Vacation Rentals by Owner

Cozy Cabin with Beautiful Views

Guest: Charmaine P.
Date of Stay: 06/17/11 Review Submitted: 06/23/11

My family and i are from Santa Fe, NM and we have beautiful mountains but when we drove up to this cabin, it was breathtaking! We stepped out into the balcony and coulndt believe how gorgeous and green and amazing the views are from the cabin. We will definately come again and tell our friends! Thank you!!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with young children, sightseeing.

Spacious, secluded cabin in stunning surroundings!!

Guest: WacTravel (New York, NY)
Date of Stay: 12/31/10 Review Submitted: 01/06/11

Our group was on a skiing trip over New Year - and we really enjoyed our stay at the cabin. We were very impressed with the overall size, number of beds, games room, cleanliness, all the kitchen equipment etc. I see there have been complaints about the road - but it is a VERY scenic road with beautiful views and we found it to be very smooth (but it had snowed and been ploughed). It takes a little longer to reach from Wolf Creek (about an hour) but this is the small price you pay to be in such pristine, beautiful surroundings. Due to the subzero temperatures (negative 21) which were quite exceptional - we had a few problems with cars breaking down and sliding, and pipes freezing, but our host Lisa was incredible and managed to sort out all of our problems very quickly and efficiently despite it being a holiday weekend. Who needs a hotel concierge when you have a host on call to help out if necessary? I would definitely recommend this cabin at any time of year, we look forward to returning sometime soon!

Owner response:Thank you for choosing our cabin for your getaway and for the great review! Yes, I wish I could control the weather because it was definitely unseasonably cold why you were here. I'm glad that things worked out for you and that you had a great trip, regardless of the weather! Yes, it is about one hour to the ski resort from the cabin, as opposed to about 35 minutes from downtown Pagosa. I agree, the scenic drive and the beauty of the cabin setting makes it all worthwhile. Please let me know when you again wish to travel to Pagosa, as we offer great discounts to return travelers. Sincerely, Lisa

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

Great cabin

Guest: Steve G. (Brock,Tx)
Date of Stay: 11/04/10 Review Submitted: 11/14/10

We realy did enjoy the cabin. We stayed a week in November and the weather was just too good for elk hunting. We have been coming to the area for 33 years and have tried other places and camped out for many years but this was the best! Everything at the cabin was just as Lisa and the websight had described it and will be back as long as they continue renting it. GREAT PLACE !! Thanks Steve Gist

Owner response:Hello, and thank you for taking the time to write about your stay! The elk that I have seen in the Blanco Basin area this month have been happily grazing on private ranches! It's amazing (and frustrating) how they seem to know where they are safe. I hope to see you again next year (and that you will leave with a successful hunt)! Happy Thanksgiving! Regards, Lisa

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

WOW!

Guest: Billy (Albuquerque)
Date of Stay: 09/03/10 Review Submitted: 09/08/10

WOW! wonderful vacationing home, We had a awsome time hiking & fishing. Futhermor we enjoyed sitting out on the deck having a great veiw of the mountains and the fresh air to breath. Thanks for making this home avalible for us. We would highly recomend this cabin to anyone, Thanks. highest regards; Fitzgeralds

Owner response:Hi, and thank you for your review! I'm glad you had a great time and enjoyed the beauty and the feel of getting away from it all. If you return, I will offer more recommendations to you on "things to see and do" near the cabin. This truly is one of a kind . . . Thanks again! Lisa

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children.

GREAT VACATION

Guest: Billy (Albuquerque)
Date of Stay: 09/03/10 Review Submitted: 09/08/10

We enjoyed out stay at your property so much that we would like to do it again in the near future. The description was right on, we found everything clean,well maintained. The rooms were large and we really enjoyed the kitchen and living room layout. We hiked to the top of Echo lake fished the river and Opal Resevoir - all within 10 miles of our stay. Thanks again Bill

Owner response:Hello, I'm happy that you enjoyed your stay and look forward to your return. Keep in mind that I offer discounts and/or "Free Nights" for repeat travelers. The aspen leaves will be changing colors soon - a very special time to enjoy the cabin and the surrounding beauty. Lisa

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

Not a good place to stay, picture very deceiving

Guest: Lois (Surprise, Az USA)
Date of Stay: 08/02/10 Review Submitted: 09/07/10

The cabin looked ok, BUT, the dirt road in was 10 1/2 miles of rough bone jarring dirt, the cabin had 20 bags of trash in the basement from the last tenents, there were mice in the house, the water had a yellow color and stunk like sulfur, bathrooms need updating, the house was dirty, couldn't use the kitchen until I cleaned, oven was filthy, grill outside filthy, hole in the deck. We rented for a month, stayed 2 nights and got out of there. Lisa did give us a refund. Found a condo on one floor, allowed pets and was beautiful for $50 a night through a property mangement in Pagoso Springs.

Owner response:Hello, and I'm sorry that you feel that this home did not meet your expectations. I feel that I have done a good job of describing where the property is located and the road to it. I assume you had read the other numerous reviews from travelers before you booked this home who gave it 5 star ratings. Those travelers loved that it was not in a neighborhood with street lights and sidewalks. We pride ourselves on it's unique location, beauty, and allowing travelers to "get away from all the every day city life". The website states that it is "Rural" and "Mountains". Also, in the Rental Agreement that you signed, it states "we do not refund due to road conditions", and that "all roads leading to the cabin are maintained by Archuleta County and have year round access". The driving directions also told you that it is 10.6 miles on a gravel road. There is nothing false or misleading about the pictures or anything stated on the website or in the documents that you signed. The website contains exact pictures of how the cabin looks today. Because I am serious about the traveler's experience, I did refund you, in full, for the nights you were not there, (even though the Rental Agreement clearly states that "cancelation or early departure does not warrant any refund of rent or deposits"). As to the trash, the trash pickup (private) for the cabin had not occurred at the time the travelers checked in, but was scheduled soon afterward. It was located downstairs in the basement, far from the living quarters of the home. The small hole in one board of the deck (about 3 inches round) has been repaired (it had happened just a few days prior to your "check in"). Regarding the cleanliness of the home, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but the professional cleaning service that we use has been in business in Pagosa for over 20 years, and we have had the same cleaning woman within the company for over 3 years. I personally inspected the home prior to your "check in" (as I always do), and the home was immaculate (again, our other Reviews have stated the cleanliness of the home). Finally, yes, there are critters around the cabin and the surrounding National Forest: deer, elk, wild turkey, chipmunks, squirrels . . . and sometimes a field mouse. Occasionally, a field mouse gets in the cabin. That is all part of the "out in the country" charm of living in a rural area with the National Forest out your back door. Sincerely, Lisa

Recommended for:

Wilderness Paradise

Guest: RidingRed Monster (Royse City, Texas USA)
Date of Stay: 07/25/10 Review Submitted: 08/05/10

We loved all of the wildlife seen in the area, we got to see elk, deer, coyotes, a bear and came across a mountain lion on the trails. We felt completely safe at all times. The cabin was equipped with everything except enough fans could have used 3 more. We rode atv's and a UTV on the trails for 4 days and would recommend taking a saw just in case you come across a tree that has fallen on the trail. We had a great time and highly recommend this place. It is 10.5 miles off of the main road and takes about 20 -25 minutes to get to the main road. Town is only about 10 more minutes up the road. If you love nature and piece and quite you will also fall in LOVE WITH THIS PLACE.

Owner response:It's great that you spent so much time exploring while you were vacationing, and I'm glad that you had the opportunity to see so much wildlife! Please come back again, soon!

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

We LOVED Our Stay!

Guest: Judy (Bosque, NM 87006)
Date of Stay: 07/01/10 Review Submitted: 07/20/10

We loved our stay (our second) at the cabin at 10600 Upper Blanco Road. The house is so comfortable and well-equipped. My husband did have a couple of suggestions for your consideration: 1. How about a basic Dish Network setup? He doesn't read for pleasure and missed not being able to watch the news. We did, however, enjoy watching your DVD's a couple of evenings. 2. How about a reduced price for a couple or 2 couples? We know the cabin sleeps so many more than we had. My thinking is that,you go the other way......a basic price for 2-4 and additional charges for more...right? Anyhow, our stay was just wonderful and we hope to do it again. We did the mineral baths one day. I might suggest that you tell the guests to use the towels provided at the spa, as we can't get the sulpher smell out of some of our colored clothes I washed with our swimsuits. If guests use YOUR towels, I am sure the next guests wonder what that awful smell is! We enjoyed exploring the canyon, up the mountain, and even driving up to the end of Left-Hand Canyon. It is beautiful country and what we especially love about your location is the fact that there are few, if any tourists!

