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Ravenscroft - Enchanting George Washington Smith Estate

Ravenscroft - Enchanting George Washington Smith Estate

Photo gallery for Ravenscroft - Enchanting George Washington Smith Estate

Villa Ravenscroft is an entrancing luxury vacation rental located in the heart of Montecito.
Indulge in the magic of Mediterranean-like weather or delight in a moonlit swim.
This idyllic villa provides a verdant oasis that offers unparalleled seclusion and serenity.
Within Ravenscroft are sweeping lawns and gardens, intimate outdoor terraces, and majestic gates.
Cherish the timeless brilliance of renowned architect George Washington Smith

Overview of Ravenscroft - Enchanting George Washington Smith Estate

5 out of 5 Exceptional
7 bedrooms10 bathroomsSleeps 14929.0 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Santa Barbara, CA
  • Popular LocationWestmont College18 min walk
  • Popular LocationSanta Barbara Zoo7 min drive
  • Popular LocationSanta Barbara Bowl9 min drive
  • AirportSanta Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)19 min drive

Rooms & beds

7 bedrooms (sleeps 14)

Bedroom 1

+3
2 King Beds, 4 Queen Beds and 1 Double Bed

10 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub

Bathroom 2

Bathroom 3

Bathroom 4

Bathroom 5

Bathroom 6

Bathroom 7

Bathroom 8

Bathroom 9

Bathroom 10

Spaces

Kitchen
Office
Separate dining area
Garden

About this property

Ravenscroft - Enchanting George Washington Smith Estate

Ravenscroft is an enchanting George Washington Smith 1922 Estate, located in the heart of Montecito, a seaside village that has seduced moguls, magnates & movie stars for over a hundred years. Within the estate are sweeping lawns, intimate outdoor terraces and idyllic gardens, while its main residence is trimmed with majestic hand-tooled gates. A l’Orangery & Japanese tea house, wine cellar, home theater room, and sparkling pool, spa and tennis court add to the allure of its opulent amenities.

For monthly discounts, please inquire. Kindly note that for any 31+ night stay, taxes are waived.

Framed by towering palms and verdant surroundings, Ravenscroft pays homage to the grandeur of its natural setting, with a timeless elegance that is truly captivating. The harmonious design of its interior seamlessly blends 1920’s aristocratic living with a refreshing contemporary twist. For those seeking exclusivity and serenity, each moment at Ravenscroft is a symphony of opulence, where attention to detail transforms every stay into an exquisite experience.

Carefully preserving the architectural brilliance of renowned architect George Washington Smith, Ravenscroft has undergone meticulous restoration and reconstruction, marrying the allure of the past with the demands of modern living. Located in one of the most prestigious areas in Montecito, amongst the grandeur estates of its same historic pedigree, directly adjacent to Lotus Land, Ravenscroft provides a private setting, while being a short drive to the beach and even closer to the upper and lower Village.

Step into the enchanting world Villa Ravenscroft, where every moment is is an ode to a timeless elegance. Within the estate are sweeping lawns and gardens, intimate outdoor terraces, majestic gates, and its 10,000 square foot interior flooded with natural light. Within the 52 foot long garden room, vines have been growing across the interior since the 1920's. Original wrought-iron doors that were hand crafted on site during construction of Ravenscroft, which lead into the dreamy garden, pool and tennis court area.

The opulent living room embraces two large sofas and additional furnishing for intimate seating. The grand fireplace compliments the magnitude of the room, as the original owner used to bring her beloved saddle horse inside to get warmed by the flames. Wrought-iron doors lead you to an airy patio, complete with lounge seating and umbrellas, grill and mosaic fountain. One of the most enchanting spaces in this stunning luxury rental is the kitchen, adorned with original GWS white tiles that stretch from floor to ceiling, creating an inviting atmosphere for culinary pursuits. The space is meticulously equipped with an original butler’s pantry and “White House Stamped” custom cabinets from the 1920’s as well as an array of modern conveniences such as La Cornue stove, home bar, Sub-Zero refrigerator and two dishwashers.

