Santa Maria

Slow down and step into the yesteryear with Noland’s Horse Drawn Carriages

Slow down and step into the yesteryear with Noland’s Horse Drawn Carriages

Santa Maria Sun

July 17, 2026

Original

Step back in time with Noland’s Horse Drawn Carriages, a charming Central Coast tradition that started long before Château Noland became the luxury stay we know today. As the Santa Maria Sun recently shared, Chad Noland turned his lifelong love of horses into a slower, more romantic way to explore our region—complete with a carriage house that still whispers of that first venture. Whether you’re planning a wedding, a quiet date, or just want to escape the rush, this local gem reminds us to savor the simple moments. It’s a piece of living history right here on the Central Coast, and it’s well worth a ride.

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This summary was written by AI based on the original article from Santa Maria Sun.

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July 17, 2026

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