Destination Ranch Retreat 8BR/6b+ on 850 Coastal Acres W/Pool

04/24/2009

VRBO Bear stayed here:

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When my bear family and I arrived at the Cottontail Creek Ranch, we instantly felt at home!

This luxury ranch retreat is nestled among some of California’s most breathtaking rolling hills. The location beckons you to enjoy the outdoors and everything the Central Coast has to offer. Whether you like to hike, fish, horseback ride, surf, or just simply hang out and enjoy some of the most awe inspiring views this home has to offer, this is the place for you!

Our gracious hosts, Roger and Susan, made our arrival special in so many ways. From the beautiful fresh cut flowers in every bedroom to the delicious fresh fruit picked right from the ranch orchards to the awesome homemade cookies, no detail was overlooked. They took us on a tour of their 850 acre working ranch and we marveled at the incredible view overlooking the Estero Bay. The fresh air carried the fabulous scent of their orange orchards and flowers blossoming throughout the property. Plus, we were free to eat anything that was ripe and ready for picking on the grounds. We enjoyed lemons, oranges, avocados and fresh herbs. It was simply amazing! The fabulous surroundings, wide open spaces and views truly recharged our spirits.

The home itself rivaled the ranch’s outside surroundings. From the historical Monterey pine floors to the custom woodwork, this home really showcased the owners’ personality and artistic flair. Susan’s whimsical artwork and Roger’s intricate woodwork throughout the home exuded warmth. They truly put their hearts and hands into making sure that we felt right at home.

Cottontail Creek Ranch featured 5 luxurious bedrooms, each with their own personal baths. Everyone had their own personal space to retreat to and relax. The home’s floor plan was perfect for togetherness and included great family gathering spots like a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, spacious dining room as well as the large living room with its massive rock fireplace. Every room had an incredible view to enjoy. We spent evenings around the great fire pit or soaking in the steaming spa reminiscing about the day’s adventures. It was the perfect home for a reunion or celebration!

If you must venture away from this private paradise, Cottontail Creek Ranch is in close proximity to the vineyards of Paso Robles, fabulous seafood in Morro Bay, and the quaint coastal town of Cayucos. It’s also a convenient home base to launch an excursion up the coast to visit Hearst Castle or explore the craggy coast of Big Sur. We have not stopped talking about our visit to the California Central Coast and the Cottontail Creek Ranch.

Thanks Roger and Susan for a great stay!



The VRBO Bear

The VRBO Bear

• The ranch

  The ranch

  • Guest John and Madeleine
  • Date of stay 06/16/08
  • Review Submitted 03/08/09
  When you wake up in the morning and the sun rises and you hear the rooster down below at the farm, close to the pond, you really wonder where you are. You are surrounded by rolling hills slowly traversed here and there by dark cows. Hawks are circling high in the sky. Everything is peaceful. Still, you must be in a civilized world: below you there are straight lines of avocado trees. And, in the middle of them is the dusty trail by which you arrived yesterday, the only access from the outside world. The house where you stay is a modern, octagonal lodge built half way up the slope of a hill. It is open on all sides and completely surrounded by decks where you can sit in the sun or the shade as you please. All rooms have their personality. You can feel that they have been furnished by a real family ready to share its own memories and prized possessions. Now all the rooms are occupied by members of your family – or your friends. And this is how you start the day at the Cottontail Creek Ranch. In a moment, all guests will come together in the front room, which is the kitchen. Because from there, especially, one has a complete panoramic view of the ranch. The view goes all around, miles away, across the hills, to the horizon. It is yours. There are no buildings, no roads, no cars, no electric lines in this view. The only people who share this paradise with you are the tenants of the farm, far below. You would have to climb the hill above the house to realize where you are. From there, you would find the ocean to the West, and in the South, through the haze, you would see Morro Rock. There are a lot of things for everyone to do inside the house, on the ranch and nearby. This morning, some among us (the youngest) have insisted on going to the beach. A few others prefer to bike. A third group is going to visit the Hearst castle The elders are discussing a well-planned visit to vineyards around Paso Robles for wine tasting. And then… Then, tonight we shall gather around the antique barbecue and, later in the evening, around the campfire with marshmallows, among crickets, under a starred sky. After that, we shall surreptitiously take out the telescope we brought with us and sneak a look at planets and stars. The air is so pure and the night so dark that here we can discover celestial objects that we have never seen at home. John and Madeleine

  Recommended for: Families with teenagers, adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing, people with disabilities, families with young children.

