The Ballard Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel

We had been looking forward to staying at the Ballard Inn for a really long time and finally were able to go. We had a lovely time there, and there is much about the hotel that we enjoyed. The staff were all really kind and helpful. There were beautiful fixtures throughout, clean linens and towels that smelled fresh, water in the room for us. The room we were in was spacious and had a beautiful bay window. The hot breakfasts were amazing! So delicious!||The only downside was that we could never get the room to heat up in the mornings as the thermostat didn’t seem to work. Not until the sun came through the windows did the room warm up. Also, it would be nice if a Keurig could be provided in the dining room area for early risers like us to get some coffee before the kitchen staff arrives. That simple gesture would have made all the difference in our stay there.

Beautiful, romantic inn very close to Los Olivos. Our room was large with a fireplace and big, comfortable bed. Friendly staff. You might want a room on the backside if you like it quieter since the front of the hotel faces a street. Didn't bother me but it's wintertime and not busy in Los Olivos. Includes a warm breakfast and glass of wine when you arrive. The inn is decorated beautifully.

We had a nice stay at the Ballard Inn, but my disappointment stems from having high expectations in light of the cost. We paid $524/night, not including tax. I don’t claim to know the financials for running a business like this, but at that price point I expected something that felt more special than what we experienced. Our room was “fine” — the bed was a bit squeaky and the mattress seemed a bit old, where in sank more in the middle. The bathroom is small, with the sink outside of the bathroom. The view is of the parking lot in back. The Inn is kept very clean, and the staff are friendly and helpful. The breakfast was creative and good quality. The common spaces were attractive and comfortable. Parking is easy and plentiful. The wine and snacks from 4-5PM were a nice touch, though the one bottle of red wine put out for self serve was finished off by other guests by 4:30PM with no replacement served. (There were two bottles of white wine served each day as well.) If the room rate had been $300-$400, I would have been felt like I got what I expected.

If you’re looking for a chain hotel, this is most definitely not it. If you’re looking for a getaway to unplug in a quiet and beautiful neighborhood, look no further. Ballard Inn is a cute bed & breakfast boutique with lots of character. From the moment we stepped inside, we were taken back by the uniqueness of this place! The front desk staff were so lovely, the complimentary breakfast was delicious, the happy hour was a nice touch and who can say no to cookies available by the front? On the second morning of our stay, the chef was not able to make it in due to an emergency. Kris at the front desk offered to put something together and it was absolutely perfect and so appreciated. This speaks volumes to the level of service. My only fair warning is that the rooms to do not have a TV but after a day of fresh air and delicious wine, we were ready go to bed anyway so that wasn’t a deal breaker for us. Make sure to stop by Bob’s Well Bread across the street!

Obsessed 🤩 It’s like a home away from home, I just feel so well taken care of here. I love the location. I think it’s a good value. I like to come during the week it’s way more affordable!!! So so many small details the staff does too be hospitable from your booking, to your arrival (yes I will have a glass of champagne)🥂 and intake, room placement and all staff interactions are impeccable. Breakfast is legit too AND I LOVEEEE the complementary Wine Cheese evening hangout from 4-6!! NOTES; Some of the rooms have carpet Pets allowed, which is awesome and I think it’s a $50 extra charge a night. No TVs No in room refrigerators. No luggage assistance. Free parking 👍👍👍 Bike rental across the street 👍 2nd Visit decorated so cute for the holidays and staff says they have an incredible Halloween Party!! 1st Visit can’t find the dang pics!!

Lovely & charming .. but 3 stars for the road noise .. old windows at front of the building make the room too noisy for my comfort. |otherwise, this is a stunning property, lovely common areas, and fantastic location for WINE country. if you are sensitive to noise, bring earplugs or make sure you specify a room on the side of the building.|Bathrooms are a little dated but functional.

I recently stayed at The Ballard Inn in Santa Ynez, and it was an unforgettable experience. This bed and breakfast has a unique charm that makes it feel like a hidden gem. The décor is cozy and beautifully maintained, with so much character in every corner. The location is ideal for a quiet, peaceful retreat. It’s conveniently close to the charming towns of Los Olivos and Solvang, and surrounded by beautiful wineries—perfect for wine lovers and those wanting to explore the scenic beauty of the area. Despite being near so many attractions, the inn itself is in a very tranquil setting, allowing for a restful escape. The breakfast was absolutely delicious—fresh, flavorful, and a wonderful way to start each morning. The staff was incredibly attentive and friendly, always ready to help with a warm smile. One of my favorite parts was the jar of freshly baked cookies available for guests. It was such a thoughtful touch, perfect for a little sugar boost throughout the day! Overall, The Ballard Inn provided a delightful and memorable experience. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing and charming place to stay in the Santa Ynez area. I can’t wait to visit again!

Ballard Inn "manages revenue" so price declined dramatically--beware/take advantage of this. For a stay of one night starting Dec.17, 2024, we on Dec 16 booked thru the website a king room at a total cost of $233.01 including room, taxes, and a $20 resort fee (for what, who knows?). By Dec 17 early afternoon, the total price on the website for the same room was $154.57. This is a reduction of $79. A call and personal conversation at check in did not lead to a refund but we upgraded to the larger Mountain room as a compromise. Solid structure, quiet, nice bedding, skimpy breakfast but coffee available at 7:00 AM.

Obsessed It's like a home away from home, I just feel so well taken care of here. I love the location. I think it's a good value. I like to come during the week it's way more affordable!!! So so many small details the staff does too be hospitable from your booking, to your arrival (yes I will have a glass of champagne) and intake, room placement and all staff interactions are impeccable. Breakfast is legit too AND I LOVEEEE the complementary Wine Cheese evening hangout from 4-6!! NOTES; Some of the rooms have carpet Pets allowed, which is awesome and I think it's a $50 extra charge a night. No TVs No in room refrigerators. No luggage assistance. Free parking Bike rental across the street 2nd Visit decorated so cute for the holidays and staff says they have an incredible Halloween Party!! 1st Visit can't find the dang pics!!

If you're looking for a chain hotel, this is most definitely not it. If you're looking for a getaway to unplug in a quiet and beautiful neighborhood, look no further. Ballard Inn is a cute bed & breakfast boutique with lots of character. From the moment we stepped inside, we were taken back by the uniqueness of this place! The front desk staff were so lovely, the complimentary breakfast was delicious, the happy hour was a nice touch and who can say no to cookies available by the front? On the second morning of our stay, the chef was not able to make it in due to an emergency. Kris at the front desk offered to put something together and it was absolutely perfect and so appreciated. This speaks volumes to the level of service. My only fair warning is that the rooms to do not have a TV but after a day of fresh air and delicious wine, we were ready go to bed anyway so that wasn't a deal breaker for us. Make sure to stop by Bob's Well Bread across the street!

If you're looking for a quaint, old-world charm, this hotel delivers. It feels like stepping into a European boutique stay, with beautifully designed interiors and cozy sitting areas perfect for conversations or curling up with a book. The ambiance is relaxed, and the wine region location adds to its serene vibe. That said, this hotel is definitely different from the typical American chain experience. The service can be a bit slower, and some amenities you might expect--like a TV, mini fridge, or late-night bar/restaurant--aren't available. It's a place to unplug, but if you prefer the convenience of having everything at your fingertips, it might not be for you. A heads-up on the breakfast: while it's made to order and uses high-quality ingredients (the produce and coffee bar are excellent), it does take a while to be served. Be sure to leave some extra time in the morning if you're planning on enjoying breakfast here. Another thing to note: the walls are thin. Most guests seem to turn in early (as you'd expect in wine country), but if you happen to have a louder neighbor, you'll hear them. On the plus side, the hotel offers a lovely wine happy hour and warm cookies, which were a nice touch. If you're looking for a unique, more relaxed stay away from the usual chain hotels, this place offers that--just be prepared for a few trade-offs in modern conveniences.

What a disappointment! This place used to be so amazing. Ballard Inn was a special place for us. We went back after many years and many fond memories. Since it got bought out, the exterior got remodeled, but all the personal details and charms of the place is gone. They no longer offer amazing wines with an array selection of appetizers. They don't offer full restaurant with amazing meals. The hotel is barely staffed. The guests are so loud and you can hear the loud phone ringing so early in the morning. And not to mention how expensive it is - for nothing special.

We really enjoyed our stay here. We were offered a complimentary glass of champagne at arrival. Room was cozy and comfortable with a fireplace, very peaceful and quiet. Happy hour was great, good wine with cheese and crackers. Breakfast was delicious and made to order, service was wonderful. Will definitely make it back here.

What an amazing experience all around! Our family was displaced due to the fires. This sweet boutique B&B felt like a home away from home. Super dog friendly! Breakfast is an added delicious bonus. The service and front desk angels were deeply appreciated. Highly recommend

We decided, on a whim, to just pick up and get out of town for a bit and head north. We knew of this place but didn't have a res and just decided to stop in and have a look around. This place is an absolute delight. Warm and inviting, they had me when I saw the fresh cookies by the door! It's just what you'd think a little "inn" would be in this part of the state. The lobby had a crackling fire going, fresh coffee and tea all day (and cookies!), wine and charcuterie in the early evening, and just a relaxed and easy going feeling that was perfect to exhale. The room was really nice (ours was at the top of the steps) and had a great view out the back (beautiful trees and rolling hills) and was quiet. No TV in the room (no problem there!) The sink is in the room while the small bathroom holds the toilet and tub/shower. Wifi is a bit sketchy and there is no cell service in that area. Free parking in the big lot in the back. Breakfast is included and was wonderful. We WILL be back, especially when/if the restaurant opens again for dinner at some point.

A quaint little Inn near Los Olivos. Some of the rooms have REAL WOOD fireplaces! It is my eternal search to find a charming Inn with a fireplace. Kris is hospitable and engaging! In a world where hospitality is a lost art you can find refreshment here. Included is a breakfast. Plus champagne and cookies on arrival. Rooms are super reasonable right now. It is a Kirkwood Collection property. Go ahead and break away!

My husband and I had a great stay at Ballard Inn! We came to explore the Christmas festivities of Solvang and Los Olivos and the location was a perfect inbetween. The entire inn was spotless , the staff was incredibly kind, and the fireplace in the room mixed with Christmas lights throughout made me feel like I was in a hallmark movie! My only disappointment/ disclaimer would be there has been a change of ownership and the inn no longer serves dinner or has a restaurant. There is a very limited vegetarian breakfast that is delicious - just no full menu and dinner option as mentioned in reviews and on their website . There are also no TVs at all on the premise which is lovely to disconnect .. when it isn't football season! :)

I was conflicted whether to rate The Ballard Inn as a 4 star, or 5 star experience. The ONLY reason I would have chosen 4 stars was because the photos on their website do not accurately reflect the location. Based on the lovely photos, I expected the Inn to be in a more rural setting, but it is in a residential area. The hotel sits on Baseline Rd - a 25mph road with limited traffic. However, our "Garden view" room with a balcony overlooks Baseline Rd. In the evening it was very quiet with almost non-existent traffic, but starting around 7 or 8am, the traffic picked up enough that we made sure the balcony doors were closed to minimize any traffic noise. I did not expect a "garden view" room to actually have a view of a road and bakery across the street. Note: the other side of the hotel overlooks the hotel's parking lot and side of a neighbors house. Having said that, I ultimately decided on a 5 star rating for all the features we enjoyed at The Ballard Inn. The decor is absolutely charming and consistent throughout the Inn. The room was spotlessly clean and a nice size. As mentioned in other reviews, this is not intended to be a full service inn - rather more typical of a Bed and Breakfast. The complimentary breakfast was made to order with a limited menu. The complimentary happy hour included a nice charcuterie and generous wine availability. I really appreciated the wine glasses available for use with our own bottle. A game room included a backgammon table, several board games, seating, and a large table for more game-playing opportunities. In addition, the downstairs included a large dining room with individual tables, a large, comfortable living room, and another dining room with one long wood table ideal for family gatherings. One of our favorite features was the large front porch with comfortable seating and tables. We enjoyed chatting with many other guests while relaxing on the front porch. Coffee, chocolate cookies, and water are available all day and into the early evening. Location is convenient to downtown Solvang and many local wineries. We would definitely stay at the inn during our next visit.

The Ballard Inn is absolutely the best place ever! From the moment we walked in to this beautiful inn we were made to feel so welcome by the staff. We were there to go wine tasting and had no idea where to begin with so many choices and the staff were so helpful with suggestions as where to go. As well as recommending an amazing place for dinner. Our room was super cozy and really beautiful! After a very relaxing evening and night we were treated to the most delicious breakfast the next morning. Thank you to all the staff at The Ballard for making our trip so memorable.

This place is the cutest! We definitely be coming back to stay There are no tv here so I would bring a good book or come card games But very quiet and relaxing

I recently stayed at The Ballard Inn, and while the place certainly looks great, unfortunately, that's where the positives end. The aesthetic of the inn is charming, and it has a lot of potential, but the experience felt more like staying at an Airbnb rather than a well-run hotel. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this was a fend-for-yourself type of place. We only ever saw one employee, and she was hardly ever at the front desk. There was no phone in the room to call for assistance, which made it difficult to get any help when needed. The lack of basic amenities was also disappointing. There was no fridge in the room, which is something you would expect in a hotel of this caliber. The parking situation was another issue-- the lot is made up of dust and gravel, so if you care about keeping your car clean, be prepared for a challenge. Overall, The Ballard Inn has a lot of potential, but it desperately needs better management and staffing to create a more hospitable and guest-friendly environment. Until then, it's hard to recommend this place despite its appealing looks.

I tried to get dinner reservations here based on rave recommendations from a friend. Tried to use their website and emailed for reservations. Received no response. Only after calling, I was told the restaurant is closed indefinitely and they are focusing on breakfast offerings. I wish the Website had been updated to reflect the updated information so I wouldn't have been wasting time emailing and calling. To Summarize: restaurant is closed indefinitely.

Our previous experience with Ballard Inn in the Spring was quite good. However this October we had all kinds of problems. The breakfast was very poor. Eating across the street at at Bob's Eat Well, was a wonderful delight. Our heating system did not work and after several people said it did...it didn't work. Yes we had a fireplace but having that on all night was not to our delight. Our bathroom sink was stopped up. We talked to several people until my husband found a service person who took the plumbing apart and made it work correctly. They kept telling us that everyone is training with no-one in charge. The Kirkwood Collections will need much improvement for our room which is in a three room structure adjacent to the hotel. This is the only handicapped room available. The toilets in the other two rooms are so close to the floor that no one will use them.

Lovely stop! Needs a bit of tweaking But overall a beautiful place to rest and unplug! No TVs in the bedroom Lovely cheese spread Coffee/tea/hot chocolate setup Great on-site restaurant Great location to access restaurants in neighboring towns. Rooms are cozy but need a bit of attention Reception was great! Overall glad I came and will return!

I spent two nights at this hotel and was informed by both of the employees that would receive some sort of compensation back because we were absolutely freezing in our room because the heater was not working. Supposedly an electrician came out to fix it while we were gone on Saturday but it was still broken. They gave us a tiny roll away heater to "fix the problem" which clearly didn't work. We did not sleep either night and, we're informed that the room beside ours also didn't have working heater either. The staff was incredibly rude and the manager Rodney Stillwell sent me an email totally disregarding my concerns and didn't bother to call me back when I asked multiple times for them to do so. Worst bed and breakfast ever! Don't stay here.

After dreaming of staying here for years, we finally made our 2 night reservation for the Christmas holiday. It's a beautiful old Inn, but it could use some minor fixes and upgrades. The bed was very broken in so I woke up with a sore back. Our door was difficult to shut close and had a large gap once we did get it closed. No closet so had to hang clothing on curtain rod over French doors. I would rate our stay a 4 out of 5 , but the experience we had on our last morning really left us feeling upset and we both agreed we could not recommend The Ballard. We arrived to the dining area for breakfast at 9:00 and there was one other couple seated eating. Our order was taken after a 20 minute wait. Coffee pot was empty and we had to ask the server if she could refill. 2 other parties came and they ordered and received their meals. 40 minutes passed. Still.no food and server ignored us. At 55 minutes later, our food arrives and she said that our ticket had fallen and cook didn't see our order. I find that hard to believe. She clearly saw us waiting and she served others without ever checking on us. We never received an apology or even asked how are stay was, but I wasn't surprised because our server was also the receptionist at the checkout desk. Maybe she wasn't happy working Christmas morning but it really ruined our day and left a bad impression of what could have been a beautiful stay.

VEGAN EATERS HERE.....Did you know the charming Ballard Inn has new ownership? Did you know it's undergoing a complete reboot, inside and out?? Did you know they have a brilliant new chef??? I didn't think so, after all it's been an institution in Los Olivos for decades. Well, change is in the air and it all looks, feels, tastes AMAZING!!! Also, this is not a review of the hotel/inn as we didn't stay there. This is for the restaurant only. We went for (my) Birthday dinner a few days ago and to say I was impressed would be an understatement. Not to say that the BI hasn't had its share of wonderful chefs, it certainly has, and each one has brought something new and different and Executive Chef Brendan Collins is no exception and, he is exceptional. Most recently from Park 1039 in SLO (San Luis Obispo) he has serious cred and deep experience in some of the best kitchens around, including more than one Michelin starred spot. He is thoughtful, seriously committed to local being best, creative and more than willing to accommodate the guest as some chefs are not. "Sorry, Chef doesn't do it that way"??? Sorry, chef isn't paying for my dinner, SNAP! While the main dining room is absolutely lovely, newly re-envisioned and still maintaining the intimate nature it's always had, it felt more relaxed, seating arranged to mitigate the volume in the space when it is full, something that was always vexing in the past. I like to hear myself eat. Still, we chose to eat on the beautiful front terrace, warmed by newly installed heaters above each table, overlooking the newly landscaped entry area which will be very private when the plantings fill in a tad. We ordered a range of things, (see photos) and were blown away by the food, the presentation, the quality and the off menu vegan entrees we were offered without any fuss. The menu, btw, is not too large and very interesting, offering something for virtually anyone. Not that we eat it but have heard the "cola brined fried chicken" is off the chart! Dishes very sharable. New manager, Kip Antonelli-Friedman, himself a trained professional sommelier is charming, helpful, as we asked questions, he was forthcoming with future plans for the outdoor areas including a really exciting and new concept for dining in the very near future, more on that when the time comes. There is such a pleasant, unhurried vibe and it is easy to understand when we were told that the new owner is a truly remarkable source/owner who really understands acknowledgement and quiet quality. The New Ballard Inn is likely to become a favorite spot for us and anyone else who is lucky enough to dine there. All the best to them, owners, management, staff! BRAVO

My room door only opened half way because the bed blocked the door... there was no chair, no closet, no place to put my clothes. The window opened to the street and was open when I arrived. I had to remove the huge portable AC unit because someone could climb through the window and into my room. Even the cable was poor with only half the channels working. I would never book here again!

We came here for our anniversary dinner after driving up from LA. We had a reservation and were seated quickly with complimentary drinks. The interior design was fantastic and the colors were very rich. Our somm and waitress were both incredibly knowledgeable and helpful in deciding what to order. We came in the summer and ordered the peach burrata with the short rib and blackberry sauce and a dessert that I no longer know the name of. Everything was impeccable and absolutely delicious. Would recommend this place wholeheartedly, we will be back and next time we will be staying at the Inn!

We thoroughly enjoyed our dinner and the ambience. Even the chef came out to say hello, which was a nice touch.

A nice quiet getaway for a day. No TV's. Good size room. Armoire is very small and lighting for reading was poor. The bed was comfortable. Breakfast included in the price was very good with multiple selections and with good coffee served by a friendly staff person. No quiches though because their oven was down. We would stay again.

Coziest place to stay in Los Olivos! The staff is attentive. Enjoyed the wine and cheese.

My wife and decided to spend a few days wine tasting in the Santa Ynez Valley. We decided to try the Ballard Inn because it was close to many of the wineries we would be visiting. The good news is the staff is very professional, friendly and accommodating. The common areas have been updated and are very welcoming and relaxing. They also give you homemade cookies every night and have complementary wine and cheese available in the afternoon. Complementary breakfast is included as well. Now the bad news. Since this building was built in the 1800's there is no elevator therefore if you have any physical impairment good luck motoring up and down the stairs. The rooms have no TVs or phones so this is an " unplugged " experience. Cell service is spotty at best to nonexistent. Additionally the bathroom is small with the sink outside the bathroom in the main sleeping area. I have read many reviews regarding the excellent food at the restaurant however the restaurant has closed. At least management should note the above items on their website so consumers could make an informed decision.

My daughter got married this weekend in Los Olivos - we, Family and friends stayed at the Ballard Inn. The staff were lovely, the breakfast was fantastic and the feel at the inn was relaxing and very zen. The inn is beautifully decorated and the rooms are very clean. We've stayed before and will return my times again!

We were sad. Booked a room based on online recommendations and proximity to Los Olivos. Mattress was completely broken down (they put a topper on it, but it still sank more than 6in). They said they would be getting new mattresses, but obviously, it didn't help us. Bathrooms outdated. Restaurant is only open 2 nights per week. We didn't even get 1/2 and 1/2 for our morning coffee. It seems like a bunch of small things, but it all added up to a poor overall experience. Will not be staying here again. I guess you can go to Santa Ynez Inn if you want to be pricey, but I would recommend Flying Flags in Buellton for a vintage Airstream experience and a way better price.

We had been to the restaurant in 2021 under the previous owner and chef and had a wonderful experience and meal. We returned this year and the Inn and atmosphere are still great, unfortunately the meal was not. Staff, specifically the sommelier, were fantastic... the sea bass and the sirloin were unfortunately not. Overcooked fish, chewy steak.. overcooked carrots, dry bread. Hopefully just a bad night for the kitchen staff as the place has a great vibe and we'd like to return and stay there. Will look for the follow up reviews before we do.

