Views! Peaceful Cabin w/King Bed - 5 min. to town

Entire cabin in Julian, California

  1. 4 guests
  2. 2 bedrooms
  3. 2 beds
  4. 1 bath
Hosted by Sara
  1. Superhost
  2. 3 years hosting

Listing highlights

Top 5% of homes

This home is highly ranked based on ratings, reviews, and reliability.

Self check-in

Check yourself in with the smartlock.

Extra spacious

Guests love this home’s spaciousness for a comfortable stay.
An all-natural escape and a haven of comfort & calm - both inside and out.

* 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath w/ Tub
* 800 Square Foot Vintage Custom Cabin
* 500 Square Foot Deck
* Published & Professional Interior Design
* 5 Min. from Main Street
* 180 degree Panoramic View of Volcan Mountain
* Serene, Laid Back, Comfortable, Cozy + Contemporary
* Vaulted Wood Beam Ceilings
* 2 Stargazing Loungers
* Fully Equipped Kitchen + Banquette Seating
* Fire Pit
* Outdoor Dining for 4 + BBQ
* Paved Roads to Cabin

The space
* Featured in Locale Magazine *

Send me a message for customized recommendations that fit your travel style and local interests. I'm always happy to help you have a great experience here : )

Located in the International Dark Sky Community of Julian, just 5 min. from Main St., yet feels heavens away.

Relax, unwind & settle in to the simple life.

The Den's cabin has an intimate laid-back, yet elevated contemporary style, perfectly complementing the natural beauty & ambiance of Julian.

Interior Design by Sara Plaisted.

But the real star is the peaceful, panoramic view of Volcan Mountain, seen from the 500 sf. deck, and every room in the cabin.

Experience the joys of Four Season Living! A Beautiful Blooming Spring, Warm Summer Months, Cozy and Colorful Fall, and Snowy Winters.

* Private Access to Main Cabin and the Expansive & Huge Deck surrounded by Trees
* 4 Person Outdoor Dining Table
* Fire Pit (Propane) and Lounge Chairs
* 2 Sun/Star Loungers
* BBQ, Propane
* Parking for 2 cars

*** Please note: This booking is for the Main Cabin and Entire Upper Deck. There *may or may not* be wonderful guests like you enjoying Julian in the private studio below - located underneath the deck which is accessible by exterior stairs off the driveway. 2 separate spaces and entrances. Please send me a note to check and see, and I'll be happy to fill you in. If you'd like to bring up to 6 guests, or reserve the entire property, please book Dark Sky Den WHOLE HOUSE. I would love for you to stay!

(Guests must be 25 years or older to book)

DESCRIPTION:
* 2 Bedrooms (King Bed with En-suite + Full Bed)
* 1 Bathroom
* Sleeps up to 4 Adults max
* 1962 Custom Cabin / 800 square feet
* Expanded Outdoor Living Space on over 500 square foot deck

* Classic High Pitched Wood Ceiling with Beams
* Interior Design Style is Laid-Back, Contemporary Casual with Natural & Neutral Elements. Wabi-Sabi. Comfortable, cozy, chic and inspiring. Healthy Home Philosophy with attention to detail in Lighting, Cleaning Products, Furnishings and Simple Living Lifestyle.
* Dark Sky Interior Lighting for warm, ambient evenings
* Quiet and Peaceful
* Safe, Walkable Neighborhood

MORE AMENITIES:
* Fully Equipped Kitchen
* TV with Netflix
* Desk / Table Available for Remote Work
* Binoculars for Sky Viewing
* Foam Roller for Post Hike
* 1/2 Acre filled with Oak & Pine Trees, Woodpeckers, and occasionally Deer and Wild Turkey

* 5 Minutes to Historic Main St.
* 5 Minutes to Wineries & Breweries, Hiking Trails
* 15 Minutes to Wynola & Lake Cuyamaca

180 View of the Oak Trees and Volcan Mountain can be seen from the expansive 500 sf deck, and windows in every space from the Living Room to the Breakfast Nook to the Sitting Room.

The Den has 2 bedrooms and 1 full size bathroom, which sleeps up to 4 adults, a couple and a child, or as a spacious retreat for two. No more than 4 guests are allowed to stay.

This custom-built, cozy 800 square foot cabin was built in 1962 and has had a couple of revisions along the way. It comes with some cool features and a handful of quirks. That's what keeps life interesting, right?

Throughout the home you'll see beautiful, high pitched wood ceilings, along with continuous flooring in every room. The walls are a clean warm white, and black accents provide a grounding element alongside the wood and natural woven elements. The space is intentionally designed to reflect a natural and casual lifestyle, blending the elements of wood, metal, stone, earth, air and fire. A combination of vintage, custom, hand-made and previously owned furniture pieces create a feeling of both old and new. Dark Sky Lighting inside the cabin creates a warm and inviting ambiance that makes you feel cozy and comfortable as you ease into a relaxing night at home.

Let me tell you more about the Den...

UPSTAIRS: Private Entrance with Smart Lock

LIVING ROOM
The minute you walk in the door, you'll see Volcan Mountain just behind the tops of Black Oak Trees, seen through a wall-to-wall picture window. A (non-operable) fireplace in the corner is surrounded by large stone walls and a pair of Selenite crystals. There is comfortable seating for 4 with a small sofa and 2 side chairs. The Entry Table doubles as a Desk for anyone interested in working remotely. Although I would encourage you to unplug from devices and reconnect with yourself, your loved ones and nature, there is a TV with Netflix and high-speed internet available. Fireplace is for decor only.

KITCHEN
The Kitchen is cute and compact, with plenty of creative spaces. Feel free to bring plenty of food and snacks. There is a full size refrigerator and freezer, an electric range (stove and oven), and a small dishwasher. For extra counter space, there's a pop up cutting board. All glasses and extra kitchen supplies are located in the two slide out drawers at either side of the custom mural, painted by a good friend. Coffee and Tea are provided. There is a kettle and French Press along with a petite coffee maker. Simple cooking supplies are provided, such as electric cookware, utensils, plates and bowls, along with salt, pepper, olive oil and red pepper flakes. Also a small crock pot, toaster and full size blender are available.

BANQUETTE DINING
One of my favorite sweet spots in the house, with windows on all 3 sides that allow a slight breeze in through the gauzy cafe curtains. 2 bistro tables easily accommodate seating for 4.

SITTING ROOM
Located between the Living Room and First Bedroom is the Sitting Room. I find myself hanging out in here often. Maybe it's the double doors that open on to the deck with views of Volcan, or the ambient lighting at night. Whether it's to have a slow start to the day and enjoy a morning coffee, or to relax in the afternoon and take in the colors of the sunset, this is a very tranquil room. The 2 Lounge Chairs fold up and can be moved to accommodate more space if you'd like to stretch or simply need more free space.

BEDROOM 1
The King Size bed faces a modest window overlooking the hillside of oak trees and a mountain landscape. A second window offers a close up view of a Coulter Pine Tree used as acorn storage for the Woodpeckers. You'll recognize them as the black and white birds with a striking red cap. Decorative elements include small business artisan touches like the black and white woven wall tapestry above the bed, and the touch turn-on ceramic wall sconces that cascade light and shadow onto the walls, creating a starlight experience.

BEDROOM 2
Just through the back hallway sits a cozy little room with a full size bed. Perfect for one, or for those who love to cuddle. A woven light pendant hangs in the corner, casting shadows and decorative light against the walls.

BATHROOM
The spa-like bathroom is covered in wall to wall stone tiles for the ultimate retreat space. Enjoy the combination shower and tub, pedestal sink and 2 open shelf bookcases to hold all your toiletries and bathroom needs.

PATIO DECK - 500 sf
Spend your days AND nights on the deck, surrounded by trees, birds, easy breezes, and star filled skies. With over 180 degrees of breathtaking views, there is an outdoor dining table for 4, lounge chairs, propane BBQ, sun/star loungers and a propane fire pit.


THE DARK SKY
Julian is one of two accredited Dark Sky Communities in California, and one in thirty overall. The intention of being a Dark Sky Community is to protect the natural night sky by reducing light pollution. This means that outdoor lighting is carefully designed and controlled to minimize glare and unnecessary brightness. By doing this, we can fully appreciate the awe-inspiring wonders of the night sky, including the stars, constellations, and even the Milky Way! Other than incredible stargazing, having a natural dark sky benefits astronomical research, wildlife preservation and our circadian rhythm. If you're interested, please check out Julian Dark Sky Network.

Imagine stepping outside on a clear night and being able to see a breathtaking display of stars stretching across the sky. That's the kind of experience you can have at the Dark Sky Den. It's like having your own personal planetarium.

So, whether you're an avid stargazer, a lover of nature, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of a starlit sky, Julian is the place to be.

