Island View Escape

High above the city, with the most coveted views in Santa Barbara, Island View Escape lives up to its name.

Perched on the hillside of what has become known as “America's Riviera,” the home's sweeping views are truly spectacular; the majestic Channel Islands add the dramatic punctuation to the vast panorama. The tri-level remodeled home is cheerful and bright, taking full advantage of the hillside location. On frequently clear days, it really does feel as though one could see forever!

The main living spaces flow openly thanks to volume ceilings, rich hardwood floors, and walls of picture windows and doors that create unobstructed access to coastline and city views. As the prime perch for everything from sunrise yoga to after-hours stargazing, the wrap-around deck is complete with gas barbecue, dining for six, and a corner sitting area, all suspended above the iconic red-tile roofs of Santa Barbara.

In the living room, relax in front of the stone fireplace, pop some popcorn for movie night, or sink into the sectional sofa for an afternoon catnap. With inclusive, open design, cooking in the well-equipped kitchen is pure pleasure with an abundance of appliances and granite counter space, as well as a large center island with seating. Whether choosing to dine in the sun-drenched dining room or on the deck, the setting is striking. A guest bedroom with a queen-size bed and a hall bathroom with a tub and shower complete the entry-level floor plan. Air conditioning is not often needed in the mild climate here, but it is a nice amenity to have on warmer days.

The private master suite with a comfortable king-size bed and walk-in closet is located up a short flight of stairs off the living room. Sitting in the sunny bay window is an open invitation for reflection, or step outside to the private view deck with chaise lounges. A spacious dual walk-in shower and a luxurious jetted tub in the bay window with automatic shades anchors the spa-like master bathroom.

The third bedroom with a queen-size bed is accessed by way of an amusing opening bookcase that reveals a staircase to this cheerful hidden hideaway. Consistent with the scenic theme of the home, there are windows on three sides to frame the ocean and cityscape below.

When ready to venture out, drive along Alameda Padre Serra, the rim drive that winds along the Riviera. The scenic drive leads east towards Montecito, or west towards historic Old Mission Santa Barbara. Bring a picnic and stop by to smell the hundreds of blooms in the award-winning rose gardens. Hillside hikes to hidden parks and exploring the eclectic neighborhoods of the city are only the beginning of the myriad of activities worth choosing. However, if “getting away from it all” is high on the agenda, the ideal way to escape a busy life is to kick back, relax, and enjoy an extended restorative stay at Island View Escape. Appreciate Santa Barbara living at its best…you may never leave!

(Please note: As is the case with many Riviera properties, the driveway is steep, though the garage offers a level landing for one low profile vehicle. With the safety of little ones in mind, the deck's design may not be suitable for small children to be left unattended.)