The open range. A life in the saddle. The love of horses and roaming expansive land. The romance of the ranch is forever in our spirit. At Alisal Ranch we celebrate romance by creating memories that last a lifetime. With luxury Western accommodations that provide relaxation in the beautiful California countryside, you will have a chance to reconnect in a peaceful environment free of daily distractions. With so many activities to choose from, we’ve picked some of our favorite ways to capture romance on the Ranch:
1.) Soak all your cares away in our heated pool or hot tub. No matter the time of year, you can enjoy breathtaking mountain views, enjoy a swim and quench your thirst at the Waggin’ Tongue Bar right next door.
2.) What better excuse to snuggle with your sweetheart than by a roaring fire? Grab a blanket, a bottle of wine or Alisal s’mores kit and you’ve got yourself the perfect recipe for romance.
3.) Relax with a couple’s massage, facial or body treatment at The Spa at Alisal Ranch.
4.) Take a hike around the Ranch (see our Concierge for a trail map) or drive a few minutes down Alisal Road to Nojoqui Falls Park where a short hike will lead you to a waterfall. The winter time is the best time to visit when the waterfall is full after it rains.
5.) Saddle up to The Oak Room for an Alisal-original cocktail, a pint of beer or a favorite local wine. Our on-site Western bar will transport you to a different time.
August 8, 2026
Plan a horseback riding vacation at Alisal Ranch in California’s Santa Ynez Valley. Discover scenic trail rides, riding options for every level, what to pack and how to prepare for your stay.
July 17, 2026
The Santa Ynez Valley’s legendary retreat marks its 80th anniversary with exclusive guest experiences, commemorative product launches, a new history book, and more.
July 2, 2026
Whether you’re saddling up, lounging by the pool, or dressing for dinner, these summer essentials will have you ready for every Alisal Ranch adventure.
5.) Saddle up to The Oak Room for an Alisal-original cocktail, a pint of beer or a favorite local wine. Our on-site Western bar will transport you to a different time.
6.) Grab a canoe or peddle boat at Alisal Lake and take in the gorgeous views. Keep your eye out for our resident bald eagle and her babies.
7.) Sip and savor the best of Santa Ynez Valley wines during our wine tastings on Mondays and Thursdays or visit one of our wine partners for complimentary wine tastings and special deals just for our guests. Contact our Concierge for help planning your wine tasting adventure.
8.) Get gussied up and enjoy a meal-to-remember from our talented culinary team. Since the opening of the Ranch in 1946, it has been a tradition to dress up for dinner (think “country formal”).
9.) Want to add a bit of excitement to your day? Feel the adrenaline as you climb our Ropes Course and challenge your partner to reach new heights—together. If staying on the ground is more your style, feel the rush of competition with a friendly game of tennis or a round of golf.
10.) Looking to pop the question or sweep your sweetheart off their feet? Book a private horseback ride and arrange for a picnic at Proposal Point. This beautiful spot overlooks Alisal Lake and the surrounding mountains for a one-of-a-kind experience certain to spark romance.
The spirit of adventure.
At Alisal Ranch, we start each day with an unrelenting curiosity—and we invite you to do the same. There’s no better place to connect with the passionate, pioneering spirit, or to spend meaningful moments with friends and family. Take the road less traveled, breathe a little deeper, feel the power of nature, and dream under the stars.
