World-class wineries, seas of verdant vineyards, sprawling ranches and six small, quaint towns comprise the Santa Ynez Valley ? prized by locals and visitors alike for its rural-agricultural heritage combined with its sophisticated "wine country" ambience.

A scenic half-hour drive from Santa Barbara, the valley made famous by its renowned thoroughbred horse ranches and, most recently, by its exceptional wines and the movie Sideways, is also loved for its eclectic assortment of people.Walk into one of the area's many excellent restaurants, for example, and you might be greeted by a diverse mix of ranchers, cowboys, winemakers and stylish city-dwellers.

In spite of its relaxed atmosphere, the Santa Ynez Valley hosts a vast array of opportunities for the active lifestyle.Golf, biking, hiking and horseback riding are all easily accessible, as is fishing at nearby Lake Cachuma.The area's rich past comes alive at its history museums and the 1804 Mission Santa Ines, and its vibrant cultural calendar is always brimming with choices.

The Santa Ynez Valley offers a wide range properties -- from the tidy cottages in the picturesque Danish community of Solvang and the art gallery, restaurant and wine tasting room-rich village of Los Olivos, to multi-million dollar ranch estates.

Click on the links to get more information on the Santa Ynez Valley, its communities and world-class wineries.