Hillcrest was a perfect getaway spot. The property is beautiful, poised halfway up Mt Helena and overlooking the vineyard. It boasts approximately 39 acres of walkable roads, trails and off trails with a large pond and benches strategically placed for a great view. Our dog had a ball. It was very relaxing knowing she could go anywhere at anytime and we didn't have to worry. The hostesses very mellow dog was fantastic. He was as much a part of our dog's day or not a part of it as our dog wanted him to be. And Debbie, the proprietor, was the same way. She was available to chat or answer questions when we needed her, and otherwise just let us be. We were very comfortable in her home. Our room was immaculate and tastefully furnished. Our private deck faced out over the vineyard with a mini fridge in the corner which we found very convenient. Hillcrest was a perfect spot for us to unwind, relax and do our own thing. We will definitely return.

I just came across a brochure from Hillcrest B & B - a year later - death in family etc.

Anyway we originally had July 1-6 reserved. Upon arrival, OMG, I have never seen such a mess, unkempt, dirty. I would actually say they make a lot of their revenue from non-refundable nights, like ours.

It was very sad as standing in the living/dining room and looking at the view, one could imagine what WAS at one time. A sad ending for what was one a beautiful place.

Unfortunately we did not read reviews prior to booking.

We found another B & B in Calistoga that "took us in" .. We were very fortunate.

Do not consider this place to be a 'Bed & Breakfast.' You will be staying in a dated, cluttered, grubby house. The site is fine, nice view of the valley, even the geyser. The first clue as to how 'rough' this place is, is the open trench and the back-hoe when you drive up to the house. There is a beautiful pool, that was warm and well-maintained. The place is very dog friendly, which is nice for guests who want to bring their dogs. Your dog can even go swimming, in the pond, down the hill from the house. The owner's dog will come into your room and jump on your bed.

Breakfast is a big disappointment, a pastry and a piece of fruit. No Protein.

If you are looking for a nice, grubby, dog-friendly place, take your dog, go with low expectations and enjoy it for what it is. If you are looking for a beautiful, lovely, high-thread-count, plush romantic get-away, do yourself a favor and stay somewhere else.

I would recommend this place ONLY if you cannot find another dog-friendly room somewhere else.

First and foremost, this is more than pet friendly, it's positively welcoming! You and your animals will be greeted first by Debo, the sweetest dog you are ever likely to meet.

(He's the "vicious pit bull" described in one review--not a vicious bone in his body, and we watched him with our tiny scared yorkie: Debo was ultra gentle, and by the time we left they were playing together like they were from the same litter. We also saw him with a bulldog puppy: Debo was just the right amount of rough for this rough-housing energetic puppy.)

Folks who don't like dogs might be happier elsewhere, as during our stay about half the guests had critters.

The rooms are beautiful and cozy; the view is absolutely amazing, and the location is perfectly convenient (a short drive into Calistoga). Moreover, the grounds are fabulous. They have 40 acres of wild hill country sloping up behind the house: you can ramble among the beautiful rock outcroppings, wild flowers, and grassy slopes where every few steps offers another breathtaking view of the vinyards across the valley. Debo will be happy to show you his favorite places.

That said, this is not your high-falutin' victoriana experience. Although Debbie has a lot of amazing antiques and photos from her family's four generations in Calistoga, the house itself was built in the sixties, and can most generously be described as modest. If you don't care what the outside of your B&B looks like, though, feel free to enjoy the way Debbie has put extra touches into making the inside welcoming, beautiful, and comfortable.