Archive for the ‘Four Seasons Resorts’ Category

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara has long been a playground for the California’s well-heeled travelers. Following its opening in 1927, Hollywood’s rich and famous became frequent guests, heading northward to Santa Barbara to enjoy a gorgeous, beachside sojourn on “America’s Riviera.”

It’s no wonder celebrities like Oprah Winfrey chose nearby Montecito for her impressive West Coast retreat. The area exudes charm, grace and natural beauty. Elegant but not too stuffy, casual yet a class act unto itself, Four Seasons Biltmore seduces all who roam the lush gardens surrounding the grand Mediterranean façade.

Since owner Ty Warner invested in a $240-million restoration, the property is better than ever. If Santa Barbara’s at the top of your list, and you don’t mind a little spurge, this is the resort for you.

Recommended Resort:  Despite its impressive size (871,200 square feet in all), the two-story Four Seasons Biltmore hosts only 207 rooms, 26 suites and 12 intimate cottages. Built in Spanish Colonial style, the brick pathways that weave throughout the arched corridors are lined with magnificent gardens. The palm trees at the entrance alone took our breath away. The rooms themselves are nicely appointed and retain the authentic feel of the classic structure with painted tiles in the bathroom and subtle textures and colors throughout. Modern touches include a plasma television and refreshing rain shower. Our room was conveniently located near the pool, but made private by tall hedges and a tranquil, tile-covered water feature outside our patio. There’s a second pool at the private Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club, also home to the fitness center, Tydes Restaurant, the more casual Coral Café. Built in 1937, this exclusive section of the resort has stunning views of the Pacific and coastline. Use your passport on arrival for access to this exceptional venue. 

Check In:  1260 Channel Drive in Santa Barbara. 805-565-8270, fourseasons.com/santabarbara 

Check Out:  Bella Vista Restaurant. The signature eatery of the resort, the Bella Vista greets you in the entrance lobby and entices with a brightly sunlit exterior and ocean view patio. Marble and mahogany accent the space, while fireplaces make the space cozy, especially on a sunny, but crisp Saturday afternoon like ours. The food is California coastal at its delicious best. I chose a fresh lobster and citrus salad sandwich, while my guest relished in his healthy turkey sandwich. For the month of April, Chef Alessandro Cartumini celebrates the pending nuptials of Prince William and Kate with a British-inspired menu that includes offerings like fish ‘n chips, shepherd’s pie and special cocktails like the Blushing Kate. A $125 martini comes with a replica of her sapphire engagement ring for you to keep. 

Don’t Miss:  The Spa. Sea breezes and a fragrant rose garden enhance your experience at this first rate spa, arguably one of the best in the area. These fragrant, natural elements inspire many of the treatments here, including the Spring floral and citrus body wrap and facial pressure point massage or the Vineyard Harvest, a soak with grape seed, jasmine and rose and red wine paired with a glass of local vintage and cheese selection. 

Blog post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

Photos courtesy of Four Seasons.

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