Entire home

HIGH DESERT & LAKE RETREAT adjacent to Mountain hiking, and a Hot Spring lake

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December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for HIGH DESERT & LAKE RETREAT adjacent to Mountain hiking, and a Hot Spring lake

Exterior
Bar (on property)
Dining
Property grounds
Beach

Reviews

9.6 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 41496.2 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Hot Tub
    Hot Tub
  • Pet friendly
    Pet friendly
  • Outdoor Space
    Outdoor Space
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Jacumba Hot Springs, CA
  • Wisteria Candy Cottage
    14 min drive
  • Elevation Off-Road Park
    19 min drive
  • Golden Acorn Casino
    20 min drive

Room options

About the neighborhood

Jacumba

This vacation home is located 8.1 mi (13 km) from Wisteria Candy Cottage and 11.5 mi (18.6 km) from Elevation Off-Road Park. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a patio, and a sofa bed.

What's nearby

  • Wisteria Candy Cottage - 14 min drive - 8.1 miles
  • Elevation Off-Road Park - 19 min drive - 11.6 miles
  • Golden Acorn Casino - 20 min drive - 16.8 miles
  • Laguna Mountain Recreation Area - 47 min drive - 39.7 miles
  • Agua Caliente County Park - 61 min drive - 44.2 miles

Restaurants

  • ‪Raven's Nest - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Jacumba Lounge and Restaurant - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Jay's Southern Cafe - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Mariscos el Kory - ‬107 min drive
  • ‪Maminos Pizza - ‬98 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

HIGH DESERT & LAKE RETREAT adjacent to Mountain hiking, and a Hot Spring lake

High Desert and Lake Retreat, a unique destination, adjacent to Anza Borrego Parkland with hundreds of beautiful hiking acres, yet within 5 min. walk to downtown amenities and a hot springs Lake for swimming. Enjoy the interior filled with original art, inspired by the high desert. Tour the Grounds with perceptual sculptures, old RailCars, Meditation tub under stars, the Silent Tower, and a Train Caboose... Only 65 miles from San Diego attractions.
WEEKLY & MONTHLY DISCOUNTS

The space
A great stay for anyone looking for a meditative space. Enjoy fresh mountain air, original High Desert flora and fauna and hiking trails with views into Mexico.
Featuring an expansive living space and a bathroom with a large central bath. Sleeping for up to FOUR (4) GUESTS*, and a complete open kitchen with banquet seating.

***
- We love communication!
- NO PARTIES please!
- NO RV Hook Ups available. Hooking an RV into our electricity is a Fire Hazard and a Code Violation.
- Pet Friendly: DOGS OK, NO CATS, NO HORSES. Please only house trained pets, no pets on furniture nor rugs, bring blankets for your pets.
- WEEKLY & MONTHLY DISCOUNTS
- Please don't touch the Art
- Outside Tub is shared with Magic Mountain Warehouse guests
- Keep the Security Door CLOSED AT ALL TIMES to avoid desert critters from coming in
- Please turn out all candles and turn off appliances upon leaving for short or long term
- No Fires outside the communal Fire Cages. KEEP the Fire-Cage Lid CLOSED AT ALL TIMES!
- LEAVE NO TRACE, and please PICK UP after PETS. The high desert environment is highly impacted by dog waste. Please respect our environment.
- ABSOLUTELY NO DRIVING ON THE LAND WITH ANY MOTORIZED VEHICLES. Pedal biking allowed ONLY ON THE BIG ROADS.
- PLEASE ALWAYS KEEP THE MAIN GATE LOCKED.
- Long term guests can reserve house cleaning in advance for a fee. (washer and dryer not available)

You will be greeted by a Greeter, who will briefly acquaint you with the marvelous surroundings: the white pyramid, an old inactive train yard with train cars for viewing and photography only, the silent tower, indigenous sites, caves, and many other attractions right outside your front door.

As you flip your Grill condiments on our installed Park Grill, you will be absorbing an unlimited view from mountain ridge to mountain ridge.

For the ultimate meditation, soak in the rustic tub under the stars for one or two people, built in a sculptural manner designed by artist shaman Q. This tub is located between our two guest houses and is shared to both guest houses.

Walk along solar lights to the Pyramid and experience the high desert wilderness at night, also enjoy sitting around the Fire Pit just behind the house.

A perfect trip for those who desire a get away from busy urban life. This landscape is a known Power Spot, a place emanating clear energy for an energetic boost and a perceptual shift. At night, Star Gazing from the porch is spectacular!

New Addition to High Desert Retreat and the Magic Mountain Warehouse: Just steps away from our site is the only hot spring fed lake in California. In the midst of this high mountainous terrain, is a Lake, fed from amazing mineral spring water. See photos. A $5 donation recommended at the donation box available in Jacumba St.

Visit the Downtown Restaurant and Bar at the Jacumba Hotsprings Hotel
Discover high desert elixirs, herbal tinctures, cold pressed juices, tonics and cocktails, handcrafted in our exotic desert hideaway bar. No reservations required.

Please BRING your favorite GROCERIES with you, especially fruits & vegetables. There is ONLY a small grocery store in town carrying basic items...

In the kitchen you will find: Coffee & Tea varieties. Tap water is ok to drink.

SOME GUESTS DO NOT GET CELL PHONE SIGNAL on our property. Verizon works well. Be sure to coordinate your arrival with our manager before arriving on the property. Or, prepare written directions in advance. Once you hook into the Wifi you can use Wifi calling.

Jacumba Hot Springs is a natural Power Spot. Vision quests have been conducted on our Grounds since the Pyramid builders time coming from the Valley of Mexico into the mystic mountains of Jacumba. The land holds many stone markers indicating ceremonial activities. To hike this land with the intention of receiving information to help with your daily life. We intend this land as a "Dreamscape" landscape.

LivArt: Within the history of contemporary art, various movements have arisen, and are represented by the style of the artists. We have the following categories in art: portraiture, landscape, color field, pop, super realism, and performance art. All of these forms of art have traditionally been exhibited in galleries and museums.

There are vacation stays, and there are museum stays. We offer the latter with a large exhibit space of spiritual art. It is our intent that every visitor encounters at least one piece of art, that remains in their heart. LivArt invites a person to dream with the art in a prolonged living situation. Through staying within our environments for a few days, both day and night, the experience transcends an exhibition. Every person is allowed to interact with the art at their own pace, but more importantly, to be absorbed by the experience. LivArt is art that momentarily becomes your own life.

REVIEWS from other Sites::
Adam July 22
This place is magical. It's like a spiritual retreat, spa, and museum in one - but, besides that, there is extremely strong energy on this land. I'm really, really grateful that Q & Twila have opened up their beautiful property for others to have the pleasure of experiencing and enjoying.

Santi July 22
This was our second stay and was even better the second time around!! My soul is instantly quieted and rejuvenated at the High Desert Retreat. The access to the hot springs fed lake is divine. If you are a lover of soaking in nature, book this place.... the lake, outdoor tub, and indoor tub too are all amazing! The property is such a special place and truly a work of art:)

Chelsea June 22
Q and Twila's place was amazing! It was so wonderful to be back after coming to the property years ago for the Telemagica music festival. The art both around the property and in the house is awesome, and the Pyramid, hiking in the surrounding desert, and the hot springs lake were major highlights too - and the giant tub in the house! We'll have to try the outdoor tub next time we visit. The house itself was extremely clean, comfortable, and a very relaxing and inspiring space. Great communication both by Q and Twila and the property manager who met us on the property, and lots of clear signage around the house to help you figure the space out and give you clear checkout protocols. We loved it, and will definitely return!!

Jim June 22
We had a wonderful weekend away at Q and Twila's place. First off it was very clean!! We were very comfortable in the house. It was spacious and the AC worked great. As mentioned previously, everywhere you looked had an interesting piece of art to see and think about. The property was also very well maintained and obviously cared for. It is just as described and pictured and a very unique experience! Robert, the caretaker was friendly and helpful. The hosts were gracious and had lots of interesting information to share. Will be back and recommend to friends!!
We also went to a nearby white sage farm which is worth a visit.

Fabrianne May 22
This is our third time and it’s even better now that the lake has been restored. There are communal use kayaks, as well as a hot springs shower to sit in. And it’s only a 3-minute walk. This site is one of our favorite getaway spots. The quiet solitude and spiritual energy of the high desert is really special, and Q & Twila’s space has everything you need. Next time I’ll have to remember measuring cups (if needed for a specific recipe) and a water filter. Their tap is safe to drink but not the best tasting. Otherwise, there was nothing we were missing. Everyone loves it here. Bring art supplies as you’ll likely feel inspired like we always do!

Cami May 22
This is the real deal - property plus spiritual experiences included. We will be back and Back. Thank you sooo much!!💜👁🧡

Beth may 22
On our second stay, we gained new appreciation. The physical setting is amazing in itself. Beautiful hiking all around. Short walk to amazingly restored spring fed pond, now inviting swimming and kayaking. Back on the grounds of the Institute of Perception, the art of Kirk Roberts makes for a special experience. His uninhibited, visceral imagery of nature and the border between the real and imagined or dreamed world speak volumes and inspire thought and creativity. This is a unique and special place. Q & Twila, thank you for sharing. I hope you continue to do so and thrive as the town experiences a revitalization. Beth & TC

Annika April 22
High Desert Retreat is incredible. So many AirBnBs look great in photos but are underwhelming or soulless in person This is the opposite. It exceeded my expectations. The house is a gem - filled with tons of beautiful art, interesting books, unique design and furniture details, a luxurious soaking tub, large, well-equipped kitchen, comfy bed, all in a magical setting. It's the perfect place to get away for the weekend. There is so much to look at and explore, both in the house and on the property. I don't have enough good things to say. Just book it. You won't regret it.

Lisa March 22
We came home today and my whole family (including our dog) were so sad. The High Desert Retreat is a magical place in every way. The home is even more stunning than we expected and we loved the art. My daughter attempted to count the pieces and we all decided to each choose a favorite but it was so hard. The beds were so comfortable, the bathtub was to die for, and the grounds were magical
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can expect to find free WiFi and a TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a sofa bed, a coffee maker, and a desk.

Property manager

JQ and Twila Foresees

Languages

English

Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Spa tub

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • TV
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In the mountains
  • On a lake

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 1,496.2 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees
  • Note from host: Please do not let your pets roam free at property

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 25
Property Registration Number 2-0701001-18

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Long-term renters welcome.

Frequently asked questions

Is there parking available at this vacation home?

No, there isn't parking at this vacation home.

Is this vacation home adjacent to a casino?

No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?

No, this vacation home doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a spa tub.

What amenities will couples enjoy at HIGH DESERT & LAKE RETREAT adjacent to Mountain hiking, and a Hot Spring lake?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside vacation home include a kitchen as well as a garden and a video library.

Does HIGH DESERT & LAKE RETREAT adjacent to Mountain hiking, and a Hot Spring lake have a hot tub?

Yes, this vacation home has a spa tub.

Does this vacation home provide breakfast?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?

Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.

Does this vacation home have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting rooms at this vacation home.

Are there rooms with balconies at HIGH DESERT & LAKE RETREAT adjacent to Mountain hiking, and a Hot Spring lake?

Yes, every accommodation at HIGH DESERT & LAKE RETREAT adjacent to Mountain hiking, and a Hot Spring lake comes with a deck with some featuring lake or mountain views.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 17 out of 18 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 18 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 18 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 18 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 18 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

6.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Kelsah B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Heavenly Artistic Retreat
We have been longing to return after discovering this hidden gem last year. It did not disappoint! A nice addition to this year’s trip was soaking in the re-opened hot spring pool in town. I could gush again but honestly words don’t do this haven justice. It is a multi-sensory experience unlike anything else, ever.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

2/10 Terrible

Jodi

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness
We were excited about our Thanksgiving getaway and all the reviews made it sound like fun. What they don't express is that Jacumba is an extremely poverty-stricken town overrun with refugees coming through the nearby border wall. About 100 new people a day are being housed, if you can call it that, in camps near the property. Those are just the people being told to wait there and they will be processed. We saw these people and about 75 lined up and tagged by border patrol to be removed for deportation on the side of the road. A quick internet check revealed an article written by NPR just days before our arrival outlining this humanitarian crisis, specifically in this town. The nearby wall is known to have miles of holes along this town and a steady stream of coyotes dropping off refugees. There are helicopters overhead at night and DIA SUVs in the area. We were not comfortable knowing that there were people out there looking for refuge in the desert, especially with abandoned train cars on the property. As for the house, we had wondered why the windows and a slider doors were covered with locked panels of corrugated metal, not allowing any light into the bedroom or bathroom. We were told to keep every door and gate locked even when home. The furniture was ripped and torn and covered with rugs and only one chair was comfortable. We left on Thanksgiving day to return home, staying only 2 of our 5 nights. My husband felt ill and we did not feel comfortable staying any longer.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Justin N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Jacumba getaway
So much to do on site, very clean and artistic. A great energy the space had. Highly reccommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brent F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical Expert
There’s nothing like this place. Yeah it has a feeling the moment you set foot on the property. This is our second time staying and it was awesome! I highly recommend this place for a relaxing getaway. We will definitely be back!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Henry F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Inspirational location.
We had a great time exploring the desert and making music in this private, unique location. Everything was exactly as stated. Thanks again for a great stay!
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicholas A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely beautiful
Words cannot express how happy we are that we have been able to experience the land.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sharon K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Artsy retreat
We had a fabulous time!!! Even after staying for 4 nights, we continued to see new art every day. Very peaceful and relaxing. We will definitely be back :-)
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Natalie A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Spot
This spot is beautiful and the space is like staying in a comfortable art gallery. It is possible to hike around the lovely property and enjoy the night sky around a fire pit.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Viola G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful space!
The photos and descriptions don't do it justice. Stunning space and I'll visit again!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kate T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical ✨
Wow! What an amazing place. Like staying in an art gallery with comforts of home. The property inside and out is indeed magical. If you are looking for a healing retreat, that’s what this was for us. My children want to return for their birthdays and so do I. I really can’t believe we found such a beautiful destination. The hosts were excellent communicators and very kind. Exceptional ✨
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelsah B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Better than I could have imagined in my wildest dreams!
Saying that the experience was magical is an understatement. We were enamored with every aspect of the full sensory experience and wish we could have stayed longer. Mind, body, and soul were uplifted and enlightened.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shawna Z.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing get away
Nice dessert house with lake on property and a nice hot tub for 2 people , a mountain to hike and a teepee house
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Julie D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wow
This property was the perfect getaway. Beautiful land, good hiking, a well outfitted kitchen, an amazing bath and shower, interesting artwork, plenty of interesting things to explore on the grounds.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Janet F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stunning, peaceful, fabulous
On 16 acres of gorgeous desert, quiet, beautiful to walk around, listen to coyotes, enjoy the art, and feel serene.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Reg O., Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness
Jacumba Retreat - An Art Experience
This is a bit of an out-of-the-way place, but very comfortable. The art and artistic touches in the house, and on the property, are pretty amazing. The all-on-one-level house was clean, well equipped and modern. It has 1 large bedroom, and bed, although there is also a comfortable pull-out couch. Had a small TV, which we did not use; TV does not have cable, but apparently you can connect via your phone, etc. Very quiet and we enjoyed walking around the large desert property. Adjacent town is small, but had 1 store with a few basics. In short, if you are looking for a QUIET stay, especially with 'arty; touches, then this is the place! We would definitely stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Christopher K., Wilmington, Delaware 19809

Liked: Cleanliness
Our second stay at the high desert retreat was just as enjoyable as our first
Second trip to one of our most favorite places to visit, the Jacumba Hot Springs area. Not only is the home a unique artistic creation, but the entire grounds of the property are lovingly sculpted. We visit the area mostly for hiking at the many nearby blm lands and parks. This trip we encountered a herd of 8 wild horses in Moon Valley, the breathtaking views from the Sacatone Scenic Overlook, and a visit to an abandoned quartz mine! It's best to have a capable 4 by 4 if you don't want to spend as much time hiking. We are already looking at our schedules to figure out when we can visit again.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Valentina M., Ja

Liked: Cleanliness
Reset and Recharge
This is my fourth time staying at HIGH DESERT & LAKE RETREAT and it never disappoints. If you are looking for a peaceful time to relax and unwind this is your place. Lots of places to hike and explore. The home is decorated with the most amazing art. My favorite thing to do is take a long hot bath in the oversized tub!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Robert L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Into the Mystic
This rental has it all. The house and expansive grounds provide endless entertainment. The artwork and decor are both beautiful and thought provoking. Lots of amenities. Should have booked more days.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022