Owner response:Hi Judy, Thank you for coming back to vacation at this wonderful cabin and to enjoy the area. Colorado is a beautiful state, and I have traveled all over Colorado, but nothing compares to the gorgeous Blanco Basin. It truly is paradise! Thank you, also, for your good suggestions about a television service, lower pricing for couples, and the hot springs. I do hope that you will choose this cabin for your next getaway. Sincerely, Lisa

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

Pagosa Springs Cabin

Guest: Tom (Michigan)
Date of Stay: 06/24/10 Review Submitted: 07/23/10

Our family of 6 plus a baby stayed here for five nights in June 2010. It provided a comfortable hub from which we drove to Pagosa Springs, nearby hikes, and waterfalls. We enjoyed the spectacular view off the porch and the nightly sighting of many elk in the field nearby. The Opal Lake hike (very near the cabin) was beautiful. Lisa, our contact person, was helpful and communicative of details and questions we had. It was a property that worked well for our needs and budget.

Owner response:Thank you for choosing this cabin for your vacation, and I'm glad that you enjoyed your stay! Although you had traveled far to get to Pagosa, I hope that you will consider a visit here again! Sincerely, Lisa

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, sightseeing.

Relaxing stay, fabulous views & animal life!

Guest: Paul & Donna (Washington, KS)
Date of Stay: 06/12/10 Review Submitted: 07/24/10

We had a very relaxing stay with plenty of space, comfortable atmosphere and lots of beautiful scenery. The various mountain views were wonderful to see as the light changed their looks throughout the day. Every evening we were blessed to see herds of elk roaming the fields across the road from the cabin and just a little way down the raod. The local trail walks were easy enough for various ages and health issues to enjoy nature. The sights were quite exciting, including the bear tracks (adult bear & cub prints) that we saw coming back from Opal lake. The morning we left to go home, we even saw a bear in the middle of the road, only about a mile from where we stayed (VERY EXCITING!) The activities and resturants available in town nearby gave a nice variety of things to see and do. This was a very nice place to stay and we would enjoy doing it again. The cabin is clean and well maintained. You can easily customize your visit to fit your families interests and everyone will have an enjoyable & relaxing time. The scenery once again was fantastic.

Owner response:It's great that your family enjoyed the cabin, the area, and the abundant wildlife. It truly is a very special place!! I look forward to hearing from you the next time you decide to travel to Pagosa Springs! Thank you for choosing this cabin for your vacation! Lisa

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

Great for the family.

Guest: ray (Harlingen Texas)
Date of Stay: 05/30/10 Review Submitted: 07/21/10

We really enjoyed our trip to Pagosa Springs and our stay at your cabin. We hope to make it at least an annual visit for our family. My wife and I enjoyed sitting on the deck every morning to have our coffee and enjoy the beautiful scenery. A great place to relax and unwind. We hiked at nearby Opal Lake, rode horses and did some rafting in Pagosa Springs. The kids really enjoyed it even though their cell phones had limited reception...great. We will be back.

Owner response:Thank you for taking the time to write about your stay. I'm sure it is helpful to future vacation travelers, and it is good feedback for me, too. Relaxation is one thing that you can definitely plan on doing at the cabin. . . it cannot be helped. Please keep me in mind for your annual trips to Pagosa - we would love to have you stay with us again! Sincerely, Lisa

Recommended for:Families with young children

Great for a family or group vacation!

Guest: WolfCreekBoarders (NM)
Date of Stay: 03/04/10 Review Submitted: 03/30/10

We took a group of five adults and two children to stay at the cabin and snowboard at Wolf Creek. We had a great time at the cabin! It was very spacious and the game room/loft upstairs allowed the kids to have a blast without disturbing the rest of the group! The property manager, Lisa, was very helpful and provided great suggestions on what to do and where to go in the area. We also got a deposit returned to us quickly and there were not any issues with the financial end of the transaction. The cabin is about twenty minutes or so from town, so I would recommend that you plan ahead and take some of your own paper-towels, napkins, etc.! Also, pack some DVDs as the cabin does not have cable but does have a DVD player. We would all recommend the cabin to friends & family.

Owner response:I continually strive for a 5 star rating, and try to make your stay as perfect as possible. Because I live here, I can recommend restaurants, shopping, outdoor activities, theatre, and other "things to do". I'm normally available by phone most any time so that your questions are answered promptly. Thank you for choosing this cabin for your vacation, and I hope that you will return to the beautiful Pagosa Springs in the near future! Sincerely, Lisa

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners.

Arkies and Okies go to Colorado!!!!

Guest: CHIEF BAD WINDS (Arkansas/Oklahoma)
Date of Stay: 10/08/09 Review Submitted: 02/15/10

This cabin was GREAT!!!!.It was exactly what Lisa said it was.The view from the deck was unbelievable,with the fall colors and the snow covered mountains. The kids just simple loved the game room and watching all the different animals from the deck.Deer,Elk,Coyotes, birds etc.On three or four mornings a herd of Elk was in the meadow below the cabin with 25-30 cows and 3 bulls bugling and chasing the cows around. While the drive in was long thats when we would see most of the animals,esp. the mule deer.Lisa Stine did an excellant job for us we will use her again. We would certainly recommend Lisa and this cabin to anyone looking for the perfect Rockie Moutain git-away.

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

Guest: Kris Galbreth (Albuquerque, NM)
Date of Stay: 09/10/09 Review Submitted: 09/10/09

What a beautiful serene setting. We viewed every manner of wild life during our stay from deer to black bear. The home has wonderful amenities for chlldren and plenty of room for a large family or multiple families.

Owner response:I am thrilled that you enjoyed your stay and hope to see you again soon!

Recommended for:

blanco basin cabin

Guest: lug1 (bedford tx)
Date of Stay: 03/14/09 Review Submitted: 03/23/09

This cabin is excellent! For those who want to get away off the grid with access to the mountains this is it. Keep in mind, there is no tv/satellite reception, radio, or internet as of our stay. The weather updates were my only concern. If you have no concerns about updates it is wonderful and scenic. Nice pool/air hockey table to keep kids busy. The agent Lisa was a pleasure to work with. She even left a couple small toy airplane kits for my kids to have fun with. It is at the base of a hill/mountain with 12,000 foot scenic peaks on 3 sides and a river with soothing sounds just across the road. My wife saw a herd of wild elk. It is a wonderful SPACIOUS and clean facility. We felt comfortable and safe. I am just a news addict and wanted to access weather reports. We could have made access on the road at spring break with my wifes minivan but was glad we chose to take my 4wd. I highly recommend this place to anybody wanting to really get away or have nice lodging for wolf creek. Just make sure you aren't the news update junkie. We could not even get a signal with cell phones. There is a local phone in the cabin. I enjoyed our comfortable stay and highly recommend this to anybody looking. This was our first time for this type of outing and didn't know what to expect. It was smooth flawless and enjoyable. Highly recommend doing business with Lisa. This is a great property! It gets a good instead of excellent only because I didn't get my weather reports and Lisa told us before hand there was no satellite or network tv. There are however tvs with DVD and XBOX for your enjoyment. Thanks Lisa we had a blast.

Owner response:So happy that you enjoyed your stay and we hope to see you again! Sincerely, Lisa

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

A WEEK IN PARADISE

Guest: WISCSOTA (Northern Wisc.)
Date of Stay: 07/26/08 Review Submitted: 08/08/09

This was one of the most memorable and relaxing vacation spots to date. The cabin was everything Lisa told us. The fact that electronics could not be used by the kids made for a week of family bonding including a million laughs. The second morning we had a herd of elk across the road from the cabin, the bulls were bugling back and forth it was amazing. Everyday going to town was filled with different wildlife. The springs downtown were a favorite activity as well as the horseback riding in the mountains. Recommend to any who likes the outdoors and peace and quiet. Thanks again Lisa

Owner response:I'm extremely thrilled that your vacation was very special, and that the cabin and its location helped make that happen! Because I live and work in Pagosa, I have been all over this county, and there is no other place in Pagosa that tugs at my heart the way the "Upper Blanco Basin" does (this is where the property is located). Thanks for booking with us! Lisa

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