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"A Living Canvas" A home with views you will not forget!

Photo gallery for "A Living Canvas" A home with views you will not forget!

Exterior
Jacuzzi Hot Tub for up to 6 persons
Views from Lake
Exterior
Exterior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 14232.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Washer
  • Hot tub
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Julian, CA
  • Lake Cuyamaca
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • California Wolf Center
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Julian Town Hall
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Borrego Springs, CA (BXS-Borrego Valley)
    ‪59 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 14)

Bedroom 1

2 Queen Beds

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Queen Beds

xtra mattresses

2 Single Beds

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Balcony
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

"A Living Canvas" A home with views you will not forget!

Escape to the picturesque town of Julian & experience the tranquility of our secluded mountain retreat at Lake Cuyamaca. Nestled in the heart of nature, this vacation rental offers a perfect blend of charm & modern comfort.

Our home exudes a top of the mountain ambiance with warm wood interiors, a large fireplace, and comfortable furnishings. Whether you're enjoying a cup of hot cocoa by the fire or stargazing on the deck, the cabin provides a welcoming and intimate atmosphere.

Wake up to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys & ocean. The property's elevated location offers a stunning panorama that changes with the seasons, from fall foliage to amazing sunsets.

Only a short drive from the historic town of Julian, you have easy access to its charming shops & delicious apple pies. Yet, you'll feel a world away in your private mountain retreat.

Explore nearby hiking trails, visit Lake Cuyamaca for fishing or boating, and discover the natural wonders of the area.

Property manager

John
Premier Host

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 28
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
No parties
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 3 pets total)
Prior approval on pets and pet fee is per pet
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
$150 fee if smoking on property
No noise after 10 PM. If excessive you will be asked to leave with no refund Pet fee is per pet

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: No parties
Long-term renters welcome
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Julian

Located in Julian, this holiday home is in the mountains and on a lake. Julian Historical Society and Julian Pioneer Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include California Wolf Center and Laguna Mountain Recreation Area. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Julian, CA

What's nearby

  • Lake Cuyamaca - 4 min drive - 2.0 km
  • Santa Ysabel Mission - 4 min drive - 2.2 km
  • California Wolf Center - 10 min drive - 8.8 km
  • Julian Town Hall - 14 min drive - 15.5 km
  • William Heise County Park - 26 min drive - 24.5 km

Getting around

  • San Diego, CA (SEE-Gillespie Field) - 58 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Lake Cuyamaca - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Julian Brewing Company - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Julian Pie Company - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Miner's Diner - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Mom's Pie House - ‬14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is "A Living Canvas" A home with views you will not forget! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 3 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at "A Living Canvas" A home with views you will not forget!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at "A Living Canvas" A home with views you will not forget!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is "A Living Canvas" A home with views you will not forget! located?

This family-friendly Julian holiday home is located on a lake, within 1 mi (2 km) of Cuyamaca Mountain State Wilderness and Lake Cuyamaca. California Wolf Center and Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve are also within 12 miles (20 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. 40 out of 41 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 41 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 41 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Patt M.

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

Quiet quiet quiet

Yes the views were spectacular but listening to the quiet was glorious!Host couldn’t have been nicer so our stay always felt like he had our back any time we might need him which fortunately the need didn’t arise.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cammy E.

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

Much needed getaway

My family needed a getaway from the hustle and bustle of our everyday routine and this home provided just what we needed. It’s such a cozy welcoming home in a gorgeous place. The layout of the home is perfect for a large family or group of friends. The views are beautiful and the stargazing is amazing!! The hosts are wonderful. They were communicative and friendly. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cecly G., san diego, ca

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

Weekend

We stayed at the living Canvas house and had a great time
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Margaret G.

Solitude & Silence

Wonderful time, wonderful property.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2017

10/10 Excellent

Caitlyn A.

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

Amazing

This place is absolutely beautiful , perfect for our stay ! Great fishing nearby , views that will take your breath away . Owner was great with any questions I had ! Would recommend!!!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mugdha L.

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

Scenic views!

Scenic view from the property. We stayed there for a couple of bights with family and friends and enjoyed the views from the lake to the mountains to the milky way right from the house! Will come back again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Alison M., San Diego

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

Incredible views!!

We had a very nice getaway at this home. We appreciated all the cleaning guidelines they are following during Covid. The layout of the house was great and we enjoyed the deck and stars.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth r.

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

Beautiful views

Snowed in the first few days but the view on day 3 was lovely. Lots of firewood for us to keep warm. House held up fantastic in the high winds. Kids loved the movie area. Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Mary R.

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

BEST Views EVER!

John was absolutely amazing. Very responsive and helpful. The house is in a perfect location and the VIEWS!!! Thank you so much, John and Sara, for sharing your beautiful home with us.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lauren R.

Another amazing stay

Beautiful house inside and out! I have rented from John several times, and as always, it is a flawless experience from beginning to end. I will continue to rent his properties when I need them for retreats. Thank you again, John.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

WOW WOW WOW!!!!! Awesome views and experience

Very clean and elegant. A/C blows cold and the views are million dollar ones. Sunsets were just amazing and the lake view is unbelievable. Very quiet and easy to access. Very safe and lots to do at Lake Cuyamaca or in the town of Julian which is only 10 minutes away.

10/10 Excellent

Adriana S.

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

Landscape Artist of the Year

We watch a show called Landscape Artist of the Year and even though the landscapes painted are mostly in England, we think this property's views would qualify to be portrayed! Absolutely beautiful views! And the star gazing was awesome! The response and attentiveness of the host, John, was exceptional! Thanks John!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sarah R.

Perfect house for a cozy weekend with friends!

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful home with us! We were 3 families with young kids and this was a great house for our weekend away. Aside from some minor difficulty with the gate code, things could not have gone smoother. The house was clean, comfortable, and as pictured. The views truly are remarkable. Thank you so much and we hope to come back sometime!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2018

10/10 Excellent

Paul L., San Diego, California

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

Fantastic property and host

We had very high expectations and the property did not disappoint. Spectacular views (lake, mountains, sunrise, sunset), well maintained and clean, spacious rooms, good family layout, and a well appointed kitchen for a rental. There are lots of things to do in the area, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, photography, visiting Julian, and just relaxing and soaking it all in. John was a wonderful host and was quick to respond to inquiries. He was determined to make sure we had a wonderful stay at 'Living Canvas'. Thanks for sharing your getaway, we will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Heather R.

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

50th bday weekend

My friends and our adult daughters thoroughly enjoyed our weekend in the mountains to celebrate my 50th bday (10 ppl the first night, 13 the second). The views were spectacular, the beds were comfy, the fireplace was cozy, the kitchen was well-stocked with pot, pans, utensils, etc. We made the short drive to the Cushi-Pi (Stonewall Peak) trail and it was a great hike to the top. The instructions for checki-in/check-out and driving directions were clear, questions to the owner were answered quickly, and all communication was friendly. We definitely want to come back.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Judith B.

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

Magical Family Gathering

This place is truly magical. The house itself has all the comforts, with three nicely separated bedrooms all with comfortable beds with high quality bedding. The views from every side inside and out are incredible and ever changing. Our nights were spent outside watching the sunset and then the endless array of stars, planets and meteors(!), all accompanied by music from the incredible turntable and sound system generously provided by the hosts. There was a large selection of tables and chairs to choose from on the deck, and they were easy to arrange into different groupings for different activities. We also loved eating dinner at the table up past the waterfall next to the large grill, which turned out great meals for us night after night, capped off with the Julian apple pie that was left for us by the hosts. That area also has a fire pit surrounded by comfortable chairs that we would love to try next time we visit. The outside was so breathtaking that we spent very little time in the media room, but we were very impressed by the large screen tv with a broad array of streaming services available, along with a nice selection of movie candy, another generous touch in a house full of them. We took some great hikes in the surrounding area, but other than those outings no one wanted to leave the property for anything; nothing else could compete with the comfort inside and the beauty outside.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Tori M.

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

Great views

What a great place to stay! The view is amazing and the open layout of the living room and kitchen invites everyone to gather together for quality time. John was very responsive and explained everything we needed to know. I would definitely come back again with my family!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Frank C.

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

Amazing views!

This home has amazing views of the mountains and lake from every room! The home is clean and comfortable and great for families. The owner went the extra mile to bring in an additional wheel chair ramp to accommodate our three family members who needed wheel chair access. That being said, I would caution anyone needing total wheel chair access that the walkway leading to the wheel chair accessible door is very steep and is very difficult to negotiate if the wheel chair person weighs more than about 170 lbs. Above that weight, you really need two people to safely push anyone up the walkway.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cathy S.

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

Wonderful place

Very nicely kept home with lots of space. We had 8 adults and 4 kids and were very comfortable. Beautiful views and great night skies! Close to Lake Cuyamaca where we hiked & fished. Plus, the Pub at the lake had awesome food and fabulous employees! Loved it and will be back again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Yessenia B.

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

Start of a new tradition!

We came here to start our first tradition of getting together with friends and family before Christmas and this place was the perfect home to begin it! The views were unbelievable, we did not want to miss not one sunrise or sunset. We enjoyed the amenities and supplies provided to us by the hosts. The host was amazing in communicating with us before and during our trip. Also enjoyed the pie they left us! Just the sweetest. This trip will be one for us to always remember! <3
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Tom t.

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

Amazing View!

The place is great and the view is incredible. John was very easy to deal with and everything went smoothly. 5 stars
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jennie P.

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

Nature at it's finest...BEST Mountain sunset ever! And lake view too the other direction! HEAVENLY

This property is very inviting with so many locations to enjoy expansive views! The sunset bench is a stunning mountain view with numerous mountains and vista galore! My (7 year old) son said watching the sunset on a big rock there was a trip highlight and exploring the hill/property. Our youngest son (5) woke up and asked Grandma, "Can we please buy this house?" We used the grill, rented a pontoon boat for the date (lake is 5 min away), my husband have a smore's lesson at the firepit. The house was clean and cozy! Lots of space and really felt like your own mountain home. We will be back!

10/10 Excellent

Roxy C.

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

Christmas In Julian!

John and Sarah's cabin was just what our family needed this holiday season. The view was so pretty from their cabin off the patio. We can't wait to come back in the near future.

10/10 Excellent

Rachel K.

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

Wonderful home, amazing views, great host

Our family thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this incredible property. The house felt like home immediately. It has common areas perfect for socializing and three very private bedrooms and bathrooms. The perfectly placed windows and deck allowed us to see beautiful sunrises and sunsets. The home was outfitted with everything you could need. John even put up a Christmas tree. And John was a wonderful host, communicating with us frequently to help us get through a SDG&E power shutdown, which had only a small impact on us due to the backup generator. Still, it was comforting to know John was on top of everything. Will definitely book again!

10/10 Excellent

Matthew B.

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

Stunning mountain getaway

The panoramic views of Lake Cuyamaka to the south and San Diego to the west, coupled with the well maintained and well prepared property, allowed us to relax instantly upon arrival. The upstairs is cozy and warm, with plentiful sunshine and an wonderful electronic piano that kept all of us engaged day after day. There is also a stash of toy trains that was a huge hit with our young child. The owner is very attentive and friendly - he put in the effort to ensure that we had a smooth visit. We will return.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2020

About the host

Hosted by John

Host profile image
First I love Julian and I love introducing people Julian. It is wonderful to see Julian growing in popularity with its proximity to San Diego (less than one hour away from Lake Cuyamaca) and North County.
I enjoy creating special moments and memories for our guests at all of our Vacation Rentals in the area.

Why they chose this property


Lake Cuyamaca, located in San Diego County, California, that stands out for several special features and attractions:

Scenic Beauty: Lake Cuyamaca is surrounded by the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, providing stunning mountain vistas and picturesque landscapes. The beauty of the lake and its surroundings attracts visitors looking for a serene and natural escape.

Recreational Activities: The lake offers a range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and picnicking. It is known for its well-stocked waters, making it a popular spot for anglers. Fishing enthusiasts can find trout, catfish, bass, and more.

Bird Watching: Lake Cuyamaca is a haven for bird watchers. The diverse ecosystem around the lake attracts various bird species, including waterfowl and migratory birds. Birdwatchers can enjoy observing the rich avian life in the area.

Hiking Trails: The Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, which encompasses the lake, features numerous hiking trails. Hikers can explore the surrounding mountains, forests, and meadows, offering a range of difficulty levels for different skill levels.

Educational Programs: The lake hosts educational programs and events, particularly for schools and groups interested in learning about the local ecosystem, wildlife, and conservation efforts. These programs aim to raise awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats.

Seasonal Changes: Lake Cuyamaca experiences seasonal changes, adding to its charm. The area is particularly beautiful during the fall when the surrounding mountains are adorned with colorful foliage.

Wildlife Viewing: Beyond birds, the lake and its surroundings are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and other small mammals. Wildlife enthusiasts can find opportunities for observation and photography.

What makes this property unique


Discover a one-of-a-kind getaway at North Peak, where every detail is crafted to create an unforgettable experience. This vacation rental stands out for its distinctive features:

Panoramic Views: Perched atop the mountains, this retreat offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature from the comfort of your private deck or through the expansive windows that frame the picturesque scenery.

Secluded Privacy: Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life in your own private sanctuary. Tucked away in nature, this rental provides a sense of seclusion and tranquility, allowing you to unwind and connect with the peaceful surroundings.

Outdoor Oasis: The outdoor space is a true oasis, featuring a spacious deck for al fresco dining, relaxation, and stargazing. Wander through the wooded area surrounding the property, providing a natural playground for exploration and quiet moments in nature.

Thoughtful Amenities: Modern amenities meet thoughtful touches, ensuring your stay is comfortable and convenient. From a fully equipped kitchen for culinary adventures to cozy bedrooms that invite restful nights, every detail is designed with your enjoyment in mind.

Proximity to Julian: While offering seclusion, the retreat is conveniently close to the historic town of Julian. Explore the charming shops, savor local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the unique culture of this mountain town.

Versatile Experiences: Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, a romantic getaway, or a family retreat, A Living Canvas at North Peak caters to diverse preferences. The versatile surroundings and activities make it an ideal destination for any occasion.

Book your stay at "A Living Canvas" and indulge in a truly unique mountain retreat. Embrace the extraordinary blend of natural beauty, understated elegance, and personalized comfort that sets this vacation rental apart. Your escape to this distinctive haven awaits.

Languages:

English, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests