15 Cozy Winter Cabins in California
Like no other season, winter evokes that ancient urge to hunker down and snuggle up in a cozy, secluded cabin. From foggy shores to pine-scented forests to snow-capped mountains, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite California cabins to settle into for a long winter’s night.
Albion River Inn
22 spacious cottages line a coastal bluff near Mendocino with mesmerizing views of the headlands, rocky islets, a wooden trestle bridge spanning the Albion River, and a protected cove where the river flows languidly into the sea. From many of the cottages, you can enjoy the view from a spa tub or the seating area in front of the fire. In winter, the cottages provide an incredible perch for storm watching.
Black Bear Lodge
In South Lake Tahoe, four spacious cabins are nestled in the pines behind the main lodge. The cabins’ buttery smooth linens, river rock fireplaces, and a well-curated mix of modern and rustic-chic furnishings create a sublime environment from which to watch the snowfall through large windows framed with icicles. An outdoor Jacuzzi is just steps away, sheltered beneath a gazebo trimmed with string lights.
Carmel Cottage Inn
Five historic cottages are nestled just a block from Carmel Beach and within an easy stroll of downtown. The cottages have been lovingly restored. They feature inviting living rooms with toasty brick fireplaces and overstuffed couches, beds draped with beautiful quilts, charming kitchens with retro touches, and outdoor patios. One of the cottages, Log Haven, is one of the oldest homes in Carmel.
Circle Bar B Guest Ranch
Located on 1,100 acres of coastal mountain property 30 minutes north of Santa Barbara, this off-the-grid dude ranch offers scenic horseback riding and a collection of cottages steeped in rustic luxury. The ranch’s secluded cottages overlook a creekside setting and feature king-sized beds, stone fireplaces, hardwood floors, tumbled marble baths, and private porches. All meals are included in the rate.
Cottage Inn at Lake Tahoe
Beneath towering pines, enchanting 1938 cabins line Lake Tahoe’s quiet western shore with access to a private beach. The rustic exteriors belie the warm interiors, which feature gas fireplaces, luxurious bedding, exposed wood beams, honey-hued pine walls, and whimsical décor. Enjoy mulled wine and hors d’oeuvres by the fire at happy hour in the main lodge.
The Cottages of Napa Valley
Enjoy your own private cottage in wine country. Nestled along cobbled pathways under mature trees, these eight, free-standing vintage cottages have been beautifully renovated with luxurious creature comforts such as heated tile floors, gas fireplaces, and soaking tubs. Each also has its own wood-burning chiminea on a private patio for roasting s’mores.
Highlands Ranch Resort
Along the edge of a bucolic meadow, seven cottages stand against a backdrop of snowcapped peaks. Each is outfitted with large windows overlooking the snowy meadow and upscale touches like oil-rubbed bronze fixtures, gas fireplaces, heated tile floors, and private outdoor Jacuzzi tubs. Ten minutes away, Lassen Volcanic National Park offers 150 miles of cross country and snowshoe trails.
Howard Creek Ranch
A relaxing bohemian vibe permeates the rustic cabins scattered across this remote, 60-acre oceanfront farm in northern Mendocino County. Each of the five cabins offers private hot tubs and unique charms, but Sea View is unparalleled for its seclusion. Nestled in the forest high above the ranch, it features sweeping ocean views from its outdoor kitchen, tiered decks, and a hammock strung among the trees.
Mar Vista Farm + Cottages
Just across Highway 1 from the ocean, Mar Vista Farm + Cottages is a working small farm along the “secret coast” of Mendocino County. Ten bright and airy vintage cottages scattered around the property offer cozy fireplaces and full kitchens. Guests enjoy farm-fresh eggs delivered to the cottages each day, use of the edible gardens, an enchanted redwood trail, and private access to a secluded beach.
Nick’s Cove
Imbued with nostalgic charm, Nick’s Cove is a collection of meticulously restored bungalows overlooking the placid waters and moody winter skies of Tomales Bay. Handsome antiques, lofty beds, heated bathroom floors, vintage soaking tubs, and wood-burning fire stoves comfort the soul, while soft strains of jazz music drift over from the onsite oyster bar.
Orchard Hill Country Inn
In the mountains east of San Diego, 12 cottages provide seclusion and serenity on five acres above the small town of Julian. The inn’s well-appointed cottages feature private porches, lofty beds draped with quilts, and gas fireplaces. Some also have whirlpool tubs. The property also features an idyllic pond ringed by hammocks and Adirondack chairs.
Quiet Creek Inn
Tucked among the pines, 10 woodsy cottages sit just a mile and a half from the Idyllwild village center, but their secluded spot on seven acres makes them feel like they’re a world away. Each of the cottages has vaulted ceilings, wood-burning river rock fireplaces, and sliding doors that open to private decks overlooking Strawberry Creek. In winter, the forested scene is sometimes blanketed in snow.
Sea Rock Inn
Just north of Mendocino village, Sea Rock Inn includes a collection of cottages with rustic charm and stunning ocean views. The walls of the cottages are finished with hand-hewn knotty pine and lodge-pole pine trim. Each of the cottages also features cozy gas fireplaces, queen featherbeds, and private decks overlooking Mendocino’s rugged headlands and frothy seas.
Tahoma Meadows Cottages
On the quiet western shore of Lake Tahoe, a collection of red vintage cottages is nestled among the snowdrifts and the pines. Built in the 1940s “Old Tahoe” style, the cottages feature homey décor and gas fireplaces. Some also have claw-foot tubs and full kitchens. The cross-country trails at Sugar Pine Point State Park are within walking distance and Homewood Mountain Resort is just five miles away.
The Casitas of Arroyo Grande
Situated atop a seven-acre estate near San Luis Obispo, The Casitas of Arroyo Grande is a collection of luxurious cottages overlooking vineyards and a verdant hillside. The cottages feature Spanish-style architecture and furnishings, kiva fireplaces with inlaid tile, and a full gourmet breakfast served en suite. The property also features a heated lap pool, bocce ball court, and lush gardens.