A Romantic Getaway – San Ysidro Ranch

Imagine it’s the 1930’s…you’re relaxed standing outside on your private veranda, sipping a glass of wine while a gentle breeze caresses your hair and face. You look across the beautiful landscaped gardens and notice Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier holding hands and strolling through the grounds as they chat about their newest moving pictures. As you gaze up the hill, at the cozy white cottage above you, you notice Jean Harlow in a beautiful white silk gown, being carefree as she nestles in her lover’s arms. You coolly lean back in your plush chaise lounge, with your large straw hat and over-sized rim sunglasses; then lazily sip your wine when you realize you haven’t a care in the world.

Now imagine it’s the year 2004 and this romantic and glamorous experience is still a reality at San Ysidro Ranch.

Having recently celebrated its 110th Anniversary in 2003, San Ysidro Ranch located in Montecito, California still captures the feel of old Hollywood with its rich history while it welcomes new Hollywood to its doors. Encompassing 500 rolling acres, the Ranch can offer guests panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean; Channel Island with a stunning backsplash of the Santa Ynez Mountains the San Ysidro Ranch experience is truly unprecedented.

Featuring 20 luxury cottages, which encompass a total of 38 rooms all decorated in French Country- each with private terraces, fireplace or wood burning ovens, Frette linen & goose down comforters just to mention a few of their luxurious amenities. One of the most sought after suites is the famous Kennedy Suite, named after John & Jackie Kennedy who spent their honeymoon at the Ranch, is a lavish two-bedroom cottage which includes three fireplaces, as well as the largest private deck on the property. The living room provides beautifully bedecked walls and relaxing sofas and armchairs. The Kennedy Suite is a very special accommodation due to the fact that it is one of the original, separate and totally private stone edifices on the Ranch.

Their newest and most grand suite is the Eucalyptus Cottage, with 2,200 square foot in luxurious space. The cottage consists of two extravagantly grand bedrooms; two outsized bathrooms, one guest bathroom, three wood burning fireplaces, a large living room and dining room, as well as a private, heated 10-meter swimming pool equipped with its own private deck.

The Eucalyptus Cottage is elegantly decorated in an inviting European Country style, with all of the latest amenities, which include: three televisions with VCRs, a digital stereo system, full steam showers, extra large bath tubs, Fretted linens, plush robes, SYR workout clothing, and a full complimentary bar to make you feel right at home.

With two signature-dining establishments on the property –Stonehouse Restaurant and Plow & Angle Bistro, guests can have a choice of both a fine dining establishment and a casual bistro setting, which have been favorites of locals over the years. Executive Chef John Trotta, starts off his mornings using Ranch grown herbs, vegetables and fruit to complement the American Regional cuisine served at both eateries.

The San Ysidro Ranch offers their guests an array of fine amenities to make their stay feel as comfortable as home. The Ranch even has a special program for man’s best friend… upon arrival with your pet; they are treated with the utmost respect. Each pet will receive their very own gift wrapped basket with a water and food bowl, bottled mineral water, treats, Pawier vitamins, sanitized luxury doggie pillows and their name is placed outside along with their owners. With a special menu created especially for dogs, which includes steak, burger, vegetables etc, a massage menu, grooming services and more, your best friend will definitely be appreciative. There is also an unlimited amount of recreational activities from hiking their 17-mile trails up the San Ynez mountain to rock climbing, bike riding, swimming, horse back riding, tennis or just strolling through the picturesque gardens.

Since 1893 the San Ysidro Ranch, has been well known as a fabulous wedding and honeymoon venue. Known for its exceptional service in details and privacy, the Ranch has been a romantic getaway for many famous Hollywood legends. Wedding couples may reserve all 38 cottages for wedding parties and families for the ultimate private ceremony affair. The wedding gardens offer Cecil Brunner Rose arches and lavish English Gardens which were designed by Frances Shannon, the Ranch Wedding Garden can seat up to 100 guests under a charming white canopy which gives it the perfect romantic touch. The gardens in which the ceremony is held is adjacent to three beautiful lawns, which are encircled by perfumed roses and bougainvillea’s, which sets for an unforgettable and lovely wedding. The experienced and well-trained staff at San Ysidro Ranch can help plan the wedding and reception in detail through every phase.

When guests stay at San Ysidro Ranch, you will get to feel and experience what people have for many generations, the beauty and romance, the peace and tranquility and the presence and glamour of Old Hollywood.

For more information visit www.sanysidroranch.com.