21 Aug Please The Palate Pick of the Week: Hotel Ynez in Santa Ynez

With only 18 rooms, the new Hotel Ynez in Solvang has been in high demand. On a few weekend visits to Santa Ynez, every room was booked. But, when a mid-week trip to Santa Ynez was on my calendar, I looked for a room at the Hotel Ynez and was able to book one. Charming, rustic, and peaceful, I understand why this hotel books up so quickly. If you can book a room here, you will understand why it is the Please The Palate pick of the week. Located at the crossroads of Santa Ynez and Solvang, Hotel Ynez sits on Mission Drive / Highway 246, two-and-a-half miles east of Solvang. It is easy to access from Santa Barbara by coming up the 154 into the valley. Sitting on two acres, the Hotel Ynez is a modern-day motor lodge. The former motor lodge was fully renovated and updated. Instead of parking in front of your room, a parking lot has been created just off the driveway entrance. The property is in the shape of a “U” and the former driveway has been converted to a pedestrian walkway. Rooms are lined up along the sides of the “U” and at the curve is the hotel front desk, a lounge and the breakfast nook where a complimentary boxed breakfast of pastries, yogurt, and fruit is served. The center of the property is an outdoor pavilion with an array of lounge chairs, tables and chairs, fire pits, and a bocce court set within a garden for guests to enjoy. There is also a small pool for guests. Each room has a private patio in the front with two adirondack-like chairs and a hammock that can be hung across the entry. I loved laying in the hammock, enjoying the soft breeze in the air and the peaceful sound of nothing but cars passing on the highway. I tried to read but I was lulled into a light sleep. Inside, the room has a modern chic vibe with a rustic touch. Super luxurious bedding, a large flat screen television, a spacious bathroom, and other modern amenities can be found. Hotel Ynez is a private, peaceful oasis in the heart of the Santa Ynez in Santa Barbara wine country. It sits alone off Mission Drive with nothing in walking distance. But, once you are on property, you will not want to leave. If you are looking to escape the city, or relax after a day of wine tasting, Hotel Ynez is the ideal spot. Of course, that is if you can book one of the 18 rooms before they fill up!