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At the Merriewood Retreat you are in a private, serene, garden setting.

Photo gallery for At the Merriewood Retreat you are in a private, serene, garden setting.

Opening to the outdoor oasis
A front door with a glass panel, a doormat, and a variety of potted plants and a birdhouse outside.
Terrace/patio
A modern living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a kitchen area with a refrigerator and microwave.
Park in our private driveway, or overflow on our quiet street

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • Private garden
    A rare find — relax in the peaceful, private garden space.
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchenette
  • Washing machine
  • Barbecue grill
  • Deck or patio

Explore the area

View in a map
Oakland, CA
  • Place, Lake Temescal
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, University of California, Berkeley
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Oracle Park
    ‪23 min drive‬
  • Airport, Oakland, CA (OAK-Oakland Intl.)
    ‪19 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchenette
Garden

About this property

At the Merriewood Retreat you are in a private, serene, garden setting.

The Merriewood Retreat invites an idyllic respite in the hills, offering convenience of location as well as quiet in a place of beauty for work or a well-earned staycation.

Although there is no TV, the environment is set up for reading, relaxing in and out, as well as for working
*Dedicated WIFI
*Strong phone/internet connection
Sit at a desk, on a sofa, or even outdoors
Enjoy the spacious patio garden with ample seating in sun or shade.

It's just a Quick Drive to neighboring towns, BART transport, regional parks, and hiking trails

Near by Montclair Village has groceries, various int'l cuisine, take-outs, coffee shops, books and boutiques, banks, and a spacious park for picnics and kids' play.

PLEASE NO SMOKING ON THE PROPERTY

DOGS WELCOME! 2 max please or check with host
This SECURE garden is great for dogs to explore and get some extra stretching. Take your pups on a tree-filled walk, circling you back home in 15 minutes.

King size, Sleep Number bed
Kitchenette with cooktop, hot water pot, microwave, frig, hot-water sink
Cooking supplies include pot and frypan, Dishes. Cutlery. Wine and water glasses
Coffee. Teas.

Attached bath, walk-in shower with soaps
Hair dryer and forgotten amenities

Closet, dresser drawers
Ironing board, iron
Full-length mirror
Sofa seating

Keys available on arrival.
Come and go independently through the
well-lighted, private driveway

No stairs

No hourly restrictions

Life in our neck of the woods is both pet and people-friendly.
Family, friends are welcome as day guests

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: limit 1 total
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Coffee grounds can be turned into the garden box or into the garbage bag. DO NOT PUT ANY FOOD IN THE SINK
Please leave the door ajar when you are leaving.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 4441858vb
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Oakland

Merriewood, a neighbourhood in Oakland, is home to this holiday home. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and SF Masonic Auditorium are cultural highlights, and some of the area's notable landmarks include Alcatraz Island and Ferry Building. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Oracle Park or Chase Center. Discover the area's water adventures with nearby swimming, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain biking, cycling and hiking/biking trails.
View more Holiday homes in OaklandOpens in a new window
Map
Oakland, CA

What's nearby

  • Lake Temescal - 2 min drive - 1.8 km
  • University of California, Berkeley - 6 min drive - 5.0 km
  • Jack London Square - 10 min drive - 11.8 km
  • Oracle Park - 23 min drive - 23.6 km
  • Moscone Convention Center - 23 min drive - 23.6 km

Getting around

  • Rockridge Station - 5 min drive
  • Berkeley Station - 12 min drive
  • Oakland, CA (OAK-Oakland Intl.) - 28 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Panda Express - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Payakk - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪The Habit Burger Grill - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is At the Merriewood Retreat you are in a private, serene, garden setting. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 1 total).

How much does it cost to stay at At the Merriewood Retreat you are in a private, serene, garden setting.?

As of 18 Jul, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at At the Merriewood Retreat you are in a private, serene, garden setting. on 16 Sept, 2026 start from S$492, 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 At the Merriewood Retreat you are in a private, serene, garden setting.?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at At the Merriewood Retreat you are in a private, serene, garden setting.?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at At the Merriewood Retreat you are in a private, serene, garden setting.?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is At the Merriewood Retreat you are in a private, serene, garden setting. located?

Located in Merriewood, this holiday home is within 6 miles (10 km) of Redwood Regional Park, University of California, Berkeley and Alta Bates Summit Medical Center. Children's Hospital Oakland and Memorial Stadium are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 18 out of 18 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 18 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Olivia L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Marilyn is wonderful as is the property and the space. Hope to be able to stay again one day, - would highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Terri H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful peaceful pet-friendly
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 23 May, 2026
It was a joy to host you and your very thoughtful pup was a cutie as well Thank you for finding and choosing The Retreat
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Holly B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Place was immaculate and very comfortable. Host was welcoming and our dogs were so happy there.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Dec, 2025
Holly and her family were kind and considerate guests It was a real pleasure to host them.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lawrence J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Calling it The Retreat is very accurate. Lovely feeling about the place. Very “zen”. Relaxing and because I have an affinity for elephants, I was in heaven. Beautiful views up in the hills of Oakland. I would stay there again in a heartbeat.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Jun, 2026
And you would be welcomed back in a heart beat Smiling for your affinity of elephants 💗
Verified

10/10 Excellent

J R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This free-standing studio apartment fit all our needs - well-equipped, quiet, and located in the Oakland hills near the family we were visiting. The hosts were lovely and attentive We hope to return!
Stayed 13 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Feb, 2026
Joyce was a delightful and thoughtful guest. We definitely would welcome her back again
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great property and great host! Thank you for your great welcome and hospitality
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Sept, 2025
Oh John I hope you take wonderful memories down under and may they pull you back our way any time soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chris L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet spot, beautiful garden, easy to get to
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Jul, 2025
Thanks for coming Chris You and your pups seemed to have a good time that makes me so happy !
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our host Marilyn and her husband rich were very welcoming and friendly. We look forward to staying with them again if possible!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

C K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Situated in a quiet, safe residential neighborhood up in the hills. Conveniently located 15 minutes to Berkeley. Hosts were welcoming and dog owners. Kitchenette had a mini frig, coffee press with provided coffee, microwave and hot plate. Great for someone with a car as they provide access to use their driveway.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 20 May, 2026
Caroline it was a pleasure to have you here Yours should have been a star review all the way but unfortunately Vrbo isn't set up for edits so if there's a slip of finger, and it's not caught , the review goes forward. VRBO is not systematized to correct errors efficiently. You were an amazing guest and I hope to see you back visiting your daughter.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emma L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful garden and incredibly peaceful. It was very close to a lot of trails and a cute area with lots of shops and restaurants. The hosts were so friendly and kind. I would absolutely return again and again.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Sept, 2025
Emma ir was so relaxing to see you out in the garden with Bob You're a trooper to climb back up from the coffee shop but it's kind of rewarding too, isn't it? Look forward to an " again" time.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dona L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I loved this quaint little retreat! It is a hidden gem.Once you enter the backyard, you see the lovely trees starting to bloom, ( it is the beginning of March), and you can hear various birds chirping.And, it is peaceful and quiet. I felt very relaxed.The small cottage is simply decorated with big windows looking into the yard, and a high beamed ceiling. Very charming.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Mar, 2026
Oh Dona you're so kind Thank you ! We thoroughly enjoyed your enjoying time at the Retreat! Do Come again! And bring the nice weather we all enjoyed!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Abigail D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thank you, Marilyn and family--what a wonderful retreat! The space is beautiful and well- appointed--every little detail attended to, from the big, sturdy coffee mugs and delicious coffee to the all the area guides and travel-size necessities. The garden is peaceful, inviting, gorgeous, and the neighborhood is beautiful. I will definitely be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Sept, 2025
Ah it was so lovely to know you were relaxing as well as getting out into The hood :) Loved our brief In-passing chats and wish you both well now heading home!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sydney B.

