El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara
About the Hotel
El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara, is a renowned luxury retreat perched on the hills of Santa Barbara, California. Reflecting 1920s Spanish-Colonial architecture, it blends historic charm with modern artistry. The hotel is celebrated for its lush terraced gardens, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Its tranquil setting is a favorite among artists and celebrities seeking a peaceful getaway.
Location
Situated just minutes from downtown Santa Barbara, El Encanto provides convenient access to local attractions while retaining a secluded atmosphere. The hotel offers complimentary transportation within a five-mile radius, making visits to nearby shops and sights easy. Its location also allows for exploration of the scenic Santa Ynez Valley's wineries, just a short drive away.
Rooms
El Encanto features 90 sumptuous suites, bungalows, and rooms, designed to provide a serene coastal experience. Each accommodation is equipped with heated stone floors, marble bathrooms, and upscale amenities. Guests can enjoy spacious private terraces that welcome the sea breeze and views of the gardens or ocean. The sophisticated decor echoes the hotel's history, combining luxurious comfort with a modern touch.
Eat & Drink
The hotel's dining experiences highlight coastal cuisine through locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes. Guests can savor sustainable seafood paired with garden herbs or enjoy an elaborate afternoon tea with custom-blended teas and gourmet delights. The Lounge and Dining Room provide relaxed settings for light bites and cocktails, with options for alfresco dining against stunning backdrops.
Leisure & Business
El Encanto offers an array of leisure facilities, including a state-of-the-art gym and a full-service spa with treatment rooms featuring nature-inspired therapies. The zero-edge swimming pool invites relaxation, while numerous activities, such as guided hikes and wine tours, enhance the guest experience. For business travelers, multiple event spaces, including outdoor options with Pacific views, are available for meetings or special occasions.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Parking
- Safe deposit box
- 24-hour reception
- VIP check-in/ -out
- Express check-in/ -out
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- 24-hour security
- Baggage storage
- Locker room
- Allergy-free rooms
- Smoke detectors
- Electric vehicle charging station
- Fire extinguishers
- Key card access
- Key access
Sports & Fitness
- Fitness center
- Hiking
- Cycling
- Yoga class
- Sports trainer
- Aerobics
Guest Parking
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Services
- Valet parking
- Pet amenities available
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Car rental
- Dry cleaning
- Tours/Ticket assistance
- Shoe shine service
- Welcome drink
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Picnic area/ Tables
- Special diet menus
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Cribs
- Babysitting/Child services
- Board games
Spa & Leisure
- Saltwater pool
- Heated swimming pool
- Sun loungers
- Live entertainment
- Sun terrace
- Garden area
- Spa & wellness center
- Sauna
- Pedicure
- Manicure
- Waxing
- Body scrub
- Facial
- Treatment room
- Body wraps
- Back massage
- Head massage
- Full body massage
- Foot massage
- Make up services
Room features
- Free Wi-Fi in rooms
- Air conditioning
- Heating
- Sitting area
- Patio
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
- Rollaway beds
Bathroom
- Separate tub and shower
- Free toiletries
- Bathroom telephone
Self-catering
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- HBO available
- AM/FM alarm clock
Location
Reviews and Ratings
I loved the retreat-like feeling of the bungalow-style rooms set across the grounds, offering privacy and comfort. The service was incredibly helpful and friendly, although there was a minor hiccup with the restaurant server. The location in the hills of Santa Barbara provided breathtaking views, perfect for a girls' weekend. The dining experience was wonderful, but waiting for toasted bread was a downside.
My stay at the hotel was pleasant overall. The rooms, despite the noise from the laundry facility, were beautiful, large, and well-appointed, but unfortunately had no view. The service was top-notch, with attentive and very friendly staff. The location allowed me to enjoy some true R&R although there is room for improvement in service and cleanliness. The dining experience, especially the roast tomatoes at breakfast, was enchanting. The facilities were modern and comfortable.
I was thrilled with the amazing private bungalow in a gated garden, which was stunning. However, it didn't quite reach the same standards as my previous stay.
Staying at this hotel was a dream come true. The peaceful setting amongst well-cared-for gardens and quick access to the main hotel made my stay so convenient. The rooms were immaculate, with elegant touches throughout, including a cozy fireplace and a lovely sitting area. However, room service could be more prompt at times.
Staying at the hotel was a truly relaxing experience. The bungalow-style rooms across the peaceful grounds offer a sense of privacy and retreat with a very private terrace. The bed and linens were incredibly comfortable, and the bathroom was top-notch. On the downside, there was a wedding onsite during our stay.
Staying at Belmond El Encanto was a delightful experience overall. The rooms had a more traditional than modern style but were absolutely gorgeous, stylish, elegant, and very comfortable, especially with the spacious layout taking up the top floor of the bungalows in the pretty gardens. The service was exceptional, from housekeeping to the valet, making me feel truly pampered. The location overlooking Santa Barbara was excellent for a relaxing getaway, offering stunning views and a sense of peace. The dining experience was outstanding, although it lacked a bit in variety during lunch and dinner. Overall, a beautiful retreat with top-notch services and a serene ambiance.