Living area | TV, fireplace, books

Reviews of Forest Cabin nestled in oak sanctuary between Valley Village and Carmel Beach


Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 62 out of 63 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 63 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 63 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 63 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 63 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Heidi D., Seattle

Liked: Cleanliness
Seclusion by Carmel
This studio property in the hills of Carmel Valley has plenty of space for two, great views of the valley and is secluded but close to Carmel, Monterey and Big Sur. We were able to come back to the cabin after a busy day and relax.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

caleb r.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Stay !
Perfect private cabin with a lot of great outdoor space to relax and disconnect.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lance D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Just Awesome
Just an amazing location. Very quiet but close to all kinds of activities or …….just relax and enjoy the quiet and the view….
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Peter K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful stay at cozy cabin!
This place is so touching. Well decorated and stocked, we enjoyed our stay and felt so excited to return from our adventures in the area.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Giovanna T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical
The absolute sweetest, trendy little cabin that has everything you need. Heather is wonderful and so helpful!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melanie A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cozy Beautiful Cabin
One one my favorite stays. Windows overlook the valley as you lay in a very comfortable bed. Winter is lovely with a fire. Really enjoyed all the decor that was carefully curated and your taste in books! Bath time was also my favorite. All the right things in all the right places just at an arms length. The extra time to drive up the road was also a bonus because its worth it. The best sleep I've had in a long time. Do yourself a favor and have some morning coffee or yoga outside of the kitchen door! >Love<
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gregory L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful place to relax and rejuvenate
We had an amazing time at this property, thanks for a relaxed stay
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

mtavasieff

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful and cozy!
This inviting cabin, perched on a hillside with beautiful views felt like taking a break from the world, which is exactly what my husband and I were looking for. The space was clean, peaceful, with a very comfortable bed and everything we needed. The tubs on the deck were a HUGE bonus!! Heather provided us with a list of restaurants and hikes, a few of which we visited, but never wanted to leave the cabin, and were always happy to return. Thank you for the wonderful stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mimi P.

Liked: Cleanliness
The perfect cabin!
We had the best time. The cabin was clean, perfect for a getaway, the the host was so helpful. Highly recommend! (The driveway was epic ;) )
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Steve S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Mountain cabin
Neat place to stay. The drive up the mountain side is an adventure in itself.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nathan O.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful, relaxing, scenic cabin
We had a wonderful stay. We can't wait to come back.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Randal E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Quiet getaway
Secluded getaway with a great view across the valley. Host has thought of everything to ensure your comfort. Nice park just down the hill for getting in a hike or a run. Driveway.....epic....take your time......
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mandy T., Los Angeles

Liked: Cleanliness
Dream Cabin
The location and the cabin itself are absolutely stunning. You can tell a lot of love and work went into creating this dream space. The interior is gorgeous and you can find local details here and there. It's also very private and cozy, absolutely perfect if you need time away to de-stress. We especially enjoyed the stunning views during sunrise and we can't wait to come back and stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Victoria M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay!
Heather’s cabin is a great place to stay in the valley. It was immaculate and had lovely amenities including local coffee and teas. The furniture was comfortable and there is a beautiful view. This cabin felt very private nestled among the trees. Heather was easy to communicate with and we would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Ryan F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Cabin
My wife and I really loved this place! It was such a cute and perfectly decorated space with everything we needed. It is very private and has great views (even chairs with blankets to sit on a side porch/deck overlooking the mountain.) The driveway is a bit long and steep, but after driving it twice I felt very comfortable with it. Everything you need is provided, and the location is perfectly set in between Carmel By the Sea and Carmel Valley. We drove out to Big Sur on two differtent days and it was about an hour drive (but scenic and easy). The owners provide excellent communication and a lot of recomendations. They sem to take Covid very seriously and took all precaution to make you feel very safe. My only compliant is that the showering situation is a bathtub with a handheld sprayer. I found it a little difficult to sort of sit or kneel in the tub and get clean without any shower curtain and not spray water all over. Everything else was top notch!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 27, 2021
Hi Ryan, We are so glad that you and your wife enjoyed the comforts, style, and location of the cabin! We understand that the clawfoot sitting shower situation can be a bit challenging for some... Just wanted to mention that we are currently working on expanding the back patio deck area to include an outdoor standing shower and two side by side additional clawfoot soaking tubs. Next time you visit you will be able to literally forest bathe! This expanded outdoor area should be completed Spring 2022. Thank you for the thoughtful review and we look forward to hosting you again sometime!

