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Merv Corning loved painting the back country of California, particularly around the Santa Ynez Valley. Shown is "San Marcos Range," a watercolor painting that was his last major piece, painted in 2006. From June 28 through September 21, Elverhoj Museum presents "Merv Corning Retrospective," a display of original work from various stages in the illustrious career of an accomplished and renowned painter with close local ties. The exhibition will include nearly 40 original paintings as well as pencil studies, publications featuring his artwork, and mementos from his career of more than 50 years. His art is in the permanent collection of the Smithsonian Institution and in numberous private and corporate collections around the world.
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ART
GALLERIES
• Cypress Gallery. Featuring original works by Central Coast artists, including Vicki Anderson, Dee Sudbury and Shirley Wallace. 119 E. Cypress Ave., Lompoc, (805) 737-1129.
• Gallery Los Olivos. Over 40 regional artists exhibit in the Gallery. 2920 Grand Avenue/P.O. Box 911, Los Olivos, CA 93441. 805- 688-7517.
• Judith Hale Galleries North & South. Large collection of quality Western Art, Sculpture Garden, exquisite jewelry. 2890 & 2884 Grand Ave., 805-688-1222.
• Sansone Studio Gallery. Enamel on copper; unique starscapes, brilliant colors. Original works on display at studio gallery, 2948 Nojoqui Ave. #8, Los Olivos. 805-693-9769.
• Vineyards Gallery. Contemporary art, including oils, acrylic, and digital painting. 433 Alisal Rd. Ste C, Solvang. 693-8060.
• Wildling Art Museum. 2329 Jonata Av., Los Olivos. Founded by wildlife artist Patti Jacquemain, this art museum focuses on nature and wildlife. Gift Shop. 805-688-1082.
• Young’s Custom Frames and Art Gallery. 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. 805-688-9745.
• Zaca Creek Art Gallery. 91 Second St. Unit C, Buellton, (805) 688-2270. Specializing in water-based media. Santa Ynez Valley artists, plein air landscapes and seascapes of the area. |
BACKPACKING & HIKING
• Over 2 million acres of terrain make up the Los Padres National Forest, which offers adventures for backpackers and hikers. Maps and hiking and camping permits may be obtained from the Los Padres National Forest headquarters in Goleta. For information: 805-968-6640.
• Cachuma Lake, located south of Santa Ynez Valley and north of Santa Barbara off of Hwy 154 offers a recreation area with more than 550 campsites for either full-hookup, partial or regular camping. Call Santa Barbara County Parks Department at 805-568-2461.
BIRD WATCHING AND CAMPING
• Cachuma Lake Nature Cruise. A two hour narrated tour with a naturalist. See waterfowl, osprey, various hawks, bald eagles & a vast array of other birds and wildlife. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. For reservations, 805-688-5050 (weekdays) and 805-686-5055 (weekends).
• Nojoqui Falls County Park in Solvang: Large selection of birds including yellow-billed magpies, woodpeckers, owls, titmice, blue grosbeaks, blue jays found in large old oak trees and elsewhere. Hike to the famous Nojoqui Falls, which flows thru winter and spring. Day use from 8am to sunset. S. B. County Parks (805) 934-6123.
• Live Oak Camp, located off of Hwy 154, for large group functions only. Features 40 undeveloped acres that include BBQ Grills, Bird Watching, Equestrian Trails, Group Picnic Areas, Hiking Trails, Restrooms, Tent or RV Camping. Santa Barbara County Parks Department . For information (805) 686-5076.
• Wildling Art Museum. 2329 Jonata Av., Los Olivos. The Wildling has a series of bird watching hikes in local areas; contact them to find out the next planned excursion 805-688-1082.
BOATING, FISHING, CAMPING
• Cachuma Lake. Boat launch and rentals available. Motorboats, pontoon boats, and fishing boats are rented at the Cachuma Lake Marina. Also available is fishing equipment including rods, reels, bait and tackle. 805-688-4040. Cachuma is one of Santa Barbara County’s best loved camp sites, with more than 550 campsites for full-hookup, partial or regular camping, as well as yurts for group rental. Call Santa Barbara County Parks Department at 805-568-2461. |
CALIFORNIA
MISSIONS
• Old Mission Santa Inés, gem of the California missions. Founded in 1804, it is the 19th of the California Missions. Many original paintings and decorations on the walls. Gardens, old mission cemetery, and gift shop with books, souvenirs, and devotional items. 8 a.m. Mass every day, plus Sunday services.
• La Purisima Mission. Founded in 1787, it is the 11th of the California Missions. Today it is a state park. Ten of the original buildings have been restored. 805-733-3713.
FITNESS CENTERS
•Performance Fitness, 320 Alisal, Ste 406, Solvang. Drop-ins welcome. Swimming, fitness training, massage, Pilates, Jazzercize. (805) 686-2900. |
Photo by Maria
Bland Hoke |
GOLF
• River Course at the Alisal, 150 Alisal Road, Solvang. Located in the heart of Solvang, with a beautiful view of the Santa Ynez Mountain range. Fine restaurant on the premises, pro shop, 18 hole course. 805-688-6042.