  Owner response: Dear John, Madeleine ,Pierre, Elizabeth, Carolyn, Pak, and Marteen The pleasure was ours as well. We love your telescope too!! We look forward to seeing you this summer for your 3rd year at Cottontail Creek Ranch Susan and Roger

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/2

• Outstanding property!

  Outstanding property!

  • Guest The foodie crew
  • Date of stay 02/26/13
  • Review Submitted 03/01/13
  Thank you so much for the outstanding hospitality! My 13 person group has stayed in multiple large houses and this was by far the best --comfortable beds, incredible views, with gourmet and high end amenities that were all up and running. The hot tub was comfortable and ready to go, the heating was perfect, the kitchen was well-stocked with great utensils and appliances (which is great since we love to cook!). The property itself is just beautiful with incredible vistas, hiking, and great inspiration for our yoga class. Our amateur photographers were busy capturing the ambiance throughout the stay. There was a great authentic oak wood grill, the firepit was all set up for a beautiful campfire experience, and the warm cookies, farm fresh eggs, and recipie support for the ranch ground beef from our hostess put the entire experience over the top. Thank you from our entire well-rested group!

  Recommended for: Families with teenagers, adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, girls getaway, sightseeing, people with disabilities, families with young children.

  Owner response: Fabulous guests. Enjoyed meeting and greeting them. Hope they will return and try out the pool, Susan

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

• Perfect Rental!

  Perfect Rental!

  • Guest Alex
  • Date of stay 12/15/12
  • Review Submitted 01/31/13
  All the other reviewers have it right -- and it is no surprise that 17 of 17 reviews (so far) have given it 5 out of 5 stars. 100 out of 100 stars would be a more accurate measure. We found the property while looking for a place to host a small family gathering that would be a halfway-point between those of us from Southern California and those from up North. The location was exactly right, and as so eloquently described in the other reviews, unbelievably beautiful and perfect in every detail. Our group consisted of 7 adults and 4 children (ages 3, 4, 9 and 12) and there was more than enough room for everyone. The house was spacious and laid out in such a way that our early-rising and energetic youngsters didn't disturb some of us old trolls who wanted to sleep in a little. I should also mention that it rained for much of our stay, and that didn't detract from our enjoyment of the property in the slightest. In some ways it even enhanced the beauty and tranquility. Because of the short, winter days and our busy schedule of events, this trip went much too fast. I'm looking forward to returning to the Cottontail Ranch with my family again and again. I've rented vacation properties from VRBO and other similar organizations, and there's always a small amount of uncertainty when trying out a new place. Please let me assure you that this is as perfect a rental I've ever experienced, that more than exceeds any expectations built up by the glowing reviews or beautiful photos.

  Recommended for: Families with teenagers, families with young children.

  Owner response: Great to see everyone enjoy the ranch and take such care at the same time. I am hoping all my winter guests will return to swim in my pool and discover another season at the ranch. Happy New Year to all, Susan

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 1/1

• A Wonderful Retreat

  A Wonderful Retreat

  • Guest Edgar
  • Date of stay 07/11/10
  • Review Submitted 08/20/10
  Every now and then we plan a getaway with our family and close friends. While our destinations have varied over the years, they have always offered some remarkable likenesses. Consistently, they have offered peace and tranquility, beautiful vistas and views, spacious and comfortable accommodations, large kitchens and tables to all gather around for community meals, and sources of great wine not too far away. And, hosts that are both welcoming and caring, without a hint of intrusiveness. These are all the characteristics that we experienced at Cottontail Creek... and then some. From the moment we passed through the gate, passed the orange trees and avocado grove, and climbed the hill to the ranch house, we knew it was special. The house easily accommodated our large group and it was so easy to feel comfortable, that we immediately fell into extreme modes of relaxation. One can spend the day just fading into the easy pace and feel the stress and tension of everyday life fall away. Breakfast looking out over the orchard, watching the cattle grazing on the hillside. Evenings spent relaxing in the hot tub and sipping extraordinary wines while conversing by the side of the fire pit. Sleeping in the comfort of the fine linens that adorn every bed. Only to awaken to doing it all over again. This is what welcomes one to this amazing ranch tucked away on the vastness and beauty of the hundreds of acres of peaceful rolling hills. Away from the urgency of our everyday lives, with our family and close friends. This place is absolutely beautiful and is simply, tough to beat.

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

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 1/1

• An Amazing Weekend!

  An Amazing Weekend!

  • Guest Tony G.
  • Date of stay 04/23/10
  • Review Submitted 05/07/10
  A relaxing, energizing, peaceful and exciting ranch weekend that can't really be translated into words! But, I will try: Susan and Jim Lyon are incredible people who truly know what it is to vacation. You won't find better people to accommodate your every need! Just this past April, a surprise 50th Birthday celebration worked out quite well for our group of 16 family and friends. Susan's recommendations of local produce, baked goods, fish, wineries, and meat were exceptional. (The Cakery is awesome, as is Pianetta Winery). They know what's good---so you can be assured that Cottontail has all the right amenities you'll need! Some highlights: We had a wine-tasting AT the ranch... Hiked every day and every night at dusk'... Rode our bikes everyday... Picked the juiciest oranges, and ate the freshest eggs we've ever had... Fished and played volleyball... watched the amazing sunsets and shadows on the mountains... Relaxed by the fires (both indoor and out!)... Hot tubbed in the crisp hours of the night... Slept in quite comfortable beds with the softest linens... ALL THIS---in an amazing location---more than half the group NEVER LEFT THE RANCH DURING ENTIRE WEEKEND! Those who traveled did take a morning drive to the awesome Hearst Castle, then proceeded to rush back for our great BBQ lunch... and so much more... As I said, I can't really do this place, our hosts and the amazing location justice by explaining to you. But I will say this: COTTONTAIL RANCH is the perfect stay for any vacation! I know I run the risk of sounding like a cheesy commercial. but believe be---CTC Ranch is very special We'll be looking forward to making this a yearly thing! Tony G.

  Recommended for: Tourists without a car, families with teenagers, adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, girls getaway, sightseeing, families with young children.

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 1/1

• The Ranch House

  The Ranch House

  • Guest Kelly - bride to be
  • Date of stay 09/05/08
  • Review Submitted 10/06/09
  This house is simply a place you don’t want to leave. In August 2009 we had 10 women enjoying the house at Cotton Tail Creek ranch for my bachelorette weekend. We bar b-qued, hiked, had cocktails on the patio where everywhere you turn is an astounding view. The house is beautifully decorated, comfortable and has everything you need. We had the most memorable and hilarious weekend. Susan is a wonderful host. She spoiled us with her homemade cookies that go perfectly with coffee in the morning while you sit and realize again just where you are. Just writing this makes me ready to head back there. All of us highly recommend this house for any kind of get together. Thank you Susan and Roger for such a spectacular place to stay, Kelly

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/2

• • Guest Holland2
  • Date of stay 05/28/09
  • Review Submitted 05/28/09
  I highly recommend staying at Cottontail Creek Ranch, it is spectacular! I have stayed there twice now and I am already planning the next trip back. The house is fantastic and the land around is magical. You never run out of great outdoor activities. But once you get there you may just want to stay put and enjoy the beautiful house. Susan and Roger are amazing hosts. They made our visit more enjoyable, which I didn’t think was possible!

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

• Totally worth it!!

  Totally worth it!!

  • Guest DiepFamily
  • Date of stay 01/01/08
  • Review Submitted 03/09/09
  We had the pleasure of staying @ Cottontail Creek in Sept 9-12, 2005. We were there with 3 generations - Ages 70 - 10 yrs. To be able to sit a a table with all 20 of us was a blast. We all had an amazing time and remains one of our family's fondest memories. There is something for everyone...fishing, kayaking, the beach is close, the hills are beautiful, evening fireside chats our on the patio... the list goes on. Susan also lined up some fabulous chefs & massage therapists. She's got great connections if you want to add any type of amenity. It was such a treat! The attention to the details that Susan puts into the entire property is amazing. The home is so beautifully decorated and felt so welcoming. We all fit comfortably too. We loved it!! You will too.

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

  Owner response: What a testament to this family planning a memorable wonderful outing that all ages could enjoy. To be a part of this last vacation for one of the family members was beyond expression. Susan and Roger

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

• Guestbook Comment

  Guestbook Comment

  • Guest DiepFamily
  • Date of stay 03/01/09
  • Review Submitted 03/09/09
  By far the best family trip we've ever taken together. All 20 of us could eat at the same table & sleep comfortably in the beautiful house. Susan coordinated some wonderful chefs & massage therapists as the icing on an already pretty amazing cake. The property is gorgeous & welcoming. There is something to do for all. Each one of us had a great time & that isn't easy to accomplish when there are 3 generations & an age range from 70-10 yrs. You won't find a better place to enjoy beautiful scenery, lots of kayaking, fishing & fires out on the patio. Amazing and totally worth it.

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

• • Guest John and Madeleine
  • Date of stay 03/08/09
  • Review Submitted 03/08/09
  The ranchWhen you wake up in the morning and the sun rises and you hear the rooster down below at the farm, close to the pond, you really wonder where you are. You are surrounded by rolling hills slowly traversed here and there by dark cows. Hawks are circling high in the sky. Everything is peaceful. Still, you must be in a civilized world: below you there are straight lines of avocado trees. And, in the middle of them is the dusty trail by which you arrived yesterday, the only access from the outside world.The house where you stay is a modern, octagonal lodge built half way up the slope of a hill. It is open on all sides and completely surrounded by decks where you can sit in the sun or the shade as you please. All rooms have their personality. You can feel that they have been furnished by a real family ready to share its own memories and prized possessions. Now all the rooms are occupied by members of your family – or your friends. And this is how you start the day at the Cottontail Creek Ranch. In a moment, all guests will come together in the front room, which is the kitchen. Because from there, especially, one has a complete panoramic view of the ranch. The view goes all around, miles away, across the hills, to the horizon. It is yours. There are no buildings, no roads, no cars, no electric lines in this view. The only people who share this paradise with you are the tenants of the farm far below. You would have to climb the hill above the house to realize where you are. From there, you would find the ocean to the West, and in the South, through the haze, you would see Morro Rock.There are a lot of things for everyone to do inside the house, on the ranch and nearby. This morning, some among us (the youngest) have insisted on going to the beach. A few others prefer to bike. A third group is going to visit the Hearst castle The elders are discussing a well-planned visit to vineyards around Paso Robles for wine tasting. And then…Then, tonight we shall gather around the antique barbecue and, later in the evening, around the campfire with marshmallows, among crickets, under a starred sky. After that, we shall surreptitiously take out the telescope we brought with us and sneak a look at planets and stars. The air is so pure and the night so dark that here we can discover celestial objects that we have never seen at home.John and Madeleine

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 1/1

Sep-June 14 .. $1295/night (3 night min) non holiday
Sep-June 9 .. $1195/night (4 night min) .. $7250/week
Summer/Holiday .$7300/week .. $7500/week (Holidays)
Holiday .. $1295/night(4-7nt min/Includes last minute reservations) or $7500/week
Rates based on 1-10 guests. Extra guest: $35/night per guest- Max 20
+$700 Refundable Security/Cleaning Deposit
Plus 11% ( 9% Bed tax + 2% Tax Deductible Conservation Fund Donation)
Maid Service,Massage Therapy,Chef and personal trainer advance notice required.

Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.