When researching for my Santa Barbara trip, I came across the most charming resort.  I knew it would be the perfect place for the mother-daughter-granddaughter trip I had been planning.   The Belmond El Encanto is the epitome of laid-back chic.  This hilltop hideaway first opened in the 1920s, and the resort still retains its original Spanish Colonial style.  To me it had this old Hollywood vibe that I knew my Mom and Gran would love.

One of my favorite parts about having a small family is that we’re so close.  My mom, gran, and I have always loved doing girl trips.  Mostly we have gone to Dallas to shop, but other times we have gone to Vegas — and once they even came with me to Fashion Week in New York!  This year we took an early Mother’s Day trip to Santa Barbara.

My plan for the trip was for us all to relax, hang out at the spa, have a lovely and girly afternoon tea, and take a road trip to the Hearst Castle.  The only problem was when we arrived at the hotel, we didn’t want to leave…

When you pull up to the Belmond El Encanto, it looks like a large home on a hill.  But once your car door is opened for you and you’re escorted inside, you remember that you’re staying at an enchanted 5 star resort…

The resort consists of what I would call a “main house” with the restaurants, bar, and spa, while the guest rooms are spread out among the most darling bungalows.  (Which I just happen to now be obsessed with — I’ve now decided I need a bungalow!)  Our suite had a bedroom, living room, and an elegant bathroom with the most amazing tub.  (Since I’m a bubble bath girl, I couldn’t wait to get in there!)  

Waiting for us were the most delicious desserts and a bottle of wine that we enjoyed on our patio.  We felt spoiled immediately!

Our first two days were spent in the spa and by the pool.  Probably my favorite part of the trip was a beautiful tea time with a view of the ocean.  (More on that later.)  The main house overlooks the Pacific ocean, so during every meal or cocktail at the bar you’ll catch a glimpse of the beautiful sea.  That view made our leisurely breakfast every morning the perfect way to start the day.  I could just sip coffee and enjoy the view for hours!

I hope you enjoyed this peek into our trip.  Stay tuned because next week I’ll be sharing the rest of our trip!  And big thank you to Belmond El Encanto for partnering with AiW on this trip!

Dress c/o Eliza J