I am a single senior woman with a dog, and I booked this home for two weeks over Christmas and New Years, 2013. It was perfect! I was able to entertain local friends, all of whom were impressed with the home and its garden and views. But it didn't feel too big when I was there alone with my dog. In fact, its serenity was wonderful, in spite of the fact that the preserve next door is a busy place, with people coming and going all day long.
I arrived after dark (5pm check in), and settled in easily, waking the next morning to a stunning garden of statice, bougainvilla, sage and birds of paradise. Within minutes my dog and I were out on the preserve, where we explored (off-leash!) for a couple of hours at least! That became a daily ritual. The neighborhood is cute, with modest homes next to more upscale ones, and feels safe. As a jogger, I loved the miles of flat, paved roads, right out the front door. A few blocks away are the Mesa Lane Steps (242 if I counted correctly), which lead to an off-leash beach, and you can walk or jog to your heart's content, all the way to the SB Yacht Club if you like.
The photos don't include the bedrooms, but the owner quickly supplied them at my request. I was happy in the master bedroom, in spite of the odd closet arrangement, up a flight of 7 stairs. The hot tub was convenient and easy to manage on my own. The other bedroom and loft beds were comfortable. Flat screen TVs in both bedrooms and living room! I found Turner Classic Movies on demand with Cox Cable, and curled up on the couch most evenings.
The views and grounds are the strong suit for this home, and are not to be underestimated! Instead of ringing in the new year tired and stressed from a busy holiday season, I returned home to the Bay Area rejuvenated and ready for 2014.
