Inside Hotel Ynez, Where Bling Empire's Kim Lee and Kevin Kreider Had Their First Date

Inside Hotel Ynez in Solvang, where Bling Empire's Kim Lee and Kevin Kreider enjoyed their first date

One of our favourite subplots of Bling Empire is that of Kevin Kreider and Kim Lee. After she stood him up for what would have been their first date—a private omakase dinner, no less—Kevin took no chances when Kim agreed to give things another shot, planning a road trip for the pair up to Solvang, a quaint town in Santa Barbara County, California.

Kevin, ever the gentleman, booked two rooms at the charming Hotel Ynez. Here are a few things to know about the hotel.

Above The pavilion at Hotel Ynez

Hotel Ynez sits on two private acres. Once an ageing motor lodge, it is now a chic and tranquil wine-country getaway with manicured gardens, and a courtyard where rustic outdoor seating is shrouded by oak trees. There are also communal bonfire pits, where Kim and Kevin roasted marshmallows and made s'mores during their stay.

Nearby is a private pavilion surrounded by citrus trees and conifers, which makes for a romantic stargazing spot.

Above Bonfire pits in the courtyard at Hotel Ynez

Those who like to stay active will enjoy Hotel Ynez's charming restored 1950's swimming pool, which is heated all year round.

There's also a sun-drenched bocce-ball court for some old-fashioned fun, and if you're looking to venture outside of the property, Hotel Ynez rents out Linus bicycles for guests to ride into town, and guided horseback rides on request.

Photo 1 of 3 The Garden Suite at Hotel Ynez

Photo 2 of 3 The private garden in the Garden Suite has a private backyard

Photo 3 of 3 The hot tub in Hotel Ynez's Garden Suite

Hotel Ynez has just 22 guest rooms, which are decorated in a style that's a little bit Scandi and—because it's California, after all—a little bit Mid-Century Modern, too.

Tatler Tip: Book the 450 square foot Garden Suite. It has a king bed under skylights, and an in-room wood-stove fireplace to make it extra cosy. Outside the suite is a 1000 square foot private backyard, complete with seating, a Bolivian hammock, a fire pit and hot tub.

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Bling Empire's Kim Lee and Kevin Kreider Spent A Weekend at This Hotel in Solvang, California