Solage Calistoga has only been open since summer 2007, but it’s already a favorite of NorthBay biz readers. This 22-acre Napa Valley retreat is located along the stunning Silverado Trail in the middle of Northern California’s Wine Country. Solage Calistoga offers resort guests a choice of 89 contemporary studios or suites, casual-but-gastronomically refined dining at Solbar and geothermal relaxation and a full-range of services at the 20,000-square-foot Spa Solage. “Our spa is getting noticed by local clientele, and many of our clients have become members of Club Solage,” says Karen Ray, spa director. Ray also notes that Solage Calistoga has become a destination getaway. With an emphasis on total well-being and indulgence, it’s no wonder people continue to come back—and spread the word about this spa lover’s dream locale.
“All our products are natural, and we use organic ingredients whenever possible,” says Ray. One signature treatment at the Bathhouse, the Mudslide, is a unique and modern approach to a traditional mud bath. Every batch is custom mixed, Ray explains. First, the guest chooses an essential oil that’s blended into a combination of California clay and South American volcanic ash. The mixture is then moistened with geothermal water straight from Solage’s tap. After the mud is applied to the client’s body, he or she relaxes in a private Mud Lounge heated to approximately 120-degrees for 25 minutes, letting it dry completely all the while drawing toxins out of the body. To cleanse the mud off, guests shower, then soak in a private geothermal mineral bath, followed by a power nap while reclined in a sound-vibration chair that sends musical vibrations through the body to provide restorative sound therapy.
The exfoliating organic fiji appletini is another popular treatment at the Spa Solage. Organic fiji apples are mixed with a sugar scrub and worked onto the guests’ skin to purify and smooth—a fat-free treat for almost all the senses. “It smells wonderful,” says Ray. The spa offers a full array of services and, after any treatment, guests have access to the eucalyptus steam room, the geothermal mineral pools and the water circuit (there’s a small fee for day guests to access the mineral pools). Throughout the year, Solage offers wellness, health and beauty retreats led by industry experts. Permanent and annual memberships are available, and locals have been joining to take advantage of the complimentary daily classes at the Yoga & Movement Studio and the state-of-the-art fitness facilities. Family yoga is a favorite, as is Pilates, spinning and boot camp.
If your spa treatments leave you famished, you can find amazing food onsite at the Solbar restaurant. In keeping with Solage’s focus on well-being, executive chef Brandon Sharp offers bistro fare with a two-sided menu. One side offers spectacular, fresh, healthful entrées and starters; the other side is filled with indulgent comfort foods—mix and match to satisfy your taste buds, waistline and soul. Sharp, who’s worked at such celebrated restaurants as San Francisco’s Gary Danko and Yountville’s The French Laundry, brings the elegant sophistication of his culinary past to this hip, cutting-edge eatery.
Whether you’re looking for a day of relaxation or an entire week of pleasure, Solage Calistoga has plenty of amenities to keep your pampered self satisfied.
