Santa Barbara, on the self-styled American Riviera, is one of the most beautiful coastal resort towns in California. Little wonder this south facing stretch of America?s Pacific coast is home to the some of the country?s most notable residents including Oprah Winfrey, Steven Spielberg, Ellen DeGeneres, and Tom Cruise.

You too can enjoy the discreet, laid-back luxury of Santa Barbara with a stay at the exclusive Belmond El Encanto, writes Andrew Forbes.
Welcome & Check-in
Getting to Santa Barbara is relatively easy from the main international hubs of San Francisco or Los Angeles. Although Santa Barbara has a small airport, it makes better sense to rent a car and drive the 150 kilometres north from Los Angeles airport to Santa Barbara – traffic means this takes at least 2 hours. Belmond has a proven approach of pre-arrival communication with guests, so I knew that my room, dining reservations, spa booking etc. were all confirmed before I arrived, together with a few personal preferences.
Upon arrival on a warm summer?s day I was welcomed with Bellini cocktails on the elegant terrace, courtesy of Julio the friendly head of the bar? this really set the tone for a very special stay.

Check-in was offered in the lobby lounge & bar, and Emilio, Laura and the front desk team were friendly and professional.

Whilst being escorted to my bungalow by Jesse of guest relations, I was explained the history of the property and given some tips for enjoying Santa Barbara.

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