The doormats give visitors at Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa their first clue something a little different is waiting behind guest room doors. With phrases like “well hello there” and “hey good lookin’” it’s hard not to have a smile on your face as you wave the key card to gain entry.
Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa is located in Napa Valley, in its namesake, the town of Calistoga. In a tourist area where posh, luxury properties often seem to grab the spotlight, it’s put a fun twist on the wine country experience, making what’s old, new and cool again.
At the 1940s roadside motel, all 50 rooms and suites are inspired by vintage camper vans and the idea of the quirky and colorful American road trip. Bright, retro-styled rooms (Camper Kings and Camper Double Queens) feature either a king or two queen beds. Blue vintage-esque fabrics used for pillows and throws pop against white linens. Artwork ranges from framed cross-stitch pieces, to props guests are encouraged to use, like hula hoops.
Large cork boards in every room feature maps of the area and an assortment of old-school products available for purchase like playing cards, a Mad Libs® book, pocket-size Etch a Sketch®, and jump rope. Other fun touches include do not disturb signs inspired by those iconic tree automotive air fresheners.
Rooms include mini-refrigerators, some snacks the likes of pretzels and chips, and pour-over coffee and tea supplies. Tiled bathrooms feature single vanities and rainfall showers. Toiletries supplied by on-site MoonAcre Spa come in refillable containers, eliminating all of those little plastic bottles typically quickly bound for the trash.
Camper King Suites offer a creative banquette style seating spot that turns into a double bed.
The outdoor pool area features three mineral pools fed by geothermal hot springs located below property grounds. Temperatures range from 82 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Plans for an on-site restaurant are underway. Grab-and-go style items including yogurt, cheese, crackers, soft drinks and beer, are available in the lobby.
Located on the East end of Lincoln Avenue, the town’s main road, Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa is still a walkable distance to downtown’s many restaurants and shops.
If you’re traveling with a pampered pooch, doggie beds, treats, and bowls are available at the front desk. Guests can also check out a variety of board games in the lobby.
Camper King rooms range from $129 in low season, too $199 in high. But guests also have to factor in the daily $20 resort fee. It covers amenities like the mineral pools, pour-over coffee, tea, bottled water, in-room snacks refreshed daily, Wi-Fi, and parking. Calistoga Motor Lodge is a smoke-free property. Make your reservations online at the hotel website or an OTA such as Travelocity.
Review and photos by Dana Rebmann. Her stay was hosted by Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.