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Historic Writers Lodge, Hot Tub as Featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town.

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Terrace/patio
Smart TV, fireplace, DVD player, books
Interior
Pool
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Breakfast available
  • Parking available
  • Laundry
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
Idyllwild, CA
  • Place, Mount San Jacinto State Park
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Idyllwild Nature Center
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Place, Idyllwild Park
    ‪19 min walk‬
  • Airport, Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.)
    ‪78 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Idyllwild

This lodge places you next to San Jacinto Mountains and Mount San Jacinto State Park. The guestroom includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a balcony.
View more Lodges in IdyllwildOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Mount San Jacinto State Park - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Idyllwild Nature Center - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Idyllwild Park - 19 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Morongo Casino - 44 min drive - 33.9 miles
  • Soboba Casino - 45 min drive - 32.1 miles

Getting around

  • Palm Springs Station - 53 min drive
  • Palm Springs Intl. Airport (PSP) - 72 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Mountain Center Cafe - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Alpaca Coffee & Tea - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪Idyllwild Brewpub - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Idyllwild Village Market, Deli & Pizzeria - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Mama's Egg House - ‬10 min walk

About this property

Historic Writers Lodge, Hot Tub as Featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town.

Come experience a bit of history! Commonly referred to as The Mystery Lodge. This was once a summer writing home to famous author, Erle Stanley Gardner, Author of the world renowned Perry Mason mystery series! Built in 1945 originally as a hunting lodge and summer home. Knotty Pine everywhere! Custom milled in Idyllwild in the 40's.

The Mystery Lodge is a Hillside getaway with altitude one of 3 houses on over 3 acres! You can also book The Dome next door (VRBO# 653847) if you have a large group.

There is a binder with some information on my favorite hikes and an Adventure parking pass for you to use during your stay.

Come stay with us for your Idyllwild experience. Pungent pine trees, mountain views, cocktails on the deck. Walk to art galleries, enjoy creekside hikes, gaze at star filled skies while you enjoy our four bedroom, three bathroom home. The knotty pine interior offers a full kitchen, great room with cathedral ceilings, a primary suite with a private deck featuring a seasonal four poster outdoor bed (Summer only; June, July & August. Dependent on weather and only set up on request), outdoor lounge area with views of Tahquitz, and large hot tub/ jacuzzi.

Just relax or choose from a menu of personalized services. We offer private chef service, rock climbing trips and hikes, yoga, spa treatments and executive retreats. We will customize your experience to ensure you get to enjoy all that is unique about our southern California mountain town. All services at an additional charge and are based on availability. Must be booked at least two weeks in advance.

Rustic, well loved home has a primary suite with a grand king size bed, ceiling fan, sitting room, outdoor deck and ensuite bathroom.

Downstairs bedroom has two twin beds* that can be converted into a king bed, ceiling fan, and guest bathroom with a custom slate shower.

Upstairs has two bedrooms with a jack and jill shared bathroom (remodeled custom tile shower/floor). One bedroom has two twin beds* that can be converted into a king bed and the other room has a king size bed. Both rooms have custom entry doors.

*Please let me know if you would like either set of twins converted into a king bed at the time of booking.

Great room offers a large wood burning fireplace, full wet bar, TV, stereo, and high speed WIFI. We have numerous board games and puzzles, some DVD's and a library of books to enjoy during your stay.

Dining area in full service kitchen seats eight and provides everything you need for the ultimate dinner party with friends and family.

Outside there is plenty of outdoor furniture for relaxing on the deck or dining al fresco on the outdoor dining table that seats 6.
Guests can expect to find a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a kitchen, a washing machine, and 3 bathrooms. Housekeeping is available on request.

Similar properties

Reception
Tahquitz Pines Retreat
Idyllwild
  • Pool
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, 1,696 reviews
$109 nightly
The price is $120
May 10 - May 11
Total with taxes and fees
Tahquitz Pines Retreat

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Internet access

Food and drink

  • Breakfast available for a fee

Things to do

  • Boat
  • Books
  • Games
  • Hot tub
  • Kayak
  • Music library
  • Stereo
  • Video library

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Beach towels
  • Outdoor furniture

Spa

  • Massage

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only

More

  • Note from host: This is a non-smoking house.
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Smart TV

Food and drink

  • Blender
  • Chef service
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dining table
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Dryer
  • Fireplace
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Living room

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

Please bring your slippers, we ask that you not wear shoes inside the house on the carpeted areas. It helps keep the everything clean for guests.
BB guns, Pellet guns and firearms not allowed on property. No commercial use or filming on property without owner's written permission. Thank you!
No smoking and no pets (even service animals) due to medical conditions.

