Discover the abundant natural beauty of the 10,500 acres that Alisal Ranch calls home. Originally known as "Jojoqui," meaning "Honeymoon Place," by the Chumash people who once lived there, Alisal Ranch and the surrounding Santa Ynez Valley touts romantic rolling hills. Along with horseback riding, guests can soak up the scenery from the back of a bicycle, a watercraft out on the private lake, or one of the Ranch's two golf courses.

Follow in the footsteps (or, more appropriately, step in the stirrups) of the who's who of Hollywood at this luxury dude ranch. Ever since Charles “Pete” Jackson Jr. transformed the ranch into a magnificent vacation retreat, Alisal Ranch has hosted all kinds of illustrious luminaries. In fact, Doris Day visited regularly, and Clark Gable married Lady Silvia in the Alisal’s historic library.

Marvel at the resort’s historic sycamores on horseback. Alisal’s horseback riding experience starts with its string of 100+ horses, which local wranglers will pair based on one’s skill level. Alternatively, guests may wish to learn how to rope or groom horses at the stables. Beginning, intermediate, and advanced riding lessons are available, too, as are special morning or evening rides, scenic picnics rides, saddle-to-paddle, and more.

Gaze upon the inherent beauty of the Santa Ynez Valley from Alisal Ranch. Perhaps the best possible way to view its picturesque scenery is by way of the region’s many hiking trails, which can be accessed either on foot or by bicycle. One of the best pathways is the 32-mile trip up Figueroa Mountain Road that climbs to an elevation of 3,200 feet—the same route a few world-renowned cyclists have taken while doing Tour de France training.