Secluded mountain getaway with amazing views - pet friendly
Nestled in the scenic Sierra Nevada Foothills, this unique octagonal home offers a one-of-a-kind getaway experience. The house is perched high atop a ridge, providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the San Joaquin Valley. Its distinctive octagonal design ensures that every room is bathed in natural light, with large windows framing the breathtaking vistas.
The interior blends modern comfort with rustic charm, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The open layout emphasizes spaciousness, with a central living area that seamlessly flows into the kitchen and dining spaces. Cozy, yet functional, the home offers all the amenities needed for a relaxing stay, including comfortable furnishings, well-appointed bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms.
Surrounded by nature, the home provides the perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking peace and quiet. The tranquil surroundings offer easy access to nearby national parks like Kings Canyon and Sequoia, ideal for hiking, fishing, and exploring majestic landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to the area's natural beauty or simply wish to unwind, this octagonal retreat serves as the perfect base for your Sierra foothills adventure.
Activities nearby: Summer and Winter activities in Kings Canyon National Park, Sequoia National Park, and Sequoia National Forest - webcams at: https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/photosmultimedia/webcams.htm -- not to miss in the parks the General Grant and General Sherman Trees, Grizzly Falls, Roaring River Falls, Boyden Cave, Crystal Caverns, Moro Rock, horseback riding, Buck Rock Fire Lookout, and plenty of exciting day-hikes; fabulous fishing at Hume Lake, White Water Rafting along the Kings River with Kings River Expeditions, Pine Flat Lake, Project Survival Cat Haven (don't miss this), Fresno Field Archers, and US Forest Service Delilah Fire Lookout (manned summer months only).
Eating Close by: Bear Mountain Pizza (great pizza), Gina's Sierra Inn, and about 30 min back down the hill is the School House Restaurant & Tavern (well worth the drive and live music on the weekends).
Our property is also located within minutes of several local Wineries - Remeadies Intoxicating Potions (serving Mead - definitely a must try!), Sierra Peaks Winery and Riffelhof Vineyards. A little bit further back down the hill are several wineries - Cedar View Winery, Kings River Winery, Maréchal Vineyards and others.
We have 3 nicely stocked convenience stores and 2 gas stations (one with diesel) along with a Dollar General close by for anything you might have forgotten.
Please be aware that this is a NON-Smoking property and due to the high fire danger there are no open flames allowed from April 1 to Nov 1.
There are 3 security cameras outside covering the cul-de-sac, driveway, and back of the garage.
Please note that the bathroom shower handles need a firm tug out to turn the water on. Once water is on, then twist the handle for desired water temperature.
We do accept up to 2 Pets at our property but there is an additional cleaning fee of $50 per stay.
2025 Update - we have a family of cats that have adopted our house outside on the deck and surrounding areas. They are extremely friendly and help keep the pests down.
If you are planning on bringing pets (which are welcome), please keep them on a leash at all times as we are out in the country - we don't want anyone losing their friends. Do not leave pets tied up outside. Please DO NOT allow your pets on the bed, as their paws will stain the bedding. If you cannot stop your pets from coming onto the beds, please bring your own king-size blanket as a safety cover. DO NOT leave pets unattended either outside or inside. Pets can get nervous when left alone in a new space and chew on things.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
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Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Please place all used sheets and towels on bathroom floor.
Please wash used dishes and place in drying rack in sink.
Brush down cooking grates of BBQ if used.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
1. No open flame outside April 1 to Nov 1.
2. Do not bother neighbors.
3. Be aware that we have potentially dangerous wildlife around.
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 first aid kit
About the area
Yokuts Valley
Located in Yokuts Valley, this holiday home is in a rural area and in the mountains. Cedar View Winery and Ridge Creek Dinuba Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Cathaven and Bravo Lake Botanical Garden. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Giant Sequoia National Monument - 24 min drive - 22.5 km
Cathaven - 25 min drive - 23.6 km
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks - 37 min drive - 32.4 km
Kings Canyon National Park Big Stump Entrance - 38 min drive - 32.7 km
Grant Grove Visitor Center - 44 min drive - 38.1 km
Getting around
Visalia, CA (VIS-Visalia Municipal) - 68 min drive
Restaurants
Clingans Junction-Cabins + Coffee - 24 min drive
Gena's Sierra Inn - 26 min drive
Beef and Brewfest - 24 min drive
Clingans Coffee And Deli - 24 min drive
Dunlap Community Club - 18 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Secluded mountain getaway with amazing views - pet friendly pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.
How much does it cost to stay at Secluded mountain getaway with amazing views - pet friendly?
As of 10 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Secluded mountain getaway with amazing views - pet friendly on 12 May 2026 start from £174, 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 Secluded mountain getaway with amazing views - pet friendly?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Secluded mountain getaway with amazing views - pet friendly?
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Secluded mountain getaway with amazing views - pet friendly?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Secluded mountain getaway with amazing views - pet friendly located?
Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is 11.6 mi (18.7 km) from Cathaven and within 25 miles (40 km) of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and Bear Mountain Library. Kings Canyon National Park Big Stump Entrance and Giant Sequoia National Monument are also within 25 miles (40 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
An hour from Kings Canyon/Sequioa National Parks. Easy to get to. The Parks are amazing and the property ilwas such a delight to come home to after a long day of hiking. Beautiful views, quiet and just perfect.
We have an amazing time at this property. It’s clean, comfortable, and the views are stunning. It was ‘our happy place ’ for 5 incredible days. Would stay here again in a heartbeat!
James Allen D.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jul 2025
Thank you So much for your kind review James! We’re so glad you loved your stay. You are a 5 star guest and we welcome you back anytime!