We booked this hotel for the location and charm. When we went to our room we learned there was no TV. We were told they were an "Unplugged" resort, which is fine. However neither us or our friends were aware of that, but they did have a TV in the lobby sitting area (?). They also have no coffee available until 8am when their breakfast starts, which is very good. Bob's Well Bread across the street has great food and yummy cookies, but they don't open until 8am. The beds are very soft and there's no elevator. If you need a TV and/or coffee before 8am this is not the place to stay.

Built in the 1850's, this GORGEOUS establishment is an absolute gem in all of California in my opinion. As an interior designer, I was on sensory overload. The Decor is excellent, whimsical and many of the pieces are antiques and priceless. Spencer and Jaisey are so welcoming, professional yet warm. I imagine they have so many guests during the month yet they seemed so patient and friendly. The Rooms are all unique. No room is identical. LOVED the Beds- very comfortable, and If I am not mistaking, I smelled LAVENDER when I went to bed at night.I think they may spray it during the turn down service? LOVED The wine and charcuterie hour. The cheeses were delicious and the wine was fabulous. Location is STUNNING. VERY Peaceful. Plenty of seating if you want to just relax in the parlor, sitting room, living room, etc. Even better, they have wonderful seating outdoor on the porch which was very relaxing. Complimentary breakfast to order was a wonderful touch. The restaurant is shabby chic style and the service was spectacular. Cant wait to go back !

This is a magical place. The grounds are beautiful. It is kitty corner from the church we were married in. We visited for our 32 anniversary trip! Mildred's room was just like we remembered it. The staff was kind and attentive. We intend to cisit as often as possible.

The inn is perfectly situated on a small one lane road with access to major roads but quiet for a evening of sleep or relaxing outdoor eats. Chef for the restaurant is talented. Highly recommend getting up early for the breakfast.

Outstanding food with top-notch service!!! This is a must do in Solvang. We enjoyed everything in our meal and the staff just made it even more enjoyable.

If you can't climb up the stairs, don't stay here. Because there is no elevators. No TV, no phone in the room. If you need to call front desk, make sure you got Verizon, T-Mobile & AT&T very weak signals. Our bed is not very comfortable. It's very expensive & lack of many. No parking garage. Continental breakfast isn't great, ( YES Continental breakfast ) but afternoon cheese and stuffs if you are around. The restaurant is very small but the food is okay. Thank God we only booked one night, I rather spend the money in JW Marriott or somewhere I can dip in the pool or relax in the room. Won't be back.

My husband and I have stayed at The Ballard Inn twice before and loved it. we determined that our favorite room was the Mountain Room and we loved eating at their lovely restaurant for gourmet meals. I had some medical issues last year and my husbands 75th birthday was coming up, so we thought, what better way to celebrate good health and long life than to go to The Ballard Inn. With plenty of time in advance I called and reserved our lovely Mountain Room. It wasn't until we had our reservations and tried to make restaurant reservations that we were told that the restaurant was closed. No mention of this on the sight. Next, in the next month or so we received an email from The Ballard Inn that on the weekend of our trip, they were expecting a large group who have reserved the entire Inn, including our room. They were, therefore, cancelling our reservations. We were beside ourselves. my husband emailed and asked for an apology at least or to comp us a day or two at another time. we heard nothing back. I have never been so disappointed and surprised by the unprofessional behavior on behalf of The Ballard Inn.

I have never been treated in such a disrespectful and shameful manner as I was by the manager of this inn, Christine. I have stayed at thousands of hotels around the world during my life, hotels that run the full price spectrum, and can honestly say that I'm shocked that the people running the Ballard Inn consider themselves to be in the hospitality industry. I had an upcoming reservation to check in at the Ballard Inn and was within the 7 day cancellation period. My partner had a medical emergency and we had to cut short our holiday. I spoke to Christine, hoping to move my reservation to a later date. Understandably, I was already past the allowed cancellation date and expected there to be a penalty or a partial charge for the change, but I hoped that since I wasn't looking for a refund but just a date shift, it would be manageable. I'm reasonable enough to understand late cancellation charges and fees. What I can't understand is taking the full amount for a guest's stay when the guest isn't even going to be there, particularly when I wasn't trying to cancel, only modify. What I can't understand is their insistence on blaming the charge on my third party booker, who had already informed me that it was the Ballard Inn's decision what to charge me (after I informed Christine that I had indeed spoken to the third party and understood that it was in fact her decision, she confirmed it to be so). What I can't understand is, 4 minutes after we hung up, instead of giving me the chance to at least find someone who could take my reservation, she charged me the full nearly $800. I wasn't even given the courtesy of finding a solution under this new verdict. This is greedy and cruel behavior to the extreme, and from a hotel manager, no less. To anyone considering staying at the Ballard, I can only say this: Beware. This is not a business that has any interest in working with or helping their guests in any way. I guess my holiday budget has just been taken away due to medical circumstances out of my control. Thank you Christine.

