Four Seasons Resort: The Biltmore Santa Barbara

Hugged by the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains, the Four Seasons Resort: The Biltmore Santa Barbara is quite possibly the dreamiest resort on the California coast. Bursting with european charm, the property is unequivocally exquisite. In fact – in my opinion – the gem is reason alone to visit Santa Barbara. Here is a sneak peek inside the exclusive luxury resort that swept us off our feet…

As our car pulled into the sweeping driveway, we were immediately transported to another realm. You see, there is a certain je ne sais quoi about the historic hotel (which originally opened its doors as The Biltmore in 1927). It’s glamorous, yet comfortable. Private, yet social. Modern, yet charming. And although it appears incredibly natural in its composition, every aspect of the property is meticulously orchestrated. And brilliantly so. This is the kind of place that goes beyond traditional hospitality and leaves every single guest feeling like they were part of something truly special…

The 20-acre estate is dotted with Spanish Colonial-style buildings that are proudly capped by red-tiled roofs and engulfed by lush gardens. At the heart of the resort, we discovered the Jungle Pool: hand-tiled, heated and surrounded by an army of plush beach chairs, it was the perfect place to daydream with a cocktail in hand. And as with all-things FS, no details are spared – you can even listen to underwater music when you go for a dip. From sunscreen to fruit-infused water, everything was at our fingertips as we relaxed in the tropical oasis…

And leave it to FS to step up the pool game to a whole new level. Guests at Four Seasons Biltmore have access to one of Santa Barbara’s most private playgrounds: the Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club. Perched above Butterfly Beach (within a stone’s throw of the resort), the club has been drawing Hollywood elites since 1937. While some rooms and suites grant complimentary access, there is an entrance fee ($200/room) if you book a superior or deluxe. But given it’s one of California’s most exclusive clubs, this is a rare experience worth splurging on…

As a guest at Four Seasons Biltmore, we also had access to one of the top hotel spas in the US. Think deep soaker tubs, private steam showers and a full range of treatments that feature botanicals from the local mountains, sea and wine country. Sadly we didn’t have time for a massage, but did slip in to use the spa facilities (complimentary to all guests). We loved the sauna, steam room, rain shower and the fireplace in the relaxation lounge.

After all the swimming and unwinding, we were ready to sink into bed. Ah yes, the plush, heavenly cloud floating in the centre of our room. In my opinion, no hotel chain understands sleep like the Four Seasons (they even have a website dedicated to it). From the custom-designed beds with exclusive temperature regulation technology to their turndown service (slippers, fluffed pillows, water placed bedside — the whole nine yards), they know how to create a sleep temple where you’ll have the best night’s sleep of your life.

Even the bathroom was a mini paradise. Beautiful Spanish tiles, deep soaker tub, separate shower, luxe L’Occitane bath and body toiletries…

This is casual glamour at its best. No wonder guests have flocked to the resort for decades. I could spend weeks wandering down the lantern-lit brick walkways, frolicking in the courtyard gardens, taking in every ounce of the amenities…

Sipping cocktails at the stunning Ty Lounge…

And dining at one of the top brunch spots in the US…

Oh, and if you eat as much as I do and are looking to squeeze in some physical activity, the resort offers two incredible, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to guests: you can sharpen your beach volleyball skills with Olympic gold medalist Todd Rogers as your personal coach OR get a customized expedition with pro surfer Tom Curren. How is that for an elevated experience?! Or you could just take really really long walks on Butterfly Beach…

What a dream. Needless to say, I didn’t want to leave. Ever. In typical FS fashion, Four Seasons Resort: The Biltmore Santa Barbara exceeded our expectations in every single way and proved – once again – why FS is truly the leader when it comes to hospitality. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, I highly recommend packing your bags, jetting over to the American Riviera and indulging in a stay at the iconic resort. With world-class service and a breathtaking property, I am certain you will not regret it.

Our stay at Four Seasons Resort: The Biltmore Santa Barbara was complimentary. As always, all reviews and opinions are entirely my own.