Santa Barbara wine country is an easy 35 minute drive from downtown Santa Barbara, but sometimes it’s nice to make it a night of it (or two). And, while I’ve stayed in some pretty wonderful boutique inns and hotels around the Santa Ynez Valley, I was totally charmed by my experience at The Ballard Inn. I admit it hadn’t been on my radar, but it was a pleasant surprise. From the inviting contemporary farmhouse design to the gourmet breakfasts, The Ballard Inn will surely charm your socks off, too.
History & Renovations
Built in 1985, The Ballard Inn is located in the super-sleepy township of Ballard (between Solvang and Los Olivos). It was purchased in 2004 by current owners Budi and Chris Kazali. After undergoing extensive renovations in 2017, The Ballard Inn has furthered its reputation as a welcoming place to stay in Santa Ynez, where a cozy restaurant, comfortable rooms (some with fireplaces) and inviting shared spaces add to the overall experience.
Photo credit: Tenley Fohl Photography
Part of that refresh included a new modern farmhouse design that incorporates Western rusticity with Colonial influence. The Inn’s 15 guest rooms, which have undergone various updates over the years, also received a refresh to match the contemporary design found throughout the space. The result is a homey, country-style inn that is approachable yet sophisticated. Think HGTV’s Fixer Upper meets Santa Ynez Valley ranch-style.
Photo credit: Tenley Fohl Photography
Gourmet Food
Much like a traditional B&B, breakfast is included with a stay here, which is served in the on-site restaurant, The Gathering Table. With a fireplace, intimate booths and a long communal table, The Gathering Table is a welcoming spot to meet up with friends or other hotel guests and enjoy seasonally-inspired shared plates and signature dishes for dinner. At breakfast, there’s fruit, yogurt and granola set out. You also get to choose a gourmet, made-to-order entree, such as eggs or one of the mouthwatering daily specials, like pancakes or a veggie breakfast burrito.
The gourmet offerings don’t stop at breakfast either, which isn’t surprising since co-owner Budi is an acclaimed chef. Come afternoon, The Ballard Inn has a daily wine hour featuring locally-made wine, accompanied by cheese and charcuterie to nibble on. There’s also coffee and tea available to help yourself morning and night (with Harney & Son’s teas – one of my favorites). Did I mention chocolate chip cookies are delivered to your room during evening turn-down service? Even the water available on the porch is infused with fruit. It’s all in the little details.
Photo credit: Tenley Fohl Photography
Savor a Slower Pace
While there may not be much in the way of amenities — you won’t find a spa or workout facility here, or even a TV in your room — not having those things does make it easy to slow down and enjoy the peace and quiet. (Though if you really can’t disconnect, there’s complimentary Wi-Fi included with your stay, as well as a TV downstairs off the living room area). I say leave the distractions behind. Sip wine from the wraparound porch as the sun goes down. Smell the roses that surround the inn. Gather with friends to share food and conversation at The Gathering Table. These are the things you’ll appreciate even more once you check-out and head back to reality. Promise.
**The Ballard Inn**
Website
Rates: Start at $245 up to $405
Location: 2436 Baseline Ave, Ballard, CA 93463
Phone: 805-688-7770
