60 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM Western-style Hospitality Alisal Ranch operates on an inclusive plan, which means nightly rates include accommodations, breakfast, dinner, drinks and a host of complimentary activities. Once occupied by ranch hands and wranglers, a mix of 74 room offerings dot the property—ranging from cottages and houses (sleeping up to 12) to smaller studios {due west} perfect for three. Whether your accommodations are 400 or 2,000 square feet, the ambiance is kickback, comfortable luxury, accented by vintage artwork, ranch-inspired antiques and wood-burning fireplaces. No TVs or telephones here, but you will find fully-furnished patios, Pendleton blankets and a just-yonder burbling creek. (And yes, there’s Wi-Fi.) Families may spread out during the day, but mealtimes mark a ritualistic return to the whole. Guests are assigned a dedicated table for the duration of their stay, which creates a natural homebase to regroup and linger. Dinners are especially memorable. When Alisal Ranch opened to visitors in 1946, it was the custom to “dress” for dinner—and that tradition is still embraced today. Although sport coats are required for men 16 years and older (you can spot the closet of spares), even dressy jeans work—it’s just about taking a little extra care. “At the end of every day, families honor and celebrate their time together,” describes Lia. “They clean up nice and just kind of sit back and have this long, delicious dinner.” Seasonal menus reflect a blend of California cuisine and hearty Western ranch cooking. While PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF ALISAL RANCH / BAER FAMILY ABOVE (lower right): Tthree generations of the Baer family on the hay wagon ride up to Alisal Ranch’s historic Adobe Camp.
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