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets
  • Note from host: Although we love pets, no exceptions can be made.

Children and extra beds

  • Note from host: Child friendly, not "child proof"

Events

No events allowed
Only with owners permission/additional requirement

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
This is a non-smoking house.

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Only with owners permission/additional requirement
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
Property Registration Number RVC-0259

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Note from host: Only with owners permission/additional requirement
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Historic Author's Spa Ultimate Idy Experience Short Walk Town
Historic Author's Spa Ultimate Idy Experience Short Walk Town

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do within easy reach of this lodge?

This lodge is located in Idyllwild, just steps from San Jacinto Mountains and Mount San Jacinto State Park, and within a short walk of Idyllwild Nature Center. Idyllwild Park is within a walking distance of 0.8 mi.

Is parking available on site at Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town.?

No, there isn't parking available at the lodge.

Is a spa located at this lodge?

Spa services at the lodge include massages.

Is this lodge next to a casino?

No, this lodge is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this lodge?

No, this lodge doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town.?

This historic lodge offers many amenities for couples, including a chef service and a fireplace in each guestroom with some featuring chef service.

Does Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town. have a hot tub?

No, this lodge doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this lodge offer breakfast?

This lodge offers breakfast for a surcharge.

Will this lodge allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at this lodge.

Does Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town. have connecting rooms available?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this lodge.

Where is the closest airport to this lodge?

The closest major airport to this lodge is Palm Springs Intl. Airport (PSP), which is about 12.9 mi away. Another top airport is Bermuda Dunes, CA (UDD), which is around 25.5 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town.?

Yes, every guestroom at Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town. comes with a balcony and some offer mountain views.

Historic Writers Lodge w/spa as featured in San Diego Magazine. Walk to town. Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 100 out of 110 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 110 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 110 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 110 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 110 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Martha F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Host was awesome and so many thoughtful things in the cabin! Highly recommended!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lori L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Ida was absolutely lovely and created a welcoming atmosphere. We’ve been visiting Idyllwild for over 30 years. The Writer’s Lodge jumped up to our number 1 favorite home away from home. Many thanks, Ida
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Charles C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Host was very attentive to needs, and provided plenty of useful information.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mark S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely amazing host amazing property. The cabin is gorgeous. I have nothing but the most incredible things to say about the experience the facility and the host.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lance H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastic getaway at the Mystery Lodge

This was the perfect spot for an Easter weekend getaway with the family in the mountains. The house exceeded our expectations and matched the description quite accurately. The house was very clean, which isn't always the case when you stay at unknown rentals. The space was more than enough for 6 adults. We especially loved the spa, the balcony views, the fireplace and the cool bar. The host, Ida, was very personable and super accommodating. Check-in was seamless.Thank you, Ida, for a wonderful weekend filled with great memories!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastic Stay

Ida the property manager was on top of it all. Place is beautiful, will be back. High marks
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mike M.

Liked: Cleanliness

New Years

Great location. Close to town. Loved the fully stocked kitchen and bar ware. Hot tub was great on the cold days. Ida was very responsive. Would definitely come back
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ron D., California

Liked: Cleanliness

Mountain Cabin Ambience

Very comfortable, homey location. Will definitely go back again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Larissa D., Chula Vista

Liked: Cleanliness

Restorative Retreat

Grateful for Ida—she made our retreat at her home feel so restorative. She offered to help find a massage therapist for our group and provided information about the local restaurants, hiking trails etc. We spent the majority of the time in the great room and outside decks and it was lovely. The house is a short 5 min walk to the shopping and restaurants.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rick E.

Liked: Cleanliness

Mountain get-away

We were there for our mother's 84th birthday. The home was roomy and well stocked. Ours was a summer visit with hot days. The owner purchased a portable a/c, this was very much appreciated. Upstairs bedrooms were warm, but the outside deck was a wonderful place to visit enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Angela K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nostalgic home away from home!

