Southern Calif. - HELP?
 

My husband will be joining me on a business trip to Buellton, CA in Sept. On our way back down to LA, we're looking for a reasonably-priced (up to $150 per night) romantic sort of place. I'd tried Santa Barbara, but we're looking at a Friday night, and it seems that all the B&Bs there require a 2-nite stay on weekends. Any suggestions appreciated, as we're from the east coast! <BR> <BR>

You might try Alisal Ranch in Solvang. It's not "on the way " to LA, but it might fit you bill. It's only about 7 miles from Buellton. <BR>

Try contacting the Ojai Valley Inn---pronounce it "oh, hi" The Ojai Valley is just inland from Sta. Barbara but is a very peaceful, new age type town. The Inn is lovely--great golf course also. They have bikes to rent to get into town and Shangra La---the old movie was filmed there!! Trouble is I don't know about their minimum requirements. Have you tried the Sta. Barbara Biltmore? I know it sounds like a huge resort but it's really very special. <BR>

Don't forget to try the world-famous Pea Soup at Andersen's in Buellton.

Recommend highly The Ballard Inn, just about 10 minutes from Solvang just off Alamo Pintado Rd. in the tiny sleepy town of Ballard (2 streets, 1 stop sign). No minimum stay, but only 15 rooms, each with a different, special decor. Very quiet and cozy. Restaurant serves breakfast (inlcuded) and dinner. Wine and hors d'ouevres on the porch in the late afternoon. I go up wine tasting at least once a year, but this was my first stay there. Very, very nice. Rooms are $170 - 250 and worth it. 800-638-2466. Have a nice time wherever you end up! <BR>