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I’m in love with a man who cringes at gratuitous ruffles, who scoffs at decorative doodads. So imagine my relief to see that Calistoga Ranch in northern California avoids fussy spa trappings in favor of natural simplicity. Tucked in a canyon, each guest lodge offers both floor-to-ceiling windows and total privacy—an exhilarating combo, we city dwellers learned.

At this spa, you’re never far from the comforts of home—albeit someone else’s impeccably appointed home. The Lakehouse restaurant serves elegant meals in a relaxed setting and offers a menu that’s far from the bean sprouts and lettuce leaves of traditional spa cuisine. Jesse and I feasted upon sashimi, scallops, short ribs, prime rib, and Meyer lemon tart. After dinner we watched a DVD curled up by the fire with a bottle of local wine—not our usual night at home in front of the TV.

At the Bathhouse spa the next day, gracious staff members answered questions before we even asked them and our Sensuous Soak was pure relaxation. After nibbling fruit in a private heated pool—at sunset, no less—and experiencing side-by-side massages, even Mr. No Frills was sold.

-Christina Bailly

Calistogaranch.com; (707) 254-2800; 90-minute Sensuous Soak, $220 per person; 60-minute couples massage, $150 per person.