Mt Tamalpais Dream Retreat
Cottage in Mill Valley, CA
2 guests · 2 bedrooms · 2 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Includes essentialsPool, Kitchen or Kitchenette, Internet / Wifi and more
About this cottage rental
One-bedroom, 2 full bathroom cottage is an ultra-charming, craftsman style home with magnificent views of the San Francisco Bay. It offers a fully equipped kitchenette, a lovely living room, a comfy bedroom, a full sized bed sleeping loft, a library /TV room and an ethereal work space. Sip coffee or wine from one of the double decks. Stay in to enjoy the view and birdsong or head out for a Bay Area adventure. Mt. Tamalpais State Park trails for hiking and mountain biking are right out your back door. Sausalito, San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, Muir Woods and the wine country offer some of the endless possibilities for day tripping. This is a place that is both relaxing and inspiring. A perfect writer's retreat (in fact, it was the winter home of a New York Times best-selling author) or for soulful restoration!
Amenities
Pool
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
TV
Family friendly
Map of Mill Valley, CA
$$$$
Ratings and reviews
5.0 / 5.0
Lovely
5.0 / 5.0
Host was incredibly accommodating and the property was just as advertised. We had a very relaxing peaceful stay.
5.0 / 5.0
This is a wonderful property and Marianne is a great host. Very communicative and friendly but not intrusive. The apartment was great for a couple and if there were a child, they would love the extra loft bed. The apartment had everything we needed. Marianne was very helpful and left lovely touches in the apartment, such as fresh flowers, and it has beautiful art and furnishings. It is quite a drive up and down on very windy streets to reach the place, with the benefit of the beautiful view as shown.
5.0 / 5.0
This hidden gem in Mill Valley is an incredible property, perfect for a peaceful retreat. The house offers stunning views and easy access to beautiful hikes and walks into the surrounding mountains. From the moment I arrived, I felt warmly welcomed by Marianne, who graciously showed me around and ensured I had everything I needed for a comfortable stay. The house itself was clean, beautifully maintained, and truly felt like home. I slept soundly each night and enjoyed every moment spent on the deck, especially during the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
One of the best aspects of this location, aside from the natural beauty, is how safe the area is. I felt completely at ease walking alone, whether late at night or early in the morning, both in the neighborhood and in town. Beyond the property itself, Marianne, the host, was exceptionally kind and attentive. She made herself available for any questions or needs I had and offered excellent recommendations for trails and activities around town.
I cannot recommend this place highly enough and will absolutely return. I'm grateful to have found this property and to have experienced the beauty it offers.
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful location. Convenient location.
Greeted by host. Very welcoming.
All amenities included. Great vacation!
5.0 / 5.0
My adult son and I spent the weekend at this cottage. It was equipped with everything and the owner was very nice to show us all around the cottage and what it offered. We even got in a game of cribbage which they had on the game shelf!
The views around the cottage are beautiful and the beds were very comfortable. I recommend renting this cottage if you are going to Mill Valley!
5.0 / 5.0
Hummingbirds, redwoods and piece of mind is what you will get while staying here. Marianne is a pleasure and so was the house, nothing but good things to say. Thank you
5.0 / 5.0
Everything was as advertised. A very quiet setting
5.0 / 5.0
This cottage was amazing. It did get hot in the afternoon but the morning and evenings were nice. The decks had the most beautiful veiws. The flowers and trees on the property smelled amazing. Marianne was so kind and had great suggestions. I would definitely stay here again! The bed was so comfortable. She had everything you would need for cooking a nice meal. Thanks Marianne!
5.0 / 5.0
Property is absolutely beautiful with fantastic views! Owner was extremely helpful. We have family living in the area and will definitely stay here again!
5.0 / 5.0
We would give it 10 stars if we could. But here's a quick list of why we rated our stay so highly:
- First, hostess Marianne was welcoming, helpful and unfailingly gracious
- Located in a spectacularly beautiful, sunny and very quiet spot close to Mt. Tam trails
- The accommodations are spacious, impeccably furnished and were immaculate
- Not one but two decks!
- Nothing wanting in the kitchen space or bathrooms (great shower!)
- Easy to get there (Less than 10 minutes up from downtown Mill Valley) and parking is a snap
- Plenty of birds about - frequent visitors to the upper deck included Anna's Hummingbird and Bewick's Wren
5.0 / 5.0
Marianne is the consummate host. She gave us all the information we needed before arriving, as well as a grand tour upon arrival. This is not your typical rental. It feels like you are in your own home. Charming and homey decor and a full kitchen which allowed us to prepare several meals. Opening the French doors onto the main deck makes you feel a part of nature. The house is nestled in the trees and far away from any noise or distractions. Just a short walk up the street leads you past redwoods and to trail heads that wind into the beautiful Tamalpais hills. Very much enjoyed our stay. Thank you Marianne.
