Bacara Resort & Spa, Santa Barbara

Nestled high on a rugged perch along California’s Central coast and just a short, scenic ride from the Santa Ynez Valley,’ (the region’s ‘other wine country’), the Bacara Resort & Spa is a romantic enclave with the refined attributes of a full-service, luxury resort.  Situated on a vast 78-acre plot a few miles north of downtown Santa Barbara, this ‘mega-boutique’ hotel is just far enough away to feel a world away. What’s unique about the Bacara is that for such a large resort (300+ guest rooms and 45 specialty suites), the guest experience feels surprisingly intimate.

As for the accommodations, a Spanish Mediterranean style with coastal accents carries throughout and more than half the rooms have private fireplaces and ensuite marble Jacuzzis, literally overlooking the sea.  There is nothing that spells romance like sipping a glass of Chardonnay (a grape for which the region is commonly known) from your deep soaking tub after a day spent wine tasting.  Frette bathrobes and slippers, soy candles and Gilchrist & Soames bath amenities help set the mood.

Boasting dramatic views of both sea and mountains and lush gardens in every direction, the Bacara benefits from a stunning natural setting.  There is an unspoiled private beach, hiking trails and a championship golf course on the grounds.  Coupled with its impeccable Spanish style architecture, exemplary of the region’s history and typified by the still active Old Catholic Mission in downtown Santa Barbara, it’s nothing short of breathtaking.  With a recent $20 million renovation by the same firm that works with The Ritz Carlton, The Four Seasons and the Fairmont, the Bacara exudes elegance all around.

A sensual atmosphere can be felt outside of the accommodations as well … try a Bacara Body Melt treatment or Rooftop Sea Breeze Massage in the Spa at the Bacara or sip fresh daiquiris in a private cabana with butler service.  For wine aficionados, the Bacara is home to the Foley Wine Tasting Room and The Cellar which has an extensive collection of wines, upwards of 12,000 bottles featuring 1,200 world-class labels that span 13 countries and 75 international appellations.  The hotel’s concierge is naturally happy to arrange vineyard tours, tastings and winemaker dinners in the Santa Ynez Valley, home to more than 120 wineries mostly boutique and family owned.

[gmap]8301 Hollister Ave, Goleta, USA[/gmap]