Review: La Lomita Ranch
Sleeping in a stable might not sound luxurious, unless you’ve been to La Lomita Ranch in San Luis Obispo, CA. Originally constructed in the 1970s for a royal couple from the island of Mallorca, the swanky guest rooms were once the stables used to house livestock set to be auctioned.
The picturesque central courtyard, currently a serene place to lounge in front of its tiny lakeside view, was once the location of the auctions themselves. In a nod to those early days, the original brands hang from the same columns as they did in the property’s ranching days.
From breeding Arabian horses under the direction of Princess Marieta and Prince Zourab to charming guests with elegance and nostalgia, La Lomita Ranch has experienced an interesting and unique history since its relatively recent construction. Named for the ancient volcanic knoll overlooking the property, the establishment now plays host to a busy schedule of weddings and events.
After a very long and hot day of riding, I almost overshot the entrance to La Lomita Ranch. Fortunately, the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally’s on-screen navigation pointed out the turn.
Slowing for a small gap in the fence revealed an even smaller sign and a tree-lined roadway leading to a property in the distance. This was the first sign of the understated elegance you’ll find at La Lomita Ranch.
Manicured grounds, Spanish-style Saltillo floors both indoors and out, active stables kept in pristine condition for the visitors, and readily available walking and hiking trails between the lake and hills give you a stunning initial impression upon your arrival.
Entering the recently-revamped rooms, the “luxury ranch” style is apparent in everything from the heavy iron door rollers to the monogrammed towels, carefully folded into the handles of the enormous tiled shower stall. Apart from the staff were buzzing about in preparation for a wedding the following day, the ranch was otherwise peaceful to the extreme.
On my way south from Orange County to Big Sur and La Lomita Ranch, I rolled through 111-degree temperatures along portions of US 101. Although I was thankful for the Multistrada V4 Rally’s redesigned ducting directing engine heat away with a cushion of “cooler” ambient air, arriving at La Lomita and relaxing under the cool, high ceiling of a stable-turned-suite was a welcome conclusion to the day.
Facts & Info
Amenities
- Secure parking on gated property
- Authentic Spanish-style ranch
- Exceptional breakfast prepared for guests on-site
- Several patio and seating areas to enjoy the property day or night
- Unique luxury rooms converted from original stables
Nearby Attractions
- Pozo La Panza OHV Area
- Carrizo Plain National Monument
- Lopez Lake Recreation Area
- Numerous winery tours
- Coastal cities of Pismo Beach, Avila Beach, and Morro Bay
Nearby Roads
La Lomita Ranch sits in the central California coastal wine region. It’s easily accessible from US 101 and SR 1, making it a great place to stay the night on your Cali coast adventure.
Day ride loops from its San Luis Obispo location are possible to places such as Morro Bay, Avila Beach, and Pismo Beach to the west, Lopez Lake and the Santa Lucia Wilderness to the east, and destination towns such as Solvang and Los Alamos to the south.
For those wanting to get off the beaten path, the Pozo la Panza OHV area and Carrizo Plain National Monument are within an hour or two of the ranch. Of note for motorcyclists, La Lomita Ranch proprietor, Alan Horst, is a rider who owns several adventure bikes and can point out the best trails in the area.
Price
$658-$1,558/night
Location
Find them at 1985 La Lomita Way, San Luis Obispo, CA.