Overview

Resting serenely between the Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains just a half-hour drive northwest of internationally-renowned Santa Barbara, California, the Santa Ynez Valley is known for its world-class vineyards and wineries, famous equestrian ranches, rich history of cattle ranching and agriculture and, most recently, its “wine country ambiance.” Its ranches, wineries and vineyards are set among verdant meadows and rolling hills. Five small, charming towns dot the valley and each offer their own unique flavor to the area.

While its atmosphere is relaxed, the Santa Ynez Valley is brimming with opportunities for the active lifestyle. Golf, tennis, hiking, bicycling and horseback riding are all popular, as is fishing at nearby Lake Cachuma. Cultural activities are also plentiful, and the valley’s rich history is celebrated continuously at its museums and 1804 vintage Mission Santa Ines.

History

The Chumash, one of the westernmost tribes of Native Americans in the U.S., were apparently the earliest known inhabitants of the Santa Ynez Valley, followed by the arrival of the Spanish in 1769. When the region fell into the hands of Mexico, its most elite families and top-ranking military personnel received land grants typically totaling thousands of acres.

Throughout the past more than two centuries, the Santa Ynez Valley has been home to large cattle ranches, dairy farms, renowned equestrian ranches and numerous agricultural crops – from walnuts and prunes, to world-class wine grapes. It also hosted the only stagecoach route linking points north to Santa Barbara.

The term “Valley of the Arabians” was coined in the 1960’s beginning with the development in the valley of large-scale equestrian ranches. Shortly thereafter, winegrowing began in earnest. Today, this gifted region of California’s Central Coast enjoys an exalted reputation for its climate, scenic beauty, cultural and recreational opportunities and excellent schools. Those things, in combination with proximity to Santa Barbara and easy access to Los Angeles, make the Santa Ynez Valley a mecca for privileged residents immersing themselves in the lifestyle of relaxed sophistication.

Population

Roughly 20,000 residents call Santa Ynez Valley home. There is a lengthy list of famous past and present residents, including former president Ronald Reagan, Michael Jackson, Steven Spielberg, Bo Derek, and numerous television and film personalities, including Bob Eubanks, John Forsythe, David Crosby and Fess Parker. The five small and friendly towns that act as the valley’s population centers -- Solvang, Santa Ynez, Buellton, Ballard and Los Olivos -- attract an eclectic mix of residents and visitors.

Climate

The Santa Ynez Valley enjoys a typically mild “Mediterranean” climate. Predominately west-northwesterly breezes usher in clean, moderating Pacific Ocean air. Daytime temperatures in winter average in the 60’s (F.); with 30’s and 40’s (F.) at night. Summer raises daytime averages into the 80’s and occasional 90’s, with refreshing, cool nighttime temperatures. Rainfall, occurring primarily November-April, averages 16-17 inches annually and turns the Valley and its hills into a virtual sea of green.

Access

While the local Santa Ynez Valley Airport can accommodate small private and corporate jets, larger planes are accommodated at nearby Santa Barbara International and Santa Maria Airports. Los Angeles International Airport is a convenient two hours away by automobile.