The Santa Ynez Valley is nestled between the Santa Ynez and the San Rafael Mountain ranges, only 35 miles from the beaches of Santa Barbara.  The area's charm is apparent not only in its impressive wineries and sprawling ranches, however.  Six communities throughout the valley each offer their own special character, and an eclectic mix of winemakers, artists, ranchers, farmers and stylish city-dwellers.  The valley has a population of about 20,000 residents living in the communities of Santa Ynez, Solvang, Los Olivos, Buellton, Ballard and Los Alamos.

• The turn-of-the 20th century village of Santa Ynez provides authentic Western flair. The quaint downtown serves cowboys at a historic saloon and old west history at the museum along with inns, award-winning restaurants and charming boutiques.  Spectacular horse and cattle ranches, along with numerous vineyards and wineries surround the town of Santa Ynez.

• The Danish-inspired city of Solvang is home to numerous traditional Danish bakeries, more than 200 European style shops and antique stores, as well as dozens of inns, restaurants and wine tasting rooms.

• Los Olivos offers a slice of upscale Americana with art galleries, chic boutiques, more than a dozen wine tasting rooms, a world-class inn and a flagpole in the center of the town. 

• Located at the western gateway of the Santa Ynez Valley, the city of Buellton is conveniently located at the intersection of US Highway 101 and State Highway 246.  Santa Rita Hills, a world-renowned wine region, is situated just outside of the Buellton city limits.  The city is surrounded by wineries, vineyards and sprawling ranches.

• The rural township of Ballard is home to a still-very-functional little red schoolhouse, restaurant and a bed & breakfast.

• Los Alamos has an old-time Western feel to the seven-block long main street offering an antique mall in a historic train depot, quaint shops, restaurants and parks.  

For comprehensive information on this wonderful area, visit the Santa Ynez Valley Visitors' Association website, www.syvva.com, and the Santa Barbara County Vintner's Association website, www.sbcountywines.com.