Alisal Ranch

5/5 – Couldn’t have asked for a better getaway We had an absolutely magical stay at Alisal Ranch. From the moment we arrived, the warmth and hospitality of the staff really stood out — everything felt thoughtful and well taken care of, right down to the small details in our room. There’s so much to do on the property! We loved the horseback riding, nature walks, and had the most relaxing time at the spa. One of the highlights for us was the breakfast ride — riding out in the morning and enjoying a meal outdoors was such a unique and unforgettable experience. The food overall was amazing — every meal was delicious, high-quality, and still felt cozy and down-to-earth. Alisal is the perfect spot whether you’re coming as a couple or with family. There’s something for everyone, and it’s easy to get around and just enjoy the peace and fun of ranch life. Our only regret? Not booking one more night. We’ll definitely be back!

Celebrated my husbands surprise 70th birthday at Alisal Ranch with our children and|8 grandchildren. Grandkids had the time of their lives with horseback riding, fishing, swimming, hayride and just all being together.|We had 4 rooms for the family and all the beds were extremely comfortable. All the staff was very helpful and friendly. Will definitely visit Alisal Ranch again!

This was such an amazing experience. Beautiful April sun-shine and weather. We will be back!!! Sometime after we booked the stay, the concierge reached out and was able to provide out activity itinerary. The check in was easy and we were honestly pleasantly surprised that we were given real keys to out lodging. The lodging was amazing. Clean and spacious 1-bedroom suite, bunk beds for our teenagera in the living area. Cute little fire place. The entire facility was beautiful and well maintained. Other than the lake the resort was an easy walk. Highly recommend the e-bike to tour the mountain. The horse back riding was good for us beginners. The lake side activity was so much fun.

Celebrating our 20yr anniversary at Alisal was a real treat! The experience was even better than I had imagined. The food was spectacular, activities enjoyable, small touches such as warm greetings at restaurants, same dinner table each night, anniversary cake, bedside chocolates with note, turndown service, etc we’re noticed & appreciated. The staff were all happy & friendly. Ranch is beautiful! Thank you!" Taria A

Alisal Ranch was gorgeous. It was the perfect getaway and has accommodations and options for anyone. Depending on what you want to do. We went horseback riding, which was so beautiful, and we had a relaxing spa treatment. The staff is incredibly accommodating and friendly. The food is delicious with many options for vegetarians. We met a family that has been coming for the last 40 years and I can understand why it is a great retreat with beautiful nature and high class accommodations. Looking forward to our next trip to Alisal ranch.

We had such a lovely time at Alisal. Such a great spot for kids and adults alike. They had games and an open kids room for the kids to enjoy many activities and crafts throughout the day. Beautiful clean pool and complimentary soft serve ice cream nearby. Amazing! We had such a great start to our summer. Horseback riding, ropes course, awesome archery and air rifles… so so many firsts! Food was good - loved the breakfasts. Thanks Alisal for a fantastic time with the family.

We love going to the Alisal Ranch! We go twice a year and it's amazing. The staff is so kind and professional. We love that there are no TVs and no phones. It's the perfect way for us to unplug from our busy lives.

Our family recently stayed at Alisal Ranch, and it was nothing short of amazing! From the moment we arrived, the staff was incredibly welcoming and hospitable, even allowing us to check in early—which was a huge help with a toddler in tow.||The accommodations were perfect for our family. We were especially impressed that they provided a full-sized crib for our little one, making our stay so much more comfortable. Every detail felt thoughtfully considered for families traveling with young children.||The meals were absolutely fantastic, with delicious options for both kids and adults. Speaking of kids, Alisal Ranch goes above and beyond to be family-friendly—our toddler adored the barnyard, arts and crafts, and, of course, the pool. There was never a dull moment, and we loved watching her experience so much joy.||My husband also took a private tennis lesson during our stay and had an incredible experience. He came back raving about how much he learned and how great the coaching was.||This was our first stay at Alisal Ranch, but it definitely won’t be our last. We’re already looking forward to coming back and making even more wonderful memories. Highly recommend for families, couples, or anyone looking for a warm, welcoming getaway!

Second holiday visit to Alisal and it was a wonderful experience both times! Great for families and the food is good. The staff is also great - friendly, helpful, warm - and we had the best waiter named Elgio - who was very attentive to detail and did an excellent job of being helpful with our allergies when ordering dinner, we felt like we could relax and enjoy ourselves without worry (which is a rarity because people aren't usually very cautious!) Will definitely be making this special place a regular holiday tradition.