LIGHTING
The Den incorporates dark sky lighting inside the cabin too, which creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere while supporting your circadian rhythm.

The soft illumination creates a sense of intimacy and relaxation, while also allowing your eyes to adjust to the natural darkness outside. It's the perfect setting for unwinding after a long day or spending quality time with loved ones. With the use of dimmers, warm light bulbs and minimal overhead lighting, you control how bright or dim you want the space to be.

One of the best benefits of dark sky lighting at home is how it affects our circadian rhythm, which is our internal body clock that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle. Now, here's the thing: exposure to bright or blue-rich light in the evening can mess with our circadian rhythm and make it harder to fall asleep.

Bright lights, especially at night, triggers our brain into thinking we should be awake as if it's the middle of the day. Whereas dimly lit, downward facing amber or red lights (similar to a campfire), promote melatonin production which tells our body that it's time to relax and prepare for sleep.

Wake up in the morning naturally with the morning sun and feel refreshed!

I would encourage you to bring the idea of Dark Sky Lighting back with you into your own homes and see how you feel.


THINGS TO NOTE:

- FIREPLACE FOR DECORATION ONLY, and is non-operational. There are (2) wall mounted heaters that pump out heat on those chilly nights, and a space heater. Plenty of extra blankets are also available.

- NO SHOES INDOORS. Kick off your shoes and take it easy. This not only keeps the home free of excess dirt, grime and toxins, but it protects the floors from tiny rocks that scratch, and you'll have a bit of reflexology when you walk around barefoot.

- WATCH YOUR STEP. Both bedrooms have a small step down into the room. We've added glow in the dark caution strips to help remind you in the night.

- SEPTIC. Please only use the provided toilet paper to flush, and nothing else. Otherwise, Houston, we might have a problem.

- NO A/C. I've recently added a window AC unit along with an outdoor roller shade over the large Living Room windows. In warm summer months, with all windows open and 3 fans blowing, the cross breeze helps to cool the house. Happily, the sun sets earlier and cools off in the evening - perfect for gazing up under the stars. However, there are a few times in the year where the weather can reach up to 100.

- ALL ELECTRIC. Take note when using the stove and keep temps around Medium and avoid High Heat on the pans.

- HIGH WINDS. We're up in the mountains and the winds can kick up to around 20 mph. Bring clothes to layer, especially after the sun sets.

- WATER CONSCIOUS. Julian relies on only 3 wells in the areas, which makes water a precious resource. Please turn off water while brushing your teeth, be brief while hand washing dishes, and try to keep showers brief.

- YOU ARE IN NATURE. There will be sounds like Woodpeckers hammering on trees, Blue Jays calling out to nearby friends, or gusty winds blowing through the trees. In the evening, you may even hear acorns or rain drops falling on the roof above you, or the occasional small animal climbing up a tree outside your window. You may see a deer or two, a fox or even a wild turkey. And please remember, there are also things like spiders, ants, flies, skunks, raccoons or wild cats.

- NO PETS. We are located on a hill, without a lot of spots for animals to roam comfortably to do their business. Coyotes and other Mountain Friends are frequent visitors to the area. Thank you for understanding.

- DOWNSTAIRS GUESTS. There is a studio located down the stairs and below the deck: the Downstairs Den (sleeps up to 2). The entire upper deck is yours alone - for your use only of the BBQ, Loungers, Outdoor Dining Table and Fire Pit. If you would like to book the second space for up to 6 guests total, or would like the added privacy, please let me know. Otherwise, give a friendly wave. We're a very friendly community up here. : )

It's been a dream to design and host a vacation retreat space as a place to decompress from everyday stresses and relax back into a natural way of being. A spot that's close enough to major areas in Southern California, yet feels like you've been completely transported away from it all. Julian is where it's at!

After getting sick with cancer over a decade ago, health and happiness became a priority. There's no better health hack than getting back to basics with non-toxic living, being surrounded by nature, trees, animals and breeze.
And most importantly, creating experiences that make you just feel good. I hope to offer you a space to create memories and to leave feeling better than you when you arrived.

Guest access
The Den is located just off the road down a long driveway, which is shared by 4 other homes originally built as fire lookouts (because of the views!). Parking is available for 2 cars max, and parked in tandem close to the house. I have a small hatchback and have always had an easy time accessing the driveway. In snow, well that's another issue!

The front door code allows for self-check in.

You'll have access to the entire upper floor cabin and deck, along with a shared small lookout area just below.

