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. (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)
Guests, some with their furry friends, loll in the lounge area of El Encanto. (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)
The El Encanto woos guests by putting their initials on the bed linen. (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)
A new twinkling chandelier in the dining room evokes the water features outside. (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)
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The terrace at the El Encanto is a popular spot for outdoor dining. (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)
An infinity pool with ocean views is among the selling points at El Encanto. (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)
The El Encanto hotel includes seven acres of lavishly planted grounds, including a few water features. (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)
A guest at the El Encanto trains a hotel telescope on an offshore target. (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times)