Biltmore’s Future Uncertain

Rumors have been swirling about the extended closure of Montecito’s Four Seasons Resort the Biltmore, which has been closed since March due to the pandemic. Hotels in the county were cleared to reopen on Friday, June 12, but the Biltmore’s doors have remained closed, leaving staff members and nearby locals wondering what the future holds for the iconic resort.

We’re told that existing reservations have been canceled through July 15, and any new reservations are not being booked until 2021, but it’s unclear when the resort will reopen. Rumors range from an extensive remodel being planned, to an upcoming sale of the property, but our inquiries to public relations staff have gone unanswered. Staff at the Biltmore have all been furloughed, with employee-sponsored benefits paid through June 30.

Senior leaders of the Four Seasons report they are working with the ownership of the resort on a reopening date, but nothing has been decided on as of press time. The Coral Casino, The Montecito Club, and Sandpiper Golf Club, which are also owned by Biltmore owner Ty Warner, remain closed as well, with members not paying dues during the closure. Staff at The Montecito Club and the Sandpiper have been laid off.

Warner’s other Montecito resort, San Ysidro Ranch, reopened in June.