Seniors Spend Quality Time In Santa Ynez Valley

Seniors will find The Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara County, California, between the Santa Ynez Mountains to the south and the San Rafael Mountains to the north. The Santa Ynez River flows through the valley.

“The picturesque Santa Ynez Valley encompasses six communities clustered closely together like wine grapes. From the charming, tiny gem of rural Ballard, the bustling gateway city of Buellton, the vintage western town of Los Alamos, the arts-influenced wine-infused town of Los Olivos and the turn-of-the-20th-century township of Santa Ynez, to the northern European atmosphere of the city of Solvang founded by Danish-Americans in 1911, it’s relaxing and refreshing to meander and experience each village. Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch in the Santa Ynez Valley was once home to the famed singer.”

Seniors Enjoy Wine, Apples And Beer

Santa Ynez Valley lies two hours up the coast from Los Angeles. Wine tours and tastings are popular and senior oenophiles will do well to spend time sampling in the Valley. The wine industry is a major part of the Santa Ynez Valley’s economy, with over 70 wineries and tasting rooms.

Besides grapes, the valley also has numerous apple farms, many of them with roadside apple stands or “pick your own” programs. And lets do some sampling of craft beer in the Valley.

The Old Mission Santa Ines is loaded with history and scenery. Santa Ynez Valley is driven by agriculture, particularly viticulture, the equine industry, and tourism. For you equestrian folks, you will find a variety of horse stable tours in the Valley.

Seniors Enjoy The Beauty Of The Valley

Color and scenery abound around each corner in the Valley that sprawls over 300,000 acres,  featuring both large estate vineyards and small boutique wineries.

Reminds me of years back when I was a Tour Group Leader for Elderhostel. We would spend two weeks at time on a program called Food and Wine of France. Tough job that somebody had to do and I enjoyed it a dozen times.

I always thought that I did not care much for champagne. I changed my mind after spending two weeks in Alsace-Lorraine sampling champagne every day. The distinct flavor and all those bubbles kinda grows on a person, as do the wines of Santa Ynez Valley where senior visitors learn first hand about about the Stem, Lip, Bowl and Foot.

The various villages in the area celebrate festivals and special events. Seniors, plan some time for the Santa Ynez Valley and enjoy all the activities and scenery this  great valley has to offer you. -jeb