Brannan Cottage Inn
Napa Valley, California, United States
Built by Calistoga town founder Samuel Brannan. Warm and welcoming Brannan Cottage Inn is the last remaining 1860 resort cottage still in its original location, and has been lovingly restored. Its historic past blends seamlessly with modern amenities, and provides an ideal base for exploring Napa Valley wine country.
- Dana Rebmann, travel writer
Location
Brannan Cottage Inn is located steps off Calistoga’s main street, Lincoln Avenue. The city’s downtown area, with an assortment of restaurants, wine tasting rooms, and shops, is just a few blocks’ walk away. Calistoga is famous for its hot mineral springs and mud baths, and there are a number of spas within walking distance for those interested in getting dirty. However, the dozens of nearby wineries tend to be the area’s most popular attractions. A rental car is a necessity, as there is no public transportation.
Style & character
This was one of the first buildings in Calistoga to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The property artfully blends historic charm with the expectations of modern travellers. Functioning Victorian décor coexists in rooms with colourful Art Deco wallpaper, USB ports, and speedy Wi-Fi. It’s quiet, regardless of the time of day, and guests can sit outside under an old Siberian elm tree, and feel like they have the property all to themselves.
Service & facilities
Staff are friendly and happy to help guests make the most of their time in Napa Valley wine country. Those interested in a famous Calistoga mud bath or massage can take advantage of a guest discount at a spa less than half a mile away. Guests are also welcome to use the hot springs pool and whirlpool at Brannan Cottage Inn’s sister property, UpValley Inn & Hot Springs, just a quarter of a mile away. Bike rentals can be arranged for visitors who prefer to explore on two wheels instead of four.
- Parking
- Wi-Fi
Rooms
Brannan Cottage Inn has six rooms. Four are located in the historic main cottage, and two are steps away in a second, smaller building, added to the property in the 1940s. Both Deluxe King rooms in the separate building have a private entrance, deck and gas fireplace. They also have a contemporary feel and unique colour scheme – room 5 has gold hues; room 6, silver. Historic rooms have a king or queen bed, and are accessed by the cottage’s wraparound porch. Rooms in the historic cottage have Victorian-style furnishings, but are cozy and comfortable, not stodgy.
All rooms offer a long list of amenities including an in-room illy Espresso machine, mini fridge with freezer, Frette linens, robes, towels, a television with Netflix and Amazon Instant Video access, and bedside USB and plug sockets. Bathrooms have heated ceramic tile floors, marble accents, and rainfall shower heads.
Food & drink
There is no restaurant on-site, but there are many Calistoga eateries within walking distance, and staff are happy to recommend their favourites, and help with reservations if necessary. A complimentary, locally sourced, continental breakfast is served daily from 8am to 10.30am, in the lobby. Selections include pastries, fresh fruit, made-to-order smoothies, coffee and tea.
Value for money
Double rooms from $259 (£200) year-round. Breakfast included. Free Wi-Fi and parking. Guests can also take advantage of the Calistoga Shuttle. It provides on-demand transportation service within Calistoga city limits. No advanced reservations are required. Passes are attached to guest room key rings.
Access for guests with disabilities?
One ADA-compliant room.
Family-friendly?
Families are welcome, but the property is best suited to adults.