Vacation Rentals by Owner

A Perfect Blend of Historical Charm, Serenity and the Technologies of Home

Guest: Elizabeth and Fmily (Lake Tahoe)
Date of Stay: 08/07/11 Review Submitted: 08/21/11

Our family stayed at The Ranch House in early August, while our children attended day camp at nearby Douglas Ranch Camp. My husband loves historical ranch houses, so I arranged our stay as a birthday present for him. He grew up in Texas, and grew up on ranches that had been in his family for generations. That said, he absolutely loved the authentic preserved quality of The Ranch House at Garzas Creek more than any he's stayed in before. While you can feel the generations of history that have been hosted by the house, you can also appreciate the resort quality appointments. From the fine bedding and elegant furnishings to the ice-maker, you'll want for nothing here. Our intention was to enjoy the quiet atmosphere, away from the demands of work. We were able to do just that. Much to our surprise, however, a work emergency came up while we were there. At first we panicked. How would we do business from this beautiful, yet seemingly isolated, place? Imagine our surprise when we learned there was wifi! As my husband sat down to work at his computer, I got lost in a movie displayed on the big television screen. Our family time at The Ranch House was very special. Warm, comfortable memories were made that we'll carry for generations.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Wonderful stay at the Ranch House

Guest: Scott C. (St. Louis, MO)
Date of Stay: 07/23/11 Review Submitted: 10/26/11

Our family (six of us) spent five wonderful days at the Ranch House. We were greeted by the caretaker who introduced us to the house, gave us some history, and informed us of the trails to be hiked, which we did first thing the next day at Garland Regional Park (trail just outside the house). The house was so comfortable and spacious with authentic decor of days-gone-by. The owners have done a fabulous job of restoring this gem. We loved sitting in the hot tub and listening to Garza Creek flow by; had lunch and dinner outside beside the huge fireplace; and even witnessed sheep shearing! Everyone who works on the ranch was so cordial and gracious - we want to come back! Thanks, for making this time such a treat.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, sightseeing.

The Most Stunning Home...

Guest: Kerry (Portland, OR)
Date of Stay: 08/25/10 Review Submitted: 08/31/10

Nine of us just stayed at the Ranch House, and it could not have been more perfect for our gathering. Such a beautiful house, such a caring and gracious owner, incredible surroundings, amazing amenities... I highly, highly recommend this place. It is truly a gem.

Owner response:Thanks for being our guests, Kerry! We're delighted you had such a great time together, and we look forward to welcoming you back again soon.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

The most magical place in all of Carmel Valley!!!

Guest: Belle (Coronado, California)
Date of Stay: 07/19/09 Review Submitted: 06/27/10

The Ranch House is a little piece of HEAVEN! We traveled all over California in the summer of 2009. Stayed in 15 different places! Yikes! When I asked my two kids where they wanted to go this summer they both said, "THE RANCH HOUSE, PLEASE MOMMY!!! IT'S OUR FAVORITE PLACE IN THE WHOLE WORLD!!!" This precious little hide away has a charm about it that can only be described as magic... We had 50 acres of gorgeous property to explore. We fed the horses carrots in the morning. The hikes up the hill were fantastic. Loved the jacuzzi by the river. Old world charm with a fantastic, beautifully equipped kitchen. They even have an ice cream maker! Super comfy beds. Incredibly fun double bunk bed room for the kids called the DOG HOUSE! My kids had a wonderful time. The huge fireplaces look like something out of the wild wild west. So cozy and gorgeous. And Colleen is an absolute doll and so pleasant to do business with. I am THRILLED to say that I just got off the phone and have booked the Ranch House for six nights in July 2010! We are so happy to have something so special to look forward to and I highly recommend it! Come visit and HAVE FUN!

Owner response:What could be nicer than a review like yours, Belle?! We are so happy you have made The Ranch House your favorite home away from home. And you are "welcome home" anytime! Please hug your kids for me in thanks for their enthusiastic votes of approval.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 04/01/09 Review Submitted: 04/19/09

I just spent a glorious week with my family at the Garzas Creek Ranch and I can easily state it was the best place I have ever stayed for a family vacation. The house and property are fantastic. The photos don't lie with this listing and I thought the property was even better in person. The location in beautiful Carmel Valley next to hundreds of acres of parkland and miles and miles of trails cannot be beat. My wife wanted to book for next year within 30 minutes of arriving, and by the end of the week that desire was only stronger. On the way home my seven and ten year-old daughters spent the whole drive back talking about how they want to live at the Ranch House. Can't wait to return.