Just stayed a couple nights and loved it! Very quiet and staff very friendly. Should be noted No TV! Not a problem for us, but the website really should inform guests. Also, restaurant is closed, this is also not noted on website and should be disclosed. Rooms are lovely. Better lighting is needed in the sink area which is outside the bathrooms... impossible to see doing makeup. But we liked the location,very quiet outside town. Great bakery across the road too. We'll be back for sure.

I must say, these people really are trying hard. I bemoaned the lack of cookies at our door as was the practice for years. After mentioning that to the management, we had delicious cookies I n our door tha second night. Breakfast was not yet up to past standards but superb pastries saved the day! A severe shortage of staff is the problem. The gathering remains superb. We c hope that in the spring things are the usual stellar fun and deliciousness.

I understand this historic Inn was built in the 1980's, but there are several things that need to be corrected and updated. The carpet in the room is so old it smells musty the minute you walk in. I was afraid to be barefoot on it. The sitting area chairs were highly stained with who knows what. Like at least replace these simple things to make the rooms more pleasant. I paid a very high rate to stay here. Highly dissatisfied and disappointed and will not go back nor recommend to anyone. It simply just felt dirty and I wished I was staying back at the Fess where this has never been an issue! Update: at checkout they informed me the Inn is in Escrow to be sold and because of that the owner doesn't care at all about anything- the general manager also quit. So basically it's in shambles and no one cares. They would not give me my money back or do anything except say sorry it is what it is. Never again!

One of the most beautiful weekends we have ever had! JayCee, Jasmine and Jennifer were so kind and accommodating. Even the owner/chef introduced himself at dinner one night. The food, decor and Mountain Room were superb in every way. If you are ever in Los Olivos, THIS is the place to stay, what a GEM! Thank you to the wonderful staff who delighted in making our stay a memorable one. A magical place if ever there was one!!

The Ballard is charming and the rooms are spacious. The employees were friendly and accommodating. The breakfast was OK. There were no phones in the rooms so we had to use a cell phone to reach the front desk. This was difficult because the signal was so weak. My husband found the bed uncomfortable, as did I. After our first night our room was NOT CLEANED!! For $400. a night this was ridiculous. They gave Covid as their excuse, which was utter nonsense. Why would they only clean after the guest has left the room if they're afraid of Covid? We asked for a partial reduction in the room cost which was refused. It was clear that Ballard was saving money by not hiring housekeeping but still charging top dollar for the rooms. We felt ripped off and let them know. None of this scheme was shared with us when we checked in. They simply aren't special enough to charge $400 a night and refuse to clean and tidy the room.

Lovely inn nestled in the sleepy town of Ballard nearly midway between Los Olivos and Solvang. The public areas are well appointed (although not in use during COVID other than to walk through to the bathroom. The highpoint, by far is the excellent restaurant. Budi's food is creative, his staff is well trained so the service is first rate. He makes a point of visiting all the tables and chatting about his approach to cooking or whatever becomes the subject. Mixing an Asian flair (Korean, Japanese, Chinese and more) into his cooking along with local ingredients is a formula for a nearly perfect meal. Desserts are also "not-to-miss!!" The only ding (slight) is that the place could use a little sprucing up. Newer carpeting, refreshed bathrooms in the guest rooms would really make a difference. Beds were comfortable . Each room has a different theme which adds to the charm. Definitely recommended!

My boyfriend and I stayed a couple of nights last weekend in the Vineyard room and absolutely loved it. We arrived late and from the minute we arrived to the time we left, we were treated very special. We had the simple continental breakfast both mornings and it was magnificent. The Inn was perfect for what we were looking for and what made it so wonderful was the service. Spencer checked us in and he continued throughout our stay accommodating any request that we had. Everybody did the same. Thank you for a beautiful weekend

This was quite the impressive cuisine. The food was exquisite. It delighted every taste bud. We started with the yummy "comeback" crispy potatoes, and then indulged in bone marrow pasta (most rich and flavorful. ) The Brussel sprouts were fantastic and to finish it off we splurged with lava cake, which was a rich and creamy chocolate lovers dream. The wine choices were superb. The manager was quite knowledgeable in explaining the wine profiles in detail, Best chardonnay for my taste buds. He was quite inviting and personable. Our food server was exceptional - unparalleled. Her service made a difference in our dining experience. She made sure our every need was looked after. It was 5 star. She made us feel at home as well as being accommodating, kind, and knowledgable. She gave us a sense of comfort and belonging in this special place! Thank you all for a memorable experience,

Ballard Inn is in Ballard, California in/near Santa Ynez Valley. I stayed 2 nights right after Christmas and am just so happy I got to visit and stay at the Ballard Inn. First of all, every person was so incredibly kind but not that typical "good customer service" type of kind that places, such as hotels or B&Bs typically have, there was a genuine kindness with everyone I interacted with and ya'll, I definitely prefer that type of communication but the past few years have proven just basic communication to be a struggle!!! So I just felt so welcomed and actually grateful that everyone was so cool and down to earth. we all had that basic level of respect for one another. I say this because it's not all that "typical" nor "basic" in a genuine real way in the past few years especially, and so it needs to be said and applauded. Thank you! No applause emoji so lets just use our imagination for the applause. Secondly, Ballard is a very small area, from what I could gather; small in the sense that there is not many retail spots or tourist type places in Ballard that I could see, but the one place Bob's Well Bread Bakery across the street, mere steps away, has the most delicious food. I didn't get a chance to eat the Ballard Inn but all the locals kept telling me to eat there so the Gathering Table ( the restaurant at the Ballard Inn) definitely has a fan base. Lots of places nearby to see and places to shop and eat; the food is very fresh everywhere I went. The actual landscape and greenery and lush trees (thank you recent rainfall!!) is vast and absolutely stunning. Finally, the room I stayed in was the Wildflower. There was a fireplace in the room, and the heat was on along with the music that just gave me that "ah, that is a sweet detail to welcome guests" thought. The bed was comfy with lots and lots of fluffy pillows (I wanna say there were at least 6 huge pillows)which made a good nights sleep effortless and for a gal that has had major sleep issues for years, there is a goofy big smile on my face from all the restful sleep. The space itself was decorated in holiday christmasy greenery that was exactly what I was hoping for. Thank you everyone at Ballard Inn for making my Christmas full of that peaceful warmth that I have been wishing, hoping working twrds, praying: you name it, I've been trying to find a spot that could actually "fill my cup" for that warmth and peace that a person just feels and actually does rejuvenate in an undeniable way. After the stress of this nonstop pandemic, my time and stay at Ballard Inn was the exact present I needed & was hoping for. I really do appreciate how easeful and genuinely quaint and kind the whole experience was for me at Ballard Inn. Thank you. well wishes for the upcoming New Years!!

What a wonderful gem this place is. From the amazing friendly staff to the clean well appointed rooms you won't be disappointed. Came here for my birthday and didn't even want to leave to visit local wineries lol. I mean when you have an amazing wine, cheese and charcuterie spread served daily....the restaurant was AMAZING! Octopus and duck to die for! The owner is the chef and you can tell the pride of ownership in all aspects of this place. It is close to a bunch of wineries AND you get free tastings with your stay to over 10-15 wineries. Complimentary breakfast was outstanding. Absolutely worth every penny! I will be back and ensure I tell everyone how wonderful this place is:)

Great food, great place and lovely people. Unfortunately when I was emailed my bill it included a 10% hotel fee that was undisclosed to me. So with 12% tax and 10% fee, I paid 22% over my room bill. When I called and said - hey that's not cool - you should let folks know, they just said that's the way it is. Hmm.

Thanksgiving dinner was spent here. The chef is Indonesian but menu that night was special, Thanksgiving meal. We started with salad, loved the fresh vegetables. The dressing was da bomb! It was rich but light. My favorite was the toasted cauliflower soup that followed. It was so good, I cannot find words except that it was so damn freaking good! I could drink this soup all day! Bagus la chef!! For my entree, I chose the bass. I love my fish to be crispy on the outside and almost sashimi on the inside. AND IT WAAAAS! I ate and died and went to heaven. By this time I was full beyond believe but I had still one more item, Apple pie. I love Apple pies and especially if it's not overly sweet, the apples still have some tangy flavour to it. It checked all the boxes. If only I could marry the chef, he's the chef after my own heart. Everything he made was exactly how I loved it to be done. And get this, I didn't even have to specify anything to the server. This meal kept me dreaming about it for the rest of the week.

If you are looking for a carefree relaxing week/weekend this is NOT the place to go to. They have the WORST customer service I have ever dealt with. Their "Professional Manager" Christine is a horrible person who does not give a flying fudge about the people who were looking forward to staying at the Inn. It is pure business and no care about hospitality. All I can say is you have lost two valuable returning customers. Shame on you.