Belmond El Encanto, hotel in Santa Barbara, California established during the early 1900s
Belmond El Encanto is a hotel situated in the Santa Barbara hills on seven acres with Craftsman and Spanish Colonial architecture throughout. The property features scattered cottages and bungalows with spacious rooms and outdoor patios, a main house containing a bar and lounge area, plus a large terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
The hotel first opened in 1918 and quickly attracted artists and early Hollywood stars drawn to its elevated location and ocean views. In the 2010s, the property underwent careful restoration that preserved its original character and historic architectural details.
The name El Encanto means "the enchantment", referring to the captivating effect the place has on those who visit. Today you see guests from around the world gathered on sunny terraces overlooking the ocean and mountains, while the air carries the scent of jasmine and honeysuckle from the surrounding gardens.
The hotel provides free shuttle service and bicycles, with five accessible rooms available for guests with mobility needs. The hilltop location offers nearby hiking trails and close proximity to beaches and downtown Santa Barbara, making it convenient to explore the area.
The grounds contain charming hidden details such as a wishing well from 1928, a lily pond filled with turtles and fish, and ceramic pig sculptures scattered throughout. These whimsical elements add a layer of history and character that guests discover while exploring the property.
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