California Dreaming Presents
Features
- Destinations - Solvang
"The Valley" is comprised of two cities (Solvang
and Buellton) and three unincorporated towns (Santa Ynez, Ballard, and
Los Olivos). Each of these areas has its own identity and "flavor,"
making the Valley diverse despite its small size of less than 20,000 residents.
Homes range from modest condominiums to 1,000+ acre ranches. Although many
residents work locally, growing numbers commute to Santa Barbara, Lompoc,
Santa Maria and even Los Angeles.
Lifestyles in Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley are reminiscent
of bygone eras. Things move at slower (and frequently safer) pace. Bicycles
are a frequent mode of transportation. Late night strolls are not a life-threatening
adventure, alarms are an infrequent sound – and usually a mistake. Businesses
typically close in the early evening, and there are no 24 hour supermarkets
in the Valley. The local newspaper, The Santa Ynez Valley News, is published
weekly, carries no national news and focuses on local people and events.
Each of the five communities has its own elementary school district from
K-8 that articulates into the single high school of approximately 1,200
students. Santa Ynez Valley Union High School offers a varied curriculum
to its students from Agricultural Science programs to Advanced Placement
Classes for University-bound students. In addition to the public school
system, private elementary through high school education is available.
Two community colleges and two universities are within commuting distance
and offer many educational opportunities.
Solvang and the surrounding towns provide a variety of
community services and organizations. Solvang, Los Olivos, Buellton and
Santa Ynez all have libraries. Service organizations and other volunteer-supported
groups are active in the Valley. Most religious denominations provide services
in the Valley.
The Valley enjoys typical California weather, so people
are active all year. Miles of open country roads provide ample bike riding
and rollerblading opportunities. Trails for mountain bikes, hiking and
horseback riding have take-off points along many paved roads. Because of
the low volume of traffic and safe conditions, walking is a favored pastime
for individuals and groups. Much of the Valley is still horse country providing
trails, penning competitions, polo, and show events. The Recreation Department,
AYSO and other organizations offer sports leagues for both children and
adults.
Despite its "secluded valley" environment,
many additional recreational areas are within easy driving distance. Gaviota,
Refugio, and El Captain State Beaches are all less than half an hour away.
Cachuma Lake is only a 15 minute drive and Zaca Lake is 30 minutes. Major
shopping areas exist both south and north of Solvang in Santa Barbara and
Santa Maria providing the conveniences without the congestion of urban
centers.
There is a strong sense of community here that encourages
courtesy and responsibility. People volunteer at schools, sports events,
local organizations, and help their neighbors. Typically the biggest crowds
turn out for high school football games and the July 4th Fireworks Show.
Return to Welcome to Solvang and
the Santa Ynez Valley Web Site
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