In the office, there is a desk, library and a hidden door handle nestled in the bookshelves. This whimsical passageway leads to the wine cellar and adjacent tasting room, made luxuriously complete with a fireplace and leather seats. Each bedroom in the villa is designed to provide a tranquil and luxurious retreat, ensuring a restful night's sleep for every guest. For an unforgettable movie night, the state-of-the-art cinema room offers 9 plush and dramatic theatrical seats.

The master suite features a king-size bed, TV, 2 full bathrooms and 3 walk in closets. The primary bathroom is highlighted by a beautiful, walk-in marble shower with a waterfall-head, heated floors and a bath tub in an adjacent dressing room, featuring a fireplace. The iron-wrought windows imbue the suite with natural light and views of the gardens and pool. Nestled in one of the walk-in closets, is a hidden door in the shoe shelf, leading you into an enchanting look-out tower above.

The 800 square feet guest house encompasses a grand living room with a 50” Smart TV, queen pull-out couch, 1 king bedroom, 2 full bathrooms and the original fully-equipped, charming kitchen. The space is highlighted by an expansive ceiling with original architectural beams exposed, coupled with wide wood plank floors. The kitchen and bathrooms beautifully display original GWS tiles from floor to ceiling as well as original fixtures, doors and hardware.

Jack's cottage shares a queen bedroom, full bathroom, and sauna, where exquisite GWS tiles and design details match those in Casa Del Herrera. The quaint 'Abigail Cottage' is a restored, charming small 1 BR/1BA guest cottage surrounded by a fruit orchard, verdant lawns and a hen house.
With its exquisite and stately presence, the estate showcases awe-inspiring views of the landscape and pool, inviting guests to enjoy a moonlit swim in the heated pool or indulge in delightful alfresco dining. Combining rich history, impeccable design, and idyllic surroundings, this exceptional luxury vacation rental guarantees an unforgettable experience of tranquility and sophistication in Montecito's most coveted location.

Property manager

Melanie Cava
Premier Host
Premier Host

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Damage and incidentals

You will be responsible for any damage to the rental property caused by you or your party during your stay.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector and a first aid kit

About the area

Santa Barbara

Located by the sea, this villa is in Montecito, a neighbourhood in Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara Bowl and Reagan Ranch Center are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Casa Del Herrero and Rafael Gonzalez House. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Earl Warren Showgrounds or UC SB Events Center.

What's nearby

  • Lotusland - 13 min walk
  • Westmont College - 18 min walk
  • Butterfly Beach - 7 min drive
  • Santa Barbara Zoo - 7 min drive
  • Santa Barbara Bowl - 9 min drive

Getting around

  • Santa Barbara Station - 14 min drive
  • Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) - 19 min drive

Restaurants

  • Starbucks - 5 min drive
  • Blenders In The Grass - 5 min drive
  • Jack's Famous Bagel's - 7 min drive
  • El Sitio - 6 min drive
  • Westmont Dining Commons - 4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Ravenscroft - Enchanting George Washington Smith Estate have a pool?

Yes, this property has an indoor pool.

Is Ravenscroft - Enchanting George Washington Smith Estate pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Ravenscroft - Enchanting George Washington Smith Estate?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Ravenscroft - Enchanting George Washington Smith Estate?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Ravenscroft - Enchanting George Washington Smith Estate located?

Located in Montecito, this villa is within 1 mile (2 km) of Lotusland and Westmont College. Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church and Casa Del Herrero are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

5

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 5 - Excellent. 15 out of 15 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Good. 0 out of 15 reviews" "
Rating 3 - Okay. 0 out of 15 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Poor. 0 out of 15 reviews" "
Rating 1 - Terrible. 0 out of 15 reviews" "

Reviews

This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

5/5 Excellent

Evan T.

The house was gorgeous and more than I could’ve ever asked for for an all star break trip!
The property was so clean and well kept. Everything was top of the line and the amenities were second to none. I’d stay here over and over again. Everyvody needs to stay here at least once!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

5/5 Excellent

jonathan m.

It was truly magical experience ! Such a beautiful and serene setting.
The house was amazing. You felt as if you were in 1920s Hollywood era . We spent every night around the outdoor fireplace . Can’t wait to return.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

5/5 Excellent

Devan M.

An absolute dream! We wished we never had to leave!
Gorgeous property and Todd was wonderful Abor answering all of our questions and insuring we had everything we needed.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

5/5 Excellent

tina s.

Magical Estate
Ravenscroft Historic Estate is a perfect step back to the magical, glory days of Montecito. It is has been painstakingly restored to shine in all its romantic glory. Every area of the estate offers an experience for everyone who stays there. My grandchildren enjoyed the tennis and swimming while my husband (who is a landscaper) found total joy in the beautiful grounds. The kitchen is a wonderful place to connect with family while cooking in a perfectly appointed kitchen with a cozy fireplace. The grand living room is the epitome of entertaining and singing out tunes to the piano. Todd is an amazing host who offers all the help you could ask for. His passion for the home is contagious. I would highly recommend Ravenscroft if you are looking for a first class, five star experience.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

5/5 Excellent

Kathy B.

Amazing & Wonderful Estate to rent for family vacation
My family (15 adults & teens) just enjoyed a perfect family vacation at Ravenscroft. It is a spectacular and unique property. The owners have lovingly restored the home to it's original grandeur and it was a special treat to be able to call this estate home for a week. The grounds are stunning. The pool, jacuzzi and tennis court were so well maintained. There's a chicken coop on the property and we were able to get fresh eggs for breakfast. Upon our arrival, the kitchen was stocked with everything we'd requested and a full dinner was left for us so we didn't have to cook or shop on that first night. On a different night, we hired the private chef recommended to us and she was outstanding. There is air conditioning in the master suite and fans provided in the other rooms although the gorgeous Montecito weather doesn't often require their use. Aside from the Maine House bedrooms, there is a one-bedroom guest suite that is beautifully decorated and has an extremely comfortable king bed as well as a pull-out sofa in the living room. There is a 9 seat movie theater with exceptionally comfortable reclining chairs. There is an outdoor ping pong patio, indoor billiard room and gym, outdoor fireplaces in several locations... honestly, this property is virtually perfection. The only thing I'd change is the WiFi signal. It's available in a few spots in the house, but not across the entire property. That said, it was rather nice putting the phone/iPad down for the better part of every day. There are so many places to relax and have fun on the property that it was hard to venture beyond the beautiful wrought iron gates. However, there are many great restaurant choices right in Montecito. This is a special place and the owners are beyond accommodating. I could not recommend it more highly.

About the host

Hosted by Melanie Cava

Host profile image

Why they chose this property

Ravenscroft is just as much a piece of historical art as it is a home. Peggy Ravenscroft, the original owner, was ahead of her time in her achievements (a summary of her life can be emailed) and had the vision to commission George Washington Smith (GWS) on the creation of this home. GWS is said to the father of Santa Barbara Architecture. This home is of museum quality with original masterpiece features in tact including tiles, wrought iron, stone work, furnishings and artwork original to the era. Yet it has been modernized with all new systems while maintaining original features. As we walked through Ravenscroft our first time, there was another interested party who was saying they were going to gutt the home. We had to buy it because our goal is to preserve and share it with others. Peggy and GWS started something that deserves to be seen. Someone once said this home is to be felt as much as seen as it has a magical ambiance/spirit. Not to mention the majestic gardens with mature 100 year old trees, stone pathways and sitting area with fireplace providing beauty from every angle.

What makes this property unique

Main house, Guest House, Two Cottages, Tennis Court, Pool, Spa, Theater Room, Office, Billiards room, sauna and magical garden. Private gated and encased.

Premier Host

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