Vintage Napa Valley - hotels and restaurants - Recipe - Directory

Sunset, Oct, 2000 by Andrew Baker, Lora J. Finnegan

We found eight attractive spots with rooms starting at that price or less (for midweek). You can get better deals in the off-season (November through February). However, some of these lodges are so popular you must book months ahead to get a weekend date.

Calistoga Spa Hot Springs. It combines the comforts of a nice motel (all rooms have kitchenettes) with resort amenities (swimming pool, four mineral hot springs pools, spa treatments, fitness center). From $100. 1006 Washington St., Calistoga; 942-6269 or www.calistogaspa.com.

Carlin Cottages. Lovingly remodeled motor court-style cottages, updated with pool, outdoor whirlpool bath, and simple but charming furnishings. It's sedately set a few blocks off Calistoga's main drag. From $89. 1623 Lake St., Calistoga; 942-9102, (800) 734-4624, or www.carlincottages.com.

Comfort Inn Napa Valley North. A quiet location and touches like a mineral springs swimming pool raise this above a chain operation. From $85. 1865 Lincoln Ave., Calistoga; 942-9400 or (800) 228-5150.

El Bonita Motel. This 1930s art deco motel has nicely landscaped grounds and seems cozy and tucked away--even though it's right on the highway. From $119. 195 Main, St. Helena; 963-3216, (800) 541-3284, or www.elbonita.com.

Golden Haven Hot Springs Spa and Resort. This Calistoga stalwart has had a nip here and a tuck there and has emerged tastefully renovated. (The upstairs rooms are still being refurbished.) Unwind in a big mineral swimming pool or with spa treatments. From $75. 1713 Lake, Calistoga; 942-6793 or www.goldenhaven.com.

Hideaway Cottages. Big sycamores, lots of lawn, a large, heated mineral pool, and quaint cottages with kitchenettes make these side-street lodgings great for families--there's cable TV but no room phones. From $75. 1412 Fairway Ave., Calistoga; 942-4108 or www.hideawaycottages.com.

Mount View Hotel. The 1917 Mount View is both a national historic landmark and a tasteful spa hotel. Amenities here include mineral hot tub, continental breakfast, and a restaurant. From $125. 1457 Lincoln, Calistoga; 942-6877, (800) 816-6877, or www.mountviewhotel.com.

Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort. It's got a basic motel layout, but also a friendly staff, updated decor, palms around the pool, and an on-site spa. From $86. 1300 Washington, Calistoga; 942-4441, (888) 208-9448, or www.tales.com/romanspa/.> Napa Valley picnics

The most memorable Napa Valley meal could be one you assemble yourself. With its oak-studded meadows, rolling hills, and vast stock of first-class foodstuffs, Napa Valley may just be the picnic capital of the world. * Here we offer three picnic menus paired with varietals beyond the tried-and-true Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Prepare and pack the heart of the meal at home. (Use insulated containers to keep meat dishes cold; when serving, they should sit at room temperature no longer than two hours.) Stop along the way to pick up the accompaniments. * Among the valley's best places to purchase your picnic necessities--from artisan breads to salads to Napa Valley wines--are the four listed below. We also include two of the valley's best spots to spread out your picnic blanket. You may enjoy yourself so much, you'll decide to replicate this Napa Valley--inspired feast in your own garden. - Linda Lau Anusasananan