• Rancho San Marcos Golf Course, located on Hwy 154 between Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Barbara. 805-683-6334.
• Zaca Creek Golf Course, 223 Shadow Mountain Drive, Buellton. 805-688-2575.
HORSES
• Rancho de la Florecita breeds and sells the “glide ride” horses – Peruvian Pasos. In addition to wonderful dispositions, these horses have a “broken, four-beat pace”, a lateral gait. Visitors are welcome by appointment. 805-688-1447.
• Rancho Oso Guest Ranch & Stables. Trail ride your own or gentle rental horses over the scenic trails on Rancho Oso and in nearby Los Padres National Park. Stay in a covered wagon or cabin, or bring your own tent. Historic ranch has much to offer for the whole family (see cover story). 805-683-5110. |
MUSEUMS
• Elverhøj Museum of History and Art. Devoted to the history of Solvang and the colorful heritage of Denmark. Features a fine art gallery of changing exhibits. 1624 Elverhøj Way, Solvang. Open Wednesday through Sunday. 805-686-1211.
• Hans Christian Andersen Museum, 1680 Mission Drive, Solvang, upstairs in the Book Loft. Featuring exhibits, photographs, souvenirs, and a large selection of HCA books for sale. Visitors always welcome between 10am and 5pm daily. Group tours are also available by appointment. 805-688-6010.
• Old Mission Santa Inés, gem of the California missions. Founded in 1804, it is the 19th of the California Missions. Many original paintings and decorations on the walls. Gardens, old mission cemetery, and gift shop with books, souvenirs, and devotional items. 8 a.m. Mass every day, plus Sunday services.
• Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum & Carriage House. Carriages, wagons, farm machinery & vehicles, vintage clothing, and Indian artifacts. Corner of Sagunto and Faraday Sts in Santa Ynez. Wed - Sun 12 noon to 4 pm. 805-688-7889.
• Vintage Motorcycle Museum, 320 Alisal Road, Solvang. Over 80 vintage motorcycles on display in 4,500 square foot showroom. Just about every type of motorcycle ever made, from 1904 to the 1990’s. Open Sat-Sun 11-5 or by app’t. 805-686-9522.
• Wilding Art Museum, 2329 Jonata Street in Los Olivos. Features art of America’s wilderness. Exhibitions are ongoing. Special events include classes, lectures and hikes. 805-688-1082.
PARK AND PICNIC AREAS
• Cachuma Lake. First come, first served camping, RV hookups. yurts and cabins available with reservations. Fishing, boat rentals, tackle and bait, snack bar, store, gas, guided nature walks and cruises. (805) 686-5054 or (805) 686-5055.
• Nojoqui Falls Park. Free day use for general activities. Fees apply for group area reservations. (805) 934-6123.
• Solvang Park. In the center of Solvang at Mission Drive First Street. Bandshell with live music, drinking fountains, picnic area, public restrooms.
• Hans Christian Andersen Park, located off of Atterdag Road, in the outskirts of Solvang. Picnic areas, tennis courts, playground, BBQ grills, group areas. |
SPECIALTY FARMS
• Clairmont Farms. Estate grown lavender on a family farm. Fresh, dried, essential oils, personal care products, buds, bundles, and pet products. Free admittance-open from 10am to 6pm. Great picnic site. 2480 Roblar Avenue, Los Olivos. 805-688-7505.
• Chaotic Exotics Orchid Ranch. A tropical paradise of exotic flora. Over 1000 varieties of orchids, dozens of bromeliads, and an assortment of ferns. Located at 5375 Campbell Road off of Hwy 246 toward Lompoc. 805-736-0040.
•Rancho Olivos. Estate-grown olive oil tasting and sales, Fri - Sun, 12 -3 p.m. 805-686-9653
• Alpacas de Los Olivos. Breeding, training, sales, and gift shop. 2786 Corral de Quati Road in Los Olivos. 688-5746 or www.whyalpacas.com.
• Summerset Farms. An old-fashioined country farm stand, with fresh fruits and vegetables in season, and gorgeous fresh flowers. Open Tuesday–Sunday 9 - 6. Baseline and Edison off Hwy 154 i Santa Ynez. 805-682-7800.
• Restoration Oaks Ranch-U-Pick Blueberries. On Hwy 101, 5 miles north of Gaviota Tunnel, 5 miles south of Buellton. Open appx. May 1–end of July, 10:30am–5:30pm. 805-689-9014. |
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RESTAURANT
GUIDE
• Antonio’s Pizza & Pasta – Pizza, pasta, calzones, sandwiches and salads, dine in or take out; free delivery. 280 E. Hwy 246 Buellton. 805-688-0028.