5.0 / 5.0
We had a very relaxing stay, such a beautiful location and so peaceful, wish we could have stayed longer, definitely will be back soon
5.0 / 5.0
High marks from us for our lovely stay in this cottage on the ridge above Mill Valley. Nicely furnished and equipped. Very convenient parking (sometimes a challenge in Mill Valley). Owner is friendly and helpful, but not intrusive. Easy access to everything in town, and location is close to the headlands and the state park, with lots of walking trails to explore.
5.0 / 5.0
A beautiful property full of flowers and authentic NorCal touches. Wonderful host. I sleep so well here! Can’t wait for next year.
5.0 / 5.0
This home is located in a beautiful area, up a winding road and among redwood trees and with an expansive view across the lush valley of the North SF Bay Area. It is quiet, extremely comfortable for relaxation and/or for "work from home", with added character from a spiral staircase, desk nook, loft, and redwood decks and with the convenience of parking and kitchen facilities, as well as 2 sleeping areas + 2 bathrooms. The owners, in a separate home on the property, are highly responsive, helpful and kind, whilst also respecting visitor privacy. One of my all-time favorite VRBOs!
5.0 / 5.0
Marianne was a phenomenal host who made our stay exceptional. The property was exactly as described and perfect all the way to smallest details. Highly recommended for anyone who wants a private stay near all that Mill Valley and Mt. Tam have to offer.
5.0 / 5.0
Hosts were very accessible and kind during the stay. Any item I had not packed or thought about needing during the week was provided when I looked ! The carriage house was comfy, lots of blankets, chairs books, games- all things relaxing. Tech was covered also, with TV’s, Wi-Fi etc. It’s difficult to put into words how ethereal the view was from the property and decks, more than I hoped for..
Suggest meeting grocery/ sundry needs prior to arrival, the Northern California hills are no joke if you come from flatter environments. Plenty of hiking and state park access. 5/5 for sure, home away from home. Deb
5.0 / 5.0
We really enjoyed our stay and only wished that we could have stayed longer
5.0 / 5.0
What a wonderful spot, high in the hills above Mill Valley, with the Bay in the distance! The view was amazing, and the cottage on the whole was very comfortable, with everything we could need for a four night stay. You can walk to nearby hiking trails, and while the road up is a bit winding, once we did it twice, it was fine. Mill Valley is a great place to visit and Marianne's cottage was a perfect home base!
5.0 / 5.0
What a wonderful property, it was like staying in a treehouse. The grounds were beautiful and the house had everything you need. Marianne went above and beyond to make sure we had a great stay. She responded quickly to any of our questions. We even had fresh flowers throughout the house from her garden. I hope to return and stay here again. Highly recommend this VRBO.
5.0 / 5.0
We loved our stay at the cottage. Spectacular views from either of the two decks, a well-equipped kitchen, an awesome library and 2 full baths. Easy access to SF, the wine country and all Marin County has to offer - Tiburon, San Anselmo, Muir Woods, Bolinas, etc. Hiking trails within walking distance. To top it all off, Marianne is a charming, helpful and knowledgeable host. Exceeded our expectations.
5.0 / 5.0
Great location, beautiful environment We felt very welcome with freshly cut flowers in all the rooms. The owners were very helpful and friendly. I would recommend this place to anyone staying in Mill Valley.
5.0 / 5.0
Such a wonderful and unique place. It was perfect for me. Coffee on the deck overlooking the valley below. Walking and hiking just beyond the property with amazing views.
5.0 / 5.0
We had a wonderful time, wish we could have stayed longer! We hope to come back again someday. Highly recommended.
5.0 / 5.0
We had a great stay in Mill Valley. Great host. We loved the place and hope to visit again soon!
5.0 / 5.0
I stayed at this wonderful property in Mill Valley for eight nights. This beautiful, tree-covered cottage painted the perfect picture of the relaxing vacation I was looking for in Marin. The cottage was clean, well-equipped with everything I needed, and the views were gorgeous and the setting very serene.
Marianne is an absolutely great host! I had the opportunity to get to know Marianne, her husband, and her sweet dog, Buster. She is extremely knowledgeable about Mill Valley whether it’s which hikes to take or general information about Mill Valley/ Marin/ San Francisco. Her sincerity is genuine, her sense of humor always put a smile on my face, and her ability to provide a comfortable home away from home was right on target. Marianne truly makes for the best kind of VRBO host, which is important to me, along with staying in a vacation home that exceeds its online description. I loved my stay at this property and would have extended my dates if I didn’t have to return to life in Colorado.
5.0 / 5.0
Our experience echoes that in the reviews of previous guests! We have rented a variety of vacation get-aways. Like our two properties in Michigan, there are pros and cons to every place. This review adds information that we don't believe is online, along with the most memorable aspects of our stay.
