Horses, California sunshine and great food are on the menu at luxurious Alisal Ranch in Solvang, located on 10,500 acres in the gorgeous Santa Ynez Valley. Throughout the year, guests can look forward to a great selection of programs designed in partnership with Chef’s Roll, a culinary community comprised of MICHELIN-starred chefs, mixologists, sommeliers, culinary students and hospitality industry professionals. Events at the ranch will include a BBQ Bootcamp May 4–6, and a BBQ University from Sept. 2 to 5.

© Alisal Ranch

“Alisal Ranch is proud to continue to build upon the programs from past years and introduce a stellar line-up of top culinary talent to further bolster the already incredible experiences available to our guests,” said Kathleen Cochran, general manager, Alisal Ranch. “Alisal Ranch continues to be recognized as a place where guests can escape the everyday, connect with the stunning natural beauty of the ranch, and enjoy the many amenities the property offers. We’re thrilled to welcome such talented chefs to collaborate with our culinary team and provide guests with memorable dining experiences set right on our private ranch.”

During BBQ Bootcamp in May, chef, entrepreneur and tastemaker Valerie Gordon will emcee a program of grilling, smoking and barbecuing featuring fresh, local ingredients. Participating chefs include Suzanne Goin, a James Beard-celebrated chef; food and travel writer Paula Disbrowe; New York Times bestselling cookbook author Aaron Franklin; and Derek Wolf and Brad Prose of FYR Grills. The event also includes a whiskey tasting and a class in blending spices.

© Alisal Ranch

In September, BBQ University will find television host and BBQ Hall of Famer Steven Raichlen leading guests in hands-on instruction on how to prepare Memphis dry rub ribs, Thai rotisserie chicken, Texas Hill Country brisket, Brazilian rib roast and other dishes. A five-course lunch with craft beers and local wines is included with each class.

Beginning in May and continuing throughout the year, a series of five California Ranch Cookouts will also be offered. These include May 31 with Chef Drew Deckman, co-owner of MICHELIN-starred restaurants in Baja, Mexico and San Diego; June 21 with chefs Brian Malarkey, a frequent judge on Food Network and various Bravo television shows, who will be accompanied by Carlos Anthony, executive chef of Herb & Wood in San Diego; teacher, author and chef Javier Plascencia on July 19; first-ever female Iron Chef Cat Cora on Aug. 16; and Chef Maeve Schulz, owner and executive chef of Sugar & Scribe Bakery in La Jolla, California on Aug. 23. During their stay, guests can also enjoy the ranch’s many activities, which include horseback riding, hay wagon rides, kayaking, golf, tennis, canoeing and stargazing.