If you stand in the ornate front parlor of The Pink Mansion in Calistoga and use a little imagination you can almost hear the faraway sounds of a stagecoach rumbling up past the lush gardens and stately circular drive of the mansion. After all, the home was built by William F. Fisher, a dashing pioneer and adventurer who established Calistoga's first stage line that linked the town with mining ventures in St. Helena and further north. Having been given the land in the 1870s for his estate by his good friend, Sam Brannan, the founder of Calistoga, Mr. Fisher spared no expense in the building of his palatial home. It was to become one of the town's social hubs with grand parties thrown for visiting dignitaries and townspeople alike.

Today, it is still a place where people gather to enjoy the good things in life. As one of the most elegant bed and breakfast inns in the Napa Valley, The Pink Mansion attracts visitors from around the world. Located just three blocks from downtown Calistoga, the grand old lady boasts gorgeously appointed rooms and suites that enjoy all the modern amenities while retaining the charm of Calistoga's heyday.

Each room features one-of-a-kind antiques that recall a graceful time when craftsmanship was evident in every detail of the furnishings in these grand old homes. Each room has a private bath, some with claw-foot or Jacuzzi tubs, plush robes, 600-thread-count sheets, down comforters and hidden flat-screen televisions. Some rooms are graced with cozy fireplaces just perfect for a romantic evening. And just in case you're the type who simply can't leave your laptop at home, there's high speed internet service available.

Toppa and Leslie Epps will be celebrating 15 years as owners of The Pink Mansion, this coming December. We asked Toppa how the Napa Valley today compares to when he first arrived in the early '90s. "The Napa Valley has definitely changed since I first arrived in 1992, especially down in Napa and Yountville where there seems to be a new restaurant opening every week. However, even though Calistoga caters to thousands of tourists every year who come here for the mud baths and spas, and world-class wine, it still has that down-to-earth charm that sometimes seems missing in other towns. Calistoga is basically the same small town I fell in love with 20 years ago!"

 With all the wonderful shops and spas of downtown Calistoga just a stroll away, you won't need to use your car. In fact, one of the best ways to tour the area is by bicycle. More than fifty wineries are only a pedal away. The helpful staff at The Pink Mansion will be glad to acquire a "set of wheels" for you. They will even arrange a picnic lunch for two. Upon your return, the staff will gladly arrange an in-room massage to sooth your tired (but happy!) body. Follow that will a quick dip in the mansion's indoor pool and you will have experienced one of the most pleasurable, relaxing and luxurious days available in all of the Northern California wine country.

Rates include a gourmet breakfast for two and an afternoon serving of wine and hors d'ouevres. In between these delightful repasts, be sure and take time to enjoy the home's gracious gardens.

"With the economy in the shape that it's in, we understand that many families have been forced to cut back on their vacations. We also realize that those who are traveling are being very selective as to where they stay. Our staff, here at The Pink Mansion, is aware of that and we are so appreciative of everyone who stays with us. Our goal is that when people leave the Pink Mansion they will leave feeling happy and fulfilled and want to share their experience with others and that is one reason we don't advertise much at all. I have always felt that if you have a great product and treat people the way you wish to be treated then everything should be fine and, even in this economy, we are doing okay." 

The Pink Mansion is located at 1415 Foothill Blvd in Calistoga. Reservations can be made by calling them at (707) 942-0558 or 1-800-238-7465 or by email at info@pinkmansion.com. Be sure and visit their website www.pinkmansion.com for information about special rates and upcoming events.