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Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views

Photo gallery for Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views

View from Ranch Headquarters
Cottage at Night
Morning Sun in Fall
Entrance to RoundHat Ranch and Cottage
Outdoor soaking tub and shower

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 263.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Catheys Valley, CA
  • Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Mariposa County's Old Stone Jail
    ‪23 min drive‬
  • Mariposa County Visitor Center
    ‪25 min drive‬
  • Mariposa, CA (RMY-Mariposa-Yosemite)
    ‪26 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only · Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views

If you want to detach from your everyday life and/or the crowds in Yosemite, a respite, a retreat to recharge at RoundHat Ranch is a natural remedy for you, replete with Outdoor Soaking Tub and Outdoor Shower for added relaxation.
A RoundHat Ranch stay is a great addition to your Yosemite vacation experience. Located in the pastoral Catheys Valley, an area of large and small ranches, 2.7 miles off State Hwy 140 (the only all-weather route to Yosemite, and parallels the route of discovery of the Yosemite Valley along the Merced River Gorge by Indians, explorers, and miners).
The 'Cottage' is nestled within the ranch, having its own private fenced area. You can move about the ranch along the many tree-lined trails, seeing the animals, and taking in the sights, sounds, and feel of the ranch.
The Cottage has been designed, both inside and out, for an intimate and serene experience for its guests
The Ranch has a full-time owner/manager living at the Ranch Headquarters and can answer any questions you might have during your stay.
RoundHat Ranch has a no pets, no children, 1-2 ADULTS ONLY (21 and over) rental policy due to liability issues concerning the horses and other animals on the Ranch. The policy does allow us to not charge a Security Deposit.

From RoundHat Ranch, it is 3.3 miles to restaurant, gas, and convenience store at the Catheys Valley crossroads at Highway 140 and Hornitos Rd., then it is 10 scenic miles to the historic mining town of Mariposa, another 12 scenic miles later, you enter the spectacular Merced River Gorge (this is the beginning of your Yosemite experience) traveling along the river (Hwy 140) straight into Yosemite Valley. The Arch, West Yosemite Park Entrance (beginning of the Valley), is 45 miles from the ranch, but be advised the scenic beauty may cause you to stop, observe, or linger along the way, so, time to Yosemite Valley varies.

RoundHat Ranch Cottage is 1 bedroom with queen-size bed, 1 bath with shower, and additional outside shower.
There is outside the cottage, within the private fenced area, shade-cloth covered arbor patios, a roof covered all weather patio with double chair swing, cement table with inlaid chess/checker board, fountain, outdoor shower with stall and dressing area, propane BBQ, Chaise lounges, patio furniture all shaded by large mature Oak trees.

Inside the Cottage the 1 bedroom is appointed with things related to the ranch and Yosemite, and a Queen size bed w/ linens, blankets, comforter, futon chair/bed and ceiling fans.
The Cottage has Satellite TV, WiFi internet access, full bath w/shower with large multi-setting shower head, soap, towels.
The kitchen has microwave, refrigerator, 2 burner electric stove top, large kitchen sink, peninsula island cabinet, coffeemaker, some seasonings, cookware, utensils, plates, bowls, cups, and dining table.
Living room has sofa, love seat, captains chair w/footstool in Mission-style furniture, and ceiling fan.
The heating and air conditioning is a Fujitsu split system that both heats or cools to the set temperature and is very quiet.
There is some reading material and games.
The utility room has a washer and dryer, extra bathroom and kitchen supplies, and an ironing board, iron, and hair dryer.


Property manager

Stephen and/or Gayle Saunders
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
RoundHat Ranch breeds
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
NO SMOKING INDOORS Smoking is allowed outside

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 and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Catheys Valley

Located in Catheys Valley, this cottage is in a rural area. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Wassama Round House State Historic Park and Bagby Recreation Area, while California State Mining and Mineral Museum and Mariposa Museum and History Center are cultural highlights. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Catheys Valley, CA

What's nearby

  • Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch - 22 min drive - 23.2 km
  • California State Mining and Mineral Museum - 22 min drive - 18.1 km
  • Mariposa County's Old Stone Jail - 23 min drive - 24.8 km
  • Mariposa Museum and History Center - 25 min drive - 25.6 km
  • Mariposa County Visitor Center - 25 min drive - 25.9 km

Getting around

  • Mariposa, CA (RMY-Mariposa-Yosemite) - 26 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tap Room - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Ranch House Cafe - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Heavenly Grounds - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪The Oasis - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Krispy Krunchy Chicken - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views located?

