One of the perks of being in the travel industry is getting to experience phenomenal hotels. A couple weeks ago, I checked into a hotel I’d always dreamed of being a guest at: the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. “The Biltmore,” as locals call it, is an iconic property in the drop dead gorgeous city of Santa Barbara, where I lived for a decade in my twenties and visited often throughout my childhood (and still do!). I’d been on property for countless brunches, lunches, drinks, dinners and events over the years, but I’d never stayed the night...until now.
I’m pleased to report the guest experience beyond exceeded my expectations when my fantasy became reality. The service was warm and impeccable from arrival at the valet and check-in to the bellman getting me situated in my room and the pool attendants’ attentive care.
My second-story room was spacious and luxuriously appointed. The balcony was outfitted with a café table and chairs and overlooked a garden. Santa Barbara’s signature red roof tiles and palm fronds peaked through the bedside windows. The bathroom was so divinely large with gorgeous Mediterranean-inspired patterned tiles and a large soaking tub.
The 1927 Spanish-style property sits on 22 acres and the lush grounds are filled with fountains, winding pathways and gardens. Guests can use the spa’s sauna and steam room in addition to the property’s “Jungle Pool” and two Jacuzzis heated to different temperatures (options!). There are also tennis courts and croquet for active entertainment, plus the Ty Lounge bar with indoor and outdoor seating areas serving up ocean views and glamorous cocktails. The Bella Vista Restaurant is open for three meals a day and is legendary for its decadent Sunday Brunch.
I took advantage of one of the property’s premier amenities—access to the exclusive Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club across the street and situated right on Butterfly Beach. Four Seasons’ overnight guests can frequent the bar and dine at the Tydes restaurant for lunch and dinner, which is worth it simply for the views alone. Drinks at the Coral Reef Bar (the bar itself is literally a salt water aquarium filled with fish and other sea creatures) followed by dinner at Tydes were a highlight of my experience.
The location in Montecito is another major perk of staying here. You are steps from Butterfly Beach, one of Santa Barbara’s best beaches and an ideal spot to catch sunrise and sunset. At low tide, you can walk towards East Beach in the direction of downtown Santa Barbara. Or, my preference, stroll south to the less crowded Hammonds and Miramar beaches. You’re also walking distance to Montecito’s Coast Village Road, lined with shops, galleries and eateries.
All in all, it was a blissful, dreamy experience. I’m 100% hooked and can’t wait to check-in again soon. It’s truly worth the splurge.