There is another studio - the Downstairs Den - located at the base of the stairs and under the upper deck. Please respect the privacy of the guests on their patio. Give a wave if you see a friendly face pass by.

Other things to note
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
Airbnb policy states that hosts are not responsible to refund guests for any travel issues such as bad weather, guest illness, missed flights or any other travel issues. It is strongly recommended that guests purchase Airbnb’s guest travelers insurance. This must be done at the time of booking.

Search Airbnb Resources for "Understanding Travel Insurance for Airbnb Guests"

GUESTS:
This cabin is perfect for 2 to 3 people, or 2 adult couples at most. This allows for the most comfortable stay and does not overload the home. Do not attempt to add more guests because the space (and septic system) will not accommodate you.

WEATHER:
Julian has 4 full seasons and The Den sits at 4,200 elevation. Please check the weather ahead of your travels and prepare accordingly.

- Spring (March to May) is when the area comes alive in full spectrum! It's jaw dropping to see the trees and flowers in blossom everywhere you turn. Days are warmer and turn pretty chilly as the sun sets. Dress in layers.
- Summers (June to Aug) are warm (80's - 90's), and can be hot at times (high 90's) but much cooler than the desert. The cabin does not have AC (plenty of fans available, with cross ventilation by windows on all sides).
- Fall (Sept to Nov) colors are incredible and picturesque. The air gets crispy and cozy. The best time for apple picking, and doing all those fun Fall things!
- Winters (Dec to Feb) come with breathtakingly beautiful snow and sometimes heavy rains. This may also make travel into the area and driveway difficult without the proper vehicle or supplies. Check

The area is prone to high winds at times, anywhere between 5 to 20 mph.

NEIGHBORS:
Please be respectful about noise. Although there's distance between us, we do still have neighbors. And because we're on top of the hill, sound carries. You'll believe me when you hear the early morning birds having their town hall meetings! ; ) You may see an occasional car drive pass by to the home next door.

OUTDOOR SECURITY CAMERAS
There is a security camera located outside on the corner of the main house, facing the driveway, stairs leading to the house and the area directly in front of the door. Another camera on the deck is for remote weather viewing only, capturing the mountain in the distance (no view of the deck itself). 3rd camera is located downstairs at the Lower Entry Patio.

Where you’ll sleep

What this place offers

Mountain view
Kitchen
Wifi
Dedicated workspace
Free parking on premises

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Rated 4.97 out of 5 from 106 reviews.

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This home is in the top 5% of eligible listings based on ratings, reviews, and reliability
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Overall rating

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Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for cleanliness

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for accuracy

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for check-in

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for communication

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for location

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for value

Where you’ll be

Julian, California, United States
Exact location will be provided after booking.

Neighborhood highlights

Conveniently located minutes from Main St. Nestled onto a peaceful hillside overlooking a half acre of Black Oaks, Coulter Pines and Manzanita with a panoramic view of Volcan Mountain. Surrounded by Woodpeckers, Blue Jays, and the occasional Deer or Wild Turkey.

- Five minute drive to Historic Main Street with Restaurants, Bakeries, Antique and Souvenir Shopping, Wineries, Breweries, Grocery Stores and more.
- 15 minutes to Wynola for Cider, Restaurants, Bakeries, Breweries, Farm & Orchard, Gold Mine Tours, Old Time Adventures, Antique & Vintage Shopping, and Animal Sanctuary.
- 15 minutes to Lake Cuyamaca
- 20 minutes to Santa Ysabel for Antique & Vintage Shopping Art Gallery, Artist Studios, Restaurants, Bakery, Grocery and Nature Center
- 60 minutes from San Diego and Temecula
- 2.5 hours from LA and Palm Springs
- Centrally located in Southern California between San Diego and Los Angeles, where you have easy access from the beach to the mountains to the desert.

Meet your host

Superhost
159 reviews
4.96 out of 5 average rating
3 years of hosting
My work: Interior Designer
I'm obsessed with: Lighting
I'm an Interior Designer in San Diego who craves all things natural, easy going and fun

Sara is a Superhost

Superhosts are experienced, highly rated hosts who are committed to providing great stays for guests.

Host details

Response rate: 100%
Responds within an hour
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Things to know

Cancellation policy
House rules
Check-in after 3:00 PM
Checkout before 11:00 AM
4 guests maximum
Safety & property
Exterior security cameras on property
Carbon monoxide alarm
Smoke alarm