10/10 Excellent

Jason D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Getaway Cabin
Cabin was clean and as described. Location was perfect with awesome views. Great spot to relax and unwind.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Carly A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Tranquil vibes in the woods
Cozy little cabin tucked away in the hills of Carmel Valley. Beautiful views, and so warmly and tastefully furnished. The cabin had everything we needed, and we really appreciated the ease of communication with Heather & Michael, as well as their wonderful recommendations of food and activities in the surrounding area. The hosts' home is nearby but we never felt any lack of privacy. We would love to come back to this peaceful cabin in the woods!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Patty P., Jacksonville, FL

Liked: Cleanliness
Enchanted forest retreat
Perfect, perfect, perfect...... We fell in love the minute we stepped through the door and wanted to stay forever. So charming, perfectly decorated little cozy cabin. Close enough to town but far enough to feel like you are in an enchanted forest. Had practically anything you would need and then some and amazing views in the morning and evening. We can't wait to come back again and try out the beautiful stone fireplace (so romantic). Just a note - if you are afraid of heights or tight roads... we knew it was a mile up a fairly steep grade with switchbacks, but it was still a little nerve-wracking the first or second time up or down. We did get use to it and the pay off is the beautiful cabin, scenery and remotely intimate feeling.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Miles D.

Liked: Cleanliness
It was so cute! It exceeded my expectations in all ways
The stay was so easy and the cabin was so comfortable!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Ashley B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical Getaway
Wow. I just want to say that Heather & Michael's cabin in the Carmel Valley is the most amazing VRBO place I've stayed EVER! This was the first time for me traveling alone for as long as I can remember and I was so giddy just arriving at the cabin and being able to enjoy a glass of wine on the porch to unwind after a stressful year. Beautiful sunset! Right when I got there I saw a family of deer. Heather was in constant communication and gave me many recommendations for things to do in the area. Everything was perfect! I did not do as much sight-seeing as I had intentionally planned, but that's okay because I was able to take time to just relax and do some self-care. It's SO PEACEFUL! The claw foot tub is amazing and there are lots of small touches in the cabin that made a difference. This is an amazing retreat for both couples as well as those who are solo. Thank you, Heather & Michael! Take care! I hope to return again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

David C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great experience - I would repeat my stay
This is a great cabin that is just the right size. It is very comfortable. Feels very secluded and private even though there are several homes nearby. Great view of Garland Park. Reasonable amenities, close to Carmel Valley Village and Carmel Valley Ranch. Quite a few switchbacks and steep grades on the road in.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Elias A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful, Relaxing and Magical even
Came for my honeymoon and absolutely loved everything about it. The secluded roads, the gorgeous views out of the window, only being 5-10 minutes from tons of cafes and restaurants and grocery stores. Heather was so helpful and readily available but never tried to reach out more than she should have. Fantastic hosts and a fantastic cabin. Absolutely a perfect spot for a romantic getaway in the woods.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Joe W., Long Beach, CA

Liked: Cleanliness
Cute Cabin
Awesome little cabin with a fantastic view of the valley. We were in town for a wedding so really didn't spend much time at the cabin, but it was nice to come back to that super comfy bed every night. One suggestion would be a door for the bathroom. I was OK without it but the wife wanted a bit more privacy:) But in fairness, it is shown in the pics so we couldn't really complain. Overall a very lovely place and would stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Julie C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Cozy Cottage
This place is a little slice of heaven and Heather could not be a more gracious host. Upon arriving I was a bit nervous about the 1 mile driveway which is indeed twisting and turning and rather steep in places; however it is all paved and once you arrive and make the drive again was completely comfortable with it. In the morning I enjoyed having coffee watching hummingbirds visit and hawks fly by. Could have sat on the porch outside the entire time I was there. Will definitely be back. Thanks, Heather!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Cabin!!
This was such an amazing little cabin in a perfect location! We were able to enjoy Carmel Valley, Carmel by the Sea, Big Sur and Monterey within just a few days. The cabin itself was super cute and had everything we needed. The best part was how quiet and relaxing it was after a day of sightseeing. Heather was amazing with all the tips and recommendations while we were there. The cabin was very clean and nicely appointed. I especially enjoyed the claw foot tub each night! We highly recommend and will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nina M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect nature getaway with all the comforts you need!
We loved our stay in the cabin! The location is perfect-far enough away from the crowds of Carmel or Monterey yet close enough to everything if you need to eat out or buy groceries and so close to head into Big Sur. Heather was so helpful in providing detailed recommendations, it was so useful to get tips from a local! You are surrounded by nature, right above Garland Park, it is so peaceful, we saw lots of wildlife and enjoyed reading on the terrace with our morning tea. The bath is like being at a spa and robes are provided :) We also loved all the artwork and eclectic furniture that worked really well with the surroundings without being too rustic or 'cabin-y', it felt really chic and comfortable. Thank you we'd love to stay again!

