I heard someone say recently that a tried and true method to find happiness is watching someone else’s face light up with excitement. After spending a few days last month at the bucolic Alisal Ranch in Solvang, I think there’s certainly some truth to the adage. My husband, Tim, was positively gleeful as he realized the “classroom setting” anniversary surprise I’d been hinting at for weeks was in fact 30 state-of-the-art grills and smokers – and his instructor at Barbecue University was Barbecue Hall of Famer (yes, ladies, that’s a thing) Steven Raichlen.
If you grill anything at all, there’s a big likelihood that you own a copy of Raichlen’s book, The Barbecue Bible, or perhaps have seen an episode of one of his popular television shows, like Project Fire. Each class, as Tim learned, opened with a demonstration of the day’s menu, and the best technique to execute, followed by actual grilling all manner of meat, vegetables and even dessert under Steven’s tutelage and supervision.
So where does this annual fantasy class exist? Alisal – a 10,500-acre working ranch in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley where guests lodge in gorgeous cabins, have access to private fireplaces, golf by the river’s edge, a full day spa, fitness center and abundant indoor and outdoor activities (with more than 100 horses on property, horseback riding for all skill levels is a highlight).
With regard to the latter, guests (like me) can join the “university” experience at a discounted, “non-student” rate, and simply enjoy the on-site amenities the Ranch has to offer. Students come from all over the world to join, and while you could walk into the pit with zero grilling experience, smoke aficionados like my husband and seasoned grillers had more than enough to keep challenged and take their skills to the next level.
For my part, I thoroughly enjoyed the history and environs of the Ranch, along with Alisal’s spirit of exploration and dedication to the finest service. Perfect for a families with youngsters, a romantic retreat or the ever-popular multi-generational family vacation.
OUTDOOR ENDEAVORS
A recreation center unto itself, the 100-acre spring fed Alisal Lake, filled with bass; trout; and bluegill, offers “catch-and-release” fishing. You can rent a boat or fish off the dock. This sportsman’s paradise attracts bird watchers and water enthusiasts with Bass Boat Pro rentals, canoes, rowboats, peddle boats, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.
For those seeking to hit the links, Alisal showcases two 18-hole championship golf courses – the par 72, 6,500-yard Ranch Course and the par 72, 6,800-yard River Course with four lakes – provide impeccably manicured fairways and greens with spectacular views of the Santa Ynez River and nearby Santa Ynez Mountains.
Visitors rarely leave the property during their stay and for good reason. Leaving at dawn, guests enjoy more than 50 miles of equestrian trails on horseback circling the magnificent hills and sycamore groves. Twice daily group rides, private rides and breakfast rides to the historic Adobe Camp (on horseback or in a wagon) round out a stay.
DINING
The Chefs at Alisal have a deep reverence for the region’s bounty and a commitment to timeless food made from seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re having a casual bite on the golf course, or a more formal dining experience in the resort’s signature restaurant – the Ranch Room, your meal will beautifully embrace the essence of California cuisine and the heartiness of Western ranch cooking.
Dinner at the Ranch Room is a formal affair (collared shirts and sportcoats are required for men over the age of 16) and “dinner dressy” for the ladies. Since opening the ranch in 1946, it’s been customary to “dress up” for dinner – and keeping the “country-formal” tradition alive is part of the property’s charm. Entree options include frontier-size portions of juicy barbecued steaks, tender prime rib of beef and the fresh catch of the day including Ora King salmon, striped bass and local halibut. Specialty dishes such as the Apple Cider Braised Short Rib and Oak Grilled Chicken are prepared with the freshest ingredients for the guests’ dining pleasure.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Alisal’s 73 pastoral suites and studios blends the charm of a gracious bygone era, decorated in authentic Western decor. Each guest unit, designed for maximum privacy and com- fort, includes a wood-burning fireplace with complimentary firewood, high-beamed ceilings and Western art. In keeping with the resort’s timeless ambiance, there are no in-room televisions or telephones.
With such close proximity to Orange County, it is a wonder that such a treasure would remain as secluded and satisfying as it is. Finding time with the family to create new traditions in the world of endless screens may seem impossible, but that’s just the beginning when you step away, and get back to what really matters.
