Calistoga
If you ever wanted to indulge in a mud bath, now's the time to do it. There are several spas in Calistoga that offers this unique cleansing and detoxifying experience. Dr. Wilkenson's is one of them and they also have affordable overnight accommodations for the deeply relaxed. Golden Haven Hot Springs Spa is more middle of the road as far as pricing. Couples enjoy mud baths in private treatment rooms featuring the mud bath, hot springs, Jacuzzi tub soak and blanket wrap. Plus, they offer massages and herbal facials. For something more upscale, try the Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa for the ultimate experience.
Connect with your inner-self this season with a yoga and meditation retreat at the Yoga Farm in Grass Valley. They offer a variety of special workshops, from vegetarian cooking and chanting to juice fasting and karma yoga. You'll spend the nights in your own exclusive cabin, and you'll appreciate their spotless facilities. The Yoga Farm even offers programs for the kids. “Om,” anyone?
The rugged Pacific coast beckons. Sunlight filters through the eucalyptus trees and grassy knolls. The sea wind clarifies your thoughts as dreams turn into reality. It's the unspoiled beauty of Mendocino County. There is so much to do there. Visit the Point Arena Lighthouse and the B. Bryant African Hoofed Animals Preserve. It's quite unexpected to see a zebra grace the coastline and antelopes and kudu grazing on the hillside. As far as accommodations, you'll be especially pampered at the luxurious Heritage House in Little River ($600 per night and up). Their suites feature a fully stocked wine cellar along with crystal decanters filled with the finest cognac and brandy. Restaurants? Café Beaujolais and the Phoenix Restaurant both offer primo cuisine for the most discerning of palates. Make sure you hit the boutiques in downtown Mendocino.
You certainly don't have to travel very far from home to enjoy some of the good things in life.
