San Ysidro Ranch

Tucked away in the foothills of Montecito, California is the idyllic San Ysidro Ranch, an oasis of calm and tranquility. The grounds are a botanical wonderland with beautiful flowers and exotic trees and it pairs perfectly with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands. It’s been known as Hollywood’s ultimate hideaway for some time and the iconic couple, John and Jackie Kennedy stayed at the ranch during their honeymoon.

There are vine-covered cottages spread across the lush hillsides of the 550-acre ranch and it was originally established as a citrus farm in the early 1800s. Each cottage comes with its own private gated entry, cozy fireplace, and private patio surrounded by lush landscaping. 

I stayed in the Lilac Cottage that had recently been rebuilt, along with the Eucalyptus Cottage. Upon arrival, there was a sweet surprise of chocolate covered strawberries, chilled Laurent Perrier champagne, and a thoughtful handwritten note waiting for me. Gorgeous Persian rugs were scattered throughout and I admired the fine artwork and antiques collected from around the world. Each evening I walked into my bedroom featuring a four-poster King bed and the Rivolta Carmignani Italian bedding atop was perfectly turned down. Placed in the center was a fragrant twig of lavender and two artisan truffles – I felt like I was in a dream already!

The bathroom was very spacious and the heated floors were a nice touch. The luxurious Bamford toiletries brought back fond memories of my time in England. Other lovely amenities included complimentary gourmet snacks and twice daily housekeeping. 

Chilling outside in my own private sunken hot tub surrounded by beautiful trees was quite therapeutic and put me at ease. Also, the outdoor rain shower that’s connected to an indoor bathroom was a thoughtful architectural feature.

Dedicated to accommodate every creature comfort, San Ysidro Ranch offers special occasion options such as in-cottage meals served on one’s patio as well as in-cottage spa treatments. There’s also a Privileged Pet Program which is offered specifically for San Ysidro Ranch’s pet-friendly cottages.

The ranch has multiple award-winning restaurants and unique dining experiences. The Stonehouse is set inside a 19th-century citrus packing house and its ocean view terrace has a dreamy ambiance with a roaring fireplace and twinkling lights overhead. Their Garden Patio is quite lovely and romantic with white tablecloths and lanterns hanging from trees. Overall, the farm-to-table cuisine was delicious and one can finish off dinner with some flames – Bananas Foster that’s flambéed table side or a Baked Alaska.

Stonehouse is one of the elite restaurants around the world to be honored with the Wine Spectator Grand Award and has an impressive wine cellar of 2,100 labels and 12,000 bottles from around the globe. I was lucky enough to meet Wine Collections Manager and Sommelier, Tristan Pitre and take a peek at the wine cellar that features the best of the best, such as Petrus. 

Stonehouse has the most extensive restaurant collection of Petrus in America and one of the most extensive collections anywhere in the world. It includes every single bottle of Petrus, from the legendary 1945 Victory vintage to the chateau’s latest 2017 release. A bottle can go for $100K.

Amongst many other things, the ranch is famous for its $158 “Montecito Margarita” made with Don Julio Real Añejo Tequila and Grand Marnier 150th Anniversary mixed with agave and lime.

Other dining options include the casual pub Plow & Angel that’s famous for its laid-back atmosphere paired with excellent comfort food like mac and cheese and ribs. Also, one can order food poolside and I especially enjoyed the fish tacos paired with the ranch’s signature Blood Orange Margarita.

With so many things to do at the ranch there’s no need to leave! Wander meticulously landscaped gardens, do yoga while looking out at the Pacific, play mini golf, or lounge by the pool. Adventure awaits in the Montecito foothills with miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views. There’s also a salon and spa onsite if you’re looking for some pampering.

During my stay at San Ysidro Ranch I felt like I was in a fairytale as the grounds, accommodations, and views are otherworldly beautiful. The service was attentive, kind, and had a keen eye for detail. The cuisine, wine, and cocktails were wonderful and I definitely need the Blood Orange Margarita recipe!

San Ysidro Ranch is the perfect spot for an American Riviera wedding or romantic getaway. The memories made will not escape from my mind. I hope to stay at the ranch again as well as experience other hotels and resorts owned by Ty Warner in Santa Barbara and beyond!