Lucky to have had the chance to return to Alisal Ranch after our first visit a couple years ago and it was just as special as we remembered it! Prior to checking in we attended a pie making class in the oak room where FERNANDO walked us through his recipe for homemade applie pie. After getting settled in our room we headed up to the lake where CHRISTIAN and the boys showed us the ropes for Axe Throwing (great coaching skills!). Over the course of the weekend we saw GERARDO at multiple eateries across the property ensuring ourselves and other guests were fed and happy. Personal favorite was the cowboy burger - may or may not have had more than one. Special shout out to MIKE who all weekend made us feel right at home both around the hotel and over at the golf course. His welcoming demeanor and attention to detail are what make a trip to Alisal an unforgettable experience!

Came for a weekend getaway after schools started back up to avoid the crowds. I actually had low expectations as someone who prefers higher end hotels. I fell in love with the place and hope to come back annually. Wife and kids loved it too. It was during an unusually bad heat wave but even still... the horseback riding, Archery, Air rifles were all great and the staff were super friendly. The Ranch Golf course was interesting and in pretty good shape. The pool was great and helped beat the heat. Staff and service were top notch from check in to check out, top to bottom and I mean every single person on staff on property. Tip: The bar area has live music, snacks, and allows kids so it was fun for the whole family. Rooms were much nicer than I had expected being on a ranch. Dressing up for dinner made it feel special and every night dinner was a treat. All in all I highly recommend and can't wait to return because there was so many things to do that we didn't get to it all.

A friend recommended this location for lunch. We love that it was away from the crowds, has pretty scenery, a cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, good food and reasonable prices. We're recommending AR to our friends and will definitely be coming back!

An incredible 10000 acre working ranch 2 plus hours from Los Angeles . A sprawling dude ranch which has been hosting guest for many decades. So much to do, horseback riding, tennis , pickle, golf petting zoo, solvang just a few minutes away, and so much more. Food is wonderful and a lot of it. No TV is nice, you can truly unplug should you choose to do. Giddy up to the ranch.

Gorgeous and breathtaking! From the suite to dining, to the outdoor activities... everything you could hope for in a Dude Ranch is here at Alisal. The staff are friendly and helpful. They have horseback riding, e-biking, hiking, archery, air rifle, fishing, kayaking, and a rodeo. We did it all! The suite had a fireplace, which gave to the ambiance of the stay. I would definitely come here again!!

Alisal Ranch is a standout experience; The setting and grounds showcase the unique natural beauty and rich California history of the Santa Ynez Valley. The rooms are beautifully appointed with the finest quality materials and amenities in a warm, classy western style. The Oak Room Bar is a great way to start or end your evening; great live entertainment. Our bartender, Ian, was so charming and knowledgeable. Jack the Restaurant manager, Maria our dinner server was warm and delightful. The food quality is excellent and included along with gratuities in the package price. Lovely piano accompaniment to farm fresh locally sourced gourmet ingredients. The bath robes are unique; fashioned from gorgeous soft indigo denim and lined in cozy luxurious chenille. The resident mousers, Tom and Jerry are super cute friendly kitties. The horses and other ranch critters make this a memorable time for animal lovers of all ages. This was a return visit for us and we plan to return again next May.

Wife surprised me with a birthday weekend here this weekend room number 01. The kids and I loved it. Horseback riding and tons of activities. With 3 young kids, our room trash cans can fill up quickly but they were always emptied a few times a day without having to ask. In fact I left my hat at the bar one night, can the next day and they had it waiting for me. Internet was a little spotty in the room but they gave us a Hotspot to utilize in our. My wife normally doesn't stay at anything less than 5 star so she was a little worried but she had a great to and felt very comfortable. With the horseback riding, Olivia was nice enough to set up my daughter and I last minute for an intermediate trail ride while my younger sons got to enjoy the horse lead ride. Emily, our horse guide did fantastic with my daughter, giving her tips, making her feel safe and giving her a great time. We will definitely come back!! Thanks

Beautiful setting. All inclusive, and food was very good. You need to know there is essentially no WiFi. That's ok if you want to be (and are prepared to be "off the grid") but I had to work while we were there so had to go in to solvang and work in a coffee shop. Also, since no tv's we thought we'd be able to watch streaming content, but can't do that either. This is all ok if you sign up for it, but resort should make it clear in their advertising

This was the first time for my wife and I to Alisal Ranch and we can see why so many patrons are repeat customers--- many having been back annually for 20-40 years. Before I go into providing thoughts on the stay/property we wanted to say thank you to Margaret the director for reservations for helping us as we had some personal things that came up and needed assistance with booking out first (and now hopefully of many visits to Alisal). Thank you to the amazing check in staff, the concierge for helping us navigate just a wild amount of activities to do while on property. Special thanks for Maria, Juan, and Mike the dining room manager who all went above and beyond to make our stay and dining experience so fun and memorable! Thank you for making my wife and I feel like we have been coming to Alisa for many years. Now we are not fancy people whatsoever-- but we have been very fortunate to be able to experience stays at the Aman Resorts, hold a higher tier status at Bonvoy properties so we get to stay at their higher end properties for much more reasonable rates than most . Our experience at Alisa rivaled if not topped some of those. Now let me be clear, this is not going to be comparable to Ritz, Aman, Four Seasons, Auberge --- and this is a good thing. Alisa in my opinion doesn't want to be like the rest, it wants to only be comparable to itself. If you come here and want some fancy chanterelle mushroom pasta dish with truffles go down to SY Kitchen or stay at the Auberge property, if you want some really damn good BBQ (perfectly cooked steaks, chicken, fish) and pair it with some rare bourbons, this is your spot. Photos and reviews don't do this place justice, but then again some places are best experience in person. Quick other notes-- we did the food and beverage included in our stay. The bar is well stocked, there are some higher end spirits and wine bottles for purchase but they were all very well priced. We usually have our favorite spots in SY to eat (like SY Kitchen, Bells) but we were so impressed by our first breakfast/dinner we happily stayed on property for all of our meals. Activity wise we loved our horseback riding experience, the archery and air rifle was fun too. We just wished that we had done the Adobe ride on Saturday morning but oh well, next time! Make sure you get a print out of your itinerary, on accident our concierge had texted us the wrong times for our planned activities so we almost got screwed on that but they quickly helped us rebook the best they could. Anyhow we look forward to bringing our families and friends next year!

It was our first trip and it was amazing. The property is so pretty, the food is delicious, the staff is so helpful, the activities for the kids are awesome and our family had a blast. The wagon rides to breakfast and dinner are awesome and you'll see deer and many animals. The rodeo is a must and comes with line dancing and a magic show for kids. The one small piece of feedback I would give is that the flags hanging on the wall about sexuality and political statements on war is not appropriate for kids club. I didn't bring my five year old there to learn about the birds and the bees/war from a camp counselor, we came to have fun and be carefree. I did give this feedback to a manager and they were very understanding and will hopefully move the flags to an age appropriate area that is not for little kids. Can't wait to visit again. Like family summer camp!

Stopped by this resort to see what they offer and how the place looks and immediately fell in love with the property and everything about the resort. I can not wait to book our family trip to Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort. The employee at the registration was very nice and professional and answered a few questions about the ranch. And now It's on my bucket list. What a lovely property with beautiful horses and more. I did more reading about the ranch on their website and couldn't believe how wonderful this place is. So many activities, horse back riding, cooking classes and more. It truly is a dream vacation for me. Who knew such a place excited two hours away from LA. See you soon Alisal ...... here is a video I took of the horses that came back from riding.

We were part of a large group that stayed at Alisal for 4 days. It was a great experience, the service was top notch, the staff are absolutely fantastic, they aimed to please the guest. We did participate en several activities: archery, air gun, axe throwing and fishing. The staff was knowledgeable and very helpful. The cabins were rustic but well appointed and super comfortable beds. The bar was outstanding great drinks, loved the food. To make it short, you can not go wrong staying at Alisal. We will definitely will be back next year.

What a truly special and unique experience at the beautiful Alisal Ranch! My husband and I were lucky enough to spend a week here on a company incentive trip. The staff are all so friendly and the hospitality is unmatched! Our room was very clean and nicely decorated with the resort's Western theme/aesthetic. Having a real fireplace inside the room was so nice - especially since we stayed here in late April/early May when it was still chilly. We used it EVERY night. There was also filtered water in the room which was a plus! There is an abundance of beauty, scenery, and wildlife all throughout the property. We were lucky to see deer every morning outside of our back porch, bald eagles soaring through the sky at the lake, beautiful horses and cattle roaming, and even a bobcat! The activities: We spent two afternoons on the lake and rented an aluminum boat. The fishing equipment was complimentary. Perks of coming during "off season" - we had the whole lake to ourselves! And caught about 20 fish between the two of us each day. It was very exciting. The staff were all super helpful and friendly. My husband played golf at both The Ranch and The River golf courses. He had great things to say about both, but his favorite was The Ranch. It was so peaceful on the course, the greens were very well maintained, and the course was more challenging/technical of the two. We even saw wild turkeys! Also, the breakfast burritos from the café were 10/10. Beginner Horseback Riding 10/10 experience. The wranglers were all patient and willing to help the beginners learn to ropes. We did the horseback riding with Emily and it was a wonderful experience! It rained two days during our stay, so they planned a rainy day itinerary for each day it rained. There was wine tasting and a make your own margarita class. I really enjoyed this added touch since most activities they offer are outdoors. They truly care for the guests. Deep Tissue Massage - a little pricey in my opinion, but such a nice treat/splurge! I would recommend spoiling yourself with a spa day :) The shuttle drivers were all amazing and personable. There was a lot of other free activities too including hiking trails, gym, pedal boats, kayaking, SUP, petting zoo and more. The food: Breakfast: breakfast each day was serve yourself/buffet style. Everything was pretty good! And you can even take your food to go or back to your room as they provided containers. Lunch favorites: Ranch Chopped Salad with chicken added and the steak tacos! Both were amazing. Dinner: we had a scheduled dinner in the dining room each night. The service was EXCELLENT! They also have a live pianist each night which was very nice. It was a 3 course meal where you get to choose your starter, entree and dessert. They had two new dinner and dessert specials each night. The tuna tartar was my favorite starter. For entrees, I had the salmon, short rib, burger, shrimp - everything was good! I think my favorite was the burger - I loved the bacon onion sauce and the arugula. My husband literally ordered the rib eye every night it was that yummy lol! Note: both breakfast and dinner meals were included in the stay package. I see why this place is a yearly tradition for families. It's a perfect place for kids and there are endless family friendly activities to choose from. We will absolutely be back!!

It's been a few years since my previous visit and I'm impressed with the updates and upgrades. Alisal manages to balance an authentic, western ranch setting with thoughtful luxurious amenities. You'll find real, wood burning fireplaces and western art along with bath salts, candles and plush robes in your room. I met a family that have been returning for 23 yrs. That speaks volumes.

It would be great if it were half the price. WAY WAY OVERPRICED!! We paid over $20,000 for 6 of us for 4 nights. Not 5 star rooms, food, ameneties and service by any means

Our friend recently had her 80th birthday party at Alisal Ranch. We thought it might be nice to book a room there (two-night minimum was required), so we made reservations four months in advance of the party and they charged our credit card for the full amount. About a week later, we decided to cancel and just drive up for the day of the party since we would be returning from a Mediterranean cruise a few days before and likely jet lagged. Alisal issued a refund back to our credit card but still charged us almost $300. I called and spoke to the manager, Kathleen, to ask why they didn't issue a refund for the full amount. Her reply was that they charge a 10% "transaction fee" for canceling the reservation. When I questioned why we weren't made aware of the fee prior to making the reservation, she became defensive and said their cancellation policy is "clearly stated on their website" (the reservation was made by phone), and "We were informed of it at the time of booking" (we weren't). She claimed this was "standard industry practice," but I've never known of another high-end resort that charges a "transaction fee" for hundreds of dollars to cancel, especially when it was done four months in advance. She went on to say that if we were regular guests she might consider waiving the fee, but since we aren't, it is nonrefundable; however she might consider applying it to a future reservation. As if we'll ever consider booking a room at Alisal in the future given how dismissive Kathleen was during this call. I filed a chargeback dispute with our credit card company, but then our friend/host (who was spending big bucks on her party) contacted Alisal's Event Manager and let him know how upset she was with the way two of her invited guests were being treated. Kathleen finally agreed to refund the fee, so I cancelled the chargeback dispute. It's been months now and we're still waiting for that refund. Based on my experience with Kathleen, she gets one star for giving us the run-around, but I'm giving Alisal Ranch three stars on this review because their Event Team threw a wonderful party for our friend and a good time was had by all.

been to the Alisal since the 1960s, and its as special today as it was then. always meeting new friends as well as old ones. So much to do and see, take the family you will love your time there, BTW the staff from top to bottom are just wonderful!

Alisal Ranch is a tranquil gem surrounded by nature, where rustic charm meets warm hospitality. The rooms are cozy comfort with country elegance, providing a haven after days of exploration. From horseback riding to pickle ball and bike riding, the ranch caters to every whim. Culinary offerings showcase the region's flavors, each meal a symphony of freshness and artistry. What sets Alisal Ranch apart is its soul--an authentic connection to the land and a commitment to preserving its beauty. Kathleen Cochran, the General Manager, personifies excellence and premium service, ensuring every detail reflects the ranch's passion. The front desk staff and concierge team, also elevate the experience with genuine warmth and are so friendly. In short, Alisal Ranch isn't just a destination; it's a woven tapestry of authentic experiences. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, it exceeds expectations. Our stay wasn't just a getaway; it was a journey into a world where time slows, leaving memories as timeless as the landscape itself. We will definitely be back!

