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Bison Lodge For Quiet Contemplation, Modern Conveniences, AC/Wifi & Pets

Photo gallery for Bison Lodge For Quiet Contemplation, Modern Conveniences, AC/Wifi & Pets

A view of this large house
From the front door, walk up a few steps to arrive at the Living room
Next to the dinning room, you will find this delightful kitchen
another view of this fantastic dinning room
You will meet Sam the Bison and he oversees this house with peaceful contentment

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6246.2 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Gym
  • Washer
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Julian, CA
  • Julian Town Hall
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Julian Historical Society
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Julian Pioneer Museum
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Borrego Springs, CA (BXS-Borrego Valley)
    ‪48 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Downstairs Master Bedroom

1 King Bed and 1 Double Futon

Guest Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Upstairs Master Bedroom

1 Double Futon and 1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Downstairs Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Upstairs Bathroom

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub

Spaces

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

About this property

Bison Lodge For Quiet Contemplation, Modern Conveniences, AC/Wifi & Pets

In 2023/2024, we completed a list of property improvements for this beautiful and charming house:
(1) added mini-split A/C for the upstairs bedroom, living room, and dining/kitchen,
(2) replaced the roof so it is now Energy Star efficient,
(3) added solar panels and backup battery to reduce the property's carbon footprint,
(4) repaired the aging cedar wood siding and improved installation,
(5) completed a plumbing inspection and upgrades,
(5) replaced three sets of balcony doors.


The solar panel and backup batteries will make things easier during SDG&E's "Safety Power Shutoff." This means our guests will be more comfortable in this beautiful house (i.e., warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.) We continue to plant hundreds of daffodils, tall bearded irises, and seeding wildflowers inside and outside the property each year.

We continue to be concerned about your health and safety. Therefore, we disinfect and deep clean our property after each customer visit. You will find a supply of cleaning and disinfecting items under each sink area (i.e., kitchen, upstairs bathroom, and downstairs bathroom). Liquid hand soap is also available at each of these locations.

The most often customer comment is that the property pictures do not do justice to the beauty and scale of this property. We will let you be the judge on this.

This property is best suited for families with children and pets, especially when you and your family are interested in accessing Julian with modern conveniences and comfort. Please note that we are provisioning this property for 6 -persons maximum, and exceptions will require the property owner's approval. For example, a recent guest asked us to support an 18-person family party, which we declined. We do not support large parties of any kind. We strive to have a calm, beautiful, and well-maintained property that can delight all of us.

If you are looking for a property to celebrate elderly parents (i.e., Mother's Day, Father's Day, etc.), this may not be your property. We have a 14-step stair connecting the upstairs and downstairs. The living room, dining room, and kitchen are all located upstairs. Alternatively, a gradual garden side walkway leads to the kitchen backdoor to access the upstairs, but this may not work for your elderly parents. In addition, this property is not wheelchair accessible.

Located only 5 minutes (approximately 2 miles) from downtown Julian, Bison Lodge provides couples and families a quiet, romantic getaway. The property was completely remodeled a few years back, with the notion of opening the living spaces to allow for quiet contemplation. The Bison Lodge offers two master-suite bedrooms and a third bedroom located downstairs. These three bedrooms provide privacy and charm. Each room is uniquely decorated with a specific theme and ambiance and tastefully appointed for comfort. In addition, the separately fenced gardens are ideal for children, four-legged kids (with a dog fee), outdoor dining, bird watching, and stargazing.

We love having morning coffee on the balcony and backyard, looking at the distant hills, sky, flowers, and birds in the gardens.

Property manager

Barbara Schor
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
There's a $100 pet fee - Up to 2 medium size dogs.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
ALL HOLIDAY BOOKINGS ARE 100% NON-REFUNDABLE
There are absolutely no outdoor fires allowed

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
Property Registration Number COSD-00063

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Julian

Located in Julian, this holiday home is in the city centre. Julian Historical Society and Julian Pioneer Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Menghini Winery and Milagro Farm Vineyards and Winery. California Wolf Center and Laguna Mountain Recreation Area are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Julian, CA

What's nearby

  • Julian Town Hall - 4 min drive - 2.7 km
  • Julian Historical Society - 4 min drive - 2.7 km
  • Julian Pioneer Museum - 5 min drive - 2.8 km
  • Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve - 7 min drive - 5.6 km
  • William Heise County Park - 16 min drive - 11.8 km

Getting around

  • San Diego, CA (SEE-Gillespie Field) - 69 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Lake Cuyamaca - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Julian Brewing Company - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Julian Pie - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Julian Pie Company - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Dudley's Bakery & Restaurant - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Bison Lodge For Quiet Contemplation, Modern Conveniences, AC/Wifi & Pets pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Bison Lodge For Quiet Contemplation, Modern Conveniences, AC/Wifi & Pets?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Bison Lodge For Quiet Contemplation, Modern Conveniences, AC/Wifi & Pets?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Bison Lodge For Quiet Contemplation, Modern Conveniences, AC/Wifi & Pets located?

Located in the heart of Julian, this holiday home is within 2 miles (3 km) of Julian Town Hall, Julian Historical Society and Julian Pioneer Museum. Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve and Menghini Winery are also within 6 miles (10 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. 155 out of 164 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 164 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 164 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 164 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 164 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mark T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect Mountain Retreat
We choose Bison Lodge for a family retreat and it was exactly as advertised. Comfortable, spacious, clean and charming in a beautiful and convenient location. The weekend just flew by with so many fun and interesting activities in the Julian area. Having such a great property to return to each day just added to the whole enjoyable experience. Highly recommended.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

stella z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Home away from home
This was our fourth stay and we love this Julian property. It has all the comforts of home: a fantastic kitchen, a fenced yard for our dogs, a big family room space with lots of seating and super comfy beds. It is our go-to rental for family getaways in Julian.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Craig t.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Winter getaway
Second stay a this wonderful property. Weather was fine and birds and many wild turkeys. The house is cozy and beds comfy. Really had a relaxing weekend. Will come back. Thank you Barbara .
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing
4th Stay for us and not the last. like times before the host was responsive and welcoming. I will definitely recommend this place for anyone looking for a comfortable, hassle-free stay. thanks Barbara!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Keri M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thanksgiving
We have stayed here many times and it never disappoints! We love this home and are so grateful to have a found a wonderful place to celebrate Thanksgiving!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steve M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
nice property in a nice location
This is a really nice place, very well-appointed and well-decorated. Comfortable beds and couch, nicely fenced yard with plenty of room for fetch, and an awesome deck with tons of birds to watch.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Bison Lodge is wonderful
Nice area! Bison Lodge had everything our family needed! Enjoyed the neighborhood and town!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Noemi B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved it!
This wasn't our first time in this beautiful home. We love it so we go back as often as possible. It's spacious, it's very clean, it really feels like home! and most importantly, our dog is welcomed and safe!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laurie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very Nice Home
We have stayed in this home numerous times. It is very well appointed in all areas. Beds are comfortable and cozy, public spaces are spacious, and the kitchen has everything you need for cooking and baking. It is the perfect size for my family.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mattie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Julian Stay
Great location for families and their dogs! Clean, secure, beautiful home in a Peaceful and quiet spot , yet close to downtown Julian. Loved the holiday decorations. We will be back. Thank you z
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dan G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Feels like home
This home has all the feels of home. From the fully stocked spice racks and appliances to the art on the walls the night lights throufh out the house and the large fenced in lot that the furry ones rated 10 out of 10.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laurie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Always a great stay
We have stayed in this home a number of times. We really love it.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Clare F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay for a family wedding
Beautiful home with loving touches throughout - stayed here as we attended a family wedding nearby and it was the perfect home base. Especially loved bird watching on the wraparound deck!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Thomas A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thank You!
Thank You we enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Another great stay
Barbara and the team are exemplary hosts. Communication was great, everything worked like clockwork and the property is fantastic. We're looking forward to our next stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ranvir

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
What a beautiful and well furnished property!!! The host was super responsive and helpful. The rooms were very clean, the interior decors and furniture, kitchen supplies top notch! We absolutely loved the property and the place! Can’t wait to come back again.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gretchen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful and serene
What a lovely property! Impeccably clean. Beautifully decorated and greatly comfortable!! We were lucky enough to visit during Lilac season and the lilacs, daffodils and Iris were still all in magnificent bloom! We enjoyed our stay very much.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robert R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy getaway
This is our 3rd time at the Bison Lodge. Always a great time. Location is great home is roomy and Comfortable. we will be back
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joe K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Julian Bison House
Great location near all the Julian attractions. The updated kitchen was very well equipped and the dining and family rooms were great for family visiting. We also loved how very dog-friendly the property was.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Aaron S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fun Weekend!
Our family had a great stat at this spacious and relaxing house. Big interestingly decorated rooms and convenient location made the trip easy. The host was in regular contact to make sure we were prepared for our trip and settling in. We'd happily visit again. Thanks!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Madeline S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Dog & family friendly get away
This place was amazing! The kitchen was huge and the place was so dog friendly. There were so many places to sit and hangout (indoors & out). Highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Keri M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thanksgiving Fun
This is our favorite property to stay at in Julian. It is so comfortable and clean. We always have the best time here. We look forward to our next time in 2024!!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carol Ann L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Julian in March
Property was comfortable and dog friendly
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Beth D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Retreat in Julian CA
Our stay was great. Had everything we would need. Also master bed upstairs comfortable. Great room.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joyce M. M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great home
Large and clean home with secure fencing for pets and kids.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

About the host

Hosted by Barbara Schor

Host profile image
After years of working out of home, George and Caroline purchased this home so they could have room to breathe. We currently live in San Diego with our two dogs. We have managed to sneak their pictures into the photos. Long-Tail is NOT a bird-loving JRT. Ginger is a sweet terrier mix. Both of them are rescue dogs. The Bison Lodge is perfectly designed for our dogs.

Why they chose this property

This is a beautiful house. If you are looking for a place to restore your energy and perspective, this is the place to be. The balcony will put you at treetops, perfect for bird-watching. We are frequented by bluejays, hummingbirds, oriels, finches, and more. The balcony has bird-feeding stations for these visitors. The house is open, spacious, and up-to-date. If you can't leave your work alone, the WiFi will provide you access to the outside world. Just a few minutes away, you have access to downtown Julian with shops, restaurants, and all the activities. The restaurants in town often feature their unique apple pies. Please try them. The exact history of Sam the bison is not clear. We understand he may be a lady bison due to her small size. Sam was already living in the house when we made the house purchase. Sam was not for sale. After the prior owners moved to their new home, they learned that their new house did not have sufficient ceiling height for Sam to be comfortable. This is how George and I got Sam. We just love this cabin. This cabin is built with cedar wood planks inside and out. With the tasteful furnishing, beautiful artwork, and a balcony putting you among the trees, you will be transported to a calming place. We hope you will enjoy this house as much as we do. By the way, the sofa has three electrical recliners. You will find one on either end of the sofa. The third is located on the far side of the beverage holder. You must run your hand on the right side of the sofa seam. You can watch all the birds from this position.

What makes this property unique

This is a property with a solid construction, perfect for family gatherings. Some seldom-seen posters/prints on display were collected from European museums. In 2019, we added more South American artworks to the house. The feeding stations on the Balcony draw many feathered visitors. In the morning, you can put a line of peanuts on the balcony railing, and the bluejays will thank you. You will find the bird food in the living room by the doors to the balcony. The new chirping machine on the balcony was installed after discovering the extensive damage woodpecker introduced to the house.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests