HotelChatter

There is an El Encanto unpasteurised beer, brewed nearby, to go with Ellie’s cheese. Your morning coffee is El Encanto’s own brand, and an on-site herb and vegetable garden means the journey from field to kitchen for some ingredients is as short as it can get.

Various energy saving and preservation techniques have been implemented to reduce overall consumption. Guests can ditch their car and take one of the complimentary electric bikes to head into Santa Barbara. Set on a hilltop, getting to the beach from the resort will be a breeze, but going back after a lazy day that little bit of electric power will sure help.

In terms of accommodation, the 92 bungalows are scattered through seven acres of grounds (22 of those are suites). Originally opened in 1918, it took 7 years and many millions to bring the designated landmark into the 21st century. Interiors look like the kind of expensive-but-understated California chic you’d expect in a resort like this.

Top of the line is the Hummingbird Suite, with two private patios and its own outdoor shower. And there are really few things as lovely as an outdoor shower – whether in the African bush or not – on a warm summer evening, wouldn't you agree?

A signature restaurant by Chef Patrice Martineau will offer fine food both in the main Dining Room and outside on the Terrace with views to the ocean. Aside from the obvious choice of the Santa Barbara beach for a refreshing dip, there’s an infinity-edge swimming pool in the grounds.

A entry-level Superior Bungalow, which comes in at 350 square feet, starts at $475 late March.

[Photos: Orient-Express]