Pete’s Cottage

Pete’s Cottage offers a one-of-a-kind, secluded retreat at Alisal Ranch, featuring 545 sq. ft. of charm and history. Named after Charles “Pete” Jackson, Jr., who purchased the ranch in 1943, as this was his favorite place to stay. It is the only true standalone accommodation on the property with no shared walls—perfect for those seeking privacy and tranquility. 

This cozy yet spacious cottage boasts a king bed and a double fold-out sleeper sofa in the expansive sitting room, complete with a wood-burning fireplace for added warmth and comfort. The cottage’s private deck overlooks the scenic golf course and Alisal creek, where you can drift to sleep in the winter months listening to the soothing sounds of the water. 

With a fully furnished front porch and back patio, Pete’s Cottage offers multiple inviting spaces to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the ranch. Whether you’re sipping coffee as the sun rises or unwinding under the stars, this cottage provides a romantic and peaceful escape.  

This room features a convenient coffee and tea station, complete with a Stagg electric kettle, a welcome bottle of wine, and a mini fridge stocked with complimentary beverages. 

ABOUT CHARLES  H. “PETE” JACKSON, JR.

Born in 1898, Charles H. “Pete” Jackson Jr. grew up in New York, a member of a well-to-do family. He was the grand-nephew of U.S. President Chester A. Arthur; his father was Chief Examinerfor the New York State Civil Service Commission. Pete entered the University of California, attending a satellite campus in Davis which specialized in agriculture and veterinary medicine, with national acclaim for its livestock expertise.  After graduation, Pete Jackson started out in banking in Santa Barbara, where he met his future wife, Ann Gavit, and married in 1926.

Pete and Ann bought the 237-acre Rancho San Carlos in Montecito, building a home and equestrian center with covered arenas, practice track, and a polo field (where Lindberg even landed his plane!).  They bred and trained polo ponies, played on polo teams, and were founding members of the Santa Barbara Polo Club.

In 1939, Pete bought an 80,000 acre ranch in Nevada— launching his career as a rancher. He modernized the ranch which raised over 5,000 beef cattle.  In 1943, Pete and Ann acquired Alisal Ranch,  known for its racing horses, and also for its tradition of purebred cattle. Pete and Ann were also drawn to the extraordinary beauty and acres of undisturbed nature at Alisal. Pete’s ranch manager convinced him to open a portion of the remarkable property for discriminating guests to enjoy.

A down-to-earth  businessman (with a lot of “horse sense”) Pete was a generous philanthropist in his industry, county, and community. Pete was also a private person. He preferred to stay out of the way when he was at Alisal, leaving it in the capable hands of his staff, and instead, would take a quiet cottage on the outer edge of the property, where he could soak in the spectacular natural beauty of Alisal.

Welcome to Pete’s Cottage; this was his favorite place of private refuge.