Mara Retreat: Jacuzzi, Patio Oasis, Games, Pets & Near Downtown Birmingham
Guest rating: 5.0 / 5
Overview
Mara Retreat is a spacious, smoke-free retreat in Bessemer, positioned as a near-downtown Birmingham base for families and groups. The property is designed for quiet, respectful gatherings rather than parties, with quiet hours from 10:00 PM–9:00 AM. It holds a public rating of 5/5 based on 16 reviews.
Layout & In-Home Features
The retreat is arranged as two separate units (A & B), each with 3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths, giving larger groups room to spread out. Each unit includes a fully equipped kitchen (oven/stove, microwave), comfortable living and dining areas, and in-unit laundry with a washer. Practical comforts include air conditioning, heating, free Wi‑Fi, cable TV, an ironing board, and free parking.
Outdoor Oasis & Games
Outdoor amenities center on a patio/yard setup with a hot tub (jacuzzi), fire pit, grill, seating and dining areas, and a projector for streaming movie nights or sports. Games are a major draw: the yard includes a large ping‑pong table, and the front porches add seating plus foosball and air hockey. Guests may also choose to park in the gated backyard.
Location & Nearby Access
For transit access, the Graymont Ave and 12th St W bus stop is about 143 m away, with additional bus stops at 3rd Ave W and 11th St W (about 622 m) and Arkadelphia Rd and 9th Ave (about 740 m). Birmingham Train Station is roughly 4.4 km away, and Birmingham–Shuttlesworth International Airport is about 11.2 km away. Nearby dining options include The Prive (about 1.0 km), Bayou on 8th (about 1.1 km), and Jack's Family Restaurant (about 2.1 km), with more restaurants farther out toward Birmingham.
Best for
This retreat is best for families, reunions, and multi-family groups who want space to gather and still have separate areas to unwind, thanks to two distinct 3-bedroom units and multiple living/dining zones. It also suits travelers who prioritize at-home amenities—full kitchens, laundry, and a strong lineup of games plus a hot tub and projector for shared downtime. It is explicitly positioned for quiet group gatherings rather than party stays.
Travel tips
If you plan to use public transit, the closest bus stop (Graymont Ave and 12th St W) is a short walk away at about 143 m. For arrival logistics, Birmingham Train Station is around 4.4 km away and the airport is about 11.2 km away. Plan evenings around the property’s quiet hours (10:00 PM–9:00 AM), especially if your group will be using the patio, projector, or game areas late.
What guests say
Reviews highlight the property as an excellent fit for large groups, with enough space for multiple couples and children to stay comfortably together. Guests consistently note the balance of togetherness (shared meals and porch time) and privacy (room to retreat). The setting is described as quiet and safe, and parking is reported as straightforward. No recurring negative themes are documented in the provided excerpts.
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