Fresh from a record-amount renovation of $240 million and celebrating its 80th birthday, the Four Seasons Biltmore is a Central Coast treasure that exemplifies the soul of Santa Barbara. With its resplendent Spanish Colonial style and incredible location perched on a Montecito bluff overlooking the Pacific, The Biltmore is a one-of-a-kind property providing an escape to discriminating travelers, just as it has since 1927.

Renovating a property such as this requires deference to its historical heritage, and owner Ty Warner’s vision for the restoration meant that the hotel would retain its authenticity and elegance while guests would enjoy the conveniences that come with a modern upgrade. Entering the lobby is like stepping into an expansive Mediterranean hacienda, with its custom Spanish tile, ornamental ironwork, rich tapestries, mission-style furniture, giant upholstered chairs, and hand painted ceiling. Gas lamps light brick walkways that meander through 20 acres of meticulously maintained lush tropical gardens. From the 300 sq. ft. standard room to the 2,000 sq. ft. Odell Cottage, inviting guestrooms and cottage suites are decorated in muted colors, and feature plush beds with down pillows and duvets, comfortable furniture, Spanish tile bathrooms with rain showers and deep soaking tubs, and some have steam showers, radiant heated floors, and fireplaces.

The new restaurant is the beautiful Bella Vista, serving wine country cuisine in an exquisite setting of lustrous marble flooring, water fountains, a glass retractable roof, and stone fireplaces, against the backdrop of the best view on the premises. But it is Executive Chef Martin Frost’s seasonally prepared food that is the rightful draw, where you can simply dine on perfect small plates, or customize your entrée with a selection of flawless sauces. Paired, of course, with a selection from their extensive wine list.

To complete the retreat experience, we recommend a visit to the completely renovated spa, a sizeable 10,000 sq. ft. facility, where indigenous ingredients and therapeutic oils are used in treatments customized for each client, and products include the holistic skincare approach from expert Susan Ciminelli. Four deluxe day suites have fireplaces, soaking whirlpools, Swiss showers, and French doors with ocean views—the ultimate spa event.

Historic and world-class, The Biltmore is the crown jewel of the Santa Barbara coast.