The Santa Ynez Valley is called the “Valley of the Arabian Horse”, but along with it’s long history with the Arabian horse it is also a spectacular vacation and day trip destination. Located only 35 miles north of Santa Barbara, this picturesque valley is home to world-class wineries, restaurants, spas, outdoor activities, shopping, and luxurious bed & breakfasts. We welcome you to experience the “Valley of the Arabian horse” and all it has to offer.
The Santa Ynez Valley is comprised of several small towns and townships all with their own unique charm and style. The Valley is flanked by the Santa Ynez Mountains to the South and the San Rafael Mounts to the North which give our Valley it’s beautiful backdrop of the Los Padres National Forest. Whether you are enjoying a gourmet meal, world class wine, fantastic boutique shopping, golfing or camping, there really is something for everyone. And of course the Icing On The Cake some of the most beautiful Arabian Horses in the world and all within a very small radius. You can see Arabians and vacation at the same time, pretty amazing! Some of our SYVAHA club members gathered together (like a Concierge) to offer their recommendations to ensure you have a fabulous trip to the Valley. So enjoy the Valley like a local!
Santa Ynez – Santa Ynez is the town, where you always see somebody you know and it’s okay to stop your car in the middle of the street to say hello. A true gem of a small town with a great western heritage. Some of the store fronts were actual movie sets which leads to the sophisticated cowboy air that surrounds the town. The intersection of town “Horseshoe Crosswalks” features the shoes of loved and famous horses of all breeds who have called the Valley home.
Solvang – Founded in 1911 to celebrate Danish heritage and traditions, Solvang is a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike. The downtown is filled with bakeries, shopping, wine tasting rooms and great restaurants. At the edge of town along the Santa Ynez River is world class golf and a few miles outside of town is the world famous Alisal Ranch which opened its doors in 1946.
Los Olivos – Originally a railroad and stagecoach town, Los Olivos still retains an old-fashioned charm with its Victorian storefronts and the flagpole that marks the main intersection through town. The town features the local “Grange” for activities that sits amidst wine tasting rooms, shopping and some really unique places to eat; several in historic buildings. A step into Los Olivos feels like a vacation, even if you live here.
Buellton – flanked with the Santa Rita Hills, famed for their Pinot Noir and home to our largest Brewery’s and getting a great reputation for live music venues. Nicknamed Service Town USA in 1949 it’s still a great stop for full service hotels and countless service stations and one of the fastest growing areas in the valley. Pea Soup Anderson’s has called Buellton home since 1924 and travelers have been stopping there ever since.
Los Alamos – a former stage-coach stop not to be missed with the heart of town being 7 blocks that are brimming with award winning restaurants. one of a kind art galleries, olive oil tasting, wine and beer tasting and The Depot Antique Mall, where over 60 vendors make it one of the top ten antique stores in the state.
