Vacation Rentals by Owner

TYLER'S CABIN IS AWESOME -

Guest: Teri Ferguson (Novato, CA)
Date of Stay: 09/23/11 Review Submitted: 10/13/11

If you are looking for the perfect place to escape the crazy bay area life style, this is the place to be. Secluded yet close enough to all your needs. Just sitting on one of the decks and looking up at all those stars will take your breathe away. It's one of my favorite places to go to have complete peace and quiet in my life. The cabin is fully equipped, so all you need to bring is yourself, friends, and your pets to enjoy a fully relaxing get away.

Owner response:This is Teri and her family's third visit to Tyler's Cabin. Welcome, and thanks for the nice feedback!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owners difficult to deal with

Guest: Brian B. (Redwood City, CA)
Date of Stay: 08/13/11 Review Submitted: 08/21/11

Tyler’s cabin is a decent accommodation in a remote setting. The cabin is a two-story structure, with a fair living/dining room, small but functional kitchen, and small one and a half bathrooms. The downstairs bathroom has a very small shower with a showerhead that is too low. There are decent decks in the back and front abutting small meadows, although there are many, many insects present. The sleeping area upstairs is not bad, with sinks next to the beds and a small half bath (toilet only) adjacent. The setting is remote, and should appeal to those seeking a mountain experience, rather than being in the middle of restaurants, activities, or people. Although the cabin itself and setting are nice, we were disappointed that our experiences were soured by our interactions with the owners, who have proven difficult to deal with on two different occasions. After going to great lengths to leave the cabin in pristine condition upon departure two separate years, we have 1) been all-but accused of breaking something we hadn’t even touched during our stay there, and 2) (the following year) been told (very unreasonably, in our opinion) that we had left the cabin “a mess” and that a portion of our security deposit would be withheld from us for reasons that seemed quite unfounded. Losing the money did not bother us so much as the accusation that we were messy and careless, when we had specifically striven to use the cabin with care and respect. In fact, we had not left things messy at all, and even went to the trouble to purchase items and leave them behind for other guests on our own accord. We are professionals, highly educated, respectful of our environment and hosts, and neat and clean people. I would think that we would be viewed as model tenants by most owners, the kind of people most would want renting their cabin. It is unfortunate that the owners seem to have adopted this accusatory and nickel-and-diming approach, and was quite upsetting and difficult to understand. I don’t know if they have an ulterior motive to make a little extra money from each tenant, or if their housekeepers are of poor quality, or if they just have to get their act together for turning the cabin over from one tenant to another, or have an axe to grind in some unknown way, but we definitely will not be staying here again despite the otherwise nice cabin and environment. Buyer beware!

Owner response:Guess it is hard to please 100% of our guests, but we do try. The guests and the owners had a very different idea about "cleanliness", and our cabin was a mess when these guests left. They treated it as if it was a hotel, rather than someone's home. When we pointed out that crumbs all over the upstairs carpet, dirty dishes, and rearranging all the outdoor furniture (amongst other issues) was a problem for us, their response was "well isn't that what we pay your housekeeper for?" Our "housekeepers" are likewise college educated people, and we trust them to give us appropriate and accurate feedback concerning our guests. Our cabin took nearly 5 hours to clean after these guests left, where normally the cabin is - at best - a 3 hour cleaning endeavor. These guests are correct, we had problems with them last year, too, regarding a broken lamp. Also, the comments about the cabin being remote are accurate - enjoying a cabin in the woods, away from the mainstream and crowds, is not for everyone.

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Snow and Wildflowers!

Guest: Alison, Carmel, California
Date of Stay: 07/21/11 Review Submitted: 08/03/11

The cabin was great fun, guests are thoroughly provided for, and we so enjoyed all the treasures you have tucked here and there. Our early AM walks took Jordan and I up Silver Tip Drive to that lovely woodland bright green "spring" grassy spot with the tiny pond for a little stretching and meditation. With my two High Sierra Wildflower books we tried to ID as many of the wildflowers as we could. I loved discovering the carpet of the tiny, tiny Blue-eyed Mary's in your back woods. I saw wildflowers this vacation that I've never seen before ...Thanks, Laura, for your hospitality. You all really have thought of everything . . . We had a super time.

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We love this place....

Guest: Dolores & Alexander Starr (Redondo Beach, CA)
Date of Stay: 07/02/11 Review Submitted: 09/09/11

This was our third year in a row we have been to Tyler's cabin and we have always had a great vacation. This time we decided to go even though there was over 4 ft of snow. The owners gave us plenty of warning and told us (many times) that we would not be able to drive to the cabin - but after much pleading they let us rent the cabin. They were right - there was tons of snow but it was a true winter wonderland. The mile we had to walk to the cabin was worth it - I'm so happy they let us rent it. The owners as usual were very kind and accommodating - since they knew we were going to have to walk to get to the cabin they graciously left us food so we didn't have to carry so much in. We love sitting on the back deck surrounded by trees in that beautiful meadow - sure there can be bugs but what do you expect when you are in nature, however there are citronella candles you can light and even bug spray. To be honest we never had to use either. The cabin has always been clean and very neat. We have rented many vacation rentals but this is our favorite. We are looking forward to our 4th stay - see you soon Tyler's Cabin!

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

Heaven in the Sierra's

Guest: Neal (San Ramon, California)
Date of Stay: 12/23/10 Review Submitted: 02/11/11

This property is more remote than we thought. We absolutely loved the time spent there. The accomodations were excellent and the quiet was "deafening". Very private setting in an undisturbed natural surrounding. We had fun sledding in the meadow and spent every day exploring this remote area on snowshoes. We have not found a place like this yet and will definitely be back. If you go exploring I strongly suggest you bring along a gps instrument so you can find your way back to the cabin. If you are just looking for peace and quiet this is the place. The wood burning stove and interior decor make this a very comfortable setting for relaxation and self indulgence. I would recommend this to those that appreciate privacy, serenity, love of nature, and a sense of adventure. Oh yes, it was a great place to propose to my future wife. After 40 years apart, it was way past due.

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

Great cabin, great location

Guest: Diane (Bay Area)
Date of Stay: 08/29/10 Review Submitted: 09/11/10

My husband, dog and I had a great time at Tyler's cabin--it's secluded and private, yet close enough to tons of day hikes, lakes, rivers...we would definitely come back. The cabin has all the necessities you need, and our host Laura was responsive, friendly and professional. We especially enjoyed the stars, sipping on a glass of wine on the back deck--amazing!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Peaceful

Guest: bigthanksj (Elk Grove)
Date of Stay: 08/27/10 Review Submitted: 09/07/10

We visited the cabin for a relaxing weekend get away. Thankfully, the owner gave us weather updates so we were able to plan accordingly. The cabin looked just like the pictures, it was remote, clean, cozy and peaceful. The owner provided us with everything we needed to enjoy the outdoors or the indoors. The weather was inclimate so we spent a lot of time at the cabin, moseying around the grounds. We most enjoyed being able to sit by a fire until it became cold and then going inside to enjoy a movie.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

I love this place!

Guest: Lindy (Amador)
Date of Stay: 07/22/10 Review Submitted: 08/03/10

I would highly recommend this cabin for a great get-away. The house is wonderfully decorated in the craftsman's style with lots of extra touches to make guests feel welcome. The setting is private and very special. Make sure you allow yourself time to just sit on one of the great decks and enjoy the meadow that surrounds the cabin. The owner's were extremely nice and helpful and the cabin was clean and well stocked. Great place!

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

Quiet & Comfortable

Guest: Canoe Family (California)
Date of Stay: 07/19/10 Review Submitted: 08/01/10

I am glad we found your place on VRBO and would stay again. It was wonderfully QUIET, the setting was beautiful, and you had lots of fun movies (especially Mama Mia). We never turned on the phone because we don't really care what's happening in the outside world when we're gone.

Recommended for:Families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Perfect place!

Guest: Jennifer (Los Angeles, California)
Date of Stay: 06/26/10 Review Submitted: 07/22/10

We've stayed in many rentals--this is by far the BEST, most comfortable place ever. The owners are gracious and have thought of everything to ensure a lovely stay (Laura even kindly mailed us something we left behind, much to our surprise!). The cabin itself is beautiful and cozy, tucked into the peaceful wilderness. During our stay there was still some snow on the ground, but there were also wild daffodils blooming beneath the gorgeous pine trees. Our daughters--and dogs--loved to sit and watch the musical creek that runs along the back deck. Such a magical place! We loved making a fire in the outdoor stone pit in the mornings--drinking our coffee and breathing in the fresh air and tranquility. Everything about the cabin was comfortable, from the beds, to the couch and recliners, to the feeling of the place. It didn't seem like we were staying in a rental. We even commented several times that it felt like we were staying at a friend's cabin. Everything we needed was provided and there was a sense that we were trusted (rare in most rentals). We have such wonderful memories of our stay and are looking forward to making many more in the future! Thank you so very much for sharing your special wilderness treasure.

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

Guest: John182 (Oakland, CA)
Date of Stay: 01/19/10 Review Submitted: 01/19/10

A true "get away from it all" place! The solitude and beauty of winter at Tyler's Cabin is astounding. And we had a "religious" experience skiing in fresh powder in a beautiful meadow just up the hill from the cabin. We felt that the cost was a bargain given the quality of the experience and the accomodations. A cozy, well maintained, authentic A Framed mountain home.

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Guest: Joey M (San Francisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 10/08/09 Review Submitted: 10/08/09

We just spent a great 4 day weekend at Tyler's Cabin and it was an amazing experience. The pictures and description on vrbo looked like what we needed and the reality was even better. It is about a mile off of the main highway off a dirt road with nothing next to it. the only neighbors we saw were squirrels and birds. The cabin was very well stocked and furnished. We especially appreciated the light fixtures that were very interesting. Obviously the owners spend a good deal of time here as it has that warmth. Our dog Astro loved all the open space and being able to run around. We hiked along the dirt roads outside of the cabin and it was beautiful. On the negative side, we had to leave & return to urban life. At least we got a dusting of an early snowfall which made the cabin and setting look like a wonderland.

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Guest: Bob & Koye Goodrow (Hemet CA)
Date of Stay: 09/07/09 Review Submitted: 09/06/09

This cabin was the very nicest we have ever vacationed in! Clean, quiet, and peaceful. It was wonderful to be able to see clear blue skies for a change. John & Laura have thought of everything for the guest's comfort! We will absolutely stay again.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/23/09 Review Submitted: 08/23/09

We had a wonderful, quiet and relaxing time at Tyler's cabin. The house is equiped with everything you could possibly need. It is very close to hiking, fishing and boating, and very quiet. A great get away!

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Guest: Peter Mullen (Long Beach)
Date of Stay: 08/19/09 Review Submitted: 08/19/09

We are from the L.A-O.C. area.My wife wanted to rent a cabin in Lake Arrowhead.I said "no way".If we are going to the mountains we are going to the Sierra Nevada's far away from anything L.A..Tyler's Cabin was just the thing. We have 2 kids 3 and 6 and were wondering if this would work with them.IT DID! The cabin was beautiful and quiet with plenty of hiking and rock climbing in the back yard.Lake Alpine was just gorgeous up the hill 5 minutes away.I would highly recommend this hide-away to anyone looking for peace,quiet and fun.

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Guest: Dolores & Alexander Starr (Redondo Beach, CA)
Date of Stay: 08/11/09 Review Submitted: 08/10/09

Imagine stepping into your own private and secluded retreat. This is what Tyler’s Cabin feels like. Our stay at the cabin truly gave us the peace and relaxation we were looking for. The cabin is nestled among beautiful trees, which give a great sense of privacy. We loved having our morning coffee out on the deck and stargazing at night out on the front deck. There is so much to do in the area from hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming at beautiful Alpine Lake. You will even find great restaurants and wineries in nearby town of Murphys. We really enjoyed our time here and look forward to visiting again.

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A VRBO Regular

Guest: Dolores, Redondo Beach, CA
Date of Stay: 08/04/09 Review Submitted: 08/03/11

We have been renting for many years on VRBO and I can honestly say that your cabin is the one we have most enjoyed. We truly felt secluded and had a most relaxing time. And we love the fact that you do not have cable!

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/29/09 Review Submitted: 07/29/09

Tyler's Cabin is a great place to enjoy the Sierra. The surrounding tall pines and deck overlooking a meadow of wildflowers provide a peaceful and quiet place to smell the fresh mountain air and enjoy the sounds of birds and chipmunks. A short drive to Lake Alpine and my dog and I could walk the lakeshore path. If you are interested in birds you might get lucky and see the mountain quail and whiteheaded woodpecker as we did. The cabin has all the kitchen equipment you need and furnishings for a very comfortable stay. You should bring along any fresh fruits, vegetables, good bread, and other food you might not find at the general store in Bear Valley, although they do have dairy products and other perishables. We highly recommend this cabin.

