Entire home

Mt Tamalpais Dream Retreat

Cottage perched on a hillside facing east

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

1 bedroom2 bathroomsSleeps 21000 sq ft

Popular amenities

Dryer
Washer
Kitchen
Outdoor space

Explore the area

Mill Valley, CA

Sweetwater Music Hall
‪4 min drive‬
Golden Gate National Recreation Area
‪6 min drive‬
Muir Woods National Monument
‪8 min drive‬
San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)
‪48 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Dining area

About this property

Mt Tamalpais Dream Retreat

One-bedroom, 2 full bathroom cottage is an ultra-charming, craftsman style home with magnificent views of the San Francisco Bay. It offers a fully equipped kitchenette, a lovely living room, a comfy bedroom, a full sized bed sleeping loft, a library /TV room and an ethereal work space. Sip coffee or wine from one of the double decks. Stay in to enjoy the view and birdsong or head out for a Bay Area adventure. Mt. Tamalpais State Park trails for hiking and mountain biking are right out your back door. Sausalito, San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, Muir Woods and the wine country offer some of the endless possibilities for day tripping. This is a place that is both relaxing and inspiring. A perfect writer's retreat (in fact, it was the winter home of a New York Times best-selling author) or for soulful restoration!

Property manager

Marianne

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

Outdoor space

Mountain view

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 31

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Adults only

1-8 mo. considered / Pack ‘n Play crib available

Events

No events allowed

ONLY guests on lease are to stay overnight.

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Non cigarette smoking allowed outside on decks

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:

Gather used towels

Remove personal items and take out the rubbish

Turn off the lights and return the keys

See the Checkout Instructions in the Welcome Book

1. Place all used towels / laundry in a pile on the bathroom floors. Please do not strip the beds, leave them unmade. 2. Return the key to the hook by the kitchen door before you leave.

There are detailed instructions re: Recycle and Trash at end of stay. If you have any confusion, leave it for the owner. Thank you.

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Laundry: Access to W/D available for a fee of $40/week.

Cottage is NOT suitable for children. Infants (0-8 months) considered - Pack-n-Play available on request without fee.

If the guest wished to bring a pet, it will only be considered after the Pet Addendum is completed.

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

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Note from host: ONLY guests on lease are to stay overnight.

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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Mill Valley

Located in Mill Valley, this cottage is in the city centre. Muir Woods National Monument and Golden Gate Bridge are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at San Francisco Bay and Presidio of San Francisco. Bay Area Discovery Museum and Steinhart Aquarium are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Mill Valley, CA

What's nearby

Sweetwater Music Hall - 4 min drive - 1.8 km
Mount Tamalpais State Park - 5 min drive - 2.9 km
Golden Gate National Recreation Area - 6 min drive - 3.9 km
Muir Woods National Monument - 8 min drive - 4.3 km
Larkspur Ferry Terminal - 12 min drive - 7.5 km

Getting around

Richmond Transit Center - 26 min drive
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) - 70 min drive

Restaurants

‪Equator Coffees - ‬5 min drive
‪Equator Coffees - ‬15 min drive
‪Le Marais Bakery - ‬6 min drive
‪Mamahuhu - ‬5 min drive
‪Flour Craft Bakery - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Mt Tamalpais Dream Retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Mt Tamalpais Dream Retreat?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Mt Tamalpais Dream Retreat?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Mt Tamalpais Dream Retreat located?

Located in the heart of Mill Valley, this cottage is 1.2 mi (2 km) from Sweetwater Music Hall and 3 mi (4.9 km) from Muir Woods National Monument. Mount Tamalpais State Park is 2.7 mi (4.3 km) away.

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Irene L.

11 Jun, 2025

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

A wonderful and peaceful getaway with many hiking trails nearby! Hosts were friendly and generous!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

GlennB

9 Jun, 2025

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

The house had everything that one would want and the owner was very helpful and available. The location, architecture and character of the house reflected the area well. Close to Mt. Tam & Muir Woods. Beautiful views.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

GlennB

9 Jun, 2025

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

We love this property! It is so cozy and cute while at the same time being perfectly hip without being pretentious. the yard and spa are very welcoming and there are so many places to "hang out" outside. The mod cons are good making it easy to settle in and its perfectly situated close to the 29 Palms Joshua Tree Park entrance. We would definitely stay there the next time we are in the area.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angela H.

8 May, 2025

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

The most peaceful retreat you will ever find.

A beautiful hidden gem among the redwoods. Marianne was the perfect host. She was kind and helpful, and made us feel welcome from the first moment we met. This was our first time visiting the Mill Valley area, and this tree house cottage felt like a home away from home. It has everything you need, and more, for a relaxing getaway and an area to explore. We can’t wait to return to this lovely place.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nancy S.

18 Jun, 2025

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

Absolutely Perfect Stay!What an incredible gem in Mill Valley! My husband and I planned a delayed honeymoon and this was our first stop. What an awesome way to begin our journey! Marianne’s beautifully designed Craftsman guest house exceeded all expectations. The space is not only impeccably maintained and thoughtfully decorated, but also incredibly comfortable — it truly felt like a peaceful, intimate retreat.The views are absolutely spectacular — waking up to the stunning landscape and soaking in the serenity of the gorgeous gardens was a dream. And Buster, Marianne’s sweet and gentle dog, made the stay even more delightful. He was such a friendly little presence, always ready for a tail wag or two.Marianne was a wonderful and welcoming host — warm, helpful, and respectful of privacy. We honestly didn’t want to leave and we are already planning our next stay. Highly, highly recommended!

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stacy M.

21 Oct, 2024

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

Lovely stay

Lovely property with scenic mountain views.

Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bob G.

16 Feb, 2025

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

High above

Slightly funky, comfortable space. A real mountain setting with big beautiful views, yet charming Mill Valley is at the bottom of the hill. We needed privacy and hosts obliged 100%.

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Roseanne W.

26 Aug, 2024

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

Comfortable quiet, peaceful stay with an amazing view.

Host was incredibly accommodating and the property was just as advertised. We had a very relaxing peaceful stay.

Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Arietta S.

19 Mar, 2025

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

Truly magic

This is a very very special place, and certainly my favorite VRBO ever. It is a spacious, two-story cottage nestled in the woods along a windy road leading to the top of Mt. Tamalpais. The views - as well as the flora and birds - are breathtaking from the upper and lower floors, and both have spacious decks. The rooms and furnishings are incredibly comfortable and welcoming, and my husband and I felt instantly at home. There were fresh flowers everywhere and the hosts were very generous and responsive. Town - which is wonderful too - is 7 minutes down the hill. We simply cannot recommend it highly enough -- we did NOT want to leave at all! And of course we're already planning our return.

Stayed 16 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa S.

5 Nov, 2024

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

Marin Hiking

We very much enjoyed our 5 night stay at this charming cottage. Marianne was helpful and communicative during our stay. Fresh flowers throughout the house made it very welcoming. Fantastic location for walking and hiking - really felt like a mountain get away.

Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jane G.

22 Jun, 2024

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

Beautiful place!!

Property is absolutely beautiful with fantastic views! Owner was extremely helpful. We have family living in the area and will definitely stay here again!

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard S.

3 Jul, 2024

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

Great Stay

Everything was as advertised. A very quiet setting

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie F.

26 Jul, 2024

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

Fantastic!

Beautiful location. Convenient location. Greeted by host. Very welcoming. All amenities included. Great vacation!

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jill L.

9 Sept, 2024

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

Mill Valley

Lovely

Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kilo K.

9 Jul, 2024

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

Beautiful and peaceful

Hummingbirds, redwoods and piece of mind is what you will get while staying here. Marianne is a pleasure and so was the house, nothing but good things to say. Thank you

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

RUDI M.

31 Jul, 2023

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

Idyllic stay in the hills

Great location, beautiful environment We felt very welcome with freshly cut flowers in all the rooms. The owners were very helpful and friendly. I would recommend this place to anyone staying in Mill Valley.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Whitney C.

