El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel, is an enchanting hideaway in Santa Barbara made for those who seek privacy and serenity.
It sits high in the hills amid lush gardens, commanding a view over Santa Barbara and the sparkling ocean beyond. An icon since the 1920s, its original architectural features have been lovingly brought back to life. Modern additions include an expansive outdoor swimming pool and beautiful boutique spa.
True to its Californian roots, this luxury hotel combines glamour with laid-back style. Guests can sip a cocktail by the zero-edge pool, indulge in a heavenly massage at the spa, or cosy up with their special someone in front of their bungalow's open fireplace.
Backed by the Santa Ynez Mountains, fringed by sandy beaches and the Pacific Ocean, with Spanish-style houses trailing cerise bougainvillea and a buzzy wine and dining scene in between, Santa Barbara is where A-listers and discerning Californians escape for their down time. No wonder it’s called the American Riviera. An array of pastimes awaits, from yachting and water sports to embracing the bohemian vibe – and fabulous Urban Wine Trail – of the Funk Zone.
Enjoying more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Santa Barbara sits astride the iconic Route 101 Pacific Coast Highway, 90 miles north of Los Angeles. The stars who bolt here are simply following in the footsteps of legendary Hollywood icons, for the city was home to California’s first major film studio in the 1920s – Charlie Chaplin himself was a regular. Downtown’s vintage theaters remain an enthralling reminder of this link.
The most selective visitors of all take to the hills, where Belmond El Encanto nestles in seven lush acres. For over 100 years, newcomers and returning guests have arrived to be seduced by its irresistible charm.
Only 9.5 miles (15 minutes) from Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) or 100 miles (90 minutes) from Los Angeles Airport (LAX), the hotel is 3 miles (10 minutes) from Santa Barbara Amtrak Station and 5 minutes from State Street by car. It's also just a half mile stroll from Old Mission Santa Barbara & Natural History Museum and a short 30 minutes by car to Santa Barbara wine country in Santa Ynez Valley.
Join diners from dawn till dusk on the indoor-outdoor terrace to soak up the panoramic sea views. Imaginative farm-to-table California coastal cuisine includes succulent fruit, sustainable seafood from the shores below, homegrown herbs, and cheese made from milk produced by the Holstein cow. In the evening’s gentle candlelight, feast on beef tenderloin with smoky mash, washed down with a Santa Ynez Syrah.
Unwind while absorbing the Pacific vistas from this relaxing Lounge. Enjoy a light lunch or afternoon tea with friends. Delicately crafted breads and buns come filled with classic British combinations. Tempting scones, signature macaroons and buttery French pastries tempt any sweet tooth. It’s also a fabulous spot for sunset cocktails.
Socialize and unwind in a laidback scene. Savour fine wines and gourmet bar snacks while learning Santa Barbara’s secrets from the warm bar staff. Santa Barbara restaurants can be beautifully polished or perfectly informal. In this lively laidback hub, meet old friends or make new ones over a selection of wines, spirits and inventive cocktails. For those seeking a light bite, American classics are reinterpreted on a gourmet bar menu.
The Spa at El Encanto is full-service with a range of wellness services including a romantic couples treatment room, manicure/pedicure stations, dedicated facial suites, massage and wet rooms, private outdoor terrace and relaxation lounge.
The Fitness Studio and fitness classes will help you to achieve the pinnacle of your physical and mental well-being.
Electric Faraday Bikes are available to the hotel'sguests and locals who enjoy spa services.
The zero-edge heated outdoor saline swimming pool offers panoram...
Start close: just a walk away from the hotel is the Old Mission, one of Santa Barbara’s most celebrated landmarks. Founded by Spanish Franciscans in 1786, it blends graceful architecture, colourful gardens and fascinating artefacts. Discover animal magic at Santa Barbara Zoo, whose strong conservation message and stunning ocean-view setting make it a surefire hit with all ages. See Asian elephants, Californian condors and Masai giraffeses among over 140 species. Witness the "sport of kings" at the nearby Santa Barbara Polo Fields; don&...
Averaging 400 square feet, these elegant rooms offer an intimate escape with beautiful garden views and a plush king size bed. These serene retreats welcome you to a natural wonderland of beautiful flora — just outside your door.
SIZE: 400 FT2 (37 M2).
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY: TWO GUESTS
On the edge of the hotel's elevated grounds, these sanctuaries offer a peaceful retreat with every modern convenience at your fingertips. Averaging 550 square feet, Deluxe rooms offer the comforts of a luxurious king size bed and deep soaking tub.
