Property grounds

Reviews of Quiet mountain getaway that is centerally located from coast to desert.


Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 56 out of 59 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 59 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 59 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 59 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 59 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Alyssa K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Quiet sanctuary
This was a perfect weekend getaway in the woods surrounded by nature. It felt like a little "Norwegian" mountain paradise. The conversation pit was such a fun feature! We took advantage of the easy access to nature and truly enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

6/10 Okay

sarah b.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great property
Great location and absolutely beautiful property. A couple downsides to our stay was no breakfast like it states in description, no bathrobes or slippers like also stated in the description. If you are at all sensitive to any type of paranormal senses you will defenitly feel it here. Front of the house is nice and comfy stays warm and cozy no issues walk into the hallway where the bathroom, closet and bedroom are and you can feel it ( especially in the bedroom and closet ), needless to say we left an entire day early could not take the overwhelming feeling of not being wanted there and being watched. For the amount of money we paid for a 2 day vacation it kind of sucked losing out by leaving but better safe than sorry i guess. The owner stated she would have sage burned in the home to hopefully help with bad
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Beth W., Landaff, NH

Liked: Cleanliness
Quiet, relaxing stay
Much appreciated my stay. Very clean (my highest priority) with full kitchen. 10 minute drive to the many trails of the Laguna area. Thanks to the hosts for providing such a nice space.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness
Cozy perfect little get away spot
We came down for my brother’s Marine Corps Graduation in San Diego. It’s great being so close to San Diego but not having to stay on the city. Checkin was super easy and communication was great and made everything smooth and easy. Being able to unwind near the fireplace after a long day was amazing ! Coffee in the morning looking out the beautiful huge bay windows was the perfect way to start the day. Parking was super close to the front door which made loading and unloading super easy especially with a kiddo under 2 .
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Desserin P., Los Angeles, CA

Liked: Cleanliness
Comfortable and Charming
Our family stayed for the weekend and had an amazing time. Dog friendly, clean and had a lot of little details that made our stay enjoyable. We can’t wait to return.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susanne K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful Stay
We were staying to be close to a wedding at Mt Laguna. The home was in a good location and so peaceful. The AC was wonderful after being out in the heat all day.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness
Very nice place
Clean and quiet, good starting point for Laguna mountain, the hosts are very good, all together 5 stars! 😍
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ana T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful & Quiet Escape
The photos in listing do not do this lovely cabin justice. It is a wonderful property. Cabin is roomy, has excellent amenities and was in a great location to explore the surrounding areas. The yard is expansive and beautiful with lots of nooks to relax in. Cabin is located very near to the main home of the property owners, but still feels very private.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Curtis S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing in the Pines!
Hi our stay was so cool and to be with the kid's and and enjoy the fire place ,and cook marshmallow?, and cookout was a blast!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brian S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Norwegian Woods getaway
We certainly enjoyed our family time together. It served its purpose well. The rain did not deter us. We would rent again. Thank you Doris and Odd.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dianne

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful place! The indoor fireplace was amazing. The surrounding area so pretty and peaceful. Will definitely be returning.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Doug

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was a very quite peaceful, and beautiful place to stay! My wife, and I really enjoyed the weekend there. Will definitely return
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lynette H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful property
Beautiful property! Big picture windows and sliding glass doors to back yard with green grass, trees, and flowers. The rabbits were sometimes nibbling on the grass. Big room with living area and kitchen and bed. One bedroom with picture windows too. Everything was clean and comfortable. The bed had soft foam on the mattress that was very comfortable. The A/C worked great and I was happy the hostess had it on and cooled down when I arrived. I would recommend this property!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jake M.

Liked: Cleanliness
House is very private and relaxing!
Will be returning, without a doubt.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Evelyn F., San Diego, CA

Liked: Cleanliness
Cute property in Pine Valley
We found everything in working order and additonal supplies of milk, yogurt and fruit. intersting house with a large rock inside and an enormous sunken fireplace. will be nice in winter. Very quiet and no sounds of the city. Just what was needed for a recharge. very warm to hike but would come back in spring or fall to take advantage of surrounding trails.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

MICHIKO L.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Happy Return
We came to this lovely property for a second time this past long weekend. So relaxing and beautiful. Doris and Odd have created a peaceful sanctuary that also is kid friendly and unfussy. We loved our time here!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Laura T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Mountain getaway
Idealic for a weekend or a week. This is our second stay after a weekend in November. We wanted more time and stayed a week. Hosts leave lots of goodies to start your stay for breakfast and a few snacks and drinks. Very thoughtful selection. We felt right at home and cooked as well as ordered local takeout. It is quiet and beautiful and very relaxing. Ours was a workation, and it was a perfect blend with hiking trails 5-15 minutes away. We even were able to see family for an outdoor visit around the firepit. Delightful anytime and really welcome under COVID-19 conditions.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Julie S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cozy cabin
We had a wonderful weekend at this darling cabin. Lovely surroundings and a great place to getaway from it all!!