This was one of the best values I’ve experienced in short term rentals. The cabin has everything you will need for a short or long term rental. Our host was very informative and responsive. Rustic charm and authenticity with a dose of comfort and thoughtful planning (including fresh cut flowers in every room and home made banana bread). I’m confident that if we had a need: she would’ve been able to point us in the right direction if she was unable to solve it herself. It really felt a home away from home. We hope to visit again soon.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

KIRK W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Birthday Retreat with Family

We loved it.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Denise S.

Liked: Cleanliness

A Heavenly Get Away

A very roomy place to spread out and relax. Furnished nicely in all the rooms. The kitchen fully equipped for cooking and entertaining. Our group just wanted to relax and not be on a schedule. A nice view of the mountains and surroundings.

10/10 Excellent

Christine V., San Clemente

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Family Get Away

We all had a great time at the Mystery Lodge. There was plenty of room for our family of 6 adults and 5 kiddos. I have never stayed in a rental house that was stocked so well. I literally felt like I was at home and had access to anything we needed. Ida prepares the house to be very welcoming, including fresh baked banana bread and fresh flowers everywhere AND the little gift certificates to the town candy store, which she left for the kids, were a huge hit! We would stay here again if we return to Idyllwild.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jeannie D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great time

Had a great family vacation
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Marco M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Very cozy.

Second time renting this house. Ida is awesome.

10/10 Excellent

Leslie B., Encinitas CA

Liked: Cleanliness

A perfect haven in the mountains

We have returned over and over to this wonderful property because it’s a historical treasure and the owner is stellar! Our memories are amazing! We shall return again absolutely!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Diane L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Birthday celebration

Had a wonderful time with family and friends celebrating my birthday. Hot tub was so relaxing and the bar area was the bomb! Kitchen was big enough for several people to prepare food at the same time and very well stocked. Beds and linens very comfortable. Views were outstanding as well. Definitely would recommend this property for big group celebrations.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Trish M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful family getaway!

Our experience here was amazing! It was the perfect spot for two families and kids to getaway for the weekend. The spa was relaxing, the views from the deck beautiful and Ida was quick to respond to any questions I had!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Sandra W., Mission Viejo, Ca

Liked: Cleanliness

Comfortable spacious home.

Very friendly owner. Quick walk to town. Idyllwild has lots of good restaurants.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Sara V.

Fantastic getaway.

We enjoyed our stay at the Mystery Lodge. We had four kids and three adults and there was plenty of room for everyone. The bathrooms were well stocked and even included shampoo, conditioner and body wash. The living area was roomy allowing for game nights. The kitchen was great too with plenty of appliances, pots, pans and cookware. We especially loved the large table in whic everyone could eat together.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Ersin S.

Great host, great house

Excellent cabin, good for 3-4 couples, walking distance to the town center. Will come again for sure.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly K.

Our stay was fabulous - Ida is far and away the best host we've ever had!

Will definitely be back when the weather is warmer / less snowy.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Kelly S.

Very kind and accommodating

This cabin was one of the most comfortable cabins we’ve ever stayed in in Idyllwild. Ida was very sweet and accommodating to our family and even set us up with a bottle of wine for the adults and gift card to the candy store for the kids. We had fresh orange juice daily and plenty of space to relax together. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2019

10/10 Excellent

linda P.

Historic Authors' Lodge -The Mystery Lodge Idyllwild-Pine Cove

There were eight little individual loaves of banana bread and a bag of gourmet coffee beans waiting for us when we arrived. The cabin was so spacious, quaint, and rustic. Every surface was spotless including a huge variety of barware in the bar. From Champaign flutes to Moscow Mule copper mugs! The numbers of pots and pans and electrical appliances in the kitchen were more than I’ve ever seen before in a rental. Three kinds of coffee pots, a crock pot, electric kettle, .... even a cast iron skillet... haven’t used one of those in years! And enough dishes, coffee mugs and glassware for an army! The central heating was quiet and efficient. There was plenty of hot water even with six women showering! The water pressure was wonderful. The master bedroom/ bathroom was huge and so comfortable. The outdoor space was also very nice. The views from the deck were beautiful. The hot tub was hot and ready when we arrived. Terry loath robes for all six of us were provided! We saw so many stars come out at night while enjoying the hot tub. The location so close to town was great. There were so many seating options in the living room! We loved padding around in our slippers on the soft carpeting.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2019