The Santa Maria Valley isn't far off the beaten path, yet a visit to this picturesque agricultural wonderland almost feels like taking a trip to another world. Its location in Northern Santa Barbara County puts it squarely between the happening cities of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo, but amazingly this valley has managed to retain a sense of old western charm not altogether different than it was 100 years ago. Horses, livestock, orchards, and vineyards dominate this bucolic countryside as they have for many decades, and don't be surprised if you have to pass a tractor or two while navigating the region's quaint backroads. There are few landscapes in California that provide a starker contrast to fast-paced city life, and for many a visit to this valley can provide a welcome break from their hectic daily routine.
While there are plenty of reasons to love the Santa Maria Valley it's the region's world class vineyards and wineries that always lure us into town. Unfortunately because this area is so rural we've often been forced to stay quite far from its greatest vineyards, but we happened to happily stumble upon a solution to our desire for full-immersion into country life. Located within the Santa Maria Valley about 10 minutes outside of town is a fabulous little 11 acre horse ranch and vacation rental dubbed Wildhaven Acres, and we chose to check it out and make it our home-base on our most recent explorative visit.
Wildhaven Acres is charming property that boast a large modern house, lived in year-round by hosts Dino and Jenna, along with a sizeable barn and a modest yet cozy 3 bedroom guest house which serves as a vacation rental. The ranch is located in a quiet private neighborhood and is itself home to horses and chickens along with a number of fruit trees and even a few grape vines. The property's guest house is dog friendly - as are many nearby wineries - and it has its own sizeable gated yard perfect for relaxing outside stress-free with a glass of wine and your pup.
Our stay at Wildhaven Acres turned out to be exactly what the doctor ordered. While the guest house is set up primarily for function over frills we found it to be extremely suitable for an excellent wine country experience. Our bed was clean and comfortable, the living room area was pleasantly laid out and adequately spacious, and the kitchen was nicely set up for cooking. The outdoor space in particular was a major highlight for us and we found ourselves taking in the clean coastal air and gorgeous sunsets each night of our visit. Our host Jenna was extremely hospitable throughout our stay and even took us on a tour of the ranch to meet the horses and chickens. We found ourselves relaxed and recharged from the time we spent resting after our busy days out in the vineyards.
While we did not get to experience them first hand Jenna also offers a number of unique experience packages for interested guests. These experiences provide the opportunity to relax and meditate alongside the property's resident horses, which sounds to us like an enjoyable and restful adventure.
After our wonderful stay we're firmly convinced that Wildhaven Acres is one of the best accommodation options for those planning a trip to the Santa Maria Valley. The property itself is fantastic and is located an extremely short drive away from the very best wineries in the region. It’s close enough to head back into town for dinner or groceries, but far enough away to feel the true magic of the agro-paradise that is this beautiful valley. Come for the wine, stay for the classic country experience.
For those interested in booking a stay at Wildhaven Acres, mention Winery Reflections at the time of booking to receive a special gift during your stay. More information can be found at wildhavenacres.com.