Soon after you enter the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley, you know that this place is more than just a wine country region.
Entrapped within its rolling hills, rustic wine tasting rooms, ranches and other tourist attractions is the thrum of its heritage, the rich history that brings together Californian, western and foreign cultures together.
The consistently clear weather is ideal, whether you are out for a picnic at Nojoqui Falls Park in Solvang, taking a hike trip through San Rafael Mountain range, or weaving through the wine tasting rooms along the Buellton trail. Every place you go will offer you something different in art, food, music, and even wine.
So, let’s see where it all started, shall we?
Blast From The Past
Each town that now makes up the entirety of Santa Ynez Valley was established between the late 19th and early 20th century. To look into a few renowned ones, Santa Ynez was established in 1882, followed by Los Olivos in 1887. The start of 20th century saw two new more of these culture-rich regions; Solvang was established in 1911, and Buellton in 1920.
Perhaps one of the most outstanding parts of the Santa Ynez Valley is Solvang. Dubbed “California’s Little Denmark”, the place gets its recognition from its Danish heritage.
You’ll find various reminder of the Scandinavian architecture here, from a replication of the Copenhagen’s Round Tower, to overhead windmills.
Many of the town’s shops and restaurants are themed, including the Red Viking Restaurant and Mortensen’s Danish Bakery. The Elverhøj Museum of History and Art is the place to visit to get your fill of the town’s history.
The people there pay homage to the Danish traditions with occasional folk music and dancing festivals. The Hans Christian Andersen Museum is the attraction to go for a perfect recall of the prolific writer’s work.
Growth And Popularity
Connecting the valley to San Francisco and Los Angeles, the Overland Coast Line Stagecoach is credited with Santa Ynez initial growth and fame. The easy travel access allowed farmers, businesspeople, saloon owners, and blacksmiths to find new opportunities in valley.
These travel routes were further refined by the Pacific Coast Railroad, which helped attract more agricultural experts to the area to take advantage of its farming potential. Approximately 500 acres of Santa Ynez Valley was contributed to vineyards by the time Prohibition was enforced.
The modern age in Santa Ynez Valley came around in 1969, when the Cabernet Sauvignon varietals were planted towards the western foothills, harvested for local winemakers to create some of the world-famous blends. Farmers and winemakers proceeded on to experiment with more varietals, expanding their grape-growing, wine-making establishments to Los Olivos and the Santa Rita Hills.
It took a long time for the Santa Ynez Valley to bounce back, and for the area’s wine culture to boost—a process that is immensely successful in the present.
Back To The Present
Nothing gives off perfect historic and cultural vibes than a tour to the new and old wineries and vineyard of a wine country region. How about planning a customized wine tour in Santa Ynez and Solvang for this vacation’s adventure?
We certainly think you need one—and we will help you experience both classic and modern Santa Ynez Valley wines. Book a tour today!