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Lovely, Sunny And Private Cottage with Gardens in Central Marin.

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The Stetson Cottage! Large, lovely cottage surrounded by gardens and nature.
Gated entry to the property. Beyond is "the compound": main house & 2 cottages
Gorgeous landscaped property. The cottage is off to the left
Front of cottage. It is down the hill a little from the common lawn.
Entrance of cottage. Stairs are new, safe and well-lit at night.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 474.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Parking available
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Kentfield, CA
  • Larkspur Ferry Terminal
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Dominican University of California
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Muir Woods National Monument
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Sausalito, CA (JMC-Commodore Center Heliport)
    ‪16 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Lovely, Sunny And Private Cottage with Gardens in Central Marin.

COMING SOON: KITCHEN AND BATH RENOVATION! In April of 2025 this cottage will undergo a full renovation of the kitchen and bath. There will be all-new cabinetry, counters and appliances in the kitchen and a double-vanity and tub in the bathroom. This cottage is one-of-a-kind. It is charming, quiet, and very spaciousj at 800 SF. It is nestled in a 2-acre gated property filled with gardens, woodlands and redwood groves - a magical oasis! It is in a prime location, central to everything - the perfect base for exploring the Bay Area. San Francisco is 30 min to the south, wine country is 45 min to the north, and all of beautiful Marin surrounds you. It is easy walking distance to brunch, dinner or deli in sweet downtown Kentfield.

The cottage is simple and serene. It is partly renovated, with updated floors, carpeting and quality furniture. The living room has been recently redone, and the dining area seats 4. The large flatscreen TV comes with Roku. Off the living room is a large sunny deck facing woodlands - very private and lovely. You'll see deer on the lawn and hummingbirds off the deck almost every day. A new heating and AC system ensure your year-round comfort. Wi-Fi speed is excellent, 500 Mbps, sufficient for high-quality streaming on many devices at once.

The kitchen and bathroom are older and could use renovating, but are functional and clean. The kitchen is equipped with all the basics. The bathroom has a small shower (no bath), and there is a laundry room with full-size washer/dryer. Overall the place is comfortable and homey, with some aspects that are updated and others that are not, and in an incredible location.

The bedroom boasts a beautiful queen-sized solid acacia bed with premium Sealy Posturepedic mattress. It has large windows and lovely light, with blinds. There is a very comfortable American Leather queen sleeper sofa in the living room, the fold-out kind with no bars or springs. Linens and pillows are good quality throughout. We take sleep quality seriously here!

The owners live on the property, in the main house, and are usually available to help with anything you need.

PET POLICY
We love the doggos and they are very welcome at this pet-friendly property! Here are the rules:

- Nonrefundable pet fee of $50/pet.
- 1 dog weighing 50 lb or less and no younger than 1 year allowed
- Dog may not be left alone in the cottage if it has any behavior issues like chewing, excessive barking, etc.
- Even if it doesn’t, please don’t leave your dog alone in the unit for a long time
- Dog must be cleaned up after scrupulously,
- Dog must be current on all flea and tick treatments

ROSIE: The property comes with an adorable resident mini-bernadoodle named Rosie. We allow her to occasionally roam our fenced property and play on the lawn. She is entirely friendly and loves people and other dogs! She can be a little shy at first, so best to let her approach you. She fancies herself a guard dog so she may bark a little at new people, but don't worry, this is just to alert us. She is very sweet so feel free to say hello if you'd like!

Property manager

Jenny Israel
Premier Host

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
Max 8 day guests.No parties.
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Strict! Not allowed inside or out. Fines apply.
Long term guests agree to a phone interview shortly after booking to make sure that it's a "match". If not, they agree to cancel booking the same day.
Person booking must be the person staying. No booking for someone else.
The unit comes with one parking space. No bringing additional cars onto the property, even for a short time - you'll be taking someone's space.

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
Note from host: Max 8 day guests.No parties.
This property uses solar energy
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

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Greenbrae

Greenbrae is home to this cottage. Muir Woods National Monument and Golden Gate Bridge are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at San Francisco Bay and Presidio of San Francisco. Book Passage and Novato Arts Center at Hamilton Field are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with sailing and surfing/body boarding nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and hiking/biking trails.
Map
Kentfield, CA

What's nearby

  • Larkspur Ferry Terminal - 6 min drive - 4.4 km
  • Mission San Rafael Arcangel - 7 min drive - 4.5 km
  • Dominican University of California - 9 min drive - 5.8 km
  • Marin County Civic Center - 11 min drive - 11.1 km
  • Muir Woods National Monument - 21 min drive - 16.9 km

Getting around

  • Berkeley Station - 23 min drive
  • Oakland, CA (OAK-Oakland Intl.) - 40 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Jack in the Box - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Muffin Mania Cafe - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Pond Farm Brewing Company - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Depot Garden Cafe - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Guesthouse - ‬7 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Lovely, Sunny And Private Cottage with Gardens in Central Marin. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Lovely, Sunny And Private Cottage with Gardens in Central Marin. ?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Lovely, Sunny And Private Cottage with Gardens in Central Marin. ?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Lovely, Sunny And Private Cottage with Gardens in Central Marin. located?

Situated in Greenbrae, this cottage is 0.6 mi (1 km) from Kentfield Hospital and within 3 miles (5 km) of San Anselmo Town Hall and San Francisco Theological Seminary. San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park and Mission San Rafael Arcangel are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 73 out of 94 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 18 out of 94 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 94 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 94 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 94 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Savanna S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great getaway spot!
I stayed for three weeks and had a lovely stay. The bed is so comfortable and the cottage is light and airy.
Stayed 24 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Roger C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Christmas Stay
Great property!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Freda k.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quaint cottage
Really enjoyed our stay. Quaint cottage, close to San Francisco and nearby hikes. Too bad it rained but there were games and puzzles at the cottage.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

george b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Review
Host was very responsive and available to handle all of our questions in a very timely manner. Location was excellent and very quiet. Check in was very well organized. Lodging was very clean.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jason R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet Stay
Nice stay, beautiful neighborhood, attentive host.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

paul l.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
the right spot
Clean, Quiet, relaxing, good access by car to the area.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

May A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very cute
Very cute place to stay. I love that its away from the city.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Diana P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A nice week in Marin
This is a clean, well-stocked home with every amenity.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024

6/10 Okay

Laurie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location
Quiet get away
Very cool property, felt safe, nice gardens, tree house vibe from bedroom! Back deck was private and great place for coffee. Easy access to whole Bay Area. Bathroom needs a bit more love for an old quaint cottage. Overall very pleasant experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Noliwe R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Place
It’s cute, has outdoor space, is private and quiet.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

David D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sweet Cottage
We had a lovely stay at this beautiful hideaway. It was quiet and peaceful. We enjoyed the easy access and close to a fabulous grocery store yet tucked away from the hussle and bustle nearby. Great access to easy walking trails and great restaurants.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeri P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Gardener’s Dream
Such a wonderful stay. We were happy with the rental. I definitely look forward to booking here in my future visits to my Son who lives in San Rafael. Kitchen is well equipped. Thank you for your pet friendly lovely home.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

David S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute House
The house is SUPER cute and welcoming. We absolutely loved it. The area is great, too. Lots of fun things to do.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jane V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our stay in Kentfield
We were two grandparents here from Mlps to attend a high school graduation. Lovely grounds, spacious living space, shower very tight, very good bed and quiet night sleep. We were very satisfied and would stay there again.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lynne L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Convenient comfortable stay
This location is perfect for enjoying the sunset at the headlands, hiking Mt. Tam, or heading into the city!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Josh L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Remarkable spot!
Cute spot. Tranquil as can be! The private deck with a wraparound couch overlooking the forest will suck you in. Grab a sandwich from the incredible market down the street. Explore Mt Tam nearby. I’d stay here again in a flash. Thanks for the sweet stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place/location
The property is quite large, and there are three separate structures. This guest house is just to the right when you enter the property and it’s lovely. It was clean and comfortable. The only issue was a drip in the bathroom ceiling. It was raining the entire time we were there. But the bed was comfortable, the hosts were responsive, and it was perfect for what we needed, which was to be close to the College of Marin.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Adrienne C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very lovely cottage
We enjoyed our stay for three weeks. The only thing that was tricky was having to back up from the parking space at a strange angle to wait for the automatic gate to open. Other than that it was clean, lovely and private. A very nice hideaway and very handy to College of Marin.
Stayed 19 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ellen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wow what a lovely cottage!
Beautiful cottage in good location with amazing scenery and so quiet and peaceful. Cottage itself it well laid out with bedroom and living room at opposite ends and the bathroom inbetween. High quality sheets and tasteful decorations made for one of our best stays in the area.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gene S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute and relaxing
Cute and relaxing place to stay. With the deck and the trees in the back, it felt like we were in a forest instead of in town.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Katherine O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
Nestled away
The cottage is well equipped and comfortable.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
School field trip
Easy from beginning to end not to mention quaint, quiet, and beautiful.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Judy V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice place —needs som upgrades
Stay was great. Few areas need updating. Bathrooms needs some replacements. Heater grate was rusty. Could use a shower upgrade. Nice area.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

charly W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pics dont do it justice
The place is prettier than the pics! What a lovely environment! Easy communication and close to everything. Enjoyed our stay and would definately stay there again.
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Trevor G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great retreat in the woods
Charming cabin in a peaceful environment, yet so close to Kentfield! Great deck looks out over the woods (and the deer if you are lucky to see them). Heat pump provided great heating and cooling on demand. Comfortable bed. Kitchen needed a few more items (scissors, large bowls, etc.). May well stay here again. Lovely.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024

About the host

Hosted by Jenny Israel

Host profile image
I am a native of Marin, and love everything about it! Hiking, beach barbecues on Muir Beach, Mountain Home Theater, burritos in the Mission, Fairfax Scoop, wine tasting in Napa... the list goes on and on.

I love Marin even more as I took a long detour from it. Our three children were born and raised in NYC, and I persuaded the family to move back here in 2013. Quite the change, brownstone Brooklyn to nature-filled Marin! We love both but are so happy to have landed here.

I am an architect, an artist, and a stay-at-home Mom. I love yoga, hiking, hanging with the family, reading on the porch, and dinner with friends. My husband Sandy is a professional musician and teacher. We are a relaxed, creative family.

My motto? I guess it would be: 'Have a gratitude attitude.'

Why they chose this property

A huge attraction of this property is Marin County itself, one of the most magical places on earth. Marin is famous worldwide for it's astounding natural beauty and the huge amount of land protected for public enjoyment. There are few places on the planet where you can hike, mountain bike, surf, sail, horseback ride and camp on thousands of acres of untouched wilderness, all within an hour of a major city. The variety of fun to be had in the area is unmatched: all the restaurants, museums and shopping of SF, the stunning beauty and outdoorsy lifestyle of Marin, plus wine country just 40 minutes north.

Kentfield is a charming little town in central Marin, an area with the mildest, sunniest, most lovely year-round weather you can imagine. It has several very good restaurants, a gourmet market, bike paths, a school with a big field to kick a ball around, and loads of small town charm. It's one of a string of such small towns along the Ross Valley, all very special. I grew up the next town over, in Ross, and have always wanted to come back. Can you tell I love this place?

What makes this property unique

I first became intrigued with our property when I heard of it's unique history. The property was owned by the Archdiocese of San Francisco, and the house and two cottages were built in 1890-1905. They were together known as "The St. Francis Outings Club", a summer and weekend retreat for Catholic women, both nuns and laypeople. Catholic factory-worker girls from the city were invited here to relax and reflect. In the Main House (118), the two central living spaces were used as prayer rooms and had pews as late as the 1970's. The Musician's Cottage (117) was the Mother Superior's private quarters, while the other cottage (116) was a barn or garage. A path through the woods had the 12 Stations-of-the-Cross, some of which remained until the 1970's.

Those were the roots, but several incarnations followed. In 1946 the property was bought by a retired war colonel. When his widow died in 1978 the property was sold, used as a rental, and fell into disrepair. We've heard that it became something of a wild place, with a local reputation, fitting for its' times. It was then reclaimed by the owners before us, and lovingly restored. We've continued this effort.

We love all the long and varied history of this property. The property is all at once a spiritual retreat, a colonel's home, a flop house, and now the happy home of two artists and their family. All of these layers are present in historic properties like this.

Languages:

English, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests