We spent four days at The Ballard Inn and had a wonderful experience. The staff seems to anticipate your every need: There is ice water with lemon on the porch for hot afternoons, coffee in the lounge mornings and evenings, cookies on your pillow at bedtime and delicious breakfasts! I loved sitting in the rocking chairs on the front porch and just relaxing. The restaurant was open on two of the evenings we were there and we had absolutely delicious meals. The reputation of the chef is well-deserved and you shouldn't miss an opportunity to eat there. I look forward to returning!

Perfect downtime inn, and a great getaway from civilization. The staff manages to be on top of things, without being "there" to interrupt the overall tranquility (minus the occasional loud truck on what passes for a "busy" street in Ballard) of the venue. Excellent breakfasts, a dinner menu that doesn't change often enough for my liking, and little touches like gratis bottled San Pellegrino in the room, unobtrusive turndown service, and lazy rockers on the porch make this a repeatable respite from the office. Located midway between Los Olivos and Solvang (try Cecco for dinner), it's a very leisurely 35-minutes from Santa Barbara, yet seemingly miles away into a former, much quieter rural environment. It was packed--only 15 or 16 rooms--on the weekend we were there, and I imagine that's the case from Thursdays through Sundays. But, it can probably seem like your own home the other nights.

Fantastic personnel who are very helpful and friendly. Their afternoon "happy hour is the best, great wine and great appetizers. The breakfast served is the best around.

I have always read these reviews but this is the first one I have written. The Ballard Inn was wonderful. The room was spacious and spotless. Breakfast was included and was different everyday. The restaurant fare was absolutely delicious made with local and fresh ingredients. The Inn staff was always gracious and helpful. I would absolutely recommend this Inn.