For nearly 90 years, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara has been known for fun, luxury, and casual glamour. Its story begins in 1927, when the original Santa Barbara Biltmore was constructed on 22 acres of spectacular beachfront land that had been home to the Santa Barbara Country Club and several fine residences during late 1800s. Tucked between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains on Butterfly Beach, the hotel quickly became the retreat of choice for old Hollywood and America’s most discriminating travellers.
With that pedigree in mind, the Resort recently underwent a substantial $305 million dollar renovation – one that took a decade to complete. The reconstruction focussed not only on improving the amenities and functionality, but also on bringing back elements of the Resort’s romantic history.
A major part of the restoration was uncovering original materials from the 1920s and 1930s, such as Art Deco tiles and light fixtures, many of which were refurbished by hand. If the originals could not be recovered, artisans meticulously created reproductions.
The result: a stunningly redesigned Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara that perfectly combines the stylish elegance of yesteryear with contemporary chic. And yes, it is still a favourite of the Hollywood crowd.
Located 145 kilometres (90 miles) north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is known as a destination for art and wine lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and epicureans of all stripes.
www.fourseasons.com/santabarbara/