SIZE: 550 FT2 (51 M2)
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY: THREE GUESTS
Brimming with modern comfort and style, these spacious rooms feature two inviting double beds, a deep soaking tub and separate rain forest shower. Averaging 550 square feet, Deluxe Double rooms offer convenience and comfort for friends and small families traveling together.
SIZE: 550 FT2 (74 M2)
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY: FOUR GUESTS
Step outdoors onto your own furnished patio or balcony to savor the garden views. Averaging 450 square feet, Terrace rooms are the perfect place to unwind while enjoying a wide array of thoughtful amenities and a lavish king size bed. These well-situated rooms are a personal haven.
SIZE: 450 FT2 (41 M2)
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY: TWO GUESTS
Ideally located in the heart of the hotel's grounds, these spacious rooms, averaging 600 square feet, feature a king size bed and deep soaking tub. Delight in the warmth of a cozy fireplace that complements this gracious setting and let time pass you by.
SIZE: 600 FT2 (55 M2)
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY: THREE GUESTS
El Encanto’s largest non-suite accommodations with approximately 625 square feet of casual elegance. Terrace Premier rooms offer charming fireplaces as relaxing backdrops to warm evening conversations. They also feature a private furnished patio or balcony with tranquil views of gorgeous garden panoramas.
SIZE: 625 FT2 (58 M2)
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY: THREE GUESTS
Pamper yourself with a deep soaking bathtub and separate living space. Averaging 600 square feet, these comfortable suites provide luxurious relaxation in grand proportions. Each One Bedroom Suite is appointed with private bedroom featuring a plush king size bed and separate living room for relaxation and entertainment.
SIZE: 600 FT2 (55 M2)
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY: THREE GUESTS WHEN USING A SOFA BED
Averaging 500 square feet, these suites are an ideal vantage to set your scene at Belmond El Encanto. The beautiful garden setting affords the ultimate in privacy and tranquility. Each Terrace Suite is appointed with a separate bedroom with king size bed, as well as a separate living room with a sofa bed to accommodate additional guests. Spacious patios or balconies are also included, featuring outdoor seating and views of the manicured landscape.
SIZE: 500 FT2 (55 M2)
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY: THREE GUESTS WITH SOFA BED
These spectacular suites average 700 square feet and offer the ultimate in luxury and warm romance. Located throughout the resort’s pristine grounds, each Terrace Premier Suite is appointed with a plush king size bed and beautiful French doors separating the bedroom from the spacious living room with custom furnishings and a charming fireplace. You’ll also enjoy exceptional outdoor space with a private furnished patio nestled in the hotel's tranquil gardens or balcony overlooking the Santa Barbara landscape.
SIZE: 700 FT2 (33 M2)
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY: THREE GUESTS
Averaging 650 square feet, these private California Craftsman and Mission style bungalows offer true West Coast indulgence. Each stand alone Garden Bungalow is appointed with a spacious open plan living area with an exquisite fireplace and king size bed. There is also a furnished patio nestled in stunning gardens to match.
SIZE: 650 FT2 (60 M2)
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY: THREE GUESTS
This suite boasts a kitchenette, dining room and its own lawn and garden—perfect for alfresco afternoons. On cool evenings, cozy up by the fireplace in your spacious sitting area. Connect this suite with a Deluxe King Room to form your own spacious two-bedroom residence.
Nestled among a garden of lush camellias, this romantic suite provides a perfectly private sanctuary. You’ll find a charming open fireplace in the living room and stunning Santa Barbara views from the dining room. Connect to a One-bedroom Suite to enhance your space.
Stretch out on your own private terrace surrounded by cascading bougainvillea. This enchanting suite features a spacious sitting area, exquisite fireplace, kitchenette and dining room. Connect your suite to a Terrace King Room to form a spacious two-bedroom residence.
Inside this suite you’ll find plenty of sophisticated space, including a full kitchen, dining space for up-to 6 and a stylish bedroom. The bathroom features a deep soak tub and rainforest shower. From the living room step straight into your own garden courtyard, complete with a beautiful fountain.
The air holiday packages shown are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is T7077. We are a member of the Travel Trust Association U1373. Please see our booking conditions for more information. Hurlingham Travel® Hurlingham Travel Services® are registered trade marks of Hurlingham Travel Services Limited.
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