Travel & Experiences

Santa Barbara’s newly renovated El Encanto hotel

It's been seven years since Orient-Express Hotels closed Santa Barbara's beloved El Encanto for reconstruction and a few weeks since the hotel reopened on March 23. Many old-timers and newcomers will be pleased.

It’s been seven years since Orient-Express Hotels closed Santa Barbara’s beloved El Encanto for reconstruction and a few weeks since the hotel reopened on March 23. Many old-timers and newcomers will be pleased.  (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)

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Lounge

Guests, some with their furry friends, loll in the lounge area of El Encanto.  (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)

Guest room

The El Encanto woos guests by putting their initials on the bed linen.  (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)

Dining room

A new twinkling chandelier in the dining room evokes the water features outside.  (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)

Dining terrace

The terrace at the El Encanto is a popular spot for outdoor dining.  (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)

Infinity pool

An infinity pool with ocean views is among the selling points at El Encanto.  (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)

El Encanto hotel

The El Encanto hotel includes seven acres of lavishly planted grounds, including a few water features.  (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)

El Encanto hotel

A guest at the El Encanto trains a hotel telescope on an offshore target.  (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)

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