A Few Days of Sun and Quiet in Calistoga

Spent a few days just outside the usual routine at the end of June 2018. The grounds were incredibly green, full of overgrown papyrus around a small pond and huge palm fronds against a perfectly clear sky. The sun was intense, and the white roses climbing up the walls seemed almost glowing in the afternoon light. It was the kind of summer heat that makes everything feel slow and quiet.

The days had a simple rhythm. The hotel was a series of simple, white buildings set against the hills. I'd watch the light change across the gravel parking lot, a familiar view made different as the sun set. The sky would go from blue to a soft, hazy yellow and purple behind the silhouette of the mountains, and the lights would come on along the balconies.

Evenings were spent on the patio, where tables were set for dinner among more palms and olive trees. The air was warm and still. There were several fountains scattered around the property, and their gentle sound was a constant backdrop. It was a very simple, quiet stretch of time, just noticing the light and the landscape.