10/10 Excellent

Robert H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful place
The property is perfect, the fireplace in the cabin is one of the most amazing features I've ever seen. I just wish we had been able to visit in the winter when we could have taken full advantage of it as it was a bit warm when we came. I would highly recomend this property to friends.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jacque P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Better than expected. Online pix can’t do it justice
When we arrived we were greeted by the owner, Odd. Very friendly. Once inside there was fresh fruit and bagels. The fridge is stocked for a lite breakfast. Sliding doors across the wall lead outside to beautiful grounds. We brought our 3 tiny dogs and they loved it. We were hoping for a white Christmas, but it didn’t come Til December 26. It turned the beautiful grounds to an enchanted wonderland. The ONLY (and big) negative was that the fireplace was out the of order. We wouldn’t have canceled but would have appreciated a heads up...we’ll definitely come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Guillaume F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect
The owners were very accommodating. The place was well stocked with food and what is needed in the bathroom. Linens were super clean. The only thing to note is that if you checkin after sundown as I did, it can be a bit tricky to find. That's not a criticism, just something to note. The yard is very pleasant. Overall this was great for me, I needed a quiet place to rest that allows me to cook my own food and this was it.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Deborah M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Place
This property is an excellent place for a quick getaway out of the city. It is exactly as described on the website, plus many extra things to make your stay comfortable such as wifi, continental breakfast, barbecue, firepit, etc. Doris made us feel so comfortable. The best part was we were able to bring our 2 dobermans. Perfect place to bring your fur babies, and only 25 minutes from El Cajon. We will definitely stay again.

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca B., San Diego, CA

Liked: Cleanliness
Pine Valley Getaway
This is a quant little retreat in a beautiful rural setting that is far enough from the city to really feel like you're getting away from it all, but not so far that you don't have all the amenities available to you. It is a small cabin, but was very comfortable for the "girls' weekend". Four of us slept comfortably and enjoyed the unique "sunken fire pit". Be sure to check out this great getaway.

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It felt very private and secluded. Location can’t be beat. Most comfy bed ever!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jared C.

Great weekend
This place was great. We enjoyed hanging out outside. Definitely looking forward to coming back.

10/10 Excellent

Catherine B.

Quiet, comfortable getaway.
Very beautiful place. Comfortable, well stocked and in a great location in Pine Valley. Wonderful to have a large beautiful yard. The fire pit in the middle of the living room was an added bonus especially with our first day being rainy. Nice to sit around and warm up. Thank you for treating our furry critters like family.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Marietta G., San Diego, Ca

Cozy get away in Pine Valley surrounded by nature
We scheduled a birthday weekend for us at this lovely home. The property is nestled In a gorgeous wooded area with little nooks to explore and perfectly placed outdoor seating here and there for quiet moments alone. It is pet friendly,; we brought our two dogs that were allowed to run free within the property. The home itself is truly one of a kind. With a fascinating indoor fire pit, bits of nature from the outside are actually in the inside… Specifically, a huge rock in the corner of the home creates a feeling of being outside when you’re inside. The home is appointed just as if a loving relative we’re getting you already for your stay. The refrigerator was stocked with orange juice and other essentials, there were bagels and cream cheese, and breakfast foods too.… Far more than I would have expected. You really are left with the impression that you are family and have been welcomed into this lovely home. The master bedroom is nestled away and again, creating a feeling of being outside when you’re inside. The hosts were wonderful. They were extremely communicative and very kind. The only two things I would share, is it was very hard to find at night, but we circled back a couple of times, searching for the open gate. And when we found it we tried to put our headlights on it to make sure we had the right number. Also, When we pulled up we did not realize there was a main house very nearby the rented a space. I was initially uncertain when I saw that, however the guest house is fully separate and apart, you feel like you’re alone, and the land is private and was solely for our use. I would definitely 100% stay there again and would highly recommend it. This home had special touches that only someone who cares deeply for the property, and who trusts their guests implicitly would have. I would have written this review earlier, but unfortunately I was very under the weather most of our stay, and the week after as well. It was a wonderful place to rest and celebrate my birthday. The master bed was incredibly cozy and comfortable. I cannot recommend this place highly enough. It’s an unforgettable experience with a wonderful vibe, and perfect hosts. We loved it!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Linda M.

Great!
Our second time here. Clean, comfortable and private. Will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca B.

Quaint and Cozy Cabin
It was a cold and literally freezing weekend, 32 degrees, and this mountain getaway was the perfect place to warm up. With it's sunken fireplace and thoughtful touches, like coffee and chocolates, it was a great choice for this winter weekend. My only suggestion is that they add more light on the address, since it is really dark on the street, and at night we couldn't see the driveway making it easy to miss it. It would also help to have more light over the door, as was hard use the key in the door at night.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 17, 2020
Thank you Rebecca for two great lighting suggestions! Consider it done. Thank you for staying with us and hope you will return. Best regards, Doris and Odd

10/10 Excellent

Alejandro K., Chula Vista

We had a unique Christmas
We had a beautiful Christmas Doris always have a nice touch to make the place nice and confortable We founded a nice decorated Christmas tree with a nice ornaments arround the fireplace Beds are very cossy Place is very clean and spacius garden for kids and adult to play Thank you Doris for let us to enjoy Your beautiful place
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2018

10/10 Excellent

Mary P.

Wonderful and relaxing
We very much enjoyed staying at this property. Its very private and well appointed. We'll definitely be back for another visit.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Luis L., Yuma

Property is exactly what it was advertised!
I am very happy and impressed with the property and amenities. It is well stocked, clean and cozy. Overall, I am very satisfied and will definitely return! The only negatives, and I hate to call them "negative" because they are by no means deal breakers.... I'm a tall guy and the shower is quite a small space and shower head is set waaay to low for taller people. Also, parking is at a premium should one have multiple visitors come over to enjoy the place. But as I said these are not deal breakers for me, just suggestions.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2018

10/10 Excellent

Linda M.

Wonderful!
We loved staying here! The cottage is quaint and comfortable. Doris has everything you can think of in extra little touches to make you feel special. And the way the cottage is situated on the property makes it very private. We will be back for sure!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2018

10/10 Excellent

Hope B.

Amazing
Doris and Odd are wonderful people with a beautiful home. This was perfect for myself and family. It had everything we needed. We grilled in the evenings and sat outside to enjoy the evening temps. This home even when being in a neighborhood it is completely separate and it is quite and peaceful. Everyone we met in California were rude however Doris and family were so polite and nice. We are from South Carolina and this Home made us fill at home and comfortable. We thankful for being able to stay here.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Alejandro K., Chula Vista

We are inlove of Noruegan Woods
We have been in different cabins to spend the weekend, and they are very nice places, but Noruegan woods is the best Doris took the time to fill in all the details that we needed the welcome with a nice music background and a spectacular cleaning and a very well equipped kitchen. the bedrooms with an exterior view is truly beautiful where you can appreciate the gardens and their large trees. Doris was very kind to put some objects for our pet that was a very nice detail. Also the breakfast was waiting for us without additional cost. The beds are very cofortables ,the blankets as well, and the pillows that make you sleep like a baby the photographs do not do justice to the place The reality is that the place is really beautiful. We are already making arrangements to go soon. It is very convenient that a grocery store is 4 minutes away. Our little puppy was very happy Doris thank you for let us to check out late so we had more time to enjoy the easter Thank you for the pasta and spaguetty sauce The sodas and all the extras you provide to make aur stay unforgetable Yours Alex 🙋 Celina🙇 Carmen🙆 Lola 🐩
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2018
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 17, 2020
It is our guests, like yourself, that make Norwegian Woods so special. Thank you for staying with us. We look forward to your return. Doris and Odd

10/10 Excellent

Melissa R., Houston

Beautiful, relaxing hideaway
My husband and I really loved staying in this guest house! It really does have a Norwegian feel to it - koselig. :) The attention to detail is what makes this place so comforting and relaxing, you can tell everything has been thought out. For example, the mini binoculars that you can borrow to birdwatch, the unexpected bag of popcorn, and the fresh bagels and fruit that are part of the complimentary continental breakfast. It's also great to be in a remote area, but still have strong cell phone service (AT&T) and be close to so many activities. We did some touristy/sightseeing things in San Diego, visited the PCT terminus, hiked in the Laguna Mountains, ate delicious pie in Julian, and drove all the way through the Anza-Borrego Desert. The change in scenery in such a small area is very beautiful and dramatic.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2018

10/10 Excellent

Nancy B.

