To call Belmond El Encanto a hotel just doesn’t sounds right, when recalling the sprawling Santa Barbara property dotted with charming bungalows. I felt as though I was living in a fairy tale village, rather than boxed into a cookie-cutter guestroom. There was even a wishing well on view outside my window, for goodness sake.
Built in 1913, El Encanto underwent a seven-year renovation that was completed as it celebrated its 100th birthday, sprucing the place up while maintaining its original charm. Its buildings still reflect the California craftsman and Spanish-style architecture common in Santa Barbara; its rooms give off a cozy, rustic vibe. My guestroom came complete with a plush king-sized bed, a patio facing the coast and a fireplace (my favorite part). It might not get that cold in coastal California, but, when walking back to my room on a chilly November night, I was thankful I could simply dial “0” on the guestroom phone to request a technician to light the fire.
In the spacious bathroom, scented salts and a terry cloth pillow mean guests might pass-up the rainfall shower for a relaxing bath. Or perhaps a spa treatment is in order? The full-service Spa at El Encanto features seven treatment rooms, steam rooms and a relaxation lounge and offers seasonal specials for ultimate rejuvenation.
Indulge in your culinary desires with breakfast, lunch and dinner menus of California coastal cuisine at El Encanto’s dining room and terrace. Each dish is served with a side of stunning Santa Barbara views. Afternoon tea is served in the Lounge (make your reservations at least 24 hours in advance), while the Wine Room provides the perfect spot for a special group celebration.
El Encanto, in its perch above downtown Santa Barbara, is privy to sightings of the majestic monarch butterflies that migrate to the coast of California for the winter. The property honors that special connection with butterfly motifs, including the Damien Hirst diamond-dusted silk screen “Psalm print: Verba mea auribu,” located to the left of the front desk. Tiny blue butterflies follow the spiral staircase down to the spa, and a print of purple and pink wings graces the cover of the El Encanto bar menu.
Visitors can view and learn about the monarch butterflies in their own habitat at the Goleta Monarch Butterfly Grove. Located about 20 minutes from El Encanto, the butterfly grove is in the Sperling Preserve on the Ellwood Mesa, right along the Pacific coast. From mid-November through mid-February, docents are available weekends from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to give visitors a greater understanding of the monarch butterflies and help them spot the beautiful creatures among the leaves of the trees. El Encanto can arrange for transportation or provide driving directions to the reserve upon request.
