The Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is situated in an area known as the American Riviera. The climate in the American Riviera is often described as Mediterranean, and I can appreciate why. The weather was stunning during our visit, and the breeze from the ocean was nothing short of refreshing.
The hotel sits in front of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez mountains, and you can access the beach by crossing the road just outside the front of the hotel. You find yourself tied between staying in the hotel and enjoying all the comforts and luxury provided, and visiting the beach and enjoying the sun and sea, we visited this hotel a couple of times and have yet to leave disappointed.
The location is simply stunning, I can’t emphasise this enough. You have access to miles of beautiful unspoilt coastline, and there aren’t all the usual tourist trappings. Meaning you can find some quiet spots to enjoy where it’s just you, the sand, the ocean, and the occasional dog walker or kite surfer.
“The location is simply stunning.”
The hotel itself is like a small oasis. It’s structured around several gardens and courtyards, it’s grand in appearance and you immediately feel relaxed and in holiday mode as you approach. There is a touch of classic luxury to the décor and appearance, and a feeling of tranquillity and peace wherever you are in the grounds. It’s hard to put into words, but there are few hotels we have felt as relaxed.
What we love about this property is no two rooms are alike, on this particular visit we experienced a one bedroom suite. The suite was wonderfully furnished and had green floral displays throughout, echoing the tranquil atmosphere of the hotel. We had a large bathroom with a steam room and large bath. There was a separate living area for relaxing. It was fitted out with everything we needed, including a large dining table and chairs, a comfy sofa, and a Nespresso machine.
Other amenities within the hotel included tennis courts that are fully lit at night, beach volleyball sessions, a spa, the Bella Vista Restaurant, and a well-equipped gym. We made good use of the swimming pool which comes complete with cushioned sun loungers, a towel service and food & drink service.
The hotel has around 22 acres of land filled with over 2,000 different species of tropical plants and trees. You don’t have to be a botanist to appreciate how beautiful the grounds are, or enjoy taking a relaxing walk and exploring.
We didn’t want to leave, that’s how relaxed we were. It gets a strong recommendation from us, you will not be disappointed.
The Bill: £390 per night
