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Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views

Family-friendly stay with in-room kitchens in Idyllwild

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Photo gallery for Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views

A wooden deck with outdoor furniture, a railing, and a view of trees and hills.
A wooden cabin entrance with a 'NO SMOKING' sign, a staircase leading inside, and a cozy interior with a sofa and a lamp.
A cozy cabin interior with a fireplace, a sofa, a television, and a stone wall.
A snow-covered landscape with a curved pathway leading to a building.
A wooden cabin with a deck, surrounded by snow-covered trees.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking available
  • Laundry
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

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

Room options

About the area

Idyllwild

In Idyllwild .Within a 5-minute walk of this Idyllwild lodge, you'll find San Jacinto Mountains and Mount San Jacinto State Park. Also, Idyllwild Nature Center is within half a mile (1 km) and Idyllwild Park is within 2 miles (3 km).
View more Lodges in IdyllwildOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • San Jacinto Mountains - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Mount San Jacinto State Park - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Idyllwild Nature Center - 12 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Idyllwild Park - 19 min walk - 1.6 km
  • Morongo Casino - 44 min drive - 54.5 km

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 Village Market, Deli & Pizzeria - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Mama's Egg House - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪The Peak Restaurant & Bar - ‬3 min drive

About this property

Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views

The Mystery Lodge is a Hillside getaway with altitude for your @IdyllwildGetaways experience. Formerly owned by famous author Erle Stanley Gardner. Walk to town. Star gaze in the hot tub after a hike.  Pungent pine trees, mountain views, cocktails on the deck. The quintessential rustic lodge with knotty pine interior offers a huge great room with wet bar, sky high cathedral ceilings, a large wood burning rock fireplace, a spacious primary suite with a private deck, 3 additional bedrooms and 3 bathrooms.  Escape the ordinary and bring your creativity.  Yoga on the deck, book a local massage therapist, private chef services are available, private sound bath, and Reiki sessions and book our second location to create a fabulous corporate retreat or family reunion for larger parties.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 250+ Mbps (good for 3–5 people or up to 10 devices)

Things to do

  • Books
  • Games
  • Hot tub
  • Music library
  • Video library

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

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bed sheets provided

Bathroom

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

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
  • Separate dining area
  • 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: 25

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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights, lock the doors, and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

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

  • No pets allowed
  • Note from host: Although we love pets, no exceptions can be made.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • 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
Long-term renters welcome
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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    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. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. Note from host: Only with owners permission/additional requirement Long-term renters welcome. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

Property Registration Number RVC-0259

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
925932

Frequently asked questions

How close is Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views to the airport?

This lodge is 52.8 mi (72-min drive) away from the Palm Springs Intl. Airport (PSP) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this lodge.

Does Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views offer free breakfast?

This lodge does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views?

No, there is no casino at this lodge.

What time is check-in at Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views?

Free parking is not available at this lodge.

Does Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views have a pool?

This lodge does not have a pool.

Does Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views have a spa?

This lodge doesn't have a spa, but it does offer massages.

How close is Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views to downtown Idyllwild?

This lodge is 0.8 mi away from Idyllwild.

Historic Author's Lodge- Hot Tub, Walk to town, Fab views Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 106 out of 116 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 116 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 116 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 116 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 116 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Location
Thanks for the great accommodations! We enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host was awesome and so many thoughtful things in the cabin! Highly recommended!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host was very attentive to needs, and provided plenty of useful information.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great time

Had a great family vacation
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mountain Cabin Ambience

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

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We love this home and this was our second stay, the first time having been in the winter with snow. It’s glorious during both seasons! The house was a bit warm, but that’s expected during a heat wave, and the portable AC units certainly helped. The house is set up perfectly to host a large family, and the kitchen is stocked with everything you could possibly need. My husband won’t stay anywhere without a jacuzzi, and he said this was his favorite one. Thank you, Ada, for lending us your lovely family home!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday Retreat with Family

We loved it.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very cozy.

Second time renting this house. Ida is awesome.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfortable spacious home.

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

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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