Entire home
"2025 Best Retreat Center in San Diego County"
Photo gallery for "2025 Best Retreat Center in San Diego County"





2 bedrooms 1 bathroom Sleeps 2 800 sq ft
Popular amenities
Explore the area
Julian, CA
- Julian Town Hall4 min drive
- Julian Historical Society4 min drive
- William Heise County Park8 min drive
- San Diego, CA (SEE-Gillespie Field)62 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 2)
Champagne Room
1 Queen Murphy Bed
Italy Room
1 Queen Sofa Bed
1 bathroom
Champagne Room and Italy Room Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchenette
Balcony
Garden
About this property
"2025 Best Retreat Center in San Diego County"
"2025 Best Retreat Center in San Diego County"
The first time offered! Experience the Unparalleled Views of The Inner North Star Retreat Center. This property is now available when Retreats are not scheduled.
Article: Inner North Star Retreat Center: Best Retreat Center in San Diego County of 2025
Nestled atop a breathtaking 20-acre mountaintop in Julian, California, Inner North Star, LLC has earned its title as the Best Retreat Center in San Diego County of 2025. Founded by Michelle Dutro, an Air Force veteran, former firefighter, and seasoned wellness practitioner, the retreat is a sanctuary designed to restore the mind, nurture the spirit, and guide individuals on a transformative journey toward personal fulfillment. With over 20 years of experience in wellness, biofeedback, and stress reduction, Michelle has created a retreat destination that not only offers physical rejuvenation but fosters profound personal growth and healing.
A Sanctuary for the Soul:
The Inner North Star Retreat Center offers a stunning combination of serene beauty, luxurious accommodations, and transformative experiences. Located in the picturesque town of Julian, this hidden gem serves as an ideal getaway for those looking to disconnect from daily stressors and reconnect with their purpose and passion.
The Stay:
The Champagne Room: Inspired by the glamour of the Roaring Twenties, complete with sparkling chandeliers, plush velvet furnishings, and a spa-inspired bathroom with a luxurious steam shower and reflexology foot massager.
The Italy Room: A charming space that captures the essence of Old World charm, featuring Venetian plaster walls, rustic Italian wine crate accents, and a cozy kitchenette.
These thoughtfully designed spaces elevate the overall retreat experience, creating a memorable escape for all who visit.
A Natural Paradise:
What truly sets Inner North Star apart is its surroundings. The property offers panoramic views of Julian's mountains and rolling hills, creating a sense of peace and connection with nature. Guests can explore the area’s meticulously maintained walking trails, where the beauty of the natural landscape is evident at every turn. At night, the retreat center is a magical display of colors that sets it apart from any other venue.
In addition to the stunning daytime views, Julian was recently designated as a Dark Sky Community, making it one of the best locations in California for stargazing. As night falls, the property transforms into an ethereal space, with tree-lined paths that change colors, offering a magical experience. The combination of breathtaking scenery and captivating night skies makes this retreat unlike any other.
A Venue for Every Occasion:
Whether you're looking to host a wellness retreat, a corporate leadership gathering, an intimate elopement, or a family reunion, Inner North Star provides the perfect backdrop. The retreat center offers customized farm-to-table plant-based dining, served on the expansive deck with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, wellness experiences like restorative yoga, guided meditation, and a cold plunge are curated to enhance personal well-being and deepen the connection to self.
For those seeking a more private experience, Inner North Star also offers exclusive bookings for private getaways and corporate retreats. The flexibility of the retreat center makes it a top choice for those who need a peaceful and secluded environment for team-building, strategic planning, or reconnecting with loved ones.
Wellness and Recreation at Its Best:
The retreat is designed not just for relaxation but also for fun and play. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor games, including bocce ball, horseshoes, ladder toss, and cornhole, which encourages connection and joy among guests.
For those seeking quiet reflection, more than ten unique sitting areas are scattered across the property, including hammocks and luxurious zero-gravity recliners positioned perfectly to soak in the panoramic views. The whimsical fairy garden and tranquil meditation space offer the perfect spots for introspection, peaceful conversation, or simply enjoying the sounds of nature.
Conclusion:
Inner North Star, LLC has rightfully earned its place as San Diego County’s Best Retreat Center of 2025. With its luxurious accommodations, unparalleled natural beauty, and transformative wellness offerings, it is the perfect place to rejuvenate, reflect, and find clarity. Whether you need a restorative retreat, a peaceful getaway, or a venue for a special event, Inner North Star provides an experience that will nourish your soul, inspire your spirit, and create lifelong memories.
Best of Best Review
The first time offered! Experience the Unparalleled Views of The Inner North Star Retreat Center. This property is now available when Retreats are not scheduled.
Article: Inner North Star Retreat Center: Best Retreat Center in San Diego County of 2025
Nestled atop a breathtaking 20-acre mountaintop in Julian, California, Inner North Star, LLC has earned its title as the Best Retreat Center in San Diego County of 2025. Founded by Michelle Dutro, an Air Force veteran, former firefighter, and seasoned wellness practitioner, the retreat is a sanctuary designed to restore the mind, nurture the spirit, and guide individuals on a transformative journey toward personal fulfillment. With over 20 years of experience in wellness, biofeedback, and stress reduction, Michelle has created a retreat destination that not only offers physical rejuvenation but fosters profound personal growth and healing.
A Sanctuary for the Soul:
The Inner North Star Retreat Center offers a stunning combination of serene beauty, luxurious accommodations, and transformative experiences. Located in the picturesque town of Julian, this hidden gem serves as an ideal getaway for those looking to disconnect from daily stressors and reconnect with their purpose and passion.
The Stay:
The Champagne Room: Inspired by the glamour of the Roaring Twenties, complete with sparkling chandeliers, plush velvet furnishings, and a spa-inspired bathroom with a luxurious steam shower and reflexology foot massager.
The Italy Room: A charming space that captures the essence of Old World charm, featuring Venetian plaster walls, rustic Italian wine crate accents, and a cozy kitchenette.
These thoughtfully designed spaces elevate the overall retreat experience, creating a memorable escape for all who visit.
A Natural Paradise:
What truly sets Inner North Star apart is its surroundings. The property offers panoramic views of Julian's mountains and rolling hills, creating a sense of peace and connection with nature. Guests can explore the area’s meticulously maintained walking trails, where the beauty of the natural landscape is evident at every turn. At night, the retreat center is a magical display of colors that sets it apart from any other venue.
In addition to the stunning daytime views, Julian was recently designated as a Dark Sky Community, making it one of the best locations in California for stargazing. As night falls, the property transforms into an ethereal space, with tree-lined paths that change colors, offering a magical experience. The combination of breathtaking scenery and captivating night skies makes this retreat unlike any other.
A Venue for Every Occasion:
Whether you're looking to host a wellness retreat, a corporate leadership gathering, an intimate elopement, or a family reunion, Inner North Star provides the perfect backdrop. The retreat center offers customized farm-to-table plant-based dining, served on the expansive deck with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, wellness experiences like restorative yoga, guided meditation, and a cold plunge are curated to enhance personal well-being and deepen the connection to self.
For those seeking a more private experience, Inner North Star also offers exclusive bookings for private getaways and corporate retreats. The flexibility of the retreat center makes it a top choice for those who need a peaceful and secluded environment for team-building, strategic planning, or reconnecting with loved ones.
Wellness and Recreation at Its Best:
The retreat is designed not just for relaxation but also for fun and play. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor games, including bocce ball, horseshoes, ladder toss, and cornhole, which encourages connection and joy among guests.
For those seeking quiet reflection, more than ten unique sitting areas are scattered across the property, including hammocks and luxurious zero-gravity recliners positioned perfectly to soak in the panoramic views. The whimsical fairy garden and tranquil meditation space offer the perfect spots for introspection, peaceful conversation, or simply enjoying the sounds of nature.
Conclusion:
Inner North Star, LLC has rightfully earned its place as San Diego County’s Best Retreat Center of 2025. With its luxurious accommodations, unparalleled natural beauty, and transformative wellness offerings, it is the perfect place to rejuvenate, reflect, and find clarity. Whether you need a restorative retreat, a peaceful getaway, or a venue for a special event, Inner North Star provides an experience that will nourish your soul, inspire your spirit, and create lifelong memories.
Best of Best Review
Property manager
Michelle Dutro
Languages
English
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Hot tub
Kitchen
Air conditioning
Laundry
Outdoor space
Mountain view
Have a question?
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Similar properties

Pet/Family Treehouse style cabin in woods
Pet/Family Treehouse style cabin in woods
- Kitchen
- Washer
- Dryer
- Pet-friendly
9.6 out of 10, (47 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Adults only
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
All events must have prior approval before booking
Pets
No pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 16
Note from host: All events must have prior approval before booking
This property uses solar energy, plus eco-friendly cleaning products
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
About the area
Julian
Located in Julian, this holiday home is in a rural area and in the mountains. Julian Town Hall and Julian Historical Society are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include California Wolf Center and Laguna Mountain Recreation Area.
Julian, CA
What's nearby
- Julian Town Hall - 4 min drive - 4.1 km
- Julian Historical Society - 4 min drive - 4.1 km
- Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve - 8 min drive - 7.1 km
- William Heise County Park - 8 min drive - 6.0 km
- Lake Cuyamaca - 10 min drive - 12.7 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Lake Cuyamaca - 11 min drive
- Julian Brewing Company - 5 min drive
- Julian Pie - 13 min drive
- Julian Pie Company - 5 min drive
- Dudley's Bakery & Restaurant - 13 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to leave a review for this property after your stay.
About the host
Hosted by Michelle Dutro

Hello! As a S. CA native, I love everything this area has to offer. Julian is one of the few places that has a true four season experience and yet only an hour from San Diego. After 7 years of construction, this property is truly everything I hoped to offer in a Retreat Center - getaway.
Why they chose this property
Julian feels like it is right out of a Hallmark movie. With one stop sign in town, you truly feel like you have dropped into a mining town from 100 years ago. I love a place that makes you feel like you a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of life...yet still close enough to come for weekend getaway.
What makes this property unique
There are many things on this property that you will not find anywhere else, largely due to the fact that we are a Wellness Retreat Center, listed here just during the times that we are not hosting a retreat. That said we have the only Cold Plunge and Hot Tub in Julian. We offer the most spectacular view you will find anywhere, and the lights at night that change colors along our paths (see photos) make this place truly magical. Now for the lodging - you will be staying in a 1920's themed Champagne Room, and your living space in an old world charm Italy Room with views of the Vineyard. It's an experience you will never forget.
Languages:
English
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback