The Francis House

Dating back to 1886, The Francis House is a hidden gem that’s steeped in the rich history of Calistoga.

As you approach The Francis House, passing through its majestic gate and pulling into the circular driveway, you’ll instantly feel transported to a wine country oasis, infused with a touch of Parisian elegance. At the heart of its driveway, a grand fountain takes center stage, playfully adorned with charming frog motifs.

Upon entering the house, your gaze leads you through a central hall to a serene swimming pool, a tranquil centerpiece of the property.  The outdoor area is embellished with flourishing citrus trees and a meticulously tended herb garden.

The house was meticulously restored to showcase its original stone walls, an impressive 21 inches thick. Spread across three opulent floors there are five guest rooms, each uniquely adorned with Murano and Baccarat chandeliers. Each room has a spacious bathroom clad in Carrara marble and boasts a Toto toilet and Dyson hair dryer catering to the modern traveler’s every need.

The transformation of this historic Calistoga treasure into a lavish, luxury inn was a true labor of love undertaken by husband and wife team, Richard and Dina Dwyer. With Dina’s expertise as an interior designer and Richard’s background as a real estate developer and general contractor, made them the perfect team for this intricate restoration project.

Mornings at The Francis House are a delightful affair. Start your day with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee and a gourmet breakfast. Whether you indulge in a freshly made Belgian waffle or a delightful popover, the kitchen exudes creativity with each dish presented. The communal breakfast table in the garden was elegantly set each morning and offered guests a unique opportunity to engage with fellow guests, fostering lively conversations.

After breakfast, guests can soak in the warmth of the heated pool or unleash your inner athlete on the tennis court. Personally, I found solace in lounging on the sun beds by the pool, immersing myself in the architectural beauty that enveloped me. Guests also have the option to recharge in the infrared sauna and salt room.

The Francis House is conveniently located within walking distance of downtown Calistoga, a vibrant hub of art galleries, restaurants, spas, and shopping. Guests can also venture out to explore wineries, go hiking, or indulge in a mud bath at a local spa.

A stay at The Francis House is a journey through time, seamlessly melding historical charm with modern luxury. Today, it finds itself on the National Register of Historic Places.

At The Francis House, one can indulge in the finer things in life, forget their everyday worries, and immerse themselves in a wine country state of mind.