A hidden gem in Santa Barbara

Chapter 24: A hidden gem in Santa Barbara

While listening to the soothing soundtrack of the little
creek that runs alongside the steep hills, we hike up a
trail that leads us to a hidden little gem, a historic lodge
and former way station for mountain-crossing travelers
nestled amid an idyllic setting: The Cold Spring Tavern -
originally constructed in the 1860s -is located on a stretch
of Stagecoach Road right off Highway 154, within the
hills above beautiful Santa Barbara.

The storybook tavern is surrounded by tall, sinuous trees,
mossy paths, and sandstone boulders; it seems there is
always a mountain breeze that ruffles and wafts the
chimney smoke which mingles with the aromas of the
woods and nature that grows rampantly and snuggles up
to the romantic hut. At once, you feel like you are in an
ancient place - a place where history seems to collect and
merge into the present and finally embrace you with it's
magic... wow, what a scene!

The 3,000-square-foot main restaurant and bar is an
idyllic respite and getaway to folks on the road, Santa
Barbara locals, bikers, out-of state-tourists or adventurous
couples and families - providing a snapshot of California
history.
Behind heavy, wooden doors you will discover a cozy,
rustic ambience with a wood-paneled dining room, a bar
and four stone hearth fireplaces that crackle away and
create a cozy background sound. "Through this world I
stroll or ramble I find that life's just a gamble", states an
old wooden beam that supports the all-wood ceiling.
Rugged shelves mounted high up by the ceiling showcase
a collection of ancient porcelain.

Scuffed wooden walls tell wild western stories about
heroes of a bygone era: animal heads, cowboy shotguns,
rugged hats and rusty horseshoes create a perfect setting
for an authenitc western movie. Next to an animal skin
a golden framed photograph adorns the wall, that presents
a proud native inhabitant: an Indian chief. Big wooden
circular chandeliers hang close by the ceiling and add just
a little bit more light to the oil lamps that gorgeously
enlighten the tables while creating a romantic atmosphere
and making the whole idyllic-rustic / rugged-ancient /
wild-western style complete.

It was a warm summer weekend when I visited. Bands
played relaxed tunes and visitors pulled up blankets on
the little yard. Patrons kicked back while savoring thickly
piled up sandwiches, home fries or homemade biscuits.
The in-door menu offered traditional American fare:
burgers, fries and steaks. A long list of omelet options -
coming in many variations - satisfies every vegetarian's
tummy.
The atmosphere: mellow. We chilled the whole afternoon,
taking a break from every day life - far away from the
hustle and bustle of La La Land's shine and glitz. Fresh
intoxicating air, lush green nature and cozy sounds invited
us to dream. When the fist stars in the sky showed we
savored a romantic meal while soaking up the magnificent
moment.