21 Jul, 2023

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

Mill Valley

We had a great stay in Mill Valley. Great host. We loved the place and hope to visit again soon!

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan B.

20 Jul, 2024

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

Beautiful place

My adult son and I spent the weekend at this cottage. It was equipped with everything and the owner was very nice to show us all around the cottage and what it offered. We even got in a game of cribbage which they had on the game shelf! The views around the cottage are beautiful and the beds were very comfortable. I recommend renting this cottage if you are going to Mill Valley!

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pam H.

8 Mar, 2024

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

I look forward to my stay in this wonderful garden house every year

A beautiful property full of flowers and authentic NorCal touches. Wonderful host. I sleep so well here! Can’t wait for next year.

Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robert D.

8 May, 2024

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

Private and quiet stay in Mill Valley

High marks from us for our lovely stay in this cottage on the ridge above Mill Valley. Nicely furnished and equipped. Very convenient parking (sometimes a challenge in Mill Valley). Owner is friendly and helpful, but not intrusive. Easy access to everything in town, and location is close to the headlands and the state park, with lots of walking trails to explore.

Stayed 18 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mary D., Santa Cruz, CA

2 Jan, 2018

We loved the Mt Tam retreat. Truly a special place

We had a fantastic weekend exploring the trails of Mt Tam just up the street. Marianne was an amazing host and was so sweet with our dog. We would stay again in a heartbeat.

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2017

10/10 Excellent

David G., Shorewood, WI

23 Oct, 2023

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

Mill Valley Get-away

Marianne was a phenomenal host who made our stay exceptional. The property was exactly as described and perfect all the way to smallest details. Highly recommended for anyone who wants a private stay near all that Mill Valley and Mt. Tam have to offer.

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

David S.

23 Jul, 2023

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

Beautiful

We had a wonderful time, wish we could have stayed longer! We hope to come back again someday. Highly recommended.

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mark P.

2 Feb, 2025

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

Charming retreat in the sky...

My wife and I arrived on a Wednesday night. Marianne gave a wonderful walk through with plenty of helpful information and we stayed through Sunday morning. And everything was great! She was very responsive with texts and proactive in reaching out to make sure everything was just right. Mill valley is awesome. I can't wait to go back. Spending time in the redwoods is extraordinary and Marianne's place is in an ideal location. I wish that it hadn't rained quite so much because I really wanted to hike to the top of My Tam but I didn't have enough time on Thursday night to get all the way there before sundown. The pictures I did get of San Francisco from the trail are posted on Google Maps so have a look... It's gorgeous. I would totally come back here and am very grateful for Marianne making this home available. I was honored to be there.

Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie M.

3 Jul, 2024

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

Amazing veiws!

This cottage was amazing. It did get hot in the afternoon but the morning and evenings were nice. The decks had the most beautiful veiws. The flowers and trees on the property smelled amazing. Marianne was so kind and had great suggestions. I would definitely stay here again! The bed was so comfortable. She had everything you would need for cooking a nice meal. Thanks Marianne!

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

About the host

Hosted by Marianne

We have lived on Middle Ridge for over 40 years. The cottage was our home while we were building our main house on the same lot. Now the cottage is a rental. We have met so many wonderful people who have stayed there over the years. Everyone who has lived there has enjoyed the brilliant space.

Why they chose this property

Our Mt. Tam perch has the best weather and some of the best views in town. You can walk out the door and be on a mountain trail in minutes or drive a few miles and be in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

What makes this property unique

Our two level cottage is built on the Middle Ridge of Mt. Tam facing east. It has decks off of French doors on each level with dog gates to keep pets in or out. The downstairs bedroom is perfect place to tuck in for a dreamy night’s sleep – the morning light, birdsong and breezes will awaken you, unless you close the curtains. Walk up the spiral staircase to a great room flooded with natural light. This open area has a writing desk, kitchenette, napping loft, dinette and living room. In the adjacent room there is a library and a TV. Stay in, relax and enjoy the sweeping views or step out to experience any of the many adventures the Bay Area has to offer. Come and enjoy!