Orient-Express to Open El Encanto in March 2013

Located 90 minutes from Los Angeles on California’s American Riviera, the meticulously restored El Encanto will reopen in Santa Barbara in March 2013 as part of Orient-Express’ growing portfolio.

Nestled on seven-acres of landscaped gardens with a historic trellised lined arbour and lily pond, El Encanto enjoys sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean from its commanding hilltop perch. The secluded retreat will feature 92 California-style bungalows.

Following its reopening, guests will be able to enjoy a full service spa, signature restaurant featuring California coastal cuisine and a Santa Barbara dedicated wine list, an outdoor infinity edge swimming pool, a window-lined ballroom with private terrace, and an array of outdoor event venues.

The 92 bungalows at El Encanto will consist of 70 rooms and 22 suites, with many offering individual design aspects such as cosy fireplaces and private patios or gardens for enjoying quiet afternoons and unspoiled reverie. Accommodations with sofa beds and interconnecting bungalows are available for families and larger parties. For a romantic getaway, The Hummingbird Suite transports guests to a world of their own. An 800-square-foot secluded suite with two private patios, this bungalow has been designed for absolute privacy, with its own outdoor shower and soothing water feature.

Serving Californian coastal cuisine, indoor and outdoor dining will be available at El Encanto accompanied by ocean views. The Dining Room will feature elegant yet relaxed indoor seating, while on warm evenings food can be enjoyed al fresco on The Terrace. Set within The Dining Room, The Wine Room is a private enclave for intimate celebrations and gatherings. Afternoon Tea and light bites will be served in The Lounge and a wide selection of drinks available to imbibe in The Bar.

El Encanto will keep its own cow called Ellie. Housed on a farm in central California, Ellie’s milk will be used solely to make a special cheese for El Encanto. The cheese will be complemented by El Encanto’s own unpasteurised beer brewed nearby. The property’s own freshly roasted coffee and an on-site herb and vegetable garden will further strengthen El Encanto’s commitment to offering fresh, locally-sourced produce.

The Spa at El Encanto will feature seven spacious treatment rooms, including a couple’s room and a wet treatment room. Guests will be able to revive themselves with an assortment of seasonal, organic and specialty body and facial treatments. Following treatments, pampering can continue in the relaxation lounge, or with a selection of detox teas that can be enjoyed on the outdoor patio. Nail services will also be provided by expert professionals. Men’s and ladies’ lounges will feature steam rooms, showers, private lockers, vanities, and dressing areas.

For guests looking for something more active, cutting-edge cardio equipment is available in the Fitness Centre, alongside a private salon for core fitness, yoga and pilates.

Downtown Santa Barbara is just minutes from El Encanto. This charming city offers an array of leisure activities, cultural pursuits, and landmarks, including the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, Santa Barbara Museum of Art and the El Presidio De Santa Barbara State Historic Park (an important archaeological site).

Sports and outdoor adventure activities are also available such as hiking, horseback riding, scuba diving and golf.

Both wine connoisseurs and wine novices will most likely delight in the surrounding wine country and many vineyards, to which El Encanto will be able to arrange tailored tours and tastings.

Perched on a hillside, El Encanto will be offering guests the use of especially designed electric bikes. The downhill slope will be a breeze but the extra push on the way back-uphill will provide a much needed kick. With a quaint basket at the front of the bikes, El Encanto can (on request) prepare budding cyclists with a picnic for their journey.

A Superior Bungalow at El Encanto starts from $525 (approx £325) per night, based on two sharing.

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