So the only reason for this lower review is the cost to stay there and the cost of horseback ride as both have increased to the point of ridiculous. My girlfriends and I have been going here since 2019, have always had great experiences, great food, great wranglers taking us on amazing rides and it is a great location. Also, we love shopping and wine tasting nearby in Los Olivos and shopping in Sante Yanez. However, in the past year, the cost of the stay no longer makes sense. We now have moved onto another Ranch in Arizona, Rancho de los Caballos.

Not worth the price. Over pretentious and overpriced. We had been going as a family for almost 20 years. Alisal used to be like an extended family. However, over the past few years they have lost sight of the importance of relationships and long-standing loyal customers. We love and will miss the wonderful staff, but not the management who are clearly off course.

Beautiful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Food is excellent as is the service. Great place to connect parents and little kids with some romantic hideouts, if you look!

I love to lay out on a tropical beach and sip cocktails all day or visit new cities and experience the culture and try out all the delicious foods...but this Covid summer 2020, I wanted to change it up! I decided to head out with my family to Alisal Ranch. They at first complained that there was no ac, no telephones, no tv...but by the end of the trip, they didn't want to leave! From grand AYCE buffets to impeccable customer service to countless family activities (SUP, kayaking, bingo, karaoke, board games, pickle ball, disk golf, etc) to, of course horseback riding...it was a magical adventure to simpler times. Bottom line: I would absolutely recommend Alisal Ranch especially for families.

We just got married at the Alisal this past weekend. I have nothing but rave reviews for the entire staff. Our main contact, Mary Friar went above and beyond to make sure our day was magical and our guests had the best weekend ever. Our wedding planner said they were all so easy to work with. If you are planning an event or just a weekend away, the Alisal is truly a gem. I would recommend it to anyone. The food was INCREDIBLE. The check in team are so welcoming and the rooms are beautiful. Great activities for families too! Thank you, Mary, and the entire Alisal team!

This is a delightful, very special place in a beautiful cowboy country setting- grassy hills, stables and horses. We visited for 3 days in September 2020. The ranch has a wide spectrum of activities for adults and families - horse riding, bike and ebike tours, tennis, swimming, and much much more. All were well managed, fun and safe. Alisal's concierge helps you plan your activities in advance. Meals were 5 star all the way. Everything fresh made on site, excellent attentive service. The best pastries and desserts you'll find anywhere! Individual suites were roomy, impeccably furnished with cowboy decor, and great views of the back country. Service was fast and accommodating. We'll be back soon!

My family and I have vacationed at Alisal Ranch ten times over the past twelve years and I think our visit last month will be our last. Newer is not always better as was the case with their new General Manager. Dave, the previous Manager who left a year ago was hands on and cared to interact with the guests. You could see him walking to the dining room in the mornings to grab a cup of coffee and say hello to guests. Not the new General Manager. You can leave messages for her and she never responds as was the case when my husband left her messages. We had a bug problem in Room #59 when we checked in. There were bugs everywhere and when you entered the room more would fly in the door. Housekeeping didn't do a great job cleaning the room before we arrived either. I had to wipe things off on the tub that I could see before we even used it. They've also lost staff who were great and retained some that aren't so great. The prices for horseback riding have gone up substantially, but the string of horses and quality has decreased. The grounds used to look like a botanical garden and with all the rain this past year you would think they would look good, but they do not. Bare planters in front of rooms were a good indication. The owners really need to question the new General Manager as far as customer service, but she was hired to increase the bottom line. That's about it.

Wow. Just Wow. My spouse and I went to Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort not sure what to expect. From the moment we walked into the front desk, we felt like family. The staff didn't just give incredible service, it was so much more than that. They truly, deeply and so authentically wanted to make you feel at home. Each time we walked into a different area of the resort, we were greeted with the same genuine service. I have worked in hospitality and there is great service and the service that makes you feel like you belong. Alisal gave you both. Honestly, I have never experience this feeling from any other resort. So magical. My spouse and I can't stop talking about our time at Alisal! We wanted to create new traditions around the holidays and we found exactly what we're going to do each year. ALISAL! (Like MANY of the guests who have made it there traditions. Some 20, 30 40 years!) Oh, did I mention the food????? I had the cod and it was the best fish I have EVER had. DELICIOUS. Horseback riding, golf, spa, so many activities! Or, if you wish, don't do a darn thing. Chill out, drink coffee while watching the sunrise, have a glass of wine and watch the sunset. This is the perfect distination to unplug and recharge all while making new friends. Honestly, life-changing.

