With spas in the Napa Valley proliferating at a record rate, a dedicated sybarite could devote a fair portion of their life visiting one after another. In this section we make the first visit for you, returning with brief updates on what's good, what's not, what is unique and what to expect. From then on it's up to you to go and enjoy.

Health Spa Napa Valley
The message from our spa reviewer on voicemail said, "I'm never leaving here. Send money." We found out later she had just finished with the 50 minute Abhyanga treatment, where two trained therapists work in synchronized motion for what manager Eric Chesky calls a "four hand massage." Add in the warm bindi oil they use and you'll understand her sentiments exactly. Weather permitting they also have outdoor treatment rooms in a garden setting. Just reading the comprehensive list of treatments is therapy in itself. Are you worth it? Of course you are.

White Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa
This is a step back in time, and a delightful one at that. No Roman columns, no New Age music, no mosaics on the walls, you are there for a relaxing, therapeutic treatment surrounded by the woods above St. Helena. Towering fir trees, a babbling brook and the sounds of birds (and the unique smell of sulphur from the springs - you get used to it) make up the ambience. If you want relaxation without the frills, this getaway of a spa may be the answer, and at a reasonable price.

The Spa at Villagio
One of the Valley's true full service spas, Villagio offers a wide variety of both packages and individual treatments. Massages are truly first rate as are the deservedly popular grapeseed oil treatments. The changing room is small but that will be remedied soon, we have been assured. The key here is to get as long a massage as you have time for and can afford. On the expensive side, but you get what you pay for in every respect, and afterwards you have the charming Wine Country town of Yountville to wander through.

Veranda Club Spa
The raves we kept hearing about La Stone Therapy, where heated rocks are used in the treatment, intrigued us. The experience convinced us. Tucked away in Yountville's Washington Square at the north end of town, the Veranda - an oasis of serenity no matter how busy the rest of your life may be - is as popular with locals as it is with visitors. Besides La Stone there is also the full menu of treatments, facials, wraps and massage therapy. Check it out.

Health Spa Napa Valley
1030 Main St., St. Helena
(707) 967-8800

White Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa
3100 White Sulphur Springs Rd., St. Helena
(707) 963-8588

The Spa at Villagio
6481 Washington St., Yountville
(707) 948-5050

Veranda Club Spa
6795 Washington St. (in Washington Square), Yountville
(707) 944-1906