From the moment you see the 50's style neon sign, you know this is not a posh, snooty spa. The design of the building is pure 50's motel, but the rooms have been refurbished not long ago and are quite comfortable. Our room had a king-size bed (with lots of pillows and an attractive bedspread) and a refrigerator. My husband brought his road bicycle, and when he wheeled it into the room, the housekeeper rushed in with a sheet to put under it, but she was very nice about it.
Guests have access to the mineral pools -- there is a large indoor whirlpool, a hot (about 100°) outdoor pool, and a normal swimming pool temperature outdoor pool.
The motel is at the end of the main street of Calistoga, so it's easy to walk to shopping and restaurants. Spa packages are available that include room and spa treatments. And everyone who work there seems to be smiling all the time, even when things are busy.