By, Angela Soleno

It’s rumored that The Beatles stayed at the Skyview back in the late 60′s during their tour of California.  And sitting up on top of the mountains dividing the Santa Maria Valley from the Santa Ynez Valley, with Los Alamos down below, what is not to love? After all, the Beatles did say that all you need is love. Perhaps the views inspired the song… but that is all just speculation. What we do know is that the Skyview is a remote destination, set in a picturesque location, central to the Santa Barbara wine region, as well as a known retreat for cyclists, bikers and family.

With 32 cozy, country themed rooms, all of which are some of the best priced in the entire region starting at $55 in the off season, (and pet friendly) it is no wonder that the hotel has a following of regular customers who return year after year to the roadside motel. Each room is doted in country fashion, the beds adorned with handmade quilts, the headboards hand-painted with the continued landscape of rolling hills and oak trees, and the furniture suits the motif, crafted out of old distressed oak wood. But most of all, the real country feel comes with the quiet echo of mid-day, the smell of oats as you step outside, and the darkness of the night, with nothing but stars littered above you.

The staff consists of a down-to-earth, genuine fella named David and his smiling side-kick Karin, who manage the property. They  are on hand all the time to help get you settled into your room or set up your group with the clubhouse if needed. The clubhouse, generally for common use, contains a kitchen, BBQ, pool, and fireplace.  It is perfect for entertaining large groups of people such as cyclists, motorbike clubs, or families. The area has exceptional cycling, horseback riding, and hiking trials all nearby and the staff is knowledgeable in  gaining access to these sometimes, unknown, gems.

One thing you will be sure of as you visit the Skyview is that it is quiet, unless you bring the party. Sitting at the top of a sleepy town, out in the country, there isn’t any bothersome noise or distractions. No big city life spinning around; just time. It’s a good place for soul searching, inspiration, or a good ‘ol fashioned take over.  So if you feel like bringing your bicycle, kids, guitar, or tour bus along, they’ve always got a spot for you – it is rumored…

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