The promise of farm animals was the major attraction for us when we chose to stay at The Farmhouse. And we can’t overpraise how fun and interesting our stay turned out to be. Owners Kris and Francisco care for chickens, geese, a Tom Turkey, ponies, goats, and even a 140 lb tortoise, many of them rescues. We loved watching them and scattering feed for the chickens and Mr. Big. The Farmhouse is a charming, relaxing and fun cottage. Kris welcomed us as we arrived, and made us a present of freshly made bread, butter and homemade jams. A basket of newly laid eggs awaited us, together with a bottle of their excellent house-made Cabernet-Merlot blend. While we decompressed from our long drive before heading out to dinner, we enjoyed our treats together with a glass of The Farmhouse wine. Just minutes away from Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, and Solvang, it was easy to explore, shop, and enjoy several nice restaurants. Wineries and tasting rooms abound, so we made time to stop at a few to taste the local offerings. The weather was perfect during our stay. Rocking chairs on the back patio offered the perfect vantage for watching the jet fighter hummingbirds defend the feeder hanging nearby. While I am most happy just hanging out, my husband usually wants to charge ahead to see what’s just around the corner. But with the addition of a day trip here and there, we both loved watching the animals, feeding the chickens, sipping wine on the patio and just plain relaxing.