Play: Relax at the remodeled Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs.
Since 1952, Californians have flocked to Dr. Wilkinson’s for the therapeutic mud baths and laid-back, Calistoga vibe. Now, that vibe comes with an updated spa, renovated midcentury modern design and three geothermal mineral pools. The original neon “Doc is in” sign and classic 1952 Buick Special are still there, but the new iteration, Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs, founded by wellness practitioner John “Doc” Wilkinson and his wife, Edy, features 50 renovated guest rooms and a new outdoor restaurant, House of Better, helmed by chef Trevor Logan, formerly of San Francisco’s Green Chile Kitchen.
ROOMS » The resort offers a variety of options, including a one-bedroom bungalow; three Spa Cottages featuring clawfoot tubs for soaking; a Peloton room for fitnessminded travelers; and a restored 1924-vintage Victorian bunkhouse that sleeps 15. Our pet-friendly room with two beds, a spacious bathroom and Zen-minded touches — never knew I needed an essential oil diffuser until this stay — was perfectly suitable for two to four guests.
ZZZ’S >> Loved the comfy queen beds. Not too soft, not too firm, with multiple pillow types for every neck and soft, 300-thread count sheets. The two-ply gauze robes by Parachute? Nextlevel cozy.
SPLASHES >> Oh. So. Many. The guest room showers are dreamy. The warmer of the three mineral pools feels like therapy. In keeping with the water theme, the retro lobby features a water tower so you can refill your free insulated water bottles with natural Calistoga spring water.
EXTRAS >> House of Better. Logan’s New Mexico-inspired cuisine is fresh (get the flat enchiladas or a slice of green chile apple pie) and you can eat under the misters, on colorful Adirondacks or at the pool (with green chile lemonade, of course). That expansive outdoor area also has hammocks and swings to keep things whimsical and relaxing — just what “Doc” ordered.
Rooms start at $279. 1507 Lincoln Ave., Calistoga; drwilkinson.com