Lilac Ridge Cabin
San Diego Backcountry Retreat
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Lilac
Ridge Cabin is located on a small ranch east of San Diego,
in the picturesque mountain community of Descanso which borders on Cuyamaca
State Park. Descanso literally means "place of rest "and
historically served as the winter camp for the indigenious people for several hundreds of
years . On this 5 acre ranch is an old, storybook stone house built in
the 20's and called "Lilac Ridge Cabin" because of its location at the base
of a wild lilac covered mountain . Its early history include it being a stage stop
for wagons coming and going to the Julian Goldmines and a Bed and Breakfast in the
40's. The property owners are artists/craftsmen Laurie Roberts and Lane McClelland who reside in a rennovated barn on a separate level of the ranch. As hosts, they feel their guests should be afforded as much privacy as they desire but make themselves available if needed. If you want even greater seclusion, please look at our rustic strawbale cottage "The Haylapa House" located on the upper part of the property. |
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AccommodationsThe cabin has 2 bedrooms ...one has a stone fireplace and hand hewn queen size log bed and wall to wall carpet. The other bedroom/study has a very comfortable queensize sleeper couch, widescreen TV, and wood stove with glass door. Both have views of the mountainside and or oak trees. The recently remodeled "vintage" bathroom has large clawfoot tub , pedestal sink and lovely artwork. The living roomand the alcove dining room with turn of the century plantation table and church pew bench seating share a view of the lovely old stone fireplace and look out on to the garden. A large kitchen just off the living room area has ample counters and cabinets for preparing meals for family gatherings , complete with dishwasher, microwave, coffeemaker , full size fridge, dishes and glasses. Hardwood floors are throughout and the furnishings are a collection of primitive antiques and western art from all over the world. . It is rustic enough to feel "country comfortable" yet decorated in a style that you feel spoiled........ Click to tour cabin and locaton
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Dining. There are several restaraunts within 10 minutes drive as well as a local deli , pizza place, coffeeshops and grocery stores. The patio has a BBQ and willow dining set with view of the garden and can't be beat for a romantic meal al fresco. Lunch in Julian or having a picnic at one of the winerys a few miles up the road is also guaranteed a good time. If you like buffet, Viejas Casino, a few miles west is always a good bet as well as Le Mediterraneo Bistro or Janets Cafe in Alpine.
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Pets and EquinesWe are pet friendly and if you have really active, large dogs, you may want to consider renting our "Haylapa House" which is on it's own 2 1/2 acre compound and is located on the upper part of the property. The yard of Lilac Cabin has a 3' tall fence. There are several places nearby for hiking with your dogs (some leashfree) as well as numerous trailheads for horseback riding and we can often put up a couple horses.........call for details. Another option is that Descanso Feed Store can often board your horse a few nights ($10 per)and is just across the street from the Merrigan Ranch trailhead which is 3 minutes drive from our ranch . Cuyamaca State Park, known for its trails and riding is 10 minute drive from here . Click to meet our furry residents
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| Things
To Do There are fabulous trails awaiting the equestrian, hiker or mountain biker including one that allows unleashed dogs. Sightseers will enjoy a jaunt to the old mining town of Julian where they can shop, eat some of their famous apple pie, or go winetasting . Just over the hill from Julian is Santa Ysabel which has a wonderful gallery which features local artists, the Weavers Guild, Dudleys Bakery and the old picturesque Santa Ysabel Mission. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the awesome California Wolf Center or perhaps Lions, Tigers and Bears Animal Sanctuary . These places need advanced notice for tours so call a few weeks ahead to arrange. A drive over to Borrego Desert is always enjoyable, especially in the winter for hiking or visiting the Interpretive Center. For you out-of-towners who would like to visit San Diego's beaches, we are just 45 minutes away from the coast. If you want to experience a bit of Mexico's charms, we are 45 minutes from the quaint town of Tecate which has great food, shopping and pharmacies. If a spa is more to your liking, you can head over to Jacumba Hot Springs Resort which is a low key place with pools, sauna, natural hotsprings , masseuses, restaurant and bar. It makes a nice stop after a high desert ride or hike. On your way back from Jacumba, you must stop at the tiny Wisteria Candy Cottage which makes the best homemade chocolates and sweets you'll ever taste and has been in the same location for over 75 years. . For you gamblers and shoppers, the Viejas Casino and Outlet is a 15 minute drive west and has great restaurants and stores. If you like good beer, stop at the Alpine Brewery on your way up the hill to pick up a jug to enjoy with your pizza. Equestrians and motorcyclists will find McClintocks Saddles a worthwhile stop for custom leather accessories and tack. Anyone who loves wood or cooking will be amazed by a visit to Trynn Spoons, owned by artist Bill Chapelow, who makes fine art spoons, utensils and jewelry from exotic woods. If you would like to go trail riding and don't own a horse, you can reserve one at Kenner Stables near Julian. The quaint mexican town of Tecate is 40 minutes away and is a fun place to have a taste of south of the border experience. |
| Weather We are located at an elevation of 3600' and get one or two light snows per year. You can expect chilly nights in the winter. Mid summer temps can get into the 100's. Most of the year, we enjoy excellent weather and often are able to ride in T-shirts New Years Day ! Check weather.com to see our local forecast. |
Rates ( two night minimum stay )$175 per night for two persons and $10 per nite per extra person with a max. of five . $950 per week for 2 people. Checkin 3:00 Checkout 12:00 Major credit cards accepted. Call or e-mail for reservations.
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Reservations 619 445-1899
To See More of Our Rustic Creations For Your Home and Garden Visit Http://www.1888twigman.com
