Four thermal geysers attracted entrepreneur Sam Brannan to create a mineral baths resort on this hilly 17-acre retreat in 1861. Now adults can stay in the 24 thoroughly renovated and tastefully updated rooms of the historic lodge, while another 75 “view rooms,” cottages, bungalows and houses accommodate all ages. Many come just for the Olympic-sized mineral water pool, others for spa treatments using the resort’s mud of volcanic ash. Walking trails wind through rose and lavender gardens and groves of palm and olive trees.