The Santa Ines Mission

Although this mission is an active parish, there is a serenity here that defies its urban locale.  Perhaps it is the view of the Santa Ynez River Valley or the rose garden or the tranquil Calvary Walk, but it is, oddly, one of the most peaceful of all the missions I've visited.  It's hard to believe the touristy town of Solvang lies just behind its adobe walls.

This mission was founded in 1804 by Father Estevan Tapis.  It was founded to fill the gap between Santa Barbara and La Purisima.  I have attended Mass here and have always enjoyed the sermons given by the Capachin Franciscans.  They arrived here from Ireland in 1924 to take on administrative duties and continue the mission's restoration.   It's a nice retreat for a weekend.  Hotels and restaurants are located only blocks away.