the montague restaurant Palo Alto and Stanford An erstwhile sleepy university town, Palo Alto has most recently experienced

to-die-for views, and the palatial dwellings. The Spreckels Mansion, a limestone palace in the Beaux-Arts tradition, on Washington and Octavia streets, is the brightest gem of the lot, now owned by novelist Danielle Steele (see p53). d Map E2

The smaller shops generally feature more interesting and quirky merchandise not counting all the international boutiques that also circle Union Square. Some of the more offbeat neighborhoods, the montague restaurant such as Hayes Valley (see p100), offer some really original designs, often by local or regional talents.

Mount View Hotel & Spa A stay in this historic 1917 resort offers various relaxation and rejuvenation possibilities mud, milk, or herbal baths, aromatherapy steam showers, body-wraps, massages, or facials geared to individuals or couples. d 1457 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga (707) 9425789 www.mountviewhotel.com

Palo Alto and Stanford An erstwhile sleepy the montague restaurant university town, Palo Alto has most recently experienced a boom as the hub of Silicon Valley, and driving force of the New Economy. Although a lot of the gilding has lately fallen off the lily, this town has been left with a considerably dressed-up appearance, as well as many fancy restaurants, hotels, and shops. The town is home to prestigious Stanford University, with its beautiful, well-tended campus (see p79). d Hwys 101 & 82