Solvang residents oppose Airstream glamping resort proposal

Residents and city leaders in Solvang, California, are opposing a proposal to convert the former Solvang Lumberyard into a “glamping” resort. The 2.19-acre site at 1783 and 1793 Mission Drive would feature 31 Airstream spots, a bar, a lounge, a hotel lobby, two suites, a pool, and a military-style lookout tower.

The Solvang Design Review Committee recently met to discuss the project as part of a pre-application review. A primary point of contention is the architectural style; the property is located in an area where city regulations mandate historic Spanish Mission-style architecture, which the proposed resort may not satisfy.

Critics, including Dennis Beebe, president of the Santa Ynez Valley Citizens Council, argue that the development is essentially a “glorified trailer park” and is inappropriate for the downtown area, despite being categorized as lodging.