Mountainside neighborhoods surround Mill Valley. The roads are steep, curvy, narrow and shared by parked cars, bicyclists, pedestrians and residents who likely drive faster than you. If you aren't used to a "driveway" like this one, we suggest two things: 1) be cautious and stay as far right as possible, and 2) on the descent, if unsure at a fork whether to go to the right or left - we're quite sure left is always it. Check with Marianne to make sure we're right.
We work with people with disabilities. Note that there are several steps outdoors. Inside, a narrow metal spiral staircase connects the two levels. It's possible to use the exterior steps instead of the spiral staircase. The bedroom and bath is on the lower level. The double bed is a sleeping loft accessed by a ladder.
We will long remember...
- Marianne's hospitality, knowledge, friendliness, attention to safety, and quick communications.
- Fabulous accommodations stocked with everything we might need; sunrise/sunset from the decks.
-A comfortable setting close to shopping, the seashore, and all the sights.
This is a cozy Mill Valley accommodation! Book it!
5.0 / 5.0
This immaculately kept house with two floors, two full bathrooms and two decks is JUST 20 minutes away from the city! Surrounded by nature with views of the city, It can’t get any better. You also have access to trails that can’t take you all the way to the top of Mt Tam or bring your gravel/mountain bike and ride up the fire roads. Couldn’t have asked for a better host experience either. Marianne and Art were delightful. And of course, Buster the dog was the cherry on top. Thanks for sharing your home and am looking forward to visiting again!
5.0 / 5.0
Lovely view and a sweet cottage with lovely touches like fresh flowers. It is a tricky drive up a long hill to get to town but it was fun to be within walking distance to hiking trails. Marianne is very responsive.
5.0 / 5.0
We loved our stay at Marianne's special cottage. Near the top of Summit Drive (WOW!) and beautifully nestled among the trees at the top of Mill Valley, our stay was wonderf-FULL. Marianne is a terrific host; responsive and available as needed. And the property is just perfect - everything we needed!!
5.0 / 5.0
The place was absolutely beautiful! My husband and I wanted a special place to escape our hectic lives for a few days that was peaceful, quiet, and surrounded by nature. It was exactly this. We love to hike and the trailhead was a short little walk right out the front door. Driving into such a sweet little town was a few minutes a way and San Francisco was less than 30 minutes too. Marianne (our host) was awesome! She was very friendly and helpful. It was a perfect getaway that brings a smile as I think often about the peace it brought staying in this lovely home. I absolutely would recommend and hope to return soon!
5.0 / 5.0
My adult daughter and I do regular trips to the Bay Area and are repeat lucky guests of Marianne. Have recommended this most lovely and comfortable place to many. Plus, the setting and view is more than fabulous.
5.0 / 5.0
My wife and I stayed in this lovely spot for a few days in February/March. We were looking for a beautiful, serene location close to SF and all of our expectations were exceeded. We were able to hike up from the property to see SF and the bay in the distance, and also had a great time exploring Rodeo Beach and Muir Woods. The unit had all of the amenities we were looking for and we were very comfortable. Marianne was helpful and friendly. Overall, it’s a gorgeous place to getaway with plenty of access to the town of Mill Valley, SF and beyond.
5.0 / 5.0
My husband and I stayed at this lovely cabin for the weekend and it was a tranquil experience. It is beautiful and peaceful, and has so many areas to relax! The host was responsive and welcoming without being intrusive.
Would love to come back for a longer stay.
Thank you!
5.0 / 5.0
This lovely cottage reminded us of several visits to cloud forests in Central and South America. The views are spectacular, and the accommodation is beautifully appointed and comfortable. Without a doubt one of the best VRBO stays we have experienced. Five stars for the Mill Valley Cottage!
5.0 / 5.0
This is a quaint cottage on the side of the mountain with beautiful views from all windows in the back of the cottage. I would wake up every morning to a wonderful sunrise that would take my breath away! As I was reading my book I looked out the window and saw hummingbirds flying around the property. If you like to hike then this is the place for you. I went on a 3 hour walk/hike in the area. Also, Mill Valley Village is very charming to walk around and shop and get a bite to eat. Overall, a wonderful experience!!
5.0 / 5.0
Awesome place with an awesome view and host that are friendly & helpful. Highly recommended!! Close to town. Stay here if its available!
5.0 / 5.0
Marianne’s place was perfect with its breathtaking views, secluded location and comfortable accommodations. We couldn’t have picked a better spot outside the city. I would definitely recommend it.
5.0 / 5.0
wonderful place to stay--
FAQs
How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Mill Valley?
The average price for a rental in Mill Valley is $510 per night. This rental is $0 less expensive than the average.
Is parking included with this cottage?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Mt Tamalpais Dream Retreat. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cottage?
Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at Mt Tamalpais Dream Retreat. Enjoy the water!
Is Mt Tamalpais Dream Retreat pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this cottage is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Mt Tamalpais Dream Retreat?
We found 8 amenities for this rental. This includes pool, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, parking, and laundry.
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