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Cuyama Buckhorn
- Where:
- Why:Late spring getaway
- When:June 2021
- Who:Me and a friend
"A hideaway in California's high desert"
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Look for the iconic red sign from Route 166 as you approach
Rooms are comfortable with vintage accents and semi-private patios
My dog Riggs approves — pets are welcome with a $30 fee
Cuyama essentials — including Verve Coffee Roasters instant coffee to fuel your adventures
Be sure to check out the lobby’s vinyl record collection and curated library
The Buck Stop Coffee Shop opens each morning at 9 a.m.
All smiles after an oat milk latte
Golden hour by the pool
Sunsets are pretty dreamy in the high desert
Grab a chair facing the mountains and take it all in
The outdoor barrel-style sauna also offers magical views
Dinner at the Buckhorn Restaurant & Bar — where chef Daniel Horn’s ever-changing menu highlights fresh seasonal produce from local farms
Hotel guests, travelers, and locals alike all gather at this iconic roadside dining destination
Hangout at the firepit after dinner — you’ll receive your S’mores kit upon check in
The Caliente Deck — another one of the many outdoor spaces
There’s also plenty of seating around the pool, and you can have lunch and cocktails delivered to your chairs
Visiting the huts at the Blue Sky Center, a few minutes away from the hotel
Blue Sky Center also offers tastings in partnership with Cuyama Beverage Company, which just launched its craft meads (honey wines) in March
Highs & Lows
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The abundance of outdoor space — there are countless spots to sip your morning coffee or a glass of sustainable wine — from rustic lounge chairs by the pool, to bar stools facing the Caliente Mountain Range. There’s also cozy firepits, a barrel-style sauna and a courtyard with a gorgeous greenhouse.
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The connection to community — the rich history of the Cuyama Valley is showcased throughout the hotel, where locals and travelers alike gather for events, holidays and programming. Each room offers a curated selection of books that relate to the region and its community. Most recently, the property’s first Artist In Residence program worked with artist and designer Kim Sutherland to create a book highlighting the iconic residents of Cuyama, which was published in the fall of 2020.
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The Buck Stop Coffee Shop — with tons of natural light, friendly baristas and delicious lattes, the hotel’s craft coffee shop is a must-visit. You can also enjoy Teapigs fine tea and house-baked pastries and pies served every day.
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Thoughtful design — the property feels vintage and chic, a style that lead designer and co-owner Ferial Sadeghian calls “Mid-Century Western.” Think vinyl records, unique 1950s furniture, cowhide rugs and Adirondack seating.
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Service and attention to detail — the staff are friendly and welcoming, with many suggestions for exploring the Cuyama Valley. We especially appreciated the S’mores kit (provided upon check in) and recommendations for hiking in the area.
Important Bits
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Type
Boutique Inn
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Vibe
Vintage California charm
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Location
Nestled among the mountains in the high desert
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Rooms
21
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Pre-Arrival & Arrival Experience
A friendly welcome followed by a tour of the hotel grounds and room
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Future Forward
Cuyama Buckhorn is committed to supporting local producers and makers. Shop the curated market at The Buck Stop featuring artisan goods and products, ideal for gifting and souvenirs. The hotel’s farm-to-table restaurant also emphasizes sustainability and collaboration, as the menu incorporates seasonal produce from neighboring ranches in the valley. Plus, they’re mostly plastic free
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Music
Upbeat folk with a side of jazz
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Year Opened
Originally in 1952, reopened under new ownership in 2018
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Designed By
Ferial Sadeghian and Jeff Vance of iDGroup
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Health & Wellness
Pool with view of the mountains, barrel style sauna, DIY spa menu in the rooms
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Food
Farm-to-table comfort food at the Buckhorn Restaurant, cute breakfast boxes delivered to your room each morning, and poolside service available for lunch and dinner
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Bar, Events & Nightlife
Craft cocktails, beer and wines from local vineyards at the Buckhorn Bar. Events include wine and wellness gatherings, dinners and holiday barbecues
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Minibar & Retail
A thoughtful collection of “Golden State Goodies” with snacks and spirits from Cuyama Valley neighbors
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Accessibility
Accessible
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Pet Friendly
Yes! Pets are welcome for a one-time $30 fee
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Children
Yes
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Price
A great value
- Website
Cuyama Buckhorn
4923 Primero St, New Cuyama, CA 93254, USA
Blue Sky Center
1000 Perkins Rd, New Cuyama, CA 93254, USA
Carrizo Plain National Monument
17495 Soda Lake Rd, Santa Margarita, CA 93453, USA
Condor’s Hope
12340 Foothill Rd, New Cuyama, CA 93254, USA
In the Area
Hotel Location 4923 Primero St, New Cuyama, CA 93254, USA
Located on the other side of Los Padres National Forest, Cuyama, California is a quaint and historic town situated in the heart of Santa Barbara County’s High Desert. It’s a two hour drive from Los Angeles and Paso Robles and just 90 minutes to Ojai. You can explore the best of the region at this iconic roadside retreat, including hiking trails, wildlife refuges, local farms and wineries.
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