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Guest: Mary100 (Marin City, CA)
Date of Stay: 07/09/09 Review Submitted: 07/09/09

This cabin in the woods is better than I imagined. Not too big or small - just right. Comfortable, clean and welcoming. Perfect for reading and writing or conversing with friends/family. The setting feels like you are in the wilderness, but it's close enough to neighbors and nearby stores and restaurants. The lake, a few miles away, is a GREAT place to hang out during the day.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 06/30/09 Review Submitted: 06/30/09

WOW! Our family loves this Cabin. Parents, teenagers, and dog. We spent a week, but wanted to stay more. So many adventures: rock climbing, lake canoeing, river swimming, mountain biking, big tree viewing and peaceful book reading. We only brought food; everything else was provided. EVERYTHING. Laura & John are the most gracious owners. We hope to visit again soon.

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Guest: Teri Ferguson (Novato, CA)
Date of Stay: 05/11/09 Review Submitted: 05/11/09

What a perfect get away from our daily stress. The cabin feels so removed, yet in close proximity to the lake, hiking, biking, restaurants, skiing, whatever outdoor activity you may enjoy. No need to bring anything except yourselves, as everything you may need is at your fingertips. The cabin is nice and cozy and I really enjoyed sitting out under the stars on the deck. You shouldn't miss an opportunity to visit this cabin and treat yourself to all the comforts and delights you will experience up in Bear Valley.

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Guest: Mary Ann Villarreal (Mill Valley, CA)
Date of Stay: 05/05/09 Review Submitted: 05/05/09

Last summer our Book Club had a long weekend retreat at Tyler's Cabin and it was just what the doctor ordered. The cabin is nestled in a serene and beautiful setting amongst the trees. Couldn't ask for a better place to curl up with a pile of books or hike into the wildflower meadows just past the end of the road. And to top it off having such a well appointed cabin with everything to make the stay so comfy and stress free. Planning to be back again soon.

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Guest: Susan Jamison (San Luis Obispo, CA)
Date of Stay: 05/05/09 Review Submitted: 05/05/09

I had the privilege of staying in this cabin in January 2009. I loved the ambiance of the cabin; it's very cozy for hanging out, reading books, visiting, meals, and I slept like a baby. Bear Valley is unique and not swarmed with people. I felt a million miles away from home. Great hiking trails and local restaurants. I will definitely be back again! What a nice secret vacation get away.

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Guest: Carron Oswald (San Anslemo, CA)
Date of Stay: 05/05/09 Review Submitted: 05/05/09

Tyler's Cabin, is cozy, comfortable and the owners seem to have thought of every possible amenity. I was there in the snow, which was incredibly charming. I can wait to come back in the summer! What a fabulous place! Thank you so much!

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Guest: Candace Curtis (Sausalito, CA)
Date of Stay: 04/27/09 Review Submitted: 04/27/09

This cabin is beautiful, clean and comfortable, with all of the amenities you could possibly want. I was especially impressed with the beds-very comfortable! It's in a lovely, secluded area, but close to town. Fantastic spot for a relaxing vacation. Good local restaurants if you don't want to cook for yourself. I highly recommend it.

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Guest: B. Madigan (Santa Rosa Ca.)
Date of Stay: 04/22/09 Review Submitted: 04/22/09

This past winter I was a guest at "Tylers Cabin in the Woods" and had a most wonderful time in the one of the most bucolic settings in California.. It was truly a Winter Wonderland. The cabin it set back off the Hwy 4 approximately 1 mile and is the last cabin on the road.. When you're there, you feel as if you're a million miles from civilization...Surrounded by the forest and no neighbors in site. Perfect for those who are looking for a quiet relaxing secluded get away. The cabin is extremely well kept with plenty of room and ALL the amenities you could possibly need. I had been up to the Bear Valley region many times with my family. This area offers so many activities (Winter and Summer) WITHOUT the hassles of over crowding like most other mountain resorts here in California. I look forward to yet another visit to "Tylers Cabin in the Woods" this summer. I promise, you won't be disappointed!

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Guest: Stacy Madigan (Santa Rosa, CA)
Date of Stay: 04/20/09 Review Submitted: 04/20/09

My mother, daughter and I enjoyed a fabulous and comfortable stay at the cabin. The setting was incredibly peaceful and we hiked off right out the front door. The kitchen is well equiped for cooking and the wood burning stove kept us cozy. We visited before the snow was deep, so we enjoyed an evening in town within a few minutes drive time. What a great place to celebrate a family gathering!

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