Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/648009
W I N T E R / S P R I N G 2 0 1 6 | 9 1 W I N T E R / S P R I N G 2 0 1 6 ocated halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, you'll find a resort experience designed with the intent to evoke pure joy, a work of architectural and spiritual inspira- tion. Doug Ayres, the visionary behind Allegretto Vineyard Resort in the Central Coast enclave of Paso Robles, set out to craft a property that would serve as a place of pure enjoyment for all its visitors. The Tuscan-style resort, located in what has become California's most promising wine region, is nestled at the base of a natural slope with eight acres of vines and 200 olive trees planted throughout the 20-acre property. Every detail was created with intention—from the eclectic mix of original artwork that features both personal pieces from the visionary's collection, as well as vibrant, contemporary pieces by local artist Erin Hanson to the Venetian-shaped chandelier made with fiber-optic cables and crystals cascading from the lobby ceiling. There are even earthly wonders such as the massive cross- section from a sequoia tree that dates back to Roman times and is now referred to as the "heartbeat" of the resort. In addition to the beauty found throughout, the resort features a luxurious spa that employs artfully crafted essential oils and holistic products, along with a total wellness program that includes activities such as Chära (a practice similar to yoga). "If it makes people feel something, that's what's important—giving people a real experience," Ayres says. by Michelle Ball / photos by Jeremy Ball THE AYRES HOTEL GROUP PLANTS ROOTS IN PASO ROBLES WINE COUNTRY "Doug Ayres is a fourth- generation Californian whose father, Don Ayres Jr., pioneered the concept of boutique resort hotels throughout Southern California. His dedication to each guest's total experience is evident as he is physically present on property to greet his visitors. "It's a rarity in the business to have an owner so present . . . From a guest perspective, it's a very big deal to have the owner around to greet them and assist," offers Allegretto Vineyard Resort General Manager Anna Olson.