10/10 Excellent

Lizz L., Boston, ma

Liked: Cleanliness
Best Rental Ever
We loved everything about this cabin rental. The listing is accurate and the pictures don’t do it justice- the space is so beautiful and cozy. Would recommend this to anyone I know looking to visit the Big Sur area
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Amy M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful cottage
We really loved the cottage. Extremely clean, lots of thoughtful items in the spaces. Gorgeous view!! Quite the hike up to the house, but pretty when you arrive. Everything was great, just very strongly suggest getting a solid front door or curtain for the door and windows. Even w the outdoor privacy screen I always felt uncomfortable with a glass front door. It also lets in a lot of light in the AM. That one easy change would make it perfect.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 16, 2021
Hi Amy! Thank you so much! We had been thinking the same and we have one on order! We really appreciate you taking the time for the great review and thoughtful feedback which always enhances our future guests stay. Wishing you happy and safe summer travels!

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness
We enjoyed our stay very much. Although we were at first concerned about the lack of a stove that
We enjoyed our stay very much. Although we were at first concerned about the lack of a stove that would allow us to cook meals ourselves rather than going out to eat, it all worked out as there was a toaster oven and a microwave. The cabin was lovely - furnished with attention to detail and with every guest’s need in mind. The vicinity to Garland Ranch Regional Park was a great bonus. We only wished we could have stayed longer.

10/10 Excellent

laurie b.

Liked: Cleanliness
adorable secluded cabin with gorgeous views
This was just what we wanted. We had stayed right on the coast in Carmel By the Sea before, but wanted a different experience. The cottage is adorable, all amenities you would need. Bathroom nicely appointed with organic soaps. Kitchenette with microwave and fridge allowed us to heat some delicious leftovers from our many fabulous meals in the area. The only thing to be aware of, is that it's a steep very windy hill up to the place. We have a big car and it was no problem at all, but if you are a nervous driver or driving a huge vehicle, that might be a surprise!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Tricia S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Mountain Cottage
We were lucky to spend a whole week here. The cabin was charming, warm and welcoming. Everything was spotless, the decor was unique and tasteful, the views were incredible, and there were so many special extras: Robes, local coffee and tea, local organic bath soaps and salts, unique books to read, the cozy fireplace, the amazing tub... I could go on and on. As far as the area, there are so many things to see and do you could spend months there and never run out of options. Due to COVID, we didn't spend much time in town, but we look forward to returning, as Carmel looks so charming and has so many wonderful shops and restaurants. Most of our trip was spent hiking, exploring the beautiful area, watching surfers and paragliders at several of the wonderful beaches, and just lounging and reading outside at the cabin taking in the glorious views. Heather was wonderful to work with and the check in/out process could not have been easier. She provided great suggestions for food/beverage spots, great hiking and favorite local shopping, markets and sights. We can't wait to return! Absolutely a must stay for couples looking for a relaxing getaway while enjoying Carmel. I almost forgot to mention another huge plus for us... we did have to work a couple of the mornings we were here, and the internet connection was GREAT. Thanks for everything, Heather!!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mark B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent stay!
This is a great getaway spot tucked away in Carmel valley with easy access to Carmel by the Sea and the PCH. The cabin is just as described, with enough amenities to make it comfortable while also allowing the guest to detach if desired. The view is wonderful, the tub is ideal, the fireplace is cozy, and the bed is very comfortable. Heather and Michael were excellent hosts who have clearly put a lot of thought and attention into the space. We look forward to our next visit!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Andy W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic Spot!
This place was very, very special. Such a beautiful property and a great cabin. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Sandra H.

Liked: Cleanliness
beautiful location
cute cabin with a beautiful view to observe nature and wild life right from your window

10/10 Excellent

margie r.

Liked: Cleanliness
Rejuvenation!
What a peaceful serene property. Views from the cabin are fabulous, super comfy and clean! Heather is a great host, and communicator. I HIGHLY recommend this cabin if you love nature, animals and unwinding. I will definitely be back :)
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Emily M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful retreat
The cabin was gorgeous and totally spotless! You know how some rentals are full of things that look nice, but upon closer inspection, are facsimiles of the real thing? Not Heather's cabin—down to the Japanese stoneware, beautiful art, interesting books, and relaxing claw-foot bath. The location is excellent—easy to get to redwoods and the coast alike. Thank you, Heather!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Patrick W., San Diego

Liked: Cleanliness
Couldn't be better
This was our first time visiting the Big Sur area and I'm convinced this abode is the best around. We loved sitting at the table in the mornings watching deer roam outside. I was so encouraged by the lack of plastics in the home and the eco-friendly materials. The attention to detail was very thoughtful and helpful! We absolutely loved this place and would highly recommend it. Thank you Heather and Michael!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Beth M.

