The tiny seaside village of Montecito was discovered in the early 1900s by some of the most influential families in the United States. Soon, the wooded hills were dotted with magnificent estates such as marble palaces, consisting of picture-book Normandy castles, Italian palazzos, Cape Cod colonials, and regal English manors. For those seeking private schools, country clubs, quaint shops, and quiet lanes that lead to secluded homes, the beach, and mountain trails, Montecito awaits.