Discover an enchanting hillside oasis

High in the hills overlooking the American Riviera, El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel, is a legendary Santa Barbara retreat.

Since opening in 1918 it has attracted artists, Hollywood stars and visitors seeking seclusion. Set in seven acres of lush gardens, the resort is glamorous yet private and relaxed.

Accommodation is spread across inviting rooms, suites and Spanish Revival bungalows. Each is individually decorated, with features such as oak floors, fireplaces and rainforest showers. Infused with the textures and hues of the West Coast, each room or suite brings the best of the outdoors inside. Rooms boast king-size beds, marble bathrooms, garden seating and heated stone floors. Suites offer added levels of luxury, with charming open-hearth fireplaces or inviting patios.

The enchanting gardens are home to woodpeckers, hummingbirds, butterflies and ducks patrolling the pond. Brick-laid paths wind through pomegranate trees and bird of paradise flowers.

The horizon-edge swimming pool offers a great way to acclimatise to El Encanto’s easygoing lifestyle. Healing signature treatments, A-list facials and eucalyptus steam sessions can be enjoyed at the acclaimed spa. Dining is exceptional here, with California coastal cuisine served in the panoramic sea-view restaurant. Inventive cocktails and local wines top the menu in two laidback bars.

When it comes to exploring, the hotel’s electric bikes make tackling the hills around Santa Barbara a breeze. Golf, wine tasting and watersports can all be enjoyed nearby. A courtesy minibus is on hand to take guests anywhere within a 5-mile radius.  

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Getting you there

The experienced team at Apex Travel team will get you to Santa Barbara. We can design a bespoke American Riviera experience for you that includes flights to LA, your stay at El Encanto and other one-of-a-kind experiences, tours, dining, and transport. We invite you to please Contact Us to discuss your next escape.