It was bigger than a solo traveler needed but I have no regrets. Beautiful location fairly close to the national parks. Some barking dogs but otherwise quite peaceful. I loved hanging out with the family of friendly cats, especially since I was away from my own animals. Easy check in and access. Would recommend to anyone, but would certainly be great for a family or small group!
Great place to stay, comfortable, cozy, but not frilly. It's well built and well designed -- a great place to hang out and cook! As some have noted, the park is about 45 minutes away, and it's further if you want to get to the backcountry areas (of course). That said, we had no problem driving in 3 days. Wifi worked great, helpful travel books are around, and the beds were comfy!
This house is wonderful! Perfect for trips to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park.The house is clean and well maintained! Thanks to the hosts is was an amazing experience! We had a perfect stay as a family of four!
Joran E.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Aug 2025
Thank you for your kind review Joran. We are so happy you and your family enjoyed your stay. You are a 5 star guest and are welcomed back anytime. Safe travels!
This property is absolutely stunning! The house is fully stocked with everything you need to cook meals and enjoy the Sequoia/Kings Canyon area. We especially appreciated the camping chairs and backpacks that were available for us to use. It was very comfortable, and we will definitely be returning next summer.
Briana R.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jul 2025
Thank you so much for your kind review Brianna! We are so glad you enjoyed your stay and hope to see you back next summer you’re a 5-star guest! Safe travels. :)
Beautiful location and immaculate property. Nothing more enjoyable than relaxing on the deck taking in the views.
Jim R.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Jun 2025
Thank you so much for your kind review Jim. We think the views are pretty spectacular too and we love sharing our little home. Safe travels and we welcome you back anytime! Thank you for being such a great guest!
The house or yurt is unique. Plenty of space especially if you have little kids. The view is amazing. It's definitely a place to relax. It is very remote, so plan to do a lot of driving. It also got very foggy on one of the days we stayed, and we drove around 5:30 pm. It got pretty scary driving due to low to no visibility. So plan accordingly. The same fog provided a magical view in the morning though. Will try to visit in the summer next time.
We stayed in the unique octagon house as a base camp for our National park adventures. It was a reasonable drive to sequoia and Yosemite. The views were incredible from the patio and our stay was peaceful. We especially got attached to the mama cat that visited our patio. This was our most favorite memory and made us feel at home. Thank you for a great and easy stay!
Lisa M.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Jul 2025
We’re so happy you enjoyed your stay at our little hilltop home. Thank you for your kind review Lisa. Mama cat is often the highlight of so many family’s stays! You are a 5 star guest in our book and are welcomed back anytime! Safe travels. :)
We loved our stay at this house! The views can't be beat, it's not too far from the entrance to Kings Canyon National Park, and the beds are super comfortable. Definitely recommend!
Chris M.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Jun 2023
Thank you for your kind review Chris. We do love those views too!! You were a great guest and we welcome you back anytime!
I would love to see someone find a negative thing about this mountain getaway spot. Such a cool vibe, great views, and short distance from the National Parks. Price was reasonable for our family compared to the other options out there.
Greg P.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Apr 2025
Thank you for your kind review Greg! You are a 5 star with us too! We love this little modest gem and love sharing it. Thank you for choosing us and you are welcomed back anytime. :)
Everything we needed to have a fantastic trip. Close to the parks and Fresno, and we got to play with kittens as a bonus. Would definitely recommend to others for a relaxing vacation.
Carol L.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Jul 2023
Thank you for your kind review Carol! We’re so glad you enjoyed your stay. You were a wonderful guest and are welcomed back anytime!
We had a wonderful time! The sunsets were absolutely beautiful. We loved how the home was decorated with beautiful artwork! We had a wonderful time!
Debra B.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Jul 2024
Thank you so much for your kind review Debra! We are so happy you enjoyed our little hilltop escape. You are welcomed back anytime! Safe travels!
About the host
Hosted by Larry and Merili Loucks
Larry and Merili reside in Fresno and manage to get up to the mountains as often as they can. Larry and Merili found their Mountain Gem in 2016, it had been vacant and very run down. They spent 4 months fully renovating the home and are now able to go up and enjoy. As busy as they both are, they decided to share this little unique gem and began renting it out as a vacation rental the summer of 2017.
Why they chose this property
Larry's family roots run deep in the area. His great grandfather William “Bill” Clingan came to the area in 1911 as a Forest Ranger and in 1915 he became a District Ranger. During his life he lead parties from the Santa Barbara area into the Kings Canyon area for summer camps, was a member of the first road survey party from Grants Grove into Kings Canyon and built and ran the General Store and tourist cabins in Dunlap, which were later moved to Clingan’s Junction and still bears his family name. He was also one of the members of the committee that was instrumental in bringing electricity into the foothills. Larry's Grandfather, William's son, Forest Clingan grew up in the General Store at Clingan’s Junction and lived with the family in a cabin behind the store. Forest Clingan was a member of the 1938 survey party that surveyed the last leg of the road in the Kings Canyon area to Cedar Grove and beyond. He was a WWII Vet and a Naval Captain until his retirement in the 1970s when he moved back to the family residence on Hopewell Rd. Larry's Grandmother Helen was an accomplished artist and both of them were very active in documenting the history of the area, publishing a book on the subject and giving historical talks to many groups. Ask any long time resident of the area and both Grandparents and Great Grandparents are both fondly remembered. Larry has many fond memories of spending summers and vacations in the area at his Grandparents’ house, roaming among the golden hills, exploring back country roads with his grandfather and traveling up to the park.
What makes this property unique
Outstanding views of the San Joaquin Valley and the Mountains all in one place. Well appointed and stylish, our house offers guests a welcome respite from everyday hustle and bustle.
Languages:
English, Croatian
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests