Hip check

Hotel El Roblar (Ojai, CA)

GETAWAYS • Ojai

The Skinny: A legendary spot in the center of Ojai, Hotel El Roblar was in need of a serious refresh until (one of LA’s most sought-after interior designers) Pamela Shamshiri came along. Now, with a splashy rebrand and a whole new look, it’s time for El Roblar’s close-up.

The Scene: Hip mountain town meets California chill. Rustic vintage furniture is partnered with weathered rugs, a playful dino-themed wall mural, and a roaring fireplace (even in July). Expect to see everyone from Hollywood TV writers taking meetings on the patio to older folks on a getaway, to groups of Gen Z’ers grabbing drinks at the newly glammed-up bar. But no kids: the hotel is 18 and up.

The Rooms: Among the 50 rooms (11 of which are secluded bungalows), we stayed in a charming king with a terrace, which got used every morning for work and coffee. The patio is decked with a stylish red-and-white striped awning, and rooms are bathed in terracotta and ochre hues, alluding to the town’s Spanish heritage. The bathroom is well-appointed, with plush robes and Lather amenities.

The Amenities: The updated pool area is seriously chic, with waitstaff and a ping pong table to keep kids occupied before dinnertime. On-site restaurant Condor Bar serves farm-to-table Cali-cuisine with Mexican accents. The property’s spa and gym are still a work in progress, but when they’re finished, it’ll feature everything from manicures to deep-tissue and basic gym equipment (yoga mats are currently available for an afternoon stretch).

Why It’s FOUND: Not every dated hotel gets the refresh it deserves, but the newly hip El Roblar will rightfully become a buzzy place to hang in a beloved, sleepy town. –Zoe Schaeffer

→ Hotel El Roblar (Ojai, CA) • 122 East Ojai Ave • Rates from $425/night.