Liked: Cleanliness
A lovely cabin nestled way, way up top
The cabin is charming, clean, tucked away in the trees overlooking a beautiful wide view. My stay was in December and the heater kept the entire cabin warm. Hikes in nearby parks were gorgeous, even in winter. The steep grade to get to the cabin makes it feel all yours. This is a totally wonderful place. Only issues -- no bathroom door, which is made clear in the description, but was uncomfortable for me in practice; showering in the big claw foot tub without a curtain requires finesse, and the weighted comforter on the bed was too much.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

C.J. M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place, great hosts
Our stay was great! Property was as advertised. Small, in the mountains with a great view of the valley, surrounded by beautiful birds-- exactly what we wanted. Hosts were easy to reach if we needed, but everything was set up for us and was very easy!

10/10 Excellent

Aspen G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect getaway
We visited this cabin for our baby moon, it was wonderful, peaceful, the views were amazing. The cleanliness and smell of the cabin was very fresh and crisp. Heather, the host was nothing but accommodating for us & she was really understanding and easy to communicate with.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

KATRINA P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Refreshing Getaway
Our stay was wonderful. I couldn’t have asked for a better mini getaway. It was exactly what I needed. We were secluded enough to relax and enjoy nature, while still having the ability to take a short drive into town for delicious food and down the coast for a gorgeous hike. Heather and Michael were wonderful hosts and really made us feel special. We really enjoyed our stay and would definitely recommend their cabin to anyone wanting a little R&R. Thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Anissa T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely & quiet getaway
Charming, clean, quiet, and beautiful space -- perfect for a solo or a couple's getaway. All the little details were so thoughtful (hello clawfoot tub!) and we found the space extremely cozy -- enough so that we spent most of our time in the cabin enjoying the incredible views and deer that came right up to the property. Amazing trails nearby in the Garland Ranch Regional Park and easy access to the coast. Hosts Heather and Michael were lovely too. Would definitely come back and recommend to friends.

10/10 Excellent

Alejandro F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Couple's Getaway
Check-in was a breeze and we felt very welcomed while also having complete privacy. The details, like a printed copy of local recommendations and tea/coffee fixing ready and labelled, made for a really relaxing trip. We felt taken care of and couldn't have wishes for a better experience. Id recommend it to my parents if there was a stove (they're a little more picky than me). The porch (deck?) was my favorite.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Devin N., Emeryville, CA

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Cabin
My wife and I had a wonderful stay at the Carmel Valley cabin. Everything was immaculate and the communication was thorough. The cabin was fully equipped to service our every need. Thanks!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Nicholas S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Spoiled, and now I need a cabin...
We had a really great week at the cabin. Spent a lot of time sitting on the patio, listening to music, and watching the deer graze the backyard. The views of the valley are truly amazing. We felt completely isolated even though civilization was only a few miles’ drive. Thank you for hosting us!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020

8/10 Good

Sharon L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cozy
At first I was intimidated by the switch back road but after driving a couple of times I felt more comfortable. The cabin was very cozy and clean. Love the deck. Love the spa type bathtub and the amenities that was offered with it. Overall we enjoyed our stay very much thank you so much.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Ashley W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cabin on the Hill
The cabin was the perfect reprieve from my busy life in the Bay Area. It was full of personal touches that made it truly unique! I really appreciated the natural cleaning products used. The sheets and towels smelled clean without being overly scented. The whole cabin was tidy and inviting - the perfect balance of modern style and cabin charm. There were lots of cute art pieces and a beautiful display of books above the fireplace. The big windows were perfect for watching hawks and deer. The bathtub and bath-salts made every evening feel like a spa retreat! The cabin is also centrally located, though it is a windy 5-minute drive up the hill from the main road. I appreciated its proximity to Garland Ranch Regional Park (which was actually pretty empty on a weekday morning). It's also close to Carmel Valley and Carmel by the Sea, as well as Point Lobos (a must-see, though you'll want to go early to avoid crowds). The hosts provided me with a long list of recommended activities in the area. I mostly stuck with hiking and some light city exploring due to COVID. My favorite was Pacific Grove, which was really beautiful and much less crowded than the surrounding cities of CBTS and Monterey. If I were to return after COVID, I would probably partake in some wine tasting, shopping, and in-person dining (though there were plenty of take-out options readily available). Overall, I would definitely book this cabin again - thank you Heather and Michael!!

10/10 Excellent

Briana M., VENICE

Liked: Cleanliness
This cabin is divine!
This beautifully designed cabin is honestly one of the best VRBO's I have stayed in. The attention to detail and care that has gone into this cabin is just fabulous. I will happily go back and stay there again. It is perfectly located in Carmel Valley and yet remote enough to feel like you have really escaped. Thanks to Heather for creating this amazing space!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Daniel S., San Francisco

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Space
It was the perfect space for a weekend away. From simple touches in the bathroom and kitchen to the quiet and secluded outdoor area. A charming and cozy space to relax and unwind! Thanks Heather and Michael, we’ll for sure be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Rob B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cabin escape
Great cabin that is clean & views are cool,including the drive up the mountain. Could not be better if looking for cabin in the sky!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2020