Private, cozy, comfy getaway!
We had a marvelous and relaxing time at this property. When we arrived there were candles burning and soft music playing. Our hosts left us a bowl of chocolates and even some dog treats for our pup! We enjoyed a fire in the inside firepit in the evening and during the day took advantage of fabulous hiking nearby. The property is large and wooded and worth exploring. The only surprise was learning that there are three cats that have free roam of the yard. Even though the yard is fenced we leash walked our dog to prevent her from chasing them!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2018
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 17, 2020
Thank you Nancy for the nice review. We hope you can return for future visits. In cleaning, we found a doggy toy (rope bone). I will be happy to return to you. i will need a mailing address. Regarding our over spoiled cats....they were raised around dogs and could use a little chasing now and then. Warmest regards, Doris

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie J.

Amazing! Simple and incredible
I knew when I was first contacted that my stay was going to be perfect. I could tell immediately that Doris and Odd genuinely cared about their guests. I was pleasantly surprised by how perfect the house was. The location was incredible, quiet but still close to everything. All the amenities were so thoughtful-the tea,cocoa, breakfast provisions, and on and on. The beds were so comfortable and the area so peaceful.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2018

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen B., San Diego, CA

So relaxing! Great amenities!
What a great little place! We wanted a quiet weekend get away, and thus was just the spot. It was a beautiful drizzly weekend, and we kept the drapes open and had the fire going. The master bed is very comfortable with soft sheets and great linens. The added treats of coffee, creamer, breakfast, sodas & snacka were a great bonus! Kitchen is small but we'll sticjed. We lacjed for nothing and we will be back. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2018

10/10 Excellent

Iliana V.

Comfortable, peaceful property
Great for family, kids had a great time!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2017

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

The property is gorgeous—an intimate, cozy, park-like setting ringed with gently whispering pines.
This was perfect for 4 sisters to celebrate with our Mom on her 86th birthday! Minor issues: toilet was lower than a standard (hard on old knees), we couldn’t regulate heat in the bedroom (but there were warm, fluffy quilts and floor-to-ceiling picture windows surrounded us with beautiful views on three sides) , the refrigerator froze our eggs (we made do and a continental breakfast was provided anyway), and the 5th “bed” was a small hide-a-bed (not very comfy). The pit fireplace warmed the main room nicely, the place was clean with thoughtfully attractive, homey touches, and our hosts made us feel very welcome. We have used HomeAway several times for “Mom’s weekend,” and this place was our favorite. We definitely hope to stay there again!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2017

10/10 Excellent

Richard K.

Peaceful
This has everything you need to relax and be comfortable. There is a gas fire pit of sorts inside that you can relax at and enjoy. The house is stocked with towels, blankets, some breakfast foods, awesome bath robes. It's pretty isolated, while being close to the road and highway. We didn't hear anything while we were there other than wind in the trees. The property is quite large, for a city guy anyway. There are chairs/benches under the trees and you can relax anywhere. We were very happy there.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2017

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Perfect Getaway! Cabin and property are simply beautiful!
Wonderful time meeting Doris, Odd, James, Casey, and the kids! They made us feel at home! The cabin was cozy and had all the amenities you could need! Indoor and outdoor fire pit. Our children loved the property and we already booked another stay! Can't wait to return! You will not be disappointed! -Savanah, Morgan, Brennan, & Emma
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2016

8/10 Good

Ellen S.

Clean, cozy, comfortable!
Loved this place - Doris and Odd were perfect hosts and we will be back! Many thanks!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2016

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Great get away from the big city.
My family had a great stay. Our hosts were most hospitable and the place was very clean and well kept. The sunken gas fireplace kept us plenty warm during the cold nights and the beds and bedding are so comfortable, you may not want to get up. The drive to San Diego is much quicker than you might think. I'd definitely recommend staying here. Thanks again to Doris and Odd for a great place to stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2016

10/10 Excellent

Atziri A.

Great get away
Great experience, super clean, nicely decorated cabin and lots of privacy. Great surroundings for hiking, even got so see snow on Mount Laguna and wild turkeys. Will definitely come back next season.

10/10 Excellent

Iliana V.

Great property with wonderful views and a comfortable setting
Our family really enjoyed our stay. The owners are very accommodating and the property is very clean and comfortable. It is in a great location near the small downtown and the freeway. We will definitely be coming back.

10/10 Excellent

Myla A.

Relaxing stay
The place was the perfect getaway for us. We wanted some peace and quiet to get some much deserved R&R and we were not disappointed. The beds were comfortable with soft sheets. The grounds were lovely. You can find a place to sit and just soak up the sunshine. Thank you for opening your wonderful place to us. We will definitely return!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2015

10/10 Excellent

Myla A.

Relaxing stay
The place was the perfect getaway for us. We wanted some peace and quiet to get some much deserved R&R and we were not disappointed. The beds were comfortable with soft sheets. The grounds were lovely. You can find a place to sit and just soak up the sunshine. Thank you for opening your wonderful place to us. We will return again! The Alstons