• Cabernet Bistro – Chef Jacques Toulet returns with his famous European dining experience at Frederik’s Court. 485 Alisal Rd, Solvang. 805-688-8771.
• China Panda – Excellent Chinese food; Lunch, Dinner, Dine in or to go. Open 7 days, 272 E Hwy 246, Buellton. 688-1291
• El Rancho Marketplace – Breakfasts, gourmet lunch boxes, wine and cheese baskets, gourmet pizza delivery, full service deli. 2886 Mission Drive, Solvang. 805-688-4300.
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• Ingeborg’s Chocolates – Solvang’s only old-fashioned ice cream parlor and soda fountain. Hand-made Danish chocolates. 679 Copenhagen Dr., Solvang. 805-688-5612.
• Meadows Restaurant – Steak and seafood. Sunday champagne brunch. 420 Alisal Road, Solvang. 805-688-9003.
• Olsen’s Danish Bakery and Coffee Shop – Danish pastries and breads. Continental style breakfast also served. 1529 Mission Drive, Solvang. 805-688-6314.
• Pamela’s Country Cupboard – Cappuccino, latte, espresso bar; patio dining. 1525 Mission Drive, Solvang. 805-688-2228.
• Paula’s Pancake House – Breakfast and lunch; wide variety of pancakes. 1531 Mission Drive, Solvang. 805-688-2867.
• Penelope’s Teas & Gifts – Lunch, high tea, cream tea, royal champagne tea. 105 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. 805-736-1122.
• Red Barn Steakhouse – Mesquite Grilled Steak and Seafood. 3539 Sagunto Street, SY. 805-688-4142.
• Roasted Bean Coffeehouse– Fresh locally roasted coffee, espresso, mochas, lattes and chais. Fresh fruit smoothies, locally baked pastries. 2 locations: 3558 Sagunto, Santa Ynez. 805-688-7194 and 234 E. Hwy 246, Buellton. 805-688-5210.
• Santa Ynez Valley Coffee Company – Breakfast from 6 am weekdays, 6:30 Sunday. Lunch from 11 am to 4 pm, open to 6pm. Great sandwiches, salads. 606 Alamo Pintado Rd. 805-688-3543
• Sissy’s Uptown Café – Lunch and Dinner, homestyle desserts. 112 South I Street, Lompoc. 805-735-4877.
• The Solvang Restaurant – Danish and American style breakfast and lunch. 1672 Copenhagen, Solvang. 805-688-4645.
• Starting Gate Restaurant – Steak, seafood. In the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott, Buellton, 555 McMurray Road. 805-688-1000.
• Viking Garden – Family restaurant, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 7 days a week. Two patios for outdoor dining, indoor seating also. In Copenhagen Square, Solvang. 688-1250
• Vineyard House – Lunch, Dinner and Sunday Brunch served in a casual, elegant Victorian setting. Closed Tuesdays. 3631 Sagunto Street, Santa Ynez. 805-688-2886.
LODGING GUIDE
• Best Western King Frederik Inn – 44 quaint rooms, next to Solvang Theaterfest. Golf, Theater & Wine Packages Available. AAA & AARP discounts. 805-688-5515 or 800-549-9955
• Best Western Pea Soup Andersen’s Inn – Rooms include microwave, refrigerator & continental breakfast. Heated pool & spa, 9-hole putting green. AAA & AARP discounts. 51 E. Hwy 246, Buellton. 805-688-3216 or 800-PEA-SOUP.
• Buellton Windmill Days Inn – 114 East Hwy 246, Buellton. $99-$129. 805-688-8448 or 1-800-946-3466.
• Hadsten House – Inn, Spa & Wine Tasting. Classic French furnishings, deluxe Continental breakfast; features Solvang’s only heated indoor pool. 805-688-3210
• Quality Inn– Newly remodeled rooms, free high-speed Internet, elaborate continental breakfast featuring Belgian waffles. AAA approved, pets welcome. 630 Ave. of Flags, Buellton. 805-688-0022 or 800-616-0246.
• Royal Scandinavian Inn – 133 rooms, pool & spa, banquet/meeting room. 420 Alisal Road, Solvang. 805-688-9003.
• Santa Ynez Valley Marriott – 149 rooms with 27 suites. Pool & tennis courts; spa & massage therapy; 12,000 sq. ft. convention facility. Restaurant and Starbucks located in lobby. 555 McMurray Road, Buellton. 805-688-1000 or 1-800-638-8882.
• Santa Ynez Inn – Rooms and suites in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley wine country. Heated outdoor pool. 3627 Sagunto Street, Santa Ynez. 805-688-5588.
• Skyview Motel – Quiet hilltop setting, rustic style, fabulous views. Pool, wireless internet, group rates. 9150 Hwy 101, Los Alamos. 805-344-3770.
• Solvang Inn & Cottages – Old world tradition in the heart of Solvang. From economy to suite, with Continental Breakfast. 1518 Mission, Solvang. 805-4702. |
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