If you want to detach from your everyday life and/or the crowds in Yosemite, a respite, a retreat to recharge at RoundHat Ranch is a natural remedy for you, replete with Outdoor Soaking Tub and Outdoor Shower for added relaxation. A RoundHat Ranch stay is a great addition to your Yosemite vacation experience. Located in the pastoral Catheys Valley, an area of large and small ranches, 2.7 miles off State Hwy 140 (the only all-weather route to Yosemite, and parallels the route of discovery of the Yosemite Valley along the Merced River Gorge by Indians, explorers, and miners). The 'Cottage' is nestled within the ranch, having its own private fenced area. You can move about the ranch along the many tree-lined trails, seeing the animals, and taking in the sights, sounds, and feel of the ranch. The Cottage has been designed, both inside and out, for an intimate and serene experience for its guests The Ranch has a full-time owner/manager living at the Ranch Headquarters and can answer any questions you might have during your stay. RoundHat Ranch has a no pets, no children, 1-2 ADULTS ONLY (21 and over) rental policy due to liability issues concerning the horses and other animals on the Ranch. The policy does allow us to not charge a Security Deposit.
From RoundHat Ranch, it is 3.3 miles to restaurant, gas, and convenience store at the Catheys Valley crossroads at Highway 140 and Hornitos Rd., then it is 10 scenic miles to the historic mining town of Mariposa, another 12 scenic miles later, you enter the spectacular Merced River Gorge (this is the beginning of your Yosemite experience) traveling along the river (Hwy 140) straight into Yosemite Valley. The Arch, West Yosemite Park Entrance (beginning of the Valley), is 45 miles from the ranch, but be advised the scenic beauty may cause you to stop, observe, or linger along the way, so, time to Yosemite Valley varies.
RoundHat Ranch Cottage is 1 bedroom with queen-size bed, 1 bath with shower, and additional outside shower. There is outside the cottage, within the private fenced area, shade-cloth covered arbor patios, a roof covered all weather patio with double chair swing, cement table with inlaid chess/checker board, fountain, outdoor shower with stall and dressing area, propane BBQ, Chaise lounges, patio furniture all shaded by large mature Oak trees.
Inside the Cottage the 1 bedroom is appointed with things related to the ranch and Yosemite, and a Queen size bed w/ linens, blankets, comforter, futon chair/bed and ceiling fans. The Cottage has Satellite TV, WiFi internet access, full bath w/shower with large multi-setting shower head, soap, towels. The kitchen has microwave, refrigerator, 2 burner electric stove top, large kitchen sink, peninsula island cabinet, coffeemaker, some seasonings, cookware, utensils, plates, bowls, cups, and dining table. Living room has sofa, love seat, captains chair w/footstool in Mission-style furniture, and ceiling fan. The heating and air conditioning is a Fujitsu split system that both heats or cools to the set temperature and is very quiet. There is some reading material and games. The utility room has a washer and dryer, extra bathroom and kitchen supplies, and an ironing board, iron, and hair dryer.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights
Turn off heating or air conditioning
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please do not clean.except as necessary
Checkout without cleaning
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
About the area
Catheys Valley
Located in Catheys Valley, this cottage is in a rural area. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Wassama Round House State Historic Park and Bagby Recreation Area, while California State Mining and Mineral Museum and Mariposa Museum and History Center are cultural highlights. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain climbing and rock climbing nearby.
California State Mining and Mineral Museum - 25 min drive - 24.2 km
Windows on the World Books and Art - 28 min drive - 27.8 km
Mariposa County's Old Stone Jail - 29 min drive - 28.1 km
Mariposa County Courthouse - 29 min drive - 28.5 km
Mariposa County Visitor Center - 30 min drive - 29.2 km
Getting around
Mariposa, CA (RMY-Mariposa-Yosemite) - 26 min drive
Restaurants
Tap Room - 9 min drive
Lighthouse Market & Cafe - 12 min drive
Ranch House Cafe - 10 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views?
As of 8 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views on 1 Aug 2026 start from £136, 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 at Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views located?
Situated in a rural location, this cottage is within 16 miles (25 km) of California State Mining and Mineral Museum, Windows on the World Books and Art and Mariposa County's Old Stone Jail. Mariposa County Courthouse and Mariposa Museum and History Center are also within 20 miles (32 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
This was the most beautiful property! My husband and I felt so relaxed and rested…we did not want to leave. The hosts were fun to talk to…the horses and burros were sweet…and the views were spectacular! I loved the rose gardens and iris. It’s close to a very cute village on the way to Yosemite. There were several good restaurants. But most of all…the cottage was well worth the money.
We had an excellent stay at the cottage. It was comfortable, quiet inside even with the windy/rainy weather outside, and was nestled within a beautiful ranch with friendly animals.
The whole weekend was amazing. Absolutely everything I was looking forward to. The cottage was so enjoyable. From the morning chirps of the squirrel, yes the squirrels to the beautiful sunsets from the observation deck to the night time soak in the outside bath tub, this spot had it all and it was only for us. Enjoyed a welcome from host but after that they really gave us our privacy. All and all we had a very romantic Valentines weekend at the cottage.
