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Take in the wonderful culture that is a vital part of Santa Barbara's charm. This tour begins with a guided tour of the beautiful and majestic Santa Barbara Courthouse. Combining Spanish and Moorish architecture, it is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the U.S. The Santa Barbara Mission is the next stop. Called the "Queen of the Missions", it is a must-see for all Santa Barbara visitors. Following the tour of the Mission you will have ample time for shopping along Santa Barbara’s famous State Street with its specialty boutiques and galleries. Combined with flagship stores to include Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy’s, this is the shopper’s paradise. Enjoy lunch on you own at one of the many cafes situated throughout the area.
Activity
Time:
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Price:
$45.00 per person
Includes transportation to and from the Doubletree Resort Hotel, all tour and entrance fees. 10 guest minimum.
The
geography, topography and climate of Santa Barbara County make it one of the
most versatile grape growing regions in the state. Unlike any other coastal mountain range on the West Coast of
North America, the Santa Ynez Mountains run east-west.
This “transverse range” creates valleys opening to the Pacific Ocean,
allowing the inland flow of fog and ocean breezes to keep the climate temperate.
The vineyards farther inland are warmer, experiencing less of the marine
influence. All the classic grape
varieties are able to be grown in Santa Barbara County due to the many
microclimates
There
are more than 30 wineries in Santa Barbara County. Many are small, family-owned operations, with annual
production ranging from 500 to 75,000 cases of wine.
Nearly all the wineries produce Chardonnay, and the region also is
renowned for its Pinot Noir, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet
Sauvignon and Gewurztraminer. The
winery buildings range from attractively rustic to architecturally sophisticated
designs.
Grapes
are among the most valuable crops in Santa Barbara County.
Vineyards cover close to 10,000 acres, from near the coast to the
foothills of the Los Padres National Forest, often following the flowing
contours of the land.
Santa
Barbara County has a history of winemaking and grape growing spanning 200 years.
The Santa Barbara Mission had several vineyards and an early winery was
located on Santa Cruz Island. Prior
to Prohibition, there were 250 acres of grapes producing outstanding wines.
Enjoy
the fine wines and the exceptional beauty of Santa Barbara County at an
unhurried pace during this leisurely wine tour and tasting excursion at three
different wineries. The tour
includes time in the danish village of Solvang for lunch and shopping on your
own.
Activity
Time:
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Price:
$70.00 per person
Includes transportation to and from the Wine Country from
the Doubletree Resort Hotel, wine guide, winery tour and tasting fees.
Lunch on your own in the danish village of Solvang. 10 guest minimum.
This
guided, easy and thrilling 15-mile all-downhill bicycle tour on paved roads
features breathtaking views of the city, islands and wild back country.
The ride includes a short stop at the Santa Barbara Mission and then
continues down State Street (Santa Barbara’s “hub”) to Stearns Wharf.
After arriving at the waterfront, guests ride along the coastal bike path
back to the Doubletree Resort Hotel. No
exceptional strength or skills are required, although fundamental cycling
abilities are necessary.
Activity
Time:
9:00 am – 12:00 pm or 2:30 pm – 5:30pm
Price:
$75.00 per person
Includes transportation to the Gibraltar Peak from the
Doubletree Resort Hotel, bicycle guide(s), all equipment and water. 10 guest
minimum.
The
kayak excursion originates directly from the beach across the street from the
Doubletree Resort Hotel! After a
brief sea kayak orientation and introductory lesson, we’ll launch the kayaks
and paddle toward the heart of the Santa Barbara’ waterfront - Stearns Wharf
and the beautiful Santa Barbara Harbor. You’ll
gain a unique appreciation for the panoramic views of the Channel Islands and
the Santa Ynez mountains.
Activity
Time:
9:00 am – 12:00 pm or 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Price:
$70.00 per person
Kayak guide(s), all equipment and instruction. 10 guest
minimum.
A 1.5-hour guided horseback trail ride among the foothills
of the Santa Ynez Mountain range. Wildlife
and spectacular views of the coastline create a wonderful experience.
Activity
Time:
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Price:
$70.00 per person
Includes transportation to and from Circle Bar B from the
Doubletree Resort Hotel. 10 guest minimum.
The
Double Dolphin is a beautiful 50-foot sailing Catamaran.
The Double Dolphin's design makes her both roomy and very stable.
Designed for carefree sailing, her quiet twin diesels take over when Santa
Barbara's usually steady breezes may lighten.
Soft Drinks, Beer, Wine and Dry Snacks are available on board.
Activity
Time:
3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Price:
$75.00 adults
$50.00 children ages 12 and under
Includes transportation to and from the Sea Landing from
the Doubletree Resort Hotel. 10 guest minimum.
The Santa Ynez Mountains border Santa Barbara to the north and are home to California’s Los Padres National Forest. The Chaparral that is dominant in the area gives the mountains a deceptively rugged look from afar. However, Willow, Sycamore and Alder trees are abundant in the canyons and form a canopy that shades the floor and allows blackberry, wild rose, canyon sunflower and hummingbird sage to flourish. Most hikes begin in a creekside setting and many include waterfalls and secluded pools.
Activity
Time:
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Price:
$55.00 per person
Includes transportation to and from the Trail Head from
the Doubletree Resort Hotel, hiking guide(s)water and trail snacks. 10 guest
minimum.