Gorgeous spot, amazing buffets. Great for: families of all gens wanting fun quality time Bad for: quiet. Sitting by pool right now with someone's loud bass music so unable to read, relax, meditate

The Alisal Guest Ranch is truly a one of a kind place. From the moment we drove onto the property, we felt different. It was a version of relaxed that we hadn't experienced for quite some time. The staff was friendly and accommodating -- all of them! Even the animals are friendly. I'm not kidding. While hiking on the property, we realized there were some horses in the same field we were hiking through. At first, we thought maybe we had entered a space where we weren't supposed to be. Then the horses came up to us as if to say hello and then went on their way. It was a magical moment, only one of many. The rooms were so unique and beautiful. Ours had been recently remodeled and was so tastefully done. The food we enjoyed on the property was so fresh and good. Chef Endy and his staff are certainly doing something right. I sent the picture below to some friends with the caption, "Just taking my wife out for breakfast." And it was true, we rode horses to get breakfast. Another magical time. It honestly felt as if all the staff were conspiring to make our three days at Alisal AMAZING! And they succeeded.

Our close friends are getting married here and we were pressured into getting a room way in advance. We were worried about it though because we have a 4 yr old who was only 3 1/2 then and I told them we didn't know and they said we could cancel 30 days ahead of time for a full refund. Which is something else super annoying about this place, they made us pay the entire amount of the reservation upfront! Anyway when we decided we weren't comfortable leaving our 4 yr old for the weekend and called to cancel they charged us a "transaction fee" of $150. What a bunch of BS. I would never consider staying with them the way they conduct business and treat people.

Answer To General Manager We had a stolen 1150.00 designer scarf, 2 expensive gold rings, Purses rifled thru that had no cash in them so technically nothing was taken. I left the scarf on the dresser, went to dinner, returned and it was gone. The turndown service had been done. We know the person that ran the golf tournament 2 weeks prior to our wedding. He told us about the rolex watches that were stolen and cash from players wallets. The ranch throws money at you to keep your mouth shut, but that is not enough. They do nothing to fix the problem. At our event I dealt with our point person only and our wedding planner. I loved the point person, but it was out of her control the way the staff behaved. We made no one cry because we didn't deal directly with anyone but these two people and the wedding planner was our person. We are not misguided. They cannot admit they have major problems. It is a shame. The buck always stops at the top-The General Manager and she only wants to throw money at the issue and not change a thing. We truly hope they figure this out. It is a beautiful place, but the aggravation was not worth it.

I have lived near the Santa Ynez Valley for two and a half years and somehow did not know about this hidden 10,000 acre ranch resort surrounded by country hills. I am even more surprised given it's just minutes from downtown Solvang! My husband and I came here for a work holiday dinner and one night's stay. I could have easily have spent an entire week here and not have gotten bored with all the activities they offer. Think I'm kidding: Fishing, canoeing, nature walks and hikes (50 miles to wander actually), horseback rides, wagon rides to a historic adobe on the acreage, birdwatching, archery, air rifle shooting, tennis, disc golf, pool, hot tub, game room, happy hour wine tasting...the list goes on. Best of all, it's ALL INCLUDED! Well except for a few things including dinners, spa services, golf course, etc. I absolutely fell in love with the guest room which was a cabin split into two rooms that shared wall. They maintained rustic character with the choice of decor, but still provide up to date modern amenities (bathroom heat lamp, bathtub, pleasant toiletries, plush towels, mini fridge, iPhone charger/speaker/clock, real wood fireplace, filtered sink water). Well the three exceptions a TV, telephone, or air conditioning which was particularly enjoyable to truly sit back and relax in nature. I soaked in a bubble bath and sat by the fireplace we had lit with the provided starters and firewood. The only complaint I had was the shared wall with the neighboring room was extremely thin and their children had apparently never been taught inside voices. We were also a bit bummed that the pool and hot tub were undergoing maintenance during our stay, however, Alisal offered complimentary shuttles to a nearby hotel with a pool. Otherwise, we had an absolutely wonderful time here! Tips: - If you have an allergy to feathers, notify them in advance since the comforters/pillows are down. - Look for the adorable cats that lounge around the reception desk. Super cute! - The rooms not only come with a bottle of wine but also plenty of bottled water and filtered water spout in the sink! - There is an emergency kit in the closet with an electric lantern, candles and matches if the electricity goes out. Otherwise it would be pitch black in the wilderness. - It gets quite hot in the summer and there is no air conditioning available. A heads up from other visitors. Super lovely in the winter and fall. - The Library serves wine and charcuterie in the evenings from 5-6 pm (adults only). If you have kids, each room does come with a complimentary bottle of red wine, bottle opener and a signed welcome card from the staff. - The front desk has hot coffee and cookies available most of day. - The website is a bit daunting and complicated to find what you need. I recommend calling, although you may be on hold a while to speak to someone so instead email Hope you enjoy your stay as much as we did!

Our family has been coming here for decades in the winter. It is a wonderful family tradition and a wonderful spot to have concentrated family time in one of the more beautiful settings in California. The place is known for the familiar and comfort. However, it seems they are beginning to reduce some of the traditions that make it so special. A couple of examples. During the winter, they used to have a Christmas Tree, a winter toy train around the fireplace, a Wrangler walking around to greet people, and Ginger bread house display and now they are all gone! If you want to create a place the family comes back to year in and year to create shared memories it seems to me you should continue providing the environment that fosters it. We as a family really hope you do not clean out all the character that makes a dude ranch authentic, for the whims of one-off big group meeting and wedding planners. We love the Alisal!

Wonderful 3 day stay filled with adventure and friendly people . The pros : very friendly staff that is willing to help at any task specially wranglers that are wonderful partners for day long horse escapades Amazing location specially if you book cabin with the pasture views Easy to park behind the cabin , fully stocked very clean and upgraded bathrooms . Great library building that helps you relax by the fire , don't forget to stop by gaming room and jacuzzi. Absolutely fantastic horse experience that beats all we have done before and we did lots of trails in the past :) Cons: food in general was average , breakfast options very limited , the half day brunch ride sandwiches were really not that fresh and the bun was basically size of loaf of bread ( make them fresh and use smaller bread options) . Some of the new front desk staff was clueless while checking us in and informing about packages ... Tips : Buy the breakfast horse ride Buy the lunch half day horse ride - the best experience insanely amazing views Bring your kids they have special activities for them Pack horse riding shoes and hat plus sunscreen- believe me you will burn your skin during the rides Special thank you to LIA BARTH our front office manager for really over the top friendliness and all the warm advices plus printing out all our itineraries. Best front desk person I've met in years and that comes from hospitality company owner . I would literally steal her to our hotels !

Magical place that is so beautiful. We stayed in a large creekside room, comfortable, great staff, loved playing with the animals in the barn. The buffet dinner was wonderful. Yummy so many selections, musician singing was nice touch. We enjoyed going to the library while we waited fir our room. The breakfast was wonderful too the next morning, so many selections. My husbands favorite part of the trip was the horseback ride. It was beautiful and he loved his horse Angus, my horse Manny was a little bratty and tried to nip a few times, but I understood his frustration and we got a long well. Our guides were wonderful and so entertaining. Wonderful and amazing getaway with my husband.

Love this place! Been coming here for years. Lots to do and the staff is so accommodating. (Horseback riding, fishing, wine tasting, hiking trails and incredible restaurants throughout the surrounding area). The following pics were taken during my very first visit, to the Alisal Ranch.

Made a booking a few months ago and needed to cancel recently due to Coronavirus. It's been nearly 30 days since my request and still no refund. Had to call back more than once - just been a hassle for something that should be really straightforward. Additionally, I was disappointed with their overall tone during discussions from booking to follow ups. While professional, the staff seems to take a very condescending tone with customers in general. Wish I could review the property itself.

You like to stay at a resort such as this because he would hope that when you leave or turn your back to your pair of sunglasses that they will still be there when you return. I left my pair of sunglasses on table 11 the other night and they did not appear. Granted the glasses are not even 10% of my stay in terms of value here but it's the principle that bothers me the most. I wish they had honest staff.. Lastly who runs out of pina colada mix at 2:00 Saturday?

The staff was friendly, and the groundskeepers do a great job of keeping the landscaping neat and well-maintained. But this just isn't my kinda place. Our company had the run of the resort, and, while the grounds were beautiful and serene, the buildings and cabins could really use some REAL updates. Other ranch resorts I've visited in Colorado know how to do this right: staying rustic in theme but keeping a very fresh, clean, and truly updated feel. This place had a lot of lipstick on their pigs, and it felt and smelled stale and dated. As for the food, they did a good job with the charcuterie and cheese set up for one of our events. Unfortunately, the rest of the meals were actually sub-par, overall. Other than the sausages at breakfast, nothing from the three meals each day stood out as flavorful or memorable. In fact, the ribs were not tender, and the burgers were overdone. ...gorgeous and expansive real estate alone presents lots of potential for a truly amazing ranch resort experience, but it would take a lot of work.

I have done a lot of traveling and stayed at well above 5 star resorts all over the world and this one by far not only deserves a YELP but a 5 star review! The staff was so extremely nice and caring. The food was that of a 5 star restaurant, while the property was stunning and the beds surpassed my expectation (I am a bed snob.) Seriously, the bed in our room was a huge King with what felt like a brand new, memory foam mattress. We were surprised at every corner- from the staff giving us a free bottle of wine, to the concierge (Clint,) making sure he could arrange new horseback rides so we could get into the fun, (after learning we needed to have made reservations for those upon arrival and them being sold out.) We were treated like royalty and I cannot wait to go back again but next time, with my son! If you are looking for an epic resort that puts all others in California to shame, look no further! This place is exactly what it advertises: a diamond in the rough! Kirsten

First time for us to the Alisal despite being born and raised in Santa Barbara. It won't be our last! Excellent customer service with a special shout out to Adriana who was both at the front desk in the morning and later in the restaurant. Adriana is as good as it gets and embodies both the attentiveness to detail and the charm befitting a world class resort.

Nice enough place. Food at the dinner/breakfast Hall is really good. But I'm no 5 start chef as some of the reviewers who didn't like the food seem to be. But DO Not, understand any circumstances come during the hot months. They have no air conditioning. We're usually here around September and it's been pretty bearable this far. But the days are getting hotter. It was an unprecedented 100 degrees this time. And the room was unbearable. They need to at least put some small wall units in the rooms. It would be a HUGE improvement and wouldn't cost that much (they should be able to afford it with the all the price increases). Unfortunately we can only get our whole party together around the warmer months so I guess we won't be staying here anymore. Aside from losing customers, the heat presents a real health hazard. There are a lot of older people that stay here. It will be just a matter of time before someone suffers some kind of health issue due to it, if not worse. RE A/C Untit: Kathleen, I spoke to the front desk and they said the had them but they're reserved for elderly and disabled guests. But that she'd try to get me one. We did receive it and it's made a big difference in the comfort level. Thanks for the tip. However, everyone should be made aware of the option to have one of these units. When we checked in, all we got was a piece of paper that had suggestions for how to keep your room cool. Requesting an air-conditioning unit was not on the list.

117 degrees outside, $1100 per night after taxes and fees and there isn't even ac in the rooms!!! You've got to be kidding me. I can't believe any even average hotel in the 21st century doesn't have ac.... this place costs 1100 per night!! Total misery.

I have always wanted to go to this place. Over the years I've heard about it. So my husband and I stayed two nights this week. Here's the rundown: Expensive Feels like a Holiday Inn--tired small rooms, plastic cups, no A/C No horseback riding available ! Whaa? No wifi--only Verizon No daily cleaning No spa treatments available Lots and lots of flies! We will never come back. But, glad we came to find out. My choice for a real ranch is in Montana.

We went there to attend a wedding on the weekend of Dec. 9, 2022 and had a very bad experience. Our room had a bad odor the entire time and we were told the previous renters had used wood etc.My son's room had stairs etc not fit for two young children. We were overcharged . When it rained and we had to attend any events the place was totally flooded and we spoiled our expensive shoes and clothes that we never be able to retrieve . The place felt like it was flooded and to get to our room we had to wade through 8 inches of water. we were two of the several families that went for the wedding , But if you missed or could not attend an event there was no food available even though it is listed as an all inclusive. When there was food available we had to pay extra for the food. At check out wrong information was given which resulted in extra expenditure . Awful experience. would never want to go back

This is a lovely place for a family vacation. The grounds are beautiful and make you feel relaxed the moment you arrive. The staff was all so helpful and accommodating, and the food was delicious. We went there with young children and two other families, and everyone (including the grown-ups) enjoyed the activities and gatherings. We are definitely coming back.

Amazing here great memories! Put your phone away and just enjoy the family time. We love this place so much. Horse back riding...the scenery everything.

Our company recently hosted a ~30 person leadership retreat at the Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort, and all attendees had incredible reviews ("best retreat ever," "beautiful resort," "excellent activities and accommodations"). The entire team was so impressed! Similar to other Yelp reviews, we also worked with Mary Friar (at Alisal), who went above and beyond to make sure our Retreat ran smoothly. We would highly recommend Alisal to any other companies looking for an opportunity to bring their team together, potentially host a meeting (we did - great meeting space!), and have some fun. Thank you, Mary, and the entire Alisal team!

Nothing but hospitable, even the wildlife was courteous. The minute we arrived my worries left me. Our room was across from golf course and what a perfect location for serenity and porch sitting . Loved our room and bathroom and our real wood burning fireplace, stocked with plenty of wood. The meals were on point and the Saturday evening barbecue was so much fun . The band was great and their music selection perfect. As we sit by our fire I'm almost sad to leave tomorrow, the grounds and surrounding rolling hills just calm you. Being able to go see the horses anytime of day was quite special, Alisal staff were just giving and above and beyond accomodating...thank you Clint and we won't forget you Jack