The Gnome Home at Shadow Mountain Ranch!

9.4

Outstanding(159 Reviews)

Cottage in Julian, CA

2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bath

Reasons to book

Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating

Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind

Includes essentialsKitchen or Kitchenette, Air conditioner, Internet / Wifi and more

About this cottage rental

Looking for a whimsical mountain retreat? Our iconic Gnome Home has you covered. The unique forest gnome motif was inspired by artist and sculptor Tom Clark. Step into this mushroom-shaped abode to discover a charming seating area with panoramic views, a quaint bedroom, and a one of a kind bathroom. The interior of the room contains authentic stonework with breathtaking detailing.

The Gnome Home is one of four lovely rooms located at Shadow Mountain Ranch. It has been a favorite of many guests and continues to be the most requested room after many years. If you are interested in seeing our other unique rooms, please visit our website: shadowmountainranch.net.

Amenities

Air conditioner

Kitchen or Kitchenette

Internet / Wifi

Parking

Balcony or Patio

Family friendly

Map of Julian, CA

Nearby attractions

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

35.4 mi

Mission Trails Regional Park

48 mi

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

30.3 mi

Potato Chip Rock

33.2 mi

££££

The Gnome Home at Shadow Mountain Ranch!

££££

9.4

Outstanding(159 Reviews)

Cottage in Julian, CA

2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bath

Reasons to book

Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating

Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind

Includes essentialsKitchen or Kitchenette, Air conditioner, Internet / Wifi and more

About this cottage rental

Amenities

Air conditioner

Kitchen or Kitchenette

Internet / Wifi

Parking

Balcony or Patio

Family friendly

Map of Julian, CA

Nearby attractions

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

35.4 mi

Mission Trails Regional Park

48 mi

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

30.3 mi

Potato Chip Rock

33.2 mi

Reviews

9.4

Outstanding(159 Reviews)

Summary of reviews

Unique and enchanting Gnome Home with whimsical details, waterfall shower, and peaceful surroundings. Perfect for a quiet getaway close to town. Loved the experience!

From real guest reviews summarized by AI

2.0

Jun 2024

We were contacted 45 minutes before check in via text that the gnome home was unavailable but another room would be available. We had selected the gnome home for the curiosity and wonder 2 months prior and would have made other arrangements had the owners been honest about the unavailability. Seems like they met the rules of VRBO by offering us another room but this was not the vacation we had hoped for. On arrival it was apparent the gnome home was not in good condition from the exterior views. Had they been honest we could have made more suitable arrangements.

6.0

May 2024

The gnome home was a very unique experience for us. It would have been much better if just some minor improvements were done. For instance, there was a dvd player with some great movies available but we found the dvd player was not plugged in or connected to the tv. We wanted to make coffee and when we opened the lid to add water we saw that it had not been cleaned in a long time. So bad we chose not to use it. On our final day there it rained and the drip from the roof was landing right on the bed, it was not a bad leak but we thought we would place one of the bowls that were supplied. We then noticed the bowl had rust in it and also had not been cleaned. Exterior had some wear and tear as well. Carpet could be replaced and sofa cushions were worn. I’m taking the time to share this because it seems if just some minimal attention was given, our experience could have been so much better. We would definitely come again if these issues were addressed.

10.0

May 2024

The property was very well maintained and the house itself is very creatively constructed. The waterfall shower put you in a different world. It is exactly what you think a gnome house would be. I highly recommend this property. Only minutes from julian and 12 minutes from 3 sister falls. The wildlife is every where roaming free. Turkeys, birds, squirrels, cows, etc. Quiet nights. It was an amazing experience. Will definitely be back.

2.0

Apr 2024

Ants on bed and poor ventilation. The listing photo is of the Gnome Home years ago probably. In person it looks rundown. Upside is the internet works well, the shower is super cool, and the Property Manager communicates well. Wish it would have been a better stay.

8.0

Jan 2024

Despite having stayed there for three nights, I still can barely believe this place exists. The property is full of whimsical detail and beautiful, custom-woodwork furnishings. It's in a fantastic location, under 15 minutes from Julian and popular hiking trails. We did not have any trouble with the cold, as some previous reviewers did, despite overnight lows around 30 degrees. The only major issue we encountered was that the stunning waterfall shower drained poorly, and we had to mop up some minor overflow. We contacted the property manager and let her know about the issue, so hopefully it may be resolved in the future, but realistically, only sub-5-minute showers were possible without risking flooding in the shower's present state. I recommend asking about this before booking. One other thing to know is that the single bathroom is separated from the bedroom only by a pair of saloon-style swinging doors. Needless to say, anyone in the bedroom will get to fully experience the bathroom soundscape when it is in use. Plan accordingly.

8.0

Jan 2024

Such an interesting property and a very quaint town with great shops and restaurants.

10.0

Nov 2023

The owners are nice, and this was a beautiful place to stay.

10.0

Nov 2023

Gnome Home was an absolute delight. The exterior looks like something from the Hobbit. The building has 2 sections with a mushroom on top of each one. The interior has 2 main rooms, connected by a slightly sloping hallway. You have the feeling that your are underground. The living room and hallway have green carpeting, like grass, and the bedroom has a floor that looks like rock. The consistency is quite impressive. The decor is loaded with gnomes: on top of furniture, carved into doors, everywhere. And there is a towel rack with a leaf design, and a bench with back and arms that look like branches of a tree, and rustic chairs. The sink appears to be made of rock. But the highlight of the cottage is the shower, where water comes pouring out onto a "rock" ledge and then comes down as a waterfall. We loved our stay at Gnome Home!

10.0

Oct 2023

This property is positively magical. From the waterfall shower, to the custom woodwork, to the plentiful plaster mushrooms, I cannot wait to return to this beautiful slice of cottage-core!

10.0

Sep 2023

The Gnome Home is super cute. The accommodations were as advertised. Quaint, cozy and welcoming. Had an enjoyable stay.

10.0

Sep 2023

Just the right amount of space for the right price with an ambiance that appealed to both of us. We loved staying here! The waterfall shower is amazing. We saw wildlife and had great weather for stargazing. Very private and quiet. And well-guarded by gnomes!

8.0

Sep 2023

So cozy & quiet! Our stay was exactly what we needed to rest & relax.

10.0

Jul 2023

What a delightfully unique place to stay. Perfect for two people for a quiet getaway. The location was a short drive to Julian. Now I'm curious about the other cottages on the property.

8.0

Jun 2023

This quirky little place is adorable, comfortable and affordable!

4.0

May 2023

This is a cute idea for a themed place, and the hand-carved woodwork through out is beautiful. Unfortunately the place has fallen into a bit of disrepair, plaster has fallen off in a lot of places outside, and inside is very musty and dusty. There were a lot of bugs inside, the carpet and upholstery needs to be deep cleaned or replaced. There are no hangers in the closet space, so bring your own hanger if you want to hang anything. The large standing fan doesnt work so we had trouble getting airflow into the bedroom area. The wifi is very weak and spotty, we had to ask to get the password and then it barely worked. There is a charm to this place, but it needs some serious work.

10.0

Apr 2023

This is our third stay at this gnome house. It is just so cute in quiet.

10.0

Apr 2023

Great place to stay. Very nice and quiet. Close to Julian. Enjoyed staying there very much.

10.0

Apr 2023

love this place

10.0

Apr 2023

Unique and fun little place to stay. I loved the shower. Plus, near by Julian had plenty to checkout during our weekend. We had a really enjoyable time.

10.0

Apr 2023

This was one of the most unique places I have ever stayed. I would like to say thank you the host they were very responsive to our call, and they were super nice, the rating system only gives 5 stars I would of given it 10 stars, I cannot wait for our next adventure to the desert I will book this place again for sure. Thanks again for the wonderful experience and sharing your gnome home with us. David and Tammy Markin from Eureka California.

10.0

Mar 2023

Cute little place, would definitely stay here again.

8.0

Feb 2023

Girlfriend loved the cuteness of the Gnome house. It is a little dated and could use a bit of TLC but overall was relaxing stay.

4.0

Jan 2023

Nice location, but the actual building was a huge disappointment. 1) Didn’t tell us you need to bring your own drinking water 2) They gave us one plate, one fork, one spoon 3) No towels for dishes or other things 4) Linens were old and ratty 5) Heater didn’t work and they didn’t provide support or contact us back until the next day. We had to sleep on the floor in the living room. No couches but concreter and old pads so had to be on the floor. 6) It was so dark inside we couldn’t see in our bags. Light bulbs were burned out or really low. They didn’t respond for like 10 hours to get us lights. The heater didn’t work so we had to sleep in the living room on the floor for enough room and the heater worked there. They didn’t reply to help us. 7) The walls had plaster coming off and it hadnt been checked out in a long time. 8) No communication. We had to get intervention to get a heater and lightbulbs. Then they gave us the wrong ones and they never showed back up. 9) will not go again.

10.0

Dec 2022

It was adorable. Very quiet get away, and private. Just what I needed. I am looking forward to trying out some of the other spots.

10.0

Dec 2022

We stayed for two nights and it was the perfect lil getaway, close to everything in the town, and cozy!

2.0

Dec 2022

There was no heat in the living room area so we never got to use it. We did wrap up in blankets one afternoon and try but it was still too cold. There was no heater for the living area and the hall. There was a gas fireplace in the bedroom it however got down to 59° And it was quite cold. The bedding was somewhat old and the sheets a little frayed and the blanket quilt top was extremely old the mattress was a bit lumpy also. We love the idea of the gnome home and we’re so excited Two stay. We wore socks when in the proper day but our socks showed dirtier. The toilet seat was loose and anytime you sat down you would slide from one side to the other.

10.0

Nov 2022

had a great time, gnome home is very cute and as described, 7 min drive to Julian main street

10.0

Oct 2022

It was quiet and romantic and we had been looking forward to being there. It was definitely worth the trip.

10.0

Sep 2022

A great getaway for peace and quiet, thank-you!

10.0

Sep 2022

If you enjoy creativity in architecture and love peace and quiet, this is a definite must. The place is secluded enjoy to allow the brain to stop and the soul to refresh,, but conveniently close enough to Julian to just drive out for a meal, sightseeing, or shopping. It is clean and the check-in and out process what no hassle.

8.0

Aug 2022

The home was a very cute and gnomie. It could use a little upgrades, but what is there kinda adds to the character. The little home has all custom designed wood carved furniture and doors to add to the character of the home. It is not for tall people over 6' 2", I found myself ducking all the time even though I had plenty of clearance (I am 6' 2") except for the waterfall shower that was at my head. The bed was comfortable and we have no regrets staying there and would do it again. Location is fairly close to town so that was a plus also. Most of all it was peaceful and quiet. Just what was needed.

10.0

Jul 2022

Loved hanging with my gnomies =)

Loved hanging with my gnomies =)

Easy communication with owner. Outside is a bit rustic, inside is charming. Bed was comfortable. AC only in the living room, but the fan in the bedroom made it a good temp. I slept well. The shower was a fun experience. Hot water was fast and lasted well for a long shower. Close enough to city center that it made my excursions so simple, but rural enough that I saw a couple deer on the property. Great unique experience. Good for solo or someone that you are very comfortable with since the shower is open and the toilet area is not completely enclosed. I would stay again, very reasonable price.

10.0

May 2022

THE ROOM WAS AMAZING AND THE PROPERTY WAS BEAUTIFUL , WE WILL STAY HERE AGAIN SOON AND WE TOLD EVRY1

THE ROOM WAS AMAZING AND THE PROPERTY WAS BEAUTIFUL , WE WILL STAY HERE AGAIN SOON AND WE TOLD EVRY1

AWESOME PROPERTY ! WE HAD DEER IN THE BACK YARD AND TURKEY WALKING AROUND . THE HOST WAS MORE THAN WONDERFULL AND HAD OUR ROOM STOCKED WITH FIREWOOD FOR THE WOOD BURNING STOVE . AWESOME STAY !!!

4.0

May 2022

Beds in the BED

Beds in the BED

POOR

10.0

Apr 2022

Cozy little get away

Cozy little get away

The gnome cottage was something from a fairy tale. Super cute and cozy in the bedroom with fire place. Space was bigger than I expected. Nice natural light in loft area. Loved the waterfall shower. Toilet area wasn’t as private as I would of liked. But not a big concern. First day saw two deer in the yard. Overall had a wonderful one year anniversary with my boyfriend.

8.0

Apr 2022

Very quite

Very quite

Able to relax

8.0

Apr 2022

Good overall experience and enjoyed our time at t the cabin.

Good overall experience and enjoyed our time at t the cabin.

The property owner did not initially complete the check in status on the vrbo app. Once at the location we were able to communicate through the app to the property owner and received our door code and check in information very quickly.

8.0

Mar 2022

Bilbo lives here

Bilbo lives here

Cute, a little in need of repair, not suitable for handicap functions ( in all fairness we never asked about handicap issues) fun and unique overall!

10.0

Mar 2022

Gnome Home is Awesome!

Gnome Home is Awesome!

Great location and wonderful stay!

10.0

Mar 2022

Unique

Unique

Fun unique property.

FAQs

How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Julian?

The average price for a rental in Julian is £185 per night. This rental is £96 less expensive than the average.

Is parking included with this cottage?

Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at The Gnome Home at Shadow Mountain Ranch!. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.

Is there a pool at this cottage?

We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cottage. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.

Is The Gnome Home at Shadow Mountain Ranch! pet friendly?

Unfortunately, this cottage is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"

What amenities are available at The Gnome Home at Shadow Mountain Ranch!?

We found 7 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, parking, and balcony or patio.

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The Gnome Home at Shadow Mountain Ranch!

Cottage in Julian, CA

Reasons to book

About this cottage rental

Amenities

Map of Julian, CA

Nearby attractions

The Gnome Home at Shadow Mountain Ranch!

Cottage in Julian, CA

Reasons to book

About this cottage rental

Amenities

Map of Julian, CA

Nearby attractions

Reviews

FAQs

How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Julian?

Is parking included with this cottage?

Is there a pool at this cottage?

Is The Gnome Home at Shadow Mountain Ranch! pet friendly?

What amenities are available at The Gnome Home at Shadow Mountain Ranch!?

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