Summary
- Introduction to wildflower blooms across the U.S.
- Explore The Ritz-Carlton Bacara’s private landscapes.
- Learn about wildflower species and their blooming seasons.
- Experience guided nature hikes with expert naturalists.
All the flowers, none of the crowds.
Wildflower blooms are popping up across the nation just in time for spring. With cactus flowers in California, bluebonnets in Texas, and cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C., there’s a flower event happening in every corner of this country. However, if you’re looking for a more personalized flower experience — and a responsible one to boot — look no further than The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara.
The gorgeous resort, tucked along the coast of California, is home to 78 private acres of pristine landscape that come to life in the spring. Guests can explore every inch of it through guided nature hikes offered by the hotel’s Ambassadors of the Environment program.
“Guests of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara choose to visit due to its unique location on the bluffs of the Gaviota Coast and its proximity to the surrounding environmental areas,” says Nicholas Gagnon, an on-site naturalist at the resort. “By participating in an ‘Ambassadors of the Environment’ hike during the super bloom season, guests from all over the world can learn about the specific flowers native to the hotel and the greater Santa Barbara region.”
Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
According to Gagnon, not only does the team strive to bring guests to the finest bloom sites, but it also educates everyone on the science and history of these natural wonders. This includes insights on how weather patterns affect the bloom each year, the role of wildfires in setting the stage for super blooms, and connections to the region’s original inhabitants, the Chumash Native Americans.
So, which wildflowers can you find during your visit? Gagnon notes that from February to June, visitors can see the California brittlebush and California blackberry blooms. Additionally, from February to May, the ever-popular California poppy blooms can be spotted. Furthermore, from April to July or August, black mustard blooms and black sage blooms are likely to be observed.
George D. Lepp/Getty Images
There are various ways to experience blooms in the area, including some of the best hikes in the region. Hotel guests can even hop on one of the property’s e-bikes to ride into town, enjoying all the blooms along the journey.
Gagnon hopes that guests have an enjoyable stay and depart with a deeper appreciation for this beautiful land. He shares, “Our aim is for guests to leave having experienced one of Southern California’s wonders while also understanding the biology behind it, which can make the experience even more miraculous.”