Situated in a rural location, this cottage is within 16 miles (25 km) of California State Mining and Mineral Museum, Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch and Windows on the World Books and Art. Mariposa County's Old Stone Jail and Mariposa County Courthouse are also within 20 miles (32 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. 196 out of 198 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 198 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 198 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 198 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 198 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Lauryn Y.

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

Sweet getaway

This was such a great stay. The house is super cozy and bed very comfy. We loved the outdoor soaking tub and wandering around checking out all the animals. Just beautiful! I would definitely stay here again
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tayah B.

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

Magical Getaway

An absolutely beautiful property/ kind and helpful management.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cameron D.

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

Fantastic!

The place was cozy and very peaceful! We loved every minute of our stay, and Steve was also very friendly and helpful. Thanks so much!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mjraid24

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

Beautiful home

Our stay at this beautiful ranch was absolutely perfect! The property is stunning, with breathtaking views, charming animals, and a peaceful atmosphere that made it hard to leave. The location is ideal—close enough to Yosemite for easy day trips, yet far enough to enjoy the quiet serenity of the countryside. The owners were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. This is truly a hidden gem, and we can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rob & Summer A., Saint Paul

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

Great Stay - 2nd Visit

Such a cute/amazing place on the ranch, so much fun to stay there and close to town and Yosemite This is our second time staying here, thanks again for your hospitality, Stephen & Gayle!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

8/10 Good

aly W.

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

Yosemite visit

Charming piece of property
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The property was beautiful and very well appointed. The owners were very friendly and helpful. A truly unique setting and experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Amy S.

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

Beautiful!

We had a wonderful stay! It was the most peaceful vacation I’ve ever had. The hosts were great, the attention to detail was amazing, and the animals on the property were a huge bonus. We would love to come back!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ye L.

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

Ranch

It’s been a great experience staying at the ranch. Very peaceful and quiet place and the host is very friendly and welcoming.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lauren G.

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

The perfect getaway

Man where to start! This place was unbelievably comforting to us. We have been on a month long roadtrip for our honeymoon and of all the places we stayed this was by far our favorite. I felt like I was at home it was so nice. Thanks so much!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tyler D.

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

Great Spot

Very nice, comfortable and secluded. 10/10
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

CRAIG S.

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

Perfection!!

Wow - what can I say, this place is amazing. We stayed for 3 nights explored Yosemite and surrounding area, if you want a perfect location with amazing host’s I can’t recommend this place highly enough, it takes approx 1.30hrs to get into the park, but the drive is easy and scenery is amazing…The cottage is exactly as described and so far our favourite location whilst touring around the area.If we ever come back to visit the area, we will definitely be back…1st rate 👌
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Zach R.

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

My girlfriend loved this place

I booked the Roundhat Ranch Cottage as a surprise for my girlfriend who loves farm animals. It was beautiful. The outdoor shower and tub are perfect after a long day hiking. Super relaxing and great spot to get out of town to.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Charlene G.

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

Great stay. Would come back.

Immaculate in cleanliness. Great decor and attention to detail. Thoughtful hosts. Fast response from hosts. Sweet animals on the premises.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Richard C.

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

Yosemite visit

The Cottage was exactly as advertised, it was appointed with everything needed for a comfortable stay and the pictures showed the property accurately. We couldn’t have asked for a better host and stay for our Yosemite visit. Enjoyed talking with Steve and Gayle.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Paradise!

The Round Hat Cottage is just an amazing place to stay. Look forward to returning on our next trip to Yosemite. Thank you Steve for letting us enjoy your piece of paradise. The pictures do not actually capture how beautiful the cottage and area is - so be prepared to enjoy your stay.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gabby M.

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

Fantastic Farm Getaway!

This was a lovely place with basically no neighbors and tons of animals, both domestic and wildlife. We saw everything from horses and donkeys to owls and even a bobcat! Overall if you enjoy rural living, you will LOVE this place. I really can’t say enough good things about it.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joni P.

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

Yosemite Get Away

Isolated charming ranch cottage for 2. Hosts Gayle & Stephen friendly & accessible if needed. Fun to walk around & see the horses, donkeys, mule, & other animals on site. Quiet & relaxing, comfortable retreat site with outdoor patio & great view of stars at night. 25 min drive from Mariposa & 1hr to Yosemite entrance.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marco B.

