Nestled in California’s Santa Ynez Valley is the Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort, a picturesque dude ranch-style resort that made a name for itself as a luxurious family getaway. For decades, this beautiful hideaway has been a favorite of the rich and famous from around the world.
Alisal combines dude ranch and luxury to create the perfect destination for the whole family. There is something for everyone whether you want to spend your time golfing, horseback riding or relaxing in the spa. The resort rests on 10,000 acres of wilderness, making it the perfect place to enjoy the beautiful scenery of wine country.
Vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley. Photo: Joe Sohm | Dreamstime.com
Accommodations at Alisal all have the feel of a traditional dude ranch with an elevated opulence that lets every visitor feel like a celebrity. Rooms are all decorated with western-themed furniture and decor and whether you choose a single-room studio or the 770-square-foot Grand Suite with its furnished private patio, each room offers stunning views of the property and a wood-burning fireplace to add charm and ambience to your stay.
Activities at Alisal are designed with every member of the family in mind, including the little ones. The resort offers plenty of fun activities designed to give them an immersive ranch experience, such as the barnyard where they can interact with farm animals and the lead around where children under the age of 7 can ride horses in a safe and controlled environment. There are also horseback riding lessons for older kids and adults, along with fishing, archery, tennis (for all ages, including pee-wee lessons) and swimming. Activities are scheduled all day long, every day, and there is always something interesting going on, such as sand-painting, roping with a wrangler or boot branding. Every night at 8 p.m., there is a family activity such as bingo, movie night or musical chairs and karaoke.
If you prefer to leave the resort to explore the local area, there is plenty to do. The local landscape is dotted with beautiful wineries and the nearby village of Solvang is a fun Danish community with lots of great shops and eateries to visit.
World-class dining at the resort takes advantage of the fresh California fare and combines it with a traditional ranch style to create a unique epicurean experience. The resort offers multiple options to suit your needs, such as the Chuck Wagon Grill and Waggin’ Tongue Bar, open for lunch and cocktails, or the Ranch Room and Sycamore Room, which serve up breakfast and dinner using an ever-changing menu of fresh and sustainable ingredients.
Breakfasts and dinners are included in nightly rates at the resort as part of your stay. Lunches and activities are available at an additional charge.
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