For curated luxury on the West Coast of the US, look no further than the Belmond El Encanto. Whether it’s business or pleasure (or that happy medium where both meet), the resort is expertly positioned to offer a unique and luxurious home base in the heart of elegant Santa Barbara.

An iconic location in an iconic destination, Santa Barbara’s only Forbes Five-Star resort is an enchanting hideaway for those who cherish privacy and serenity. The resort sits high in the hills amid lush gardens with views across the town and ocean. A landmark since the 1920s, its original architectural features have been lovingly brought back to life, while modern additions include an expansive outdoor swimming pool and beautiful boutique spa. True to its Californian roots, this luxury hotel combines glamour with laidback style.

Start your day early at the state-of-the-art Fitness Studio. Relax and soak up the sun in the lavish infinity-edge swimming pool or explore the seven acres of gloriously landscaped gardens. Indulge in an innovative contemporary California-coastal cuisine in the elegant Dining Room or delight in a romantic dinner under the stars on the terrace.

Belmond El Encanto is also home to the most idyllic day spa Santa Barbara has to offer. Treatments draw inspiration from the surrounding landscape to provide the ultimate in natural indulgence. This full-service Santa Barbara spa offers an array of treatments featuring local ingredients that relax the mind and rejuvenate the body.

Not to be overlooked, Belmond El Encanto is also a perfect home for high-end meetings and incentive programs, along with Special Events and Celebrations. The resort features 9,820 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space. All indoor spaces make optimal use of natural light to be bright and airy. Other features include individual climate control and video conferencing facilities. An expertly-finished boardroom provides the perfect thinking space and offers inspiring ocean views. The flexible 3,000-square-foot ballroom serves large gatherings and can be divided into two smaller rooms when necessary.

"My favorite feature of this property is the Arbor and Lily Pond," said John, Senior Manager, Sourcing and Industry Relations for Cadence Meetings & Incentives. "This landmark feature of Belmond El Encanto features a lush wisteria-lined brick courtyard wrapped around a tranquil lily pond, with a waterfall water feature. The location serves as a lovely escape from the confines of a meeting room and is the perfect spot for elegant receptions for up to 200 people."

Belmond El Encanto also offers a perfect jumping off point to explore some of the area’s finest attractions. Take in some Polo at the nearby Santa Barbara Polo Fields and experience ‘the sport of kings’ in all its glory. Immerse yourself in the culture of antiquities at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Dive headlong into the wonders of the ocean at the Santa Barbara Sea Center, or find yourself strolling amongst the unique boutiques and galleries of downtown Santa Barbara for authentic souvenirs. Browse high-end fashion stores and treat yourself to something special.

Offering exceptional experiences worldwide for the travel connoisseur, Belmond represents a global collection of 46 iconic hotels, trains and river cruises, bringing together some of the world's most thrilling journeys and destinations. As a member of the Belmond Bellini Club, our preferred partner status with this luxury brand guarantees added value and VIP treatment for your next stay.

Partner Spotlight: Belmond El Encanto, Santa Barbara