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

Best Ranch Ever in Cathey’s Valley

Oh my goodness , this place is absolutely amazing The cleanliness, amenities , its all you can have Its quiet and you can walk around the ranch and see tons if animals ( cows , horses , rabbits , donkeys and birds ) We love the patio where you can lay down and rest after visiting Yosemite park Communication was awesome and I would describe this paradise as a 6/5
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christa V.

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

Lovely place to stay

A great property on a horse ranch. You are the only quests, so guaranteed great evenings to enjoy the sunset and beautiful sky in totally silence. A nice, very well equipped house for 2 persons, with even a washing machine, dryer and gas BBQ. The outdoor shower and bath are a nice extra. Great place to stay when visiting Yosemite, but also for a longer stay, just to relax. Friendly owners, we had nice chats with Steve. A place to come back!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katie C.

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

Comfort on the ranch

Wonderful place, just as described. Very comfortable and relaxing after full days in the park. The drive to and from the park is about 40 miles but the drive is beautiful and Mariposa down the road is a fun town to stop and have a beer or something to eat on the way back. Once you get back you will forget about the drive. Great amenities including the outdoor shower and covered patio. We loved it!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nelson O.

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

Wonderful Cottage on the Ranch

Stayed here while working at U Merced for a week. This place has everything you need and so much nicer than a hotel. BBQ on my own patio, nice furniture, really comfy bed and excellent wifi and tv. Can say hello to the many animals each morning and all the rabbits running around. Hosts were very friendly and gave me my privacy. Highly recommend for anyone staying in the area. Many Thanks !
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

JOE L.

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

Quiet back country ranch

The property was kept up nicely especially for a working ranch. The ammenities were excellent, clean and the style appropriate for the setting. Anything that was needed was provided. The property manager/owner was friendly, helpful and well informed about the area. Overall an excellent property and not too far off the beaten path, but far enough for peace and quiet.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Allison R.

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

Ideal getaway

The cottage was as beautiful as the grounds of the ranch. Plenty of trails to walk and enjoy the horses which are very friendly. The bedding and linens were very luxurious. The kitchen had everything we needed. There is plenty of covered space to enjoy the patios on each side of the cottage. Very clean and comfortable. Steve and Gayle were very friendly and made sure we were comfortable and had everything we needed to enjoy our stay. So peaceful and relaxing. Will be back for sure.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Abbie R., san antonio

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

Simply perfect

Where to even begin with compliments about this cottage? The owners have decorated it beautifully and included so many touches in the home that make it feel so cozy and homey. My friend and I were visiting Yosemite for the week and could not have picked a better place to stay. We loved walking around seeing the horses and the precious mini donkeys. We could have pet them all day! The outdoor shower was so nice and the bed was super comfy. Would 100% book here again. Loved it!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2022

About the host

Hosted by Stephen and/or Gayle Saunders

Host profile image
Owner/Managers - Stephen and Gayle Saunders are business owners, and Stephen was a building contractor, and together they built their dream ranch.
They have been owners, breeders, trainers, and show exhibiters of Peruvian Horses since 1989.

Why they chose this property

Catheys Valley has an almost pastoral quality with many large and small ranches. RoundHat Ranch is nestled at the foot of Guadalupe Mt. on gently sloping all-usable terrain, with several knolls giving 360 degree views. And the proximity to Yosemite Park made our decision to live here easy.

What makes this property unique

To move about the entire Ranch easily, the many pastures have tree-lined trails between. This allows guests to observe all the area and animals up close and in an almost parklike experience.
For those who like photography, there is ample inspiration. Varied wildlife can be seen daily.
The 'Cottage' is set within and yet apart from the ranch by its own privately fenced area, encompassing large mature Oak trees, shade-cloth arbor covered patios, fountain, all-weather covered patio, double chair swing,
and outdoor shower. All with an intimate view of the ranch and distant mountain, valley and meadow views.
The seasons at RoundHat Ranch are distinct and each has its own attractive elements, there are no weather related access problems to the ranch or to Yosemite Valley along Highway 140.
From RoundHat Ranch, it is 3.3 miles to restaurant, gas, and convenience store at the Catheys Valley crossroads, then it is 10 scenic miles to the historic mining town of Mariposa, another 12 scenic miles later, you enter the spectacular Merced River Gorge (this is the beginning of your Yosemite experience) traveling along the river (Hwy 140) straight into Yosemite Valley. The Arch, West Yosemite Park Entrance (beginning of the Valley), is 45 miles from the ranch, but be advised the scenic beauty may cause you to stop, observe, or linger along the way, so, time to Yosemite Valley varies.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests