El Encanto, Santa Barbara, Reborn

Perched on a hillside overlooking Santa Barbara and the Pacific, El Encanto opened in 1918 and became a favorite hideaway for Hollywood’s elite. After a meticulous seven-year renovation, the resort reopened on March 18. The Spanish Colonial property now has 92 individually designed bungalows, set amid seven acres of gardens. Executive Chef Patrice Martineau, formerly of Daniel in New York, serves “California Coastal” cuisine. The property even has its own Holstein cow, Ellie, whose milk will be used to produce handmade cheese! I plan to visit El Encanto in the coming months and will publish a firsthand resort. In the meantime, a member of our Travel Office sends these photos.

Photos © Andrew Harper