Owner response:Eric and Denise, we are delighted you enjoyed The Ranch House so fully. We look forward to welcoming you and your family back again soon! - Best always, Colleen and Family

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Ranch at Garzas Creek - A wonderful Getaway

Guest: nature adventurer (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 03/26/09 Review Submitted: 04/07/09

I wouldn't recommend this charming house for people who want glitz and easy access to fashionable restaurants and entertainment. It was perfect for us.We loved the individuality and traditional charm. We cooked our meals on their BBQ and well equiped kitchen, enjoyed the beautiful woodsy setting and hot tub and magnificent fireplaces. Some of us played pool or read, others took long strenuous hikes up the miles of canyon and hilly trails, The only disadvantage is the third bedroom with two bunk beds whose only access is through a bathroom. It would work for children but isn't really good for an older couple. Everything was clean and recently fixed up in good taste.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 01/01/09 Review Submitted: 12/31/08

We celebrated our 40th anniversary with our family by spending a long weekend at the house and we couldn't have been more pleased. We loved the rustic charm, the comfortable modern kitchen where we took turns preparing great food, roasting smores in the outdoor fireplace with the kids, and hiking the trails which began right by the house. We hope to do this again.

Owner response:Harriet, We are so happy your family enjoyed your Thanksgiving Anniversary getaway in your first vacation rental experience. Happy Anniversary and we wish you many happy returns! :D

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/01/08 Review Submitted: 12/14/08

Stunning? Exquisite? Mere words can't convey the hospitality of the accommodations,the serene Carmel Valley setting nor the significant history of the Ranch House at Garzas Creek.It must be seen and felt.The ambience is intoxicating. Michelin doesn't have enough stars.

Owner response:Michael and Monica, we're glad you discovered our family "secret" in the woods! We hope you will come again soon!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/01/08 Review Submitted: 12/02/08

We spent the weekend and had a great time. It is a very charming house in a wonderful setting. The hiking trails are a big plus.

Owner response:Thanks for coming, and we're glad you and your friends enjoyed your time at The Ranch House together. Please come again soon!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 11/01/08 Review Submitted: 11/18/08

The Ranch House is beautiful. We have been telling everyone we know about it since we got back into town. We would recommend it to anyone. It is the perfect location, close enough to the beach but secluded with a mountain feel. We spent time inside enjoying the fireplace and pool table but loved the fact that we could step outside to the fireplace, gazebo, spa or go hiking. We took advantage of the fully stocked kitchen...it was nice to not have to worry about bringing anything. We would definately love to stay there again.

Owner response:Hi Jillian and Mike! So happy you enjoyed The Ranch House! It was fun to share a slice of Carmel Valley living with you! Thanks for the wonderful pictures you took for us!

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Guest: Alicia M.
Date of Stay: 10/06/08 Review Submitted: 10/05/08

The house was INCREDIBLE! We had such a wonderful time. The house was simply gorgeous!! The things that you bought are first class. It was very fun to be the first guests. We had a great family weekend. We hope to return soon!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/01/08 Review Submitted: 10/20/08

This is a unique and incredibly charming property that has clearly been a labor of love for the owners and shows in all of the thoughtful details. It is private, yet accessible to area locations, and its rustic beauty is breathtaking.

Owner response:Margie, we're so happy it worked out for your tennis group to be able to stay at The Ranch House. What a great tradition you have! We look forward to hosting you again! Thank you for your kind words.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/01/08 Review Submitted: 10/16/08

This house is amazing- absolutely beautiful and so unique, all the details are there and it is such a special experience. We brought four children, all under the age of 4, and they had a great time as well. Definitely the place to be in Carmel!!

Owner response:So happy it worked for your families to have a special weekend together at The Ranch House. We look forward to welcoming you again soon!

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