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Forest Cottage in Big Sur w/Private Hiking & Hot Tub

Photo gallery for Forest Cottage in Big Sur w/Private Hiking & Hot Tub

Hike to a secluded & serene 12ft waterfall w/pool, hammock & picnic area.
Relax, nap, or read stream-side under the towering redwoods in the Forest Glen.
Take in the sun, flowers and greenery
Utterly sublime: rejuvenate in our new hydromassage hot tub w/views & stargazing
Relaxing with music, movies or just peace and quiet...

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
  • Garrapata State Park
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Bixby Bridge
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Carmel Beach
    ‪30 min drive‬
  • Monterey, CA (MRY-Monterey Peninsula)
    ‪40 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Forest Cottage in Big Sur w/Private Hiking & Hot Tub

"Wild Luxury on the Edge of the World"

~ Big Sur is open and accessible from the north!
~ Private Acreage Property= Privacy + 360 views
~ Miles of on-site hiking with romantic lounging areas: creekside w/waterfalls or ridgeline w/ocean view
~ Hydromassage hot tub under the stars
~ 3 miles from breathtaking Garrapata Beach and State Park
~ Paved, private road free of dust
~ High speed internet
~ 2 unique retreats

Welcome to Heart Circle Mountain—36 private acres of redwoods, mountains, and waterfalls, offering the Big Sur experience without the crowds. Step outside your door and immerse yourself in a private forest, where you can hike among towering redwoods, discover hidden waterfalls, and unwind in a serene streamside settings. Bath in the tranquility or venture upwards for sunny ridge-top views stretching toward the Pacific ocean. No need to get in your car—adventure and relaxation start at your doorstep.

Heart Circle Mountain offers a unique balance of wilderness and luxury, with two secluded retreats, each on their own area of the property that are thoughtfully designed for your enjoyment. Hammocks sway in the dappled sunlight, waterfalls provide a soothing soundtrack, and nature’s grandeur surrounds you.

Come experience Big Sur’s wild beauty—without the crowds!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Forest Cottage
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

An exquisite two-story home nestled into a private redwood and oak glen, the Forest Cottage is your own piece of paradise. Established in the 1930’s as the original cottage on Heart Circle Mountain, the Forest Cottage has been lovingly remodeled, built out of the finest materials including Venetian plaster walls, tumbled marble, and art glass lighting. The retreat is meticulously cleaned with non-toxic cleaners, is pet-dander free, and features sparkling white linens dried in the Big Sur sun.

Upstairs, the romantic bedroom has two skylights for nights of star gazing, unobstructed by city lights. The queen sleigh bed is outfitted with a Tempur-Pedic mattress, a down duvet, and high quality linens. The large sitting area has a desk, love seat, armchair and Smart TV w/Bose soundbar & many streaming services.

The cottage features a full gourmet kitchen, which includes completely stocked cupboards of cooking implements and condiments, a full-sized refrigerator, stove/oven, and large dining area. There is also a BBQ on the patio where you can enjoy the beautiful yard with a custom redwood dining table. Take a nap on a full sized hammock for two, kick back and sunbathe on the chaise lounge chairs, or rejuvenate in the hydromassage hot tub under the canopy of redwoods and oaks, while listening to the sounds of the forest and flowing creek.

~~~~~~~~~~~
The Property
~~~~~~~~~~~

Heart Circle Mountain sits in the Goldilocks Zone—above the fog line but below the hotter, buggy highlands—offering a sunny microclimate teeming with wildlife. Here, deer, foxes, squirrels, quail, birds of prey, and even bobcats roam freely.

Just outside your door, two private hiking trails invite you to explore the beauty of Big Sur without the crowds. Along the way, discover scenic lounging areas with two-person hammocks, loungers, tables and chairs —perfect for a picnic or a drink while bathing in nature.

The Waterfall Trail

This serene path winds through a redwood forest along a private stretch of Palo Colorado Creek, leading to two enchanting lounge areas, surrounded by lush sorrel and ferns. At the halfway point, you’ll find Forest Glen, a magical haven where a meandering creek flows beneath a soaring old-growth redwood fairy ring. Further ahead, the trail ends in an intimate forest retreat, where a 10-foot granite waterfall cascades into a tranquil pool, framed by ferns, horsetails, redwoods, and oaks.

The Zen Trail

For breathtaking ocean, mountain, and valley views, follow the Zen Trail up Garrapata Ridge. Along the way, you might spot a bobcat or our resident fox near its den. At the summit, relax in a secluded lounge area beneath a natural oak arbor, with panoramic views of dramatic ridgelines and the Pacific on the horizon. Watch red-tailed hawks and peregrine falcons glide overhead as you take in a fog river pouring over the ridges or a stunning sunset.

You won’t need to drive anywhere to experience the best of Big Sur—it’s all right here. But if adventure calls, the coastline and Ventana Wilderness are just a short drive away.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Neighborhood
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Heart Circle Mountain sits atop a small mountain overlooking Palo Colorado Canyon and the Pacific Ocean beyond. Conveniently located just 2.2 miles from Highway 1, our retreats offer the best of both worlds—a peaceful Big Sur escape that’s only: a 15-20 minute drive North to Carmel or a 15-20 minute drive South to the Big Sur Valley.

You’ll experience some of the most scenic roads anywhere, without the hassle of dirt roads—our private, paved road ensures a smooth, dust-free, and traffic-free journey to your retreat.

Without a doubt, you will leave Heart Circle Mountain with a unique piece of Big Sur in your heart.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Attractions
~~~~~~~~~~~~~

North
~ Rocky Point Restaurant – 2.5 mi
~ Garrapata Beach & State Park – 3 mi
~ Soberanes Point & Canyon – 6 mi
~ Point Lobos State Reserve – 10 mi
~ Carmel – 12 mi (80+ restaurants, art galleries, and shops)

South
~ Bixby Bridge & Old Coast Road
~ Andrew Molera State Park – Miles of trails, beach access, and guided horseback rides.
~ Big Sur Valley – 12 mi (restaurants, art galleries, and shops)

East (currently closed)
~ Palo Colorado Road – A scenic drive winding inland to Bottchers Gap Park, with campgrounds, hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the Ventana Wilderness and Mt. Pico Blanco.
~ Mill Creek Redwood Preserve – Now open by permit only, a few miles before Bottchers Gap.

West
~ Rocky Point to Castle Rock – the aqua blue Pacific Ocean crashing onto the shore.

We look forward to welcoming you!

2 Adults 21 & Up, No Pets, No Children

Property manager

Andrew & Brianne
Premier Host

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
You will be required to sign our Information and Rental Agreement which includes a Hold Harmless and Waiver of Liability. This lists out the rules.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number 002008

About the area

Carmel

Located in Carmel, this cottage is in a rural area and in the mountains. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

What's nearby

  • Garrapata State Park - 7 min drive - 6.1 km
  • Bixby Bridge - 7 min drive - 6.8 km
  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park - 27 min drive - 26.7 km
  • Carmel Beach - 30 min drive - 23.6 km
  • Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course - 33 min drive - 32.6 km

Getting around

  • Monterey Station - 30 min drive
  • Monterey, CA (MRY-Monterey Peninsula) - 40 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Rocky Point Restaurant - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪The Ranch Club - ‬45 min drive
  • ‪Rocky Point Restaurant - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Ocean Sports Bar & Grille - ‬45 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Forest Cottage in Big Sur w/Private Hiking & Hot Tub pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Forest Cottage in Big Sur w/Private Hiking & Hot Tub?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Forest Cottage in Big Sur w/Private Hiking & Hot Tub?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Forest Cottage in Big Sur w/Private Hiking & Hot Tub located?

Situated in the mountains, this cottage is within 6 miles (10 km) of Garrapata State Park, Bixby Bridge and Los Padres National Forest. Garrapata Beach and Point Sur Dunes Nature Preserve are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 18 out of 19 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 19 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 19 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 19 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 19 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Brooke S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely charming
We had a lovely stay at the Forest Cottage in Big Sur. Everything was as advertised and the grounds are beautiful. The hosts have thought of everything and there are so many thoughtful touches throughout the cottage. I won’t spoil any surprises; I’ll let you discover them for yourself. We will definitely consider staying here again for our next Big Sur trip. Totally lovely and the hosts are so responsive and helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

kris m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great spot
We really enjoyed our stay here. Great place in a great location. The hosts keep the property in amazing condition and were a pleasure to rent from.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dmitriy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Secluded Cottage
We really enjoyed the accommodations and the amenities (hot tub, yard with table and chairs, hot water, nearby hiking trails, TV, etc). The owners really made our day by leaving a bottle of champaign. Don't know if that was a gift from the previous renters, but either way it was appreciated! Highly recommend this rental if you are looking for a peaceful getaway.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful retreat
Everything was exactly as described. Its the perfect spot if you want R&R without the need to leave the property or if you want a place with easy access to Big Sur or Carmel-By-the-Sea and other sites. Very private siting of this lovely cottage in the redwood forest. The hot tub outside your front door is secluded and wonderfully maintained. The 2 hiking trails on property are easy to access. One leads to a “Redwood Cathedral” with a hammock. The other leads to a perch overlooking a valley and the ocean beyond. I watched the Super Moon rise over this gorgeous and diverse landscape. The hosts are lovely people, too. I would love an opportunity to return. It’s easy to see the loving care the owners have taken with this private oasis.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brett A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet cottage getaway in the redwoods
This cottage placed in the red woods was an amazing spot to say the least. A beautiful drive up a canyon road through the canopy of a red wood forest that parallels a creek was before we even got to the cottage & was something we looked forward to every time we would go out for an adventure and come back. The spa was an amazing way to relax after the beach or going on hikes and the cottage itself kept cool with a nice ocean breeze every night. Speaking of hikes, we loved the fact you could walk out the front door and no more than a few yards up the driveway was a fire road trail that ended up at a waterfall with a hammock and chairs for a great place for lunch and relaxation. We would come stay here again in a heartbeat!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Douglas R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Engagement Trip
The property was exactly as imagined…and more…as was our stay. The drive through the redwoods set the stage for the solitude at the home itself surrounded by more redwoods. Andrew promptly answered any questions about the Big Sur area; its beaches (including Garrapata beach where we were engaged), hikes and restaurants. The Waterfall Trail on the property was magical and the hot tug was put to good use after full days exploring Big Sur. The home was stocked with everything needed for our stay…a microwave would have been nice.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kasey M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing getaway
This property is so special! It is nestled in the redwood forests between Carmel and Big Sur. We found that we loved being on property so much that we spent an entire day here after sightseeing the other day. It's really a nice place to unwind and just be surrounded by beautiful nature!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Betsy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Married!
Perfect for romantic getaway or elopement. Clean, peaceful and everything you need.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

John C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Private Canyon Cottage
To be honest, the pictures provided of the cottage dont do it enough justice. Palo Colorado Rd is initially intimidating but as long as you turn your lights on, take it slow and be cautious of other vehicles its a wonderful road to drive through. The cottage is plesantly private and has everything you would want/need. Both trails are well taken care of, felt very safe and at the end of each trail is a place to relax on chairs or a hammock. Palo Colorado Canyon is absolutely stunning and you wouldnt be able to experience it on this level of it wasnt for the hosts sharing their personal space. There are lots of places to stay in the Big Sur region but what makes this place stand out from the rest is the sheer privacy in a place that one could only dream of with all the comforts of home. You will not be disappointed.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nora T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay
Lovely place to stay and relax. Everything was as advertised and very clean.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tina H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Carmel Getaway
It is a relaxing place to getaway in nature. We hiked on the property to a relaxing waterfall amongst many trees. The forest landscape is beautiful.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Deborah V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Charming cottage in the redwoods
The cabin is sweet, very clean and well-equipped. The hosts were responsive and helpful. You do need to be prepared for the drive up to the house from the PCH, it is narrow and you have to go slow, but that ensures privacy and quiet!! Close to Carmel and Monterey
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lauren S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Private Forest getaway
This is a beautiful and well maintained cottage, it was perfect for our honeymoon! It was very clean and comfortable with lovely forest views from every room. We loved having the private trails, especially after exploring Big Sur and encountering lots of people. The hot tub and the hammocks enhance the tranquility, and the bed was super comfy. We would definitely recommend it, especially if you are looking for a place to escape the crowds for some peace and quiet. Also a very short drive to lots of sights in and around Big Sur and Carmel. Thanks Andrew and Brianne for a wonderful stay, and for the bottle of bubbly 😊!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ofelia M., Las Vegas, NV

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful area
We really enjoyed our weekend getaway to this beautiful area. It was perfect for a couple and more than we could have asked for.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Charles E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cabin Getaway
It was a wonderful, secluded stay. Just what was needed to enjoy the coast, great restaurants, and a place to relax in the evenings.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chelsea K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The perfect secluded getaway
We had the best time at Heart Circle Mountain. The owners were amazing and had great communication. The location was an easy drive to scenic views and Big Sur parks. The cabin is secluded and tucked in the trees but still provided good light. It was meticulously cleaned and had all the kitchen essentials needed. Wifi worked perfectly. We really enjoyed a dinner at the outdoor seating. The on-site trails were fun to explore. Highly recommend and would love to return.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michele M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Rest & Solitude
Quaint cabin in a remote location. We enjoyed the serenity and solitude. It was a bit of a trek (approx 2.2 miles) on a single lane road to get to/from the property from the main highway. But this trek also provides for the serenity and solitude of the property! It was wonderful to enjoy the hot tub after a day of hiking. Would definitely recommend this property if peace and quiet, rest and solitude are what you are looking for!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jared T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing
Wonderful property in a beautiful location. Great hosts!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Alana S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Must Stay!!
We loved everything about this property & owners! Amazing time - we WILL for sure be back to stay again!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

About the host

Hosted by Andrew & Brianne

Host profile image
We are the owners of Heart Circle Mountain and have lived here for the past 22 years trying to make the property and retreats gorgeous and welcoming. We have a collective background in Environmental Design and Environmental Science. We love caring for this beautiful land and exploring the wilderness and beaches surrounding us. We are happy to be able to offer some time away from it all, for others to rejuvenate in this Big Sur paradise.

We look forward to meeting you!
~Brianne & Andrew

Languages:

English, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests