Hygge for the WEEKEND by AMY DONG
|
Photograph by SILAS FALLSTICH
SOLVANG'S THE WINSTON PROVIDES THE PERFECT ATMOSPHERE FOR REFLECTING AND RECONNECTING
A
s I laugh with my sister, sitting on a quaint balcony sipping California pinot noir, I forget the hardship that has accompanied this past year. Allee and I take an annual trip together, and this year, rather than feeling deterred, it felt especially important. Accordingly, we weaved up the coastline to Solvang, the charming Danish town in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. The check-in process, as well as our entire stay at The Winston, is invisible. Yes, you read that right. The hotel prides itself on providing impeccable service with a hands-off approach (unless, of course, you need anything). Check-in is virtual and as we make our way to the room, armed with our digital lock, I am transfixed by the vibrance of the interior design. Bright hues
64 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
and unique decor fill the halls. We pass an honor bar that is fully stocked for guest-only use; take what you need, leave what you don’t. Naturally, we need pinot noir. Perched on our private balcony, we realize this will be a trip to write home about. I wake up to a soft knock at the door. Another perk of staying at The Winston: breakfast delivered directly (and invisibly) to your room. I open the door to an appetizing spread of local Danishes, coffee, and fresh squeezed orange juice. I savor every bite of what has to be my new favorite pastry, and take a moment to appreciate our room in the morning light. High vaulted ceilings feature large wooden beams (original to the building) and our accent wall boasts an incandescent shade of turquoise. It’s an imaginative mix of fairytale meets California surf town. Though I’m partial to our abode, each room at The Winston is completely different, designed with the intention to amaze and delight.
