The Ballard Inn and Restaurant, a romantic bed and breakfast located just 35 minutes north of Santa Barbara, offers outstanding upscale and elegant accommodations in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County’s renowned wine country.  Our boutique hotel, rated 4 diamonds by California’s Automobile Association (AAA) and a member of the prestigious Select Registry, is the perfect weekend getaway, just a short drive from Los Angeles or other locations in southern California.  If its gourmet wine country cuisine and fine dining you’re looking for, our award winning restaurant is sure to please even the most discriminating gourmands.  Chef Budi Kazali’s inspired French Asian food represents a fusion of East West flavors and techniques, resulting in the ultimate in California cuisine.  Our on site wine tasting room features the best of the Santa Ynez Valley’s small boutique wineries.  With comfortable guest rooms, many with fireplaces, fine wines and delicious food, our inn creates a tranquil atmosphere that exudes romance.  Whether you are looking for peace and quiet or an active and fun vacation, The Santa Ynez Valley has something to offer everyone.  If you are so inclined, we can arrange for a wine tasting tour, visiting the finest wineries the neighboring towns of Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, Solvang, and Buellton have to offer, including the beautiful and legendary area of the Santa Rita Hills.  The Santa Ynez Valley has much more than wine to offer its visitors.  Our area has a long history of horse ranching; our staff can arrange for a horse back riding excursion to get back to the old west.  In addition, the valley is becoming an acclaimed destination for cycling enthusiasts, and is the site of many bicycle tours and races.  If golfing is your game, there are three wonderful courses to play, including the celebrated Alisal and La Purisima courses.  With the vast selection of activities and comfortable meeting spaces, our country inn represents a great place to hold you next family reunion or small business retreat.