Entire home

Spectacular view over San Diego County to Mt. Laguna, downtown, Catalina Island.

Photo gallery for Spectacular view over San Diego County to Mt. Laguna, downtown, Catalina Island.

JE- Amazing creativity from some of my renters.
RW, new moon, 4 9 2019. WOW!
Sunny days after snows....the best!
Sunset into the ocean- happy hour!
Point Loma and downtown San Diego at sunset.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6148.6 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Palomar Mountain, CA
  • Palomar Mountain State Park
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Harrah's Resort Southern California
    ‪23 min drive‬
  • Palomar Mountain
    ‪38 min drive‬
  • Murrieta, CA (RBK-French Valley)
    ‪85 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Spectacular view over San Diego County to Mt. Laguna, downtown, Catalina Island.

Please note, 3 night minimums for Tgiving, Xmas, New Year's.

Private cabin in the trees built in the early 1900s has been upgraded but retains all its rustic original charm. Watch eagles fly at eye level, clouds roll in, sunsets and moonsets in the ocean. Bobcats, wild turkeys, and deer regularly walk through the property. Decorated by owner with antiques and comfortable furniture (not all in pristine, new condition!) , large view deck for grilling and sitting in the sun, sauna. Dramatic infinity deck on mountain edge for sunset cocktails, morning yoga. Fully equipped kitchen, propane grill, tv, dvd player. Three bedrooms each with a queen or full bed, two couches could accommodate kids. Short drive from hiking, the Palomar Observatory, fishing at Lake Henshaw, entertainment at Harrah's Rincon Casino. Wonderful place to spend a snowy weekend, but 4 wheel drive and chains are needed on the few occasions when snow is deep. Some guest complaints: cluttered [cluttered with board games, coloring materials, telescopes, astronomy, bird, Palomar history books, maybe cluttered just a little]; cobwebs [if you search, you can probably find one or two, cleaned thoroughly after every guest]; feels like we're housesitting [hmmmm- this is a complaint?]. Best guest comment ever: 'It's clearly a well-loved and special place.' BINGO. Thanks, Emily. No dishwasher, I'm afraid.

Note: 3 night minimum for Xmas, New Years, Thanksgiving, Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day weekends.

CONTACT OWNER FOR EXTENDED STAY (more than 3 nights) RATES.

WINTER BOOKING ADVISORY!!!

Winter is snow time, which is good and bad. Caltrans has a station up on the mountain and they start plowing the paved roads very quickly when snow starts. Unfortunately, there is nobody up on the mountain who plows private drives, and my cabin is about 500 feet up a dirt branch road that is not plowed. If you plan to be there at a time when snow is predicted, your options are to park near the paved road (but be sure not to park right on side of the road where your car will interfere with plowing or be covered by snow pushed aside by the plow), or plan a long day of shoveling yourself out by hand. I’ve done this shoveling myself before, and it takes a good while. One guest last winter took 8 hours to do this, and they were not happy campers by the end of the day. If you have long time existing reservations and there is a massive storm predicted to hit just before or during your stay, I will of course promise a no penalty cancellation if you chose not to go. Being up there with snow is a wonderful experience, as long as you have supplies and can relax and enjoy.

House rules: treat this old place with courtesy and common sense: recycle, clean up reasonably after yourself, turn off lights and cooling/heating when not needed and on departure, close and lock doors and windows when leaving- sometimes I don't get up to clean for several days.

Property manager

Chuck Black
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Flexible check-in available (contact host in advance of arrival)
Minimum age to rent: 21
Flexible check-out available (contact host to arrange)
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
No parties or events.
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Pets

Pets allowed: limit 2 total
Well behaved dogs ok. Big deck has gates.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking inside or out.
3 night min major holiday weekends. Cleaning fee included in price, 6 or fewer. $100 supplemental cleaning fee for parties larger than 6.
Treat this old house with respect- leave kitchen, house, grill in reasonably clean shape.
Be green- outside lights off in the daytime, use provided recycling bins, use sauna, heat, ac in moderation, responsibly.

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 or events.
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

About the area

Palomar Mountain

Located in Pauma Valley, this holiday home is near theme parks. Palomar Mountain State Park and Palomar Mountain reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Palomar Observatory and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Palomar Mountain, CA

What's nearby

  • Palomar Mountain State Park - 8 min drive - 4.8 km
  • Palomar Observatory - 12 min drive - 9.7 km
  • Sengme Oaks Water Park - 20 min drive - 17.8 km
  • Harrah's Resort Southern California - 23 min drive - 23.3 km
  • Palomar Mountain - 38 min drive - 13.8 km

Getting around

  • Murrieta, CA (RBK-French Valley) - 85 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Jilberto's Taco Shop - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Mother's Kitchen & Restaurants - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Spectacular view over San Diego County to Mt. Laguna, downtown, Catalina Island. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 2 total).

Where is Spectacular view over San Diego County to Mt. Laguna, downtown, Catalina Island. located?

Situated in Pauma Valley, this holiday home is 3 mi (4.8 km) from Palomar Mountain State Park and within 9 miles (15 km) of Palomar Observatory and Palomar Mountain. Lake Henshaw and Harrah's Resort Southern California are also within 16 miles (25 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 152 out of 185 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 22 out of 185 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 6 out of 185 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 185 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 185 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Nicholas J.

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

Palomar Getaway

Always enjoy staying at this spot. The views are incredible and it is so peaceful. Definitely look forward to our next trip up here.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

William T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julia T.

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

Great little woodsy cabin

We had a great time staying in this little cabinet at the top of the hill. We had two adults and two kids and the kids had lots of time to play in the dirt and we and joyed the peace and quiet immensely.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful views

The place was rustic. It had some nice features though. Fireplace was nice with plenty of wood. Birds came to deck and eat bird food from the feeder and the views were stunning.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Chris H.

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

Christmas with a view.

This is a special cabin with a spectacular view. Easy to relax and dream.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Noah Z.

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

Charming old cabin, amazing views & location

Title says it all
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anton P.

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

I come here multiple times a year

This place is special and feels like a little bit of magic. It's rustic feel, careful touches, and incredible location means I have found it tough to be beat. The road to palomar itself is even transportive - the desert dust gives way to switchback roads, the smell of pine - crisp, mountain air. We love it, and this property makes use of the space and view amazingly. Once you've enjoyed the view, the main event starts - the night sky. Palomar has some of the clearest skies in America and the wraparound deck really makes stargazing easy. The kitchen is well stocked, beds are very comfortable and Wifi is great (if you even need it). I have no doubt we'll be back soon - we come back multiple times a year from New York, and we love it.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Linda J.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful views

The views were spectacular from this home in the mountains . Wish we could have stayed longer; due to a safety concern we cut the trip short, and Vrbo/Chuck Black graciously refunded our payment!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jason S.

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

Palomar Mountain cabin 4th of July stay

Absolutely charming cabin - we chose this property for a firework free stay for our doggo and ourselves. so relaxing, amazing views for a wonderful quite couple of days. The property was as described and exactly what we expected. Host Chuck was great and made sure to tell us what to expect for the time of year we were there, also a pleasure to speak with - we called to check in with him on our last morning there. Thank you Chuck!! 10 out of 10!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Erica R.

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

Best views around

To start, Chuck has the quickest, clearest communication I have ever experienced as a guest. This cabin is definitely a rustic cabin that feels like grandmas house and is very welcoming. I say that as someone who spent summers at her grandmas cabin in Julian and has the best memories of those times. Not only was the cabin easy to use, we spoke with the neighbors who were all friendly and well humored. It was a wonderful trip.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Irma H.

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

Just WOW!

While our daily stay was shortened due to weather, I cannot be more a fan of this home and its wonderful views. Thank you, Chuck, for sharing this little slice of heaven.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mohan G.

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

Beautiful property!

Nice and cozy cabin! Had a great family time at the property! Would consider going back again. Communication was quick with the host.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

8/10 Good

Scott T.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mountain cabin

The cabin is not your typical vacation rental flip job. It’s obviously “lived in” which can be part of the charm if you accept that. We liked it. Great views. Do not try to get to it if there is any real snow and you dont have 4wd.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rick W.

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

A place to find quiet

We had a lovely January stay full of hikes, sunsets, hawks, and rain. We'll be back again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Peace with forever changing beautiful views and vibes.

Best way to end the year!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cande R.

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

Wonderful Thanksgiving Break in the Mountains

We had a fabulous time at Chuck's cottage. The house is rustic and loved, lots of interesting things everywhere. It was perfect for our family and our pups. The views are to die for and we spent a lot of time hanging out on the deck enjoying the warm sun or inside playing games and enjoying hot cocoa by the fire. There is a little park near by that we could walk our two Beagles to and just enjoyed watching the birds and the views from the living room. Thanks so much Chuck for sharing your home with us! We loved it!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mike P.

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

Cosmic

Absolutely stunning views. No need to meditate, this place does it for you. Thanks again for letting us and our 2 dogs share your cabin. We will be back
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

M L.

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

Beautiful!

We loved our stay here. Comfortable, clean, and the most gorgeous views. Definitely recommend!!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Margarita Z.

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

We didn’t want to leave…

This quaint mountaintop house is simply amazing! With warm, homely charm, and absolutely breathtaking views… it is well-stocked, clean and peaceful. Big fridge and plenty of space to relax. You should see the sunsets here. We are in love with this beautiful place!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bruce Edward J.

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

SoCal Mountain Stay

The house is as described and pictured. Has pretty much everything you'd need. It was a nice stay for me and my two young kids (8 & 10). The kids loved the 'rustic' nature of the place!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Blake F., Boise

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

Cabin with great views

My wife and I wanted to get away from town for a weekend, go hiking, and stargaze a bit. The cabin was perfect, with amazing views during all times of the day and plenty of hiking nearby.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Björn Eike B.

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

Awesome view

Such a great place to be. No spoilers, you’ll love it there.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Wendy R.

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

Cloud Island

The views from the deck of this cabin and the lookout platform are simply stunning. You feel like you are on an island in the clouds. It is truly a place to relax and unwind. The furnishing are comfortable and you can tell this is a place that holds many cherished memories. There are many interesting art objects, books, and nooks and crannies to explore. I love, love, love the kitchen sink and drain tray—seriously! I was surprised to read in the guest book there was a sauna—I found it! It was like a fun mystery surprise. I checked it out, but it was warm while we were there, so I did not partake. The bathrooms and linens were clean, kitchen is well stocked, and the grill on the deck works great. Thanks Chuck for the labels and notes for lights switches and fans. It was like you were there guiding us through your cabin. We look forward to our next visit.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa G., La Mesa, CA

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

Incredible views

Views are amazing. Enjoyed our stay. Nature all around and a lot of pine trees. Very cozy. Host was fantastic!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cristin P.

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

Great stay at a fun property

Everyone enjoyed their time on our weekend trip. The view is of course phenomenal and worth every penny. The icing on the cake was being able to explore thru the cabin to see what interesting treasures we could find.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

About the host

Hosted by Chuck Black

Host profile image
Biologist in San Diego.

Why they chose this property

Poor old cabin was falling down.... but with incredible view, nestled in big green trees. See the scrapbook of the 2+ years it took to bring back from near-death. Upgraded, but kept as much of the old feel and charm as possible.

What makes this property unique

Clouds and view are always changing. Santa Ana nights after storms, you can see the waves breaking on Catalina Island in the full moon. Moonless nights, you can see the Milky Way even with all the city lights below. Great place to take kids for their first snow.
As many as 20 hummingbirds fight over porch feeder, acorn woodpeckers and band tailed pigeons common at deck feeder.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests