Jenny Cipoletti’s work often takes her around the world, from attending a charity polo match in the Hamptons to previewing the latest collections in Paris. So when she finds a free weekend to get away with her husband, Fred, and their beloved French bulldog, Margo, a worry-free escape where the three can relax and reconnect is ideal.
“To us, the true definition of a vacation is relaxing and not having to worry about a thing,” says Cipoletti.
Recently, the trio spent three days tucked away at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, exploring the tranquil charm of the city. And when perusing the Cipo- lettis’ vivid vacation photos, it’s clear the destination provided a chic sanctuary.
“Four Seasons Santa Barbara makes it near impossible to lift a finger – the epitome of relaxation. The Resort is all-encompassing, from food and dining to experiences and activities. Everything is waiting for you on the property.”
Created in partnership with Tory Burch
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“Fashion is the ultimate accomplice to travel,” says Cipoletti. “It’s an opportunity to channel the most stylish literary characters and silver-screen starlets, like Sophia Lauren in the Italian Riviera.”
“To complement The Biltmore’s lush scenery and California-cool vibe, I wanted to channel my inner free-spirited bohemian.”
Located on the beautiful California coast, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara offered Cipoletti tucked-away tranquillity in its private bungalows.
Cipoletti carefully plans her outfits according to her surroundings, to make her vacation snapshots more vivid. Before heading to Santa Barbara, she did some shopping at Tory Burch. “It’s as if the pre-fall collection was made for this trip.”
“I knew I’d be packing refreshingly bold colours, fun prints and patterns, summer sandals – of course with a few bathing suits as well.”
“The most romantic part of this resort is the bungalows – your private little oasis tucked away in a tropical paradise.”
“We loved waking up each morning and opening up the French doors to our private patio, where we could enjoy breakfast before heading out in the morning. We loved the privacy element of it. It’s as if you are staying in your own home with no one else around you.”
Parts of the historical, original Resort, like this building which houses the Honeymoon Suite, still stand on the grounds. “When arriving at any destination, we love taking the time to explore the property and its charming corners.”
“Walking the grounds, it’s near impossible to ignore the calming smell of jasmine exuding from the gardens. Four Seasons Santa Barbara sets the bar high for ‘California Riviera decadence.’”
The exclusive, members-only Cabana Club overlooks Butterfly Beach and features a rooftop tanning deck. “As if you stepped into a time machine back into 1950, it is one of the most wonderful historic, hidden gems of Santa Barbara.”
“The most breathtaking detail on this property is its Moreton Bay fig tree [the second-largest in the city]. It’s absolutely remarkable, and speaks to the property’s rich culture.” The largest Moreton Bay fig, in downtown Santa Barbara, dates back to the 1800s.
The Resort, situated near the entrance to beautiful Butterfly Beach, has convenient beach access.
The Resort is home to one synthetic grass tennis court and two hard-surface courts dressed in an azure shade that perfectly complements this athletic look.
“Margo’s favourite toy is her tennis ball. We took her with us for a casual singles match [at the Resort’s tennis court], but little did we know she would turn into our ‘ball boy’! Seeing her sprint back and forth on the court was the funniest thing.”
While dipping her toes in the cool water of the Resort pool, Cipoletti enjoyed some light reading.
Resort guests have access to the exclusive Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club. “I couldn’t believe my eyes, everything from the perfectly pink-umbrella–lined, Olympic-size pool to a rooftop tanning deck, and all overlooking Butterfly Beach.”
In addition to the exclusive Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club, Four Seasons Santa Barbara boasts a Resort pool, which is situated among lush gardens and features underwater music.
Surrounded by Kentia palms and Australian tree ferns, the Resort Jungle Pool offers a welcome respite from the city bustle.
Adjacent to The Spa is the shaded Resort Jungle Pool, which offers a cool and relaxing retreat, complete with refreshing beverages and chilled towels.
The Spa has 11 personalized treatment rooms, most with views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands.
“Before starting the massage, my therapist presented me with an à la carte menu, with services that can be added onto the massage. With all the travelling we do, I’ve never seen this offered, and really appreciate the personalization element. I opted for the scalp mask, which includes a Moroccan Oil leave-in mask and scalp massage.”
“We have a weakness for Italian food. We heard the charcuterie boards [at Bella Vista Restaurant] were a must-try – paired with cheese and wine. We were in heaven! After watching the sun set, we had to order some of their fresh house-made pasta. The Tagliatelle Alla Vongole transported me to Italy!”
