The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat

See all properties

Entire home

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

4 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 8231.1 sq m

Popular amenities

Dryer
Parking available
Washer
Fireplace
Air conditioning

Explore the area

Borrego Springs, CA

The Springs at Borrego Golf Course
‪9 min drive‬
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center
‪11 min drive‬
Anza Borrego Desert State Park
‪12 min drive‬
Borrego Springs, CA (BXS-Borrego Valley)
‪12 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Double Sofa Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo

Bathroom 3

Soap · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Outdoor play area

Garden

Dining area

About this property

Welcome to your own private wellness retreat, the Stout Residence (c. 1969, architect J. Edward Esmay), as featured in Dwell. The pinnacle of mid-century modern style, comfort and charm, this historic post-and-beam home with echoes of Joseph Eichler’s best work merges form with function by seamlessly integrating indoor-outdoor living with multiple patios, a luxurious 50-foot pool, outdoor shower and barbecue and floor-to-ceiling glass revealing spectacular mountain views from each room. Set on a thoughtfully landscaped and private half-acre lot featuring lemon, orange and grapefruit trees, the spacious 4 bedrooms, 2.75 baths layout features terrazzo floors throughout, original teak and mustard metal kitchen cabinetry with top-of-the-line modern appliances, clerestory windows, custom built-in cabinetry and closets in each bedroom. 1 Gigabit Internet and two separate home offices also make the property ideal for WFH.

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque desert art colony of Borrego Springs, the home is located in California’s first International Dark Sky Community and adjacent to California’s largest state park (the Anza-Borrego Desert). Enjoy hiking, biking, golf (next door at the de Anza County Club and nearby at the acclaimed Ram’s Hill Club), tennis or pickleball (The Courts at Anza-Borrego), watch wildlife (jack rabbits, roadrunners and bighorn sheep), sunrises and sunsets from the front and backyards/patios or just lay back in the pool and gaze at the milky way swirling overhead. This is the place.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Have a question?

Beta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Ask a question

Similar properties

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

No parties or loud music, please. The property is located in a quiet residential neighborhood.

Pool heating is available with advanced notice for an additional charge of $90/day to cover the cost of propane.

For the added security of our guests, the home has a Ring Doorbell installed at the front door.

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

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

Borrego Springs

Located in Borrego Springs, this holiday home is in the mountains. The Sky Art Sculptures of Borrego Springs and Yaqui Well are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at The Springs at Borrego Golf Course and RoadRunner Golf & Country Club. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Borrego Springs, CA

What's nearby

The Sky Art Sculptures of Borrego Springs - 4 min drive - 2.5 km
The Springs at Borrego Golf Course - 9 min drive - 4.9 km
Anza-Borrego Museum - 10 min drive - 7.6 km
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center - 11 min drive - 8.0 km
Anza Borrego Desert State Park - 12 min drive - 9.1 km

Getting around

Thermal, CA (TRM-Jacqueline Cochran Regional) - 71 min drive

Restaurants

‪Carlee's Place - ‬7 min drive
‪Pablito's Mexican Bar & Grill - ‬8 min drive
‪Los Jilbertos - ‬7 min drive
‪Carmelita's Mexican Grill - ‬8 min drive
‪Big Horn Burgers & Shakes - ‬9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat located?

This family-friendly Borrego Springs holiday home is located in the mountains, within 3 mi (5 km) of The Sky Art Sculptures of Borrego Springs, The Springs at Borrego Golf Course and Anza Borrego Tennis Center. Anza Borrego Desert State Park and San Jacinto Mountains are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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

Michael S.

11 April 2025

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

Beautiful and comfortable house.

The pool is huge. The house is beautifully appointed. A great neighborhood location on the country club. Perfect home base for desert adventures.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Regina P.

17 April 2025

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

Mid-century gem

My husband and I hosted a short getaway over a long weekend with his parent's and our 14 year old… we really enjoyed this property. The pool is beautiful and the house layout is amazing; truly celebrating the old with the new.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca F.

12 April 2025

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

A Pleasure to Visit

It’s a pleasure to live in genuine mid century modern house as this one. The architecture and materials are stunning. The gardens are mostly native plants and the mature citrus trees are filled with fruit and fragrant blossoms this time of year. The bird life around the propert includes quails, doves, roadrunners, and himmingbird. Coyotes are plentiful and close up. Borrego Springs remains a natural wonder to visit.

Stayed 35 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

24 August 2024

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

Our Stay

The property is beautiful inside and out. It is a wonderful Mid Century Modern that is very well kept. John was very responsive to all our questions. We will definitely return!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael D.

17 January 2025

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

A Borrego Springs Star

John's home is a very special place to spend time at. The views from inside and outside the home are spectacular. We enjoyed the peacefulness of the community and the star gazing at night was unbelievable. Orion's Belt was shining every night! John is an excellent host and communicator. He took care of a few issues without hesitation. His manager Jenny is also a gem of a person. Would not hesitate to stay here again should our travels bring us to the area.

Stayed 36 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elease S., Solana Beach, Ca

8 June 2020

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

Second Stay even better than the first.

We’ve booked this home twice just this year and plan on returning soon. It’s the perfect getaway from the San Diego coastal June gloom.

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2020

8/10 Good

Warren P.

11 April 2024

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

Mid Century Desert Oasis

I am a repeat renter at this property! Very well maintained. The home is beautiful in De Anza with a beautiful pool. Beds are very comfortable. We look forward to returning!

Stayed 14 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tena R.

27 December 2020

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

Great stay in Borrego Springs!

A beautiful house in a fantastic spot with easy access to all the great things to do and see in-and-around Borrego Springs. The house was immaculate. Everything you need is there, including a fantastic pool. We had a terrific stay and hope to come back again.

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B., La Jolla

26 August 2020

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

Wonderfully relaxing weekend!

Beautifully appointed house in a relaxing setting. We will be back!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Nancy B.

18 March 2024

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

Another wonderful visit

This house is stunning. It is both comfortable and beautiful. The pool is fantastic, the views amazing, the beds comfortable, the rooms delightful. The host is also very kind, helpful, and inviting. We are so grateful for the chance to have stayed here again this year. Thanks, John.

Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Douglas M.

3 January 2023

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

Amazing!

Beautiful MCM home. Looking forward to more vacation days at 520!

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Elease S., Solana Beach, Ca

11 May 2020

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

Pure Dessert Bliss!

My husband and I were looking for an alternative to Palm Springs and found the perfect oasis in this beautiful and well-appointed home. We will be returning very soon.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2020

8/10 Good

Rebecca F.

3 March 2024

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

Desert magic

Borrego Springs and 520 Pointing Rock are beautiful wonders. The desert park is endless and astounding. The house is architecturally wonderful and appropriate in the surrounding view. The gardens are a delight to walk through. John is good to communicate with. We enjoyed a splendid month.

Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

BeBe C., Telluride, CO

31 May 2023

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

Such a Cool Place!

This property is the best! A mix of cool retro, great location, fun vibe, and luxury at it's finest. Everything needed to make for a great getaway. The layout of the house is perfect and the outdoor area is amazing, the pool is clean and warm, with pool toys and towels provided. The neighborhood is quiet and beautiful - great for early morning and late evening walks. We will definitely be back!

Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Athena D.

17 November 2021

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

Beautiful property

We enjoyed our stay in this nice, spacious renovated mid-century modern home. Everything was as described; clean, airy, comfortable. We are golfers so it was great to just walk a hundred yards to the pro shop every morning. We look forward to staying again in the future, maybe we can even get some friends to join us since the house is so big. We had a wonderful week.

Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Tim J.

1 August 2020

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

Desert oasis

All around a seamless experience. Everything was as advertised. The pool is fantastic- almost long enough to sit proper lap swimming. Decor is wonderful and consistent, for a mid century modern immersive experience. If you’re ready for the heat- you’ll have a wonderful time.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Warren P., Vancouver, USA

5 April 2023

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

De Anza’s Finest!

This is the second time we have stayed at this magnificent property. It is absolutely perfect in every single way and look forward to staying there again. John the owner, and Jenny the property manager are VERY responsive and helpful. The property if VERY clean and well appointed. Abundant roadrunners, coyote's, flowers, stars and rainbows this year! Borrego does not disappoint!

Stayed 13 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cameron T.

24 May 2021

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

Mid Century Dream

This meticulously restored mid-century gem was bright, spacious and comfortably outfitted inside and out. Comfortable beds with lovely linens, and loads of high quality towels. Same for the backyard... fabulous chaise lounges and dining table, bbq, plenty of pool towels, lots of pool floats etc. Owner Lisa was fantastic and responsive.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jill F., Los Angeles

6 February 2023

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

Stupendous Anza Borrego getaway

Beautiful mid century architectural home, totally updated and super clean. Gorgeous views from all angles, great light. House borders the deAnza country club, excellent for neighborhood power walks and walking distance to Galleta Meadows fabulous serpent sculpture. Loved this comfortable, spacious house as our base for hiking and dining in town. Super extras include corn hole, grapefruits, and Sonos sound system. Thank you!

Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen G., Los Angeles

27 August 2023

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

A beautiful Mid Century Modern experience

This home is a beautiful architectural experience. From the original steel kitchen cabinets to the flowing terrazzo flooring the details are stunning. The views are captivating from sunrise to sunset and we really enjoyed that aspect of this home. The spaces are very comfortable and the work space/4th bedroom is great place if you need to get some real work done. Kitchen was well appointed and we did not need a thing. Hope to return soon.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gregg and Carrie B.

12 May 2021

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

Fabulous Home

Absolutely the BEST Vrbo we've EVER stayed in!!! Over and beyond with anything needed. Kitchen perfect! Beds ALL very comfortable. Bathrooms stocked with multitude of towels, paper supplies, shampoo, shower gel...etc....Pool, plenty of floating mats, towels, ...I could go on forever!!! Looking forward to our next stay...love the fact that we will not have to search for the perfect vacation home, because, THIS IS IT!!!!

Stayed 5 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Danielle M.

4 May 2021

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

Hidden Gem in the Desert.

What a beautiful home. My husband and I came into town for a wedding. It was our first time visiting and we already want to go back. The pool is where we spent the majority of our time. I also loved all the games they had for us to play. Corn hole was probably my favorite. Lisa was more than responsive and accommodating. We had a fantastic stay. :)

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nancy B.

22 March 2023

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

Amazing!

This is an amazing place to stay. The home is beautiful, and also really comfortable, a special combination. The two larger bedrooms and living/dining room have full walls of windows making the indoors feel part of the beautiful outdoors. The outdoor spaces, in turn, are also wonderful. The gardens are filled with beautiful local plantings, including two grapefruit trees. The pool is heated and long enough for real swimming, another real bonus. The owner made everything easy from start to finish. We have already booked for next year. Loved this home!

Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jenny P.

30 September 2020

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

Heavenly Vacation

It was such a joy staying at the home of Lisa and Steve. Lisa was super communicative and the house was delightful. Spacious, comfortable, and with a large pool which was wonderful for swimming in. The rabbits, bees, road runners, hummingbirds all made this quite an animal and insect filled time which was delightful! A much needed escape from the city indeed! If you want to go somewhere and unwind, disconnect (despite excellent wifi and all streaming means on two beautiful tvs) this is the place. I almost don't want to share how lovely it is so it remains our little secret. Oh and the milky way! This is the best place to star gaze :-) We will be back!

Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

John G W.

13 April 2023

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

MCM Beauty

I’m a huge fan of MCM architecture, especially desert designs. This house is by far the nicest one I’ve stayed in. My daughters joined us for Easter, and one of my personal highlights of the stay was seeing the looks on their faces as they walked up to the front patio and took in the beauty of the house and the living room as they entered. Priceless. We had 6 people which was perfect as there are 3 bedrooms, two of which look out at the sizable lap pool. Had we had more guests they would have slept on a sofa bed in the media room. The house fronts on DeAnza golf course but a high hedge provides privacy. Lots of pool toys and 2 bikes there. We all teamed up for spirited Cornhole competitions. Everyone raved about their stay here. We will definitely be returning to this place.

Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

About the host

Your host

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback

The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat

Photo gallery for The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

Bedroom 3

Bedroom 4

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Bathroom 3

Spaces

About this property