Alisal Ranch

Hidden in the golden hills of California’s Santa Ynez Valley- just 36 miles northeast of Santa Barbara sits the legendary Alisal Ranch.  Surrounded by mountains, and meandering across 10,500 sweeping acres, this timeless, family-owned property has embraced the spirit and nature of the American West for nearly a century.  As stewards of the land, the ranch honors its rich heritage by providing authentic western hospitality and luxury ranch living, in an experience exclusively suited for today’s most savvy travelers.

This is a rare opportunity to immerse in California’s abundant, wild nature; to stargaze free of light pollution; learn the secrets of barbecue from the country’s top chefs, fly fish, canoe, or kayak on a 100-acre, spring-fed lake; share stories with family and colleagues around a crackling fire pit; or enjoy a massage after a long day on horseback.  The ranch cares for more than 100 horses, all trained to ride with experts as well as beginners with timeless ranch experiences, ranging from trail rides and corral lessons to breakfast rides and rodeos. 

For sightseeing, the Alisal is minutes away from approximately 100 of Santa Barbara County’s foremost wineries, thoroughbred horses, ostrich, and llama farms, and the historic Santa Inez and La Purisima Missions. 

Tours to any of these sites can be easily arranged. Of course, shopping in the quaint Danish community of Solvang, or Los Olivos with its splendid art galleries and charming antique shops, is always a welcomed alternative.

Alisal is both intimate and expansive, with just 73 guest cottages- including a Nathan Turner-designed Turner House of Suites – two 18-hole championship golf courses, six tennis courts, and more. The ranch is consistently ranked among the top destinations in California and beyond by media (Conde Nast Traveler “Top 15 Southern California Resorts,” USA Today’s “Best Destination Resort,” etc.) and it’s been a favorite of the celebrity set- from Clark Gable and Doris Day to contemporary artists of today.