Here’s a warmer, more conversational version with your anniversary included:⸻We absolutely loved our stay! The cottage was clean, cozy, and just the perfect size for the two of us. The location was beautiful and made it so easy to explore Yosemite. It was the perfect place to celebrate our wedding anniversary — peaceful, charming, and so memorable. Everything about it made our trip extra special! We will be back!
This was such a fun place to stay. We really enjoyed ending our day by walking around the property to pet the horses and donkeys, while watching the sunset. The cottage was comfy and has a beautiful patio to enjoy your morning coffee. The hosts are very kind and gave us many suggestions for our trip to Yosemite as well.
The property was amazing! The instructions provided for check-in were very detailed and useful. We enjoyed walking around in the morning saying hi to the horses and donkeys. We especially enjoyed going to the deck above to watch the stars at night. We will definitely be back!
We stayed for three nights as part of our California road trip. It was definitely the highlight of our trip. Lovely cottage, fantastic location, so peaceful. We loved the outside bath and shower, walking around the ranch with the horses and donkeys and watching the sunrise and sunset from the viewing platform. This is a perfect base for visiting Yosemite National Park and Mariposa Grove. The hosts were lovely and helpful. We made some fantastic memories and would love to return in the future.
This was such a great stay. The house is super cozy and bed very comfy. We loved the outdoor soaking tub and wandering around checking out all the animals. Just beautiful! I would definitely stay here again
A wonderful place, spacious, comfortable and relaxing. So much space inside and shaded outside space e BBQ and gardens. There is even a ute, not often seen in the US. A little off the beaten track but all the better for that. Outstanding. Didn't want to leave.
The cottage was awesome and just as described. Very clean and stocked with everything needed and then some. The decor in the cottage was absolutely beautiful. Perfect getaway for 36th anniversary. The property was beautiful and so relaxing sitting on the patio at night with the lights. All the animals were so cute especially Donkay when he gives you that big smile. Steve and Gayle were great. They were awesome hosts. Hope to return again some day.
Loved the landscape and the owners’ good taste and efforts in decorating the cottage. It’s clean and comfortable. Loved the backyard with swing and outdoor tub. More importantly, we love the host’s warm welcome and flexibility to help us checking in earlier. All were great! We enjoyed our stay there fully.
Such a cute/amazing place on the ranch, so much fun to stay there and close to town and Yosemite This is our second time staying here, thanks again for your hospitality, Stephen & Gayle!
Must see to appreciate. The country setting is great. The animals & wildlife are very relaxing. Got to converse with the owners who are truly great people. Can’t wait to stay again hopefully later this year.
We had a wonderful stay! It was the most peaceful vacation I’ve ever had. The hosts were great, the attention to detail was amazing, and the animals on the property were a huge bonus. We would love to come back!
I booked the Roundhat Ranch Cottage as a surprise for my girlfriend who loves farm animals. It was beautiful. The outdoor shower and tub are perfect after a long day hiking. Super relaxing and great spot to get out of town to.
Our stay at this beautiful ranch was absolutely perfect! The property is stunning, with breathtaking views, charming animals, and a peaceful atmosphere that made it hard to leave. The location is ideal—close enough to Yosemite for easy day trips, yet far enough to enjoy the quiet serenity of the countryside. The owners were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. This is truly a hidden gem, and we can’t wait to come back!
Mjraid24
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
About the host
Hosted by Stephen and/or Gayle Saunders
Owner/Managers - Stephen and Gayle Saunders are business owners, and Stephen was a building contractor, and together they built their dream ranch. They have been owners, breeders, trainers, and show exhibiters of Peruvian Horses since 1989.
Why they chose this property
Catheys Valley has an almost pastoral quality with many large and small ranches. RoundHat Ranch is nestled at the foot of Guadalupe Mt. on gently sloping all-usable terrain, with several knolls giving 360 degree views. And the proximity to Yosemite Park made our decision to live here easy.
What makes this property unique
To move about the entire Ranch easily, the many pastures have tree-lined trails between. This allows guests to observe all the area and animals up close and in an almost parklike experience. For those who like photography, there is ample inspiration. Varied wildlife can be seen daily. The 'Cottage' is set within and yet apart from the ranch by its own privately fenced area, encompassing large mature Oak trees, shade-cloth arbor covered patios, fountain, all-weather covered patio, double chair swing, and outdoor shower. All with an intimate view of the ranch and distant mountain, valley and meadow views. The seasons at RoundHat Ranch are distinct and each has its own attractive elements, there are no weather related access problems to the ranch or to Yosemite Valley along Highway 140. From RoundHat Ranch, it is 3.3 miles to restaurant, gas, and convenience store at the Catheys Valley crossroads, then it is 10 scenic miles to the historic mining town of Mariposa, another 12 scenic miles later, you enter the spectacular Merced River Gorge (this is the beginning of your Yosemite experience) traveling along the river (Hwy 140) straight into Yosemite Valley. The Arch, West Yosemite Park Entrance (beginning of the Valley), is 45 miles from the ranch, but be advised the scenic beauty may cause you to stop, observe, or linger along the way, so, time to Yosemite Valley varies.
Languages:
English
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