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Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town.

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Photo gallery for Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town.

Watch shooting stars after a hike! Soak, relax, and breathe!
The spa in the winter is a magical winter wonderland!
The Primary suite is pure rustic luxury with a custom wood and leather bed.
Escape the ordinary in this winter wonderland
Stunning historic lodge with private primary suite deck

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Breakfast available
  • Parking available
  • Laundry
  • Kitchen
$415
avg per night

Explore the area

View in a map
Idyllwild, CA
  • Place, Mount San Jacinto State Park
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Idyllwild Nature Center
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Idyllwild Park
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Airport, Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.)
    ‪73 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1- Master Suite

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2-Downstairs Guest room

2 Twin Beds and 1 King Bed

Bedroom 3- Upstairs

1 King Bed

Bedroom 4- Upstairs

1 King Bed and 2 Twin Beds

Other ;Seasonal Outdoor bed and queen air mattress

1 Queen Bed

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area
Price is $415 avg per night

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About the neighborhood

Idyllwild

Located in Idyllwild, this lodge is in a rural area. McCallum Adobe and Forever Marilyn are local landmarks, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Cameron Center Shopping Center and Plaza de las Flores Shopping Center. Traveling with kids? Consider Idyllwild Nature Center and Palm Springs Convention Center. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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What's nearby

  • Mount San Jacinto State Park - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Idyllwild Nature Center - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Idyllwild Park - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Morongo Casino - 39 min drive - 47.8 km
  • Living Desert Zoo and Gardens - 54 min drive - 74.3 km

Getting around

  • Palm Springs Station - 53 min drive
  • Palm Springs Intl. Airport (PSP) - 72 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Mountain Center Cafe - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Idyllwild Village Market, Deli & Pizzeria - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Alpaca Coffee & Tea - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪Idyllwild Brewpub - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Mama's Egg House - ‬10 min walk

About this property

Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town.

Come experience a bit of history! Commonly referred to as The Mystery Lodge. This was once a summer writing home to famous author, Erle Stanley Gardner, Author of the world renowned Perry Mason mystery series! Built in 1945 originally as a hunting lodge and summer home. Knotty Pine everywhere! Custom milled in Idyllwild in the 40's.

The Mystery Lodge is a Hillside getaway with altitude one of 3 houses on over 3 acres! You can also book The Dome next door (VRBO# 653847) if you have a large group.

There is a binder with some information on my favorite hikes and an Adventure parking pass for you to use during your stay.

Come stay with us for your Idyllwild experience. Pungent pine trees, mountain views, cocktails on the deck. Walk to art galleries, enjoy creekside hikes, gaze at star filled skies while you enjoy our four bedroom, three bathroom home. The knotty pine interior offers a full kitchen, great room with cathedral ceilings, a primary suite with a private deck featuring a seasonal four poster outdoor bed (Summer only; June, July & August. Dependent on weather and only set up on request), outdoor lounge area with views of Tahquitz, and large hot tub/ jacuzzi.

Just relax or choose from a menu of personalized services. We offer private chef service, rock climbing trips and hikes, yoga, spa treatments and executive retreats. We will customize your experience to ensure you get to enjoy all that is unique about our southern California mountain town. All services at an additional charge and are based on availability. Must be booked at least two weeks in advance.

Rustic, well loved home has a primary suite with a grand king size bed, ceiling fan, sitting room, outdoor deck and ensuite bathroom.

Downstairs bedroom has two twin beds* that can be converted into a king bed, ceiling fan, and guest bathroom with a custom slate shower.

Upstairs has two bedrooms with a jack and jill shared bathroom (remodeled custom tile shower/floor). One bedroom has two twin beds* that can be converted into a king bed and the other room has a king size bed. Both rooms have custom entry doors.

*Please let me know if you would like either set of twins converted into a king bed at the time of booking.

Great room offers a large wood burning fireplace, full wet bar, TV, stereo, and high speed WIFI. We have numerous board games and puzzles, some DVD's and a library of books to enjoy during your stay.

Dining area in full service kitchen seats eight and provides everything you need for the ultimate dinner party with friends and family.

Outside there is plenty of outdoor furniture for relaxing on the deck or dining al fresco on the outdoor dining table that seats 6.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Amenities

Hot Tub
Air conditioning
Breakfast available
Parking available
Laundry

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
Child friendly, not "child proof"
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Events

No events allowed
Only with owners permission/additional requirement
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Pets

No pets allowed
Although we love pets, no exceptions can be made.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
This is a non-smoking house.
Please bring your slippers, we ask that you not wear shoes inside the house on the carpeted areas. It helps keep the everything clean for guests.
BB guns, Pellet guns and firearms not allowed on property. No commercial use or filming on property without owner's written permission. Thank you!
No smoking and no pets (even service animals) due to medical conditions.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Only with owners permission/additional requirement
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Property Registration Number RVC-0259

We should mention

This property does not have elevators
A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town.?

As of Mar 26, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town. on Apr 26, 2026 start from $415, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town.?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town.?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town. located?

This family-friendly Idyllwild lodge is located in a rural location, just steps from San Jacinto Mountains and Mount San Jacinto State Park. Idyllwild Nature Center and Idyllwild Park are also within 1 mi (2 km).

Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town. Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 100 out of 110 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 110 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 110 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 110 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 110 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Martha F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host was awesome and so many thoughtful things in the cabin! Highly recommended!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Charles C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host was very attentive to needs, and provided plenty of useful information.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely amazing host amazing property. The cabin is gorgeous. I have nothing but the most incredible things to say about the experience the facility and the host.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lori L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ida was absolutely lovely and created a welcoming atmosphere. We’ve been visiting Idyllwild for over 30 years. The Writer’s Lodge jumped up to our number 1 favorite home away from home. Many thanks, Ida
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeannie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great time

Had a great family vacation
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ron D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mountain Cabin Ambience

Very comfortable, homey location. Will definitely go back again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ersin S.

Great host, great house

Excellent cabin, good for 3-4 couples, walking distance to the town center. Will come again for sure.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

KIRK W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday Retreat with Family

We loved it.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brian G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Stay

Ida the property manager was on top of it all. Place is beautiful, will be back. High marks
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mike M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

New Years

Great location. Close to town. Loved the fully stocked kitchen and bar ware. Hot tub was great on the cold days. Ida was very responsive. Would definitely come back
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Larissa D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Restorative Retreat

Grateful for Ida—she made our retreat at her home feel so restorative. She offered to help find a massage therapist for our group and provided information about the local restaurants, hiking trails etc. We spent the majority of the time in the great room and outside decks and it was lovely. The house is a short 5 min walk to the shopping and restaurants.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sara V.

Fantastic getaway.

We enjoyed our stay at the Mystery Lodge. We had four kids and three adults and there was plenty of room for everyone. The bathrooms were well stocked and even included shampoo, conditioner and body wash. The living area was roomy allowing for game nights. The kitchen was great too with plenty of appliances, pots, pans and cookware. We especially loved the large table in whic everyone could eat together.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rick E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mountain get-away

We were there for our mother's 84th birthday. The home was roomy and well stocked. Ours was a summer visit with hot days. The owner purchased a portable a/c, this was very much appreciated. Upstairs bedrooms were warm, but the outside deck was a wonderful place to visit enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christine V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Family Get Away

We all had a great time at the Mystery Lodge. There was plenty of room for our family of 6 adults and 5 kiddos. I have never stayed in a rental house that was stocked so well. I literally felt like I was at home and had access to anything we needed. Ida prepares the house to be very welcoming, including fresh baked banana bread and fresh flowers everywhere AND the little gift certificates to the town candy store, which she left for the kids, were a huge hit! We would stay here again if we return to Idyllwild.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nostalgic home away from home!

This was one of the best values I’ve experienced in short term rentals. The cabin has everything you will need for a short or long term rental. Our host was very informative and responsive. Rustic charm and authenticity with a dose of comfort and thoughtful planning (including fresh cut flowers in every room and home made banana bread). I’m confident that if we had a need: she would’ve been able to point us in the right direction if she was unable to solve it herself. It really felt a home away from home. We hope to visit again soon.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lance H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic getaway at the Mystery Lodge

This was the perfect spot for an Easter weekend getaway with the family in the mountains. The house exceeded our expectations and matched the description quite accurately. The house was very clean, which isn't always the case when you stay at unknown rentals. The space was more than enough for 6 adults. We especially loved the spa, the balcony views, the fireplace and the cool bar. The host, Ida, was very personable and super accommodating. Check-in was seamless.Thank you, Ida, for a wonderful weekend filled with great memories!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Denise S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Heavenly Get Away

A very roomy place to spread out and relax. Furnished nicely in all the rooms. The kitchen fully equipped for cooking and entertaining. Our group just wanted to relax and not be on a schedule. A nice view of the mountains and surroundings.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marco M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very cozy.

Second time renting this house. Ida is awesome.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leslie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A perfect haven in the mountains

We have returned over and over to this wonderful property because it’s a historical treasure and the owner is stellar! Our memories are amazing! We shall return again absolutely!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diane L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday celebration

Had a wonderful time with family and friends celebrating my birthday. Hot tub was so relaxing and the bar area was the bomb! Kitchen was big enough for several people to prepare food at the same time and very well stocked. Beds and linens very comfortable. Views were outstanding as well. Definitely would recommend this property for big group celebrations.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Trish M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful family getaway!

Our experience here was amazing! It was the perfect spot for two families and kids to getaway for the weekend. The spa was relaxing, the views from the deck beautiful and Ida was quick to respond to any questions I had!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandra W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfortable spacious home.

Very friendly owner. Quick walk to town. Idyllwild has lots of good restaurants.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly K.

Our stay was fabulous - Ida is far and away the best host we've ever had!

Will definitely be back when the weather is warmer / less snowy.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kelly S.

Very kind and accommodating

This cabin was one of the most comfortable cabins we’ve ever stayed in in Idyllwild. Ida was very sweet and accommodating to our family and even set us up with a bottle of wine for the adults and gift card to the candy store for the kids. We had fresh orange juice daily and plenty of space to relax together. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

linda P.

Historic Authors' Lodge -The Mystery Lodge Idyllwild-Pine Cove

There were eight little individual loaves of banana bread and a bag of gourmet coffee beans waiting for us when we arrived. The cabin was so spacious, quaint, and rustic. Every surface was spotless including a huge variety of barware in the bar. From Champaign flutes to Moscow Mule copper mugs! The numbers of pots and pans and electrical appliances in the kitchen were more than I’ve ever seen before in a rental. Three kinds of coffee pots, a crock pot, electric kettle, .... even a cast iron skillet... haven’t used one of those in years! And enough dishes, coffee mugs and glassware for an army! The central heating was quiet and efficient. There was plenty of hot water even with six women showering! The water pressure was wonderful. The master bedroom/ bathroom was huge and so comfortable. The outdoor space was also very nice. The views from the deck were beautiful. The hot tub was hot and ready when we arrived. Terry loath robes for all six of us were provided! We saw so many stars come out at night while enjoying the hot tub. The location so close to town was great. There were so many seating options in the living room! We loved padding around in our slippers on the soft carpeting.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2019