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

A perfectly peaceful retreat

Everything about our visit to Merriewood Retreat was perfect! Lovely inside and out and hosts with the most! The garden is blossoming in many colors, the inside space (though hard to go in— it being so nice outside) had everything one could ask for including a super comfy bed, fully functional kitchen space and large, beautiful shower. We look forward to coming back!!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jun, 2025
It was a joy to host you and have you delight in our garden spaces with your daughter on occasion. So glad the weather was perfect for your stay Do come again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Norma F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful spot! The place is even more spacious than pictured, and is charming and comfortable, with a lovely view of the garden. The host has supplied everything one could possible need in excellent condition. The communication from the host was above and beyond, which we appreciated. Overall I'd give 10 stars if possible.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jul, 2025
It was my pleasure to host you and meet some of your family. I am really grateful for your warm embrace of this Retreat, as well. We try to keep it inviting always.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sheryl

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful accommodation separate from main house in secluded wooded neighborhood. Charming hosts, always available. Super pet friendly. Very comfortable king sleep number bed, excellent bathroom with plentiful hot water. Fridge, microwave, hot plate, all cutlery, all there for the asking. Though up in the hills, was 13 min to Emeryville or Berkeley with easy access to 13 and 24 fwys. Wouldn't hesitate to return on a moments notice. Many thanks Marilyn and Rich.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Dec, 2025
It was our pleasure to see all went well for your stay at the Retreat. Seeing you enjoy all aspects of the garden yard with your little Benji was a delight! Glad to hear your drive up and down the hill was quick and easy We look forward to your return in Warmer Weather !
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tara U.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place was so lovely, and the pictures don’t quite do the patio garden justice. I would definitely stay again, and hope to!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jul, 2026
I was so happy to host you, Tara and appreciate your suggestions on the photos I'll see what I can do that the Pro didn't :)) Look forward to a next time with us MRK
Verified

10/10 Excellent

JoAnne R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Marilyn and Rich’s cottage does not disappoint! Somehow the pictures don’t quite do it justice. This serene cottage is in the midst of a magical two-level garden, in a quiet neighborhood up in the hills. The beautifully appointed bathroom boasts an enormous walk-in shower. While the bedroom, kitchen and sitting area are in one room, it is spacious and packed with everything you need. Our pup loved it there. The hosts are kind, friendly people who give you space, but are there if you need anything. We would absolutely return!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Jul, 2026
Oh it was such a warm feeling we had as we bid GoodBye. Your stealth like comings and goings left us wondering if you were still here! We can only hope you'll be back really soon!!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cameron K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful, peaceful secluded property and Marilyn is very sweet and attentive. The only challenging issue is that cell coverage is poor in the cottage and so I had to make phone calls out on the patio but this is really a minor gripe.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Jun, 2026
Ya sorry Cameron, about the cell coverage. Glad you found the outdoor user friendly. We have a dedicated WiFi modem which works well inside and out for people "at work", but no control over cell carrier connection . T-mobile works great and several other guests have had good luck I forgot to ask what your carrier is. Sorry!

About the host

Hosted by Marilyn Joy

Host profile image
Where I'm from? Hmmm. Born in Hawaii. Lived in India K-12 and studied international relations at SF State.
Peace Corps (Thailand) and DC
MSc in counseling and made a career in the Bay Area.
Lived in Oakland 50 years, although Rich and I enjoyed a 5 year 'away job ' in Bangladesh not too long ago.

Why they chose this property

We can walk in quiet beauty. We share the forested streets with dogs, cats, and 3 goats. Occasionally turkeys or a coyote will meander through. Our neighbors are the best!
All so friendly, and caring of one another.

What makes this property unique

The Merriewood Retreat is on a unique piece of property. Hidden in a large garden, away from the street and the city busyness, it is level and easily accessible, with a great sense of spacious beauty surrounding you.

Languages:

English, Spanish

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