Concierge: 800-816-6877 or 707-942-6877; Mount View Spa Direct: 707-942-5789; Fax: 707-942-6904; Email: Relax @ MountViewHotel.com
