Charming cottage on the River Edge!
Guest rating: 5.0 / 5
Set on 1.5 acres beside the West Carson River in rural Markleeville, California, this cottage offers a secluded mountain retreat surrounded by pine and aspen trees with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. The single-unit layout includes a downstairs bedroom with a king bed and an upstairs loft with two single beds, making it suitable for small groups or families. Inside, guests find a kitchenette with a full-size refrigerator, microwave, and oven stove, a gas log fireplace, a flat-screen TV with YouTube TV, and free Wi-Fi, all within a smoke-free, heated interior. A patio and free on-site parking round out the practical amenities, and the property sits just steps from river fishing and a private sledding hill. There's no on-site restaurant, but Mad Dog Cafe at Woodfords Station is just 1.5 km away, with Hope Valley Bar & Grill and Sorensen's Cafe both within 6 km. The location off Highway 88/89 puts guests within 10 to 30 minutes of Markleeville, Grover's Hot Springs State Park, Kirkwood Ski Resort, and South Lake Tahoe.
Best for
This cottage suits couples and small families looking for a quiet nature getaway rather than an urban base, given its riverside setting, private acreage, and kid-friendly loft sleeping arrangement. Outdoor-oriented travelers will appreciate the on-site river fishing, sledding hill, and proximity to hiking, cross-country skiing, and Kirkwood Ski Resort.
Travel tips
A car is essential, as the cottage sits off Highway 88/89 in a rural stretch of Alpine County, roughly 30 minutes from South Lake Tahoe and 20 minutes from Kirkwood Ski Resort. The nearest airport, Reno-Tahoe International, is about 81 km away, so plan for a drive of an hour or more depending on conditions. Stock up on groceries before arrival since dining options are limited to a handful of restaurants within a 5-25 km radius, and winter travelers should check mountain road conditions given the elevation and snow activities in the area.
What guests say
Guests consistently praise the property's cleanliness and quiet, peaceful atmosphere, often noting the sublime mountain and river views from multiple sides of the cottage. Several reviewers single out the well-maintained natural landscape and the classy, well-equipped kitchen along with high-quality linens and towels. Ease of access and attentive hosts are also recurring positives, with some guests expressing intent to return. No negative themes appear in the available review excerpts.
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