Serene 2 Bd Suite w/ Hot Tub - Bear Manor 11
Guest rating: 4.3 / 5
Overview
This is a two-bedroom log cottage suite operating as a vacation rental (Bear Manor 11) in Big Bear Lake, California. Rustically styled and marketed as one of a set of family-oriented cottage suites, the property has a decades-long history as a local vacation destination that now operates on Airbnb. It's positioned as a tranquil, cabin-style retreat rather than a traditional hotel.
Rooms & Comfort
The suite includes a hot tub, fireplace, and private balcony, giving it a cozy, cabin-retreat character suited to relaxing evenings. In-unit air conditioning and heating are listed among the amenities, along with cable TV for entertainment. A kitchen and microwave allow guests to prepare their own meals rather than rely on outside dining.
Amenities & Recreation
Guests have access to an outdoor grill for cooking al fresco, free parking on site, and a smoke-free interior environment. The property is described as kid-friendly, aligning with its history as a family getaway. A fireplace and balcony add to the recreational, laid-back cabin feel.
Location
The cottage sits within easy walking distance of several Big Bear Blvd bus stops, including one just 118 meters away near the Alpine Slide, and others near Junior Market, Pine Knot Trail, and the Village area, making it simple to reach local attractions and restaurants like Paoli's Restaurant without a car. Major airports -- SBD International (about 33 km), Palm Springs International (about 59 km), and Ontario International (about 66 km) -- are all roughly an hour or more away by road, typical for this mountain lake destination.
Best for
This property suits families and small groups looking for a self-catering mountain cabin getaway, thanks to its kid-friendly designation, full kitchen, and multiple bedrooms. It also appeals to travelers who want a relaxed, nature-oriented stay near Big Bear Lake's village, trails, and bus stops within a few hundred meters of the door. The hot tub, fireplace, and balcony make it a good fit for couples or families seeking a cozy winter or lakeside retreat.
Travel tips
Since the nearest airports (SBD, Palm Springs, Ontario) are all 30+ km away, plan on renting a car or arranging transport for arrival, though once in Big Bear Lake, the on-site bus stops make getting around the village and to the Alpine Slide or Pine Knot Trail easy on foot or by local transit. Given past guest reports of maintenance and heating issues, it's wise to confirm with the host in advance that the heater, hot water, and appliances are in working order, especially for cold-weather stays in fall or winter when temperatures can drop into the 50s or lower. Bring or confirm basic supplies like towels before arrival.
What guests say
Reviews are mixed, with an overall favorable average rating but notable complaints running alongside praise for comfort. Some guests describe an excellent, comfortable stay, while others report significant maintenance and cleanliness problems, including a broken toilet, non-functioning air conditioning unit, a mini fridge that wouldn't close, and units that hadn't been properly cleaned before arrival. A recurring negative theme involves slow or unresponsive host communication when issues arose, and at least one guest reported missing towels and no working heater during cold weather, leading to an unsatisfactory experience. Positive feedback tends to focus on the comfort and charm of the cabin itself when everything is functioning properly.
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