Entire home
HIGH DESERT & LAKE RETREAT adjacent to Mountain hiking, and a Hot Spring lake
Photo gallery for HIGH DESERT & LAKE RETREAT adjacent to Mountain hiking, and a Hot Spring lake





Experience the mystique of High Desert Retreat, where art and nature blend in harmony. Nestled near Anza Borrego Parkland, this unique destination offers an expansive living space with original high desert flora and fauna, a meditation tub under the stars for two people to share, a silent tower for reflection and perception sculptures that spark imagination.
Reviews
9.89.8 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
Popular amenities
- Hot Tub
- Parking available
- Barbecue grill
- Pet friendly
- Kitchen
- Outdoor Space
Add dates for prices
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
HIGH DESERT & LAKE RETREAT adjacent to Mountain hiking, and a Hot Spring lake
High Desert and Lake Retreat, a unique destination, adjacent to Anza Borrego Parkland with hundreds of beautiful hiking acres, yet within 5 min. walk to downtown amenities and a hot springs Lake for swimming. Enjoy the interior filled with original art, inspired by the high desert. Tour the Grounds with perceptual sculptures, old RailCars, Meditation tub under stars, the Silent Tower, and a Train Caboose... Only 65 miles from San Diego attractions.
WEEKLY & MONTHLY DISCOUNTS
The space
A great stay for anyone looking for a meditative space. Enjoy fresh mountain air, original High Desert flora and fauna and hiking trails with views into Mexico.
Featuring an expansive living space and a bathroom with a large central bath. Sleeping for up to FOUR (4) GUESTS*, and a complete open kitchen with banquet seating.
***
- We love communication!
- NO PARTIES please!
- NO RV Hook Ups available. Hooking an RV into our electricity is a Fire Hazard and a Code Violation.
- Pet Friendly: DOGS OK, NO CATS, NO HORSES. Please only house trained pets, no pets on furniture nor rugs, bring blankets for your pets.
- WEEKLY & MONTHLY DISCOUNTS
- Please don't touch the Art
- Soak in a large outdoors tub and enjoy the spectacular high-desert night skies
- Keep the Security Door CLOSED AT ALL TIMES to avoid desert critters from coming in
- Please turn out all candles and turn off appliances upon leaving for short or long term
- No Fires outside the communal Fire Cages. KEEP the Fire-Cage Lid CLOSED AT ALL TIMES!
- LEAVE NO TRACE, and please PICK UP after PETS. The high desert environment is highly impacted by dog waste. Please respect our environment.
- ABSOLUTELY NO DRIVING ON THE LAND WITH ANY MOTORIZED VEHICLES. Pedal biking allowed ONLY ON THE BIG ROADS.
- PLEASE ALWAYS KEEP THE MAIN GATE LOCKED.
- Long term guests can reserve house cleaning in advance for a fee. (washer and dryer not available)
You will be greeted by a Greeter, who will briefly acquaint you with the marvelous surroundings: the white pyramid, an old inactive train yard with train cars for viewing and photography only, the silent tower, indigenous sites, caves, and many other attractions right outside your front door.
As you flip your Grill condiments on our installed Park Grill, you will be absorbing an unlimited view from mountain ridge to mountain ridge.
For the ultimate meditation, soak in the rustic tub under the spectacular desert night skies.. for one or two people or more, built in a sculptural manner designed by artist shaman Q. This tub is located between our two houses, private and its all yours.
Walk along solar lights to the Pyramid and experience the high desert wilderness at night, also enjoy sitting around the Fire Pit just behind the house.
A perfect trip for those who desire a get away from busy urban life. This landscape is a known Power Spot, a place emanating clear energy for an energetic boost and a perceptual shift. At night, Star Gazing from the porch is spectacular!
New Addition to High Desert Retreat and the Magic Mountain Warehouse: Just steps away from our site is the only hot spring fed lake in California. In the midst of this high mountainous terrain, is a Lake, fed from amazing mineral spring water. See photos. A $5 donation recommended at the donation box available in Jacumba St.
Visit the Downtown Restaurant and Bar at the Jacumba Hotsprings Hotel
Discover high desert elixirs, herbal tinctures, cold pressed juices, tonics and cocktails, handcrafted in our exotic desert hideaway bar. No reservations required.
Please BRING your favorite GROCERIES with you, especially fruits & vegetables. There is ONLY a small grocery store in town carrying basic items...
In the kitchen you will find: Coffee & Tea varieties. Tap water is ok to drink.
SOME GUESTS DO NOT GET CELL PHONE SIGNAL on our property. Verizon works well. Be sure to coordinate your arrival with our manager before arriving on the property. Or, prepare written directions in advance. Once you hook into the Wifi you can use Wifi calling.
Jacumba Hot Springs is a natural Power Spot. Vision quests have been conducted on our Grounds since the Pyramid builders time coming from the Valley of Mexico into the mystic mountains of Jacumba. The land holds many stone markers indicating ceremonial activities. To hike this land with the intention of receiving information to help with your daily life. We intend this land as a "Dreamscape" landscape.
LivArt: Within the history of contemporary art, various movements have arisen, and are represented by the style of the artists. We have the following categories in art: portraiture, landscape, color field, pop, super realism, and performance art. All of these forms of art have traditionally been exhibited in galleries and museums.
There are vacation stays, and there are museum stays. We offer the latter with a large exhibit space of spiritual art. It is our intent that every visitor encounters at least one piece of art, that remains in their heart. LivArt invites a person to dream with the art in a prolonged living situation. Through staying within our environments for a few days, both day and night, the experience transcends an exhibition. Every person is allowed to interact with the art at their own pace, but more importantly, to be absorbed by the experience. LivArt is art that momentarily becomes your own life.
REVIEWS from other Sites::
Adam July 22
This place is magical. It's like a spiritual retreat, spa, and museum in one - but, besides that, there is extremely strong energy on this land. I'm really, really grateful that Q & Twila have opened up their beautiful property for others to have the pleasure of experiencing and enjoying.
Santi July 22
This was our second stay and was even better the second time around!! My soul is instantly quieted and rejuvenated at the High Desert Retreat. The access to the hot springs fed lake is divine. If you are a lover of soaking in nature, book this place.... the lake, outdoor tub, and indoor tub too are all amazing! The property is such a special place and truly a work of art:)
Chelsea June 22
Q and Twila's place was amazing! It was so wonderful to be back after coming to the property years ago for the Telemagica music festival. The art both around the property and in the house is awesome, and the Pyramid, hiking in the surrounding desert, and the hot springs lake were major highlights too - and the giant tub in the house! We'll have to try the outdoor tub next time we visit. The house itself was extremely clean, comfortable, and a very relaxing and inspiring space. Great communication both by Q and Twila and the property manager who met us on the property, and lots of clear signage around the house to help you figure the space out and give you clear checkout protocols. We loved it, and will definitely return!!
Jim June 22
We had a wonderful weekend away at Q and Twila's place. First off it was very clean!! We were very comfortable in the house. It was spacious and the AC worked great. As mentioned previously, everywhere you looked had an interesting piece of art to see and think about. The property was also very well maintained and obviously cared for. It is just as described and pictured and a very unique experience! Robert, the caretaker was friendly and helpful. The hosts were gracious and had lots of interesting information to share. Will be back and recommend to friends!!
We also went to a nearby white sage farm which is worth a visit.
Fabrianne May 22
This is our third time and it’s even better now that the lake has been restored. There are communal use kayaks, as well as a hot springs shower to sit in. And it’s only a 3-minute walk. This site is one of our favorite getaway spots. The quiet solitude and spiritual energy of the high desert is really special, and Q & Twila’s space has everything you need. Next time I’ll have to remember measuring cups (if needed for a specific recipe) and a water filter. Their tap is safe to drink but not the best tasting. Otherwise, there was nothing we were missing. Everyone loves it here. Bring art supplies as you’ll likely feel inspired like we always do!
Cami May 22
This is the real deal - property plus spiritual experiences included. We will be back and Back. Thank you sooo much!!
Beth may 22
On our second stay, we gained new appreciation. The physical setting is amazing in itself. Beautiful hiking all around. Short walk to amazingly restored spring fed pond, now inviting swimming and kayaking. Back on the grounds of the Institute of Perception, the art of Kirk Roberts makes for a special experience. His uninhibited, visceral imagery of nature and the border between the real and imagined or dreamed world speak volumes and inspire thought and creativity. This is a unique and special place. Q & Twila, thank you for sharing. I hope you continue to do so and thrive as the town experiences a revitalization. Beth & TC
Annika April 22
High Desert Retreat is incredible. So many AirBnBs look great in photos but are underwhelming or soulless in person This is the opposite. It exceeded my expectations. The house is a gem - filled with tons of beautiful art, interesting books, unique design and furniture details, a luxurious soaking tub, large, well-equipped kitchen, comfy bed, all in a magical setting. It's the perfect place to get away for the weekend. There is so much to look at and explore, both in the house and on the property. I don't have enough good things to say. Just book it. You won't regret it.
Lisa March 22
We came home today and my whole family (including our dog) were so sad. The High Desert Retreat is a magical place in every way. The home is even more stunning than we expected and we loved the art. My daughter attempted to count the pieces and we all decided to each choose a favorite but it was so hard. The beds were so comfortable, the bathtub was to die for, and the grounds were magical
WEEKLY & MONTHLY DISCOUNTS
The space
A great stay for anyone looking for a meditative space. Enjoy fresh mountain air, original High Desert flora and fauna and hiking trails with views into Mexico.
Featuring an expansive living space and a bathroom with a large central bath. Sleeping for up to FOUR (4) GUESTS*, and a complete open kitchen with banquet seating.
***
- We love communication!
- NO PARTIES please!
- NO RV Hook Ups available. Hooking an RV into our electricity is a Fire Hazard and a Code Violation.
- Pet Friendly: DOGS OK, NO CATS, NO HORSES. Please only house trained pets, no pets on furniture nor rugs, bring blankets for your pets.
- WEEKLY & MONTHLY DISCOUNTS
- Please don't touch the Art
- Soak in a large outdoors tub and enjoy the spectacular high-desert night skies
- Keep the Security Door CLOSED AT ALL TIMES to avoid desert critters from coming in
- Please turn out all candles and turn off appliances upon leaving for short or long term
- No Fires outside the communal Fire Cages. KEEP the Fire-Cage Lid CLOSED AT ALL TIMES!
- LEAVE NO TRACE, and please PICK UP after PETS. The high desert environment is highly impacted by dog waste. Please respect our environment.
- ABSOLUTELY NO DRIVING ON THE LAND WITH ANY MOTORIZED VEHICLES. Pedal biking allowed ONLY ON THE BIG ROADS.
- PLEASE ALWAYS KEEP THE MAIN GATE LOCKED.
- Long term guests can reserve house cleaning in advance for a fee. (washer and dryer not available)
You will be greeted by a Greeter, who will briefly acquaint you with the marvelous surroundings: the white pyramid, an old inactive train yard with train cars for viewing and photography only, the silent tower, indigenous sites, caves, and many other attractions right outside your front door.
As you flip your Grill condiments on our installed Park Grill, you will be absorbing an unlimited view from mountain ridge to mountain ridge.
For the ultimate meditation, soak in the rustic tub under the spectacular desert night skies.. for one or two people or more, built in a sculptural manner designed by artist shaman Q. This tub is located between our two houses, private and its all yours.
Walk along solar lights to the Pyramid and experience the high desert wilderness at night, also enjoy sitting around the Fire Pit just behind the house.
A perfect trip for those who desire a get away from busy urban life. This landscape is a known Power Spot, a place emanating clear energy for an energetic boost and a perceptual shift. At night, Star Gazing from the porch is spectacular!
New Addition to High Desert Retreat and the Magic Mountain Warehouse: Just steps away from our site is the only hot spring fed lake in California. In the midst of this high mountainous terrain, is a Lake, fed from amazing mineral spring water. See photos. A $5 donation recommended at the donation box available in Jacumba St.
Visit the Downtown Restaurant and Bar at the Jacumba Hotsprings Hotel
Discover high desert elixirs, herbal tinctures, cold pressed juices, tonics and cocktails, handcrafted in our exotic desert hideaway bar. No reservations required.
Please BRING your favorite GROCERIES with you, especially fruits & vegetables. There is ONLY a small grocery store in town carrying basic items...
In the kitchen you will find: Coffee & Tea varieties. Tap water is ok to drink.
SOME GUESTS DO NOT GET CELL PHONE SIGNAL on our property. Verizon works well. Be sure to coordinate your arrival with our manager before arriving on the property. Or, prepare written directions in advance. Once you hook into the Wifi you can use Wifi calling.
Jacumba Hot Springs is a natural Power Spot. Vision quests have been conducted on our Grounds since the Pyramid builders time coming from the Valley of Mexico into the mystic mountains of Jacumba. The land holds many stone markers indicating ceremonial activities. To hike this land with the intention of receiving information to help with your daily life. We intend this land as a "Dreamscape" landscape.
LivArt: Within the history of contemporary art, various movements have arisen, and are represented by the style of the artists. We have the following categories in art: portraiture, landscape, color field, pop, super realism, and performance art. All of these forms of art have traditionally been exhibited in galleries and museums.
There are vacation stays, and there are museum stays. We offer the latter with a large exhibit space of spiritual art. It is our intent that every visitor encounters at least one piece of art, that remains in their heart. LivArt invites a person to dream with the art in a prolonged living situation. Through staying within our environments for a few days, both day and night, the experience transcends an exhibition. Every person is allowed to interact with the art at their own pace, but more importantly, to be absorbed by the experience. LivArt is art that momentarily becomes your own life.
REVIEWS from other Sites::
Adam July 22
This place is magical. It's like a spiritual retreat, spa, and museum in one - but, besides that, there is extremely strong energy on this land. I'm really, really grateful that Q & Twila have opened up their beautiful property for others to have the pleasure of experiencing and enjoying.
Santi July 22
This was our second stay and was even better the second time around!! My soul is instantly quieted and rejuvenated at the High Desert Retreat. The access to the hot springs fed lake is divine. If you are a lover of soaking in nature, book this place.... the lake, outdoor tub, and indoor tub too are all amazing! The property is such a special place and truly a work of art:)
Chelsea June 22
Q and Twila's place was amazing! It was so wonderful to be back after coming to the property years ago for the Telemagica music festival. The art both around the property and in the house is awesome, and the Pyramid, hiking in the surrounding desert, and the hot springs lake were major highlights too - and the giant tub in the house! We'll have to try the outdoor tub next time we visit. The house itself was extremely clean, comfortable, and a very relaxing and inspiring space. Great communication both by Q and Twila and the property manager who met us on the property, and lots of clear signage around the house to help you figure the space out and give you clear checkout protocols. We loved it, and will definitely return!!
Jim June 22
We had a wonderful weekend away at Q and Twila's place. First off it was very clean!! We were very comfortable in the house. It was spacious and the AC worked great. As mentioned previously, everywhere you looked had an interesting piece of art to see and think about. The property was also very well maintained and obviously cared for. It is just as described and pictured and a very unique experience! Robert, the caretaker was friendly and helpful. The hosts were gracious and had lots of interesting information to share. Will be back and recommend to friends!!
We also went to a nearby white sage farm which is worth a visit.
Fabrianne May 22
This is our third time and it’s even better now that the lake has been restored. There are communal use kayaks, as well as a hot springs shower to sit in. And it’s only a 3-minute walk. This site is one of our favorite getaway spots. The quiet solitude and spiritual energy of the high desert is really special, and Q & Twila’s space has everything you need. Next time I’ll have to remember measuring cups (if needed for a specific recipe) and a water filter. Their tap is safe to drink but not the best tasting. Otherwise, there was nothing we were missing. Everyone loves it here. Bring art supplies as you’ll likely feel inspired like we always do!
Cami May 22
This is the real deal - property plus spiritual experiences included. We will be back and Back. Thank you sooo much!!
Beth may 22
On our second stay, we gained new appreciation. The physical setting is amazing in itself. Beautiful hiking all around. Short walk to amazingly restored spring fed pond, now inviting swimming and kayaking. Back on the grounds of the Institute of Perception, the art of Kirk Roberts makes for a special experience. His uninhibited, visceral imagery of nature and the border between the real and imagined or dreamed world speak volumes and inspire thought and creativity. This is a unique and special place. Q & Twila, thank you for sharing. I hope you continue to do so and thrive as the town experiences a revitalization. Beth & TC
Annika April 22
High Desert Retreat is incredible. So many AirBnBs look great in photos but are underwhelming or soulless in person This is the opposite. It exceeded my expectations. The house is a gem - filled with tons of beautiful art, interesting books, unique design and furniture details, a luxurious soaking tub, large, well-equipped kitchen, comfy bed, all in a magical setting. It's the perfect place to get away for the weekend. There is so much to look at and explore, both in the house and on the property. I don't have enough good things to say. Just book it. You won't regret it.
Lisa March 22
We came home today and my whole family (including our dog) were so sad. The High Desert Retreat is a magical place in every way. The home is even more stunning than we expected and we loved the art. My daughter attempted to count the pieces and we all decided to each choose a favorite but it was so hard. The beds were so comfortable, the bathtub was to die for, and the grounds were magical
Property amenities
Pool/Spa
- Hot tub
Internet
- Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transportation
- Parking on site
Kitchen
- Blender
- Coffee/tea maker
- Cookware, dishware, and utensils
- Electric kettle
- Microwave
- Oven
- Paper towels
- Refrigerator
- Spices
- Stovetop
- Toaster
Dining
- Dining table
Bedrooms
- 2 bedrooms
- Bedsheets provided
- Sofa bed
Bathroom
- 1 bathroom
- Bathtub
- Hair dryer
- Shampoo
- Shower
- Soap
- Toilet paper
- Towels provided
Living spaces
- Dining table
- Living room
- Separate dining area
Entertainment
- Books
- DVD player
- TV
- Video library
Outdoor areas
- Barbecue grill
- Firepit
- Garden
- Outdoor furniture
- Patio
Work spaces
- Desk
- Desk chair
Comfort
- Air conditioning
- Heating
Pets
- Pet friendly
- Welcoming dogs only
- 2 pets total
Suitability/Accessibility
- Smoking not allowed
Location highlights
- In a rural location
- In the mountains
- On a lake
Things to do
- Birdwatching nearby
- Casino nearby
- Hiking/biking trails nearby
- Mountain biking nearby
- Swimming nearby
- Wildlife walks nearby
Safety features
- Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
- Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Deadbolt lock
General
- Garden
- Unit size: 1,496 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
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
Rules
NO PARTIES, NO additional guests, NO SMOKING. Please only house trained pets, no pets on furniture nor rugs, bring blankets for your pets.
Please no driving with any kind of motor vehicle on the land, Bikes are allowed ON THE main TRAIL. Keep the main Gate locked at all times.
LEAVE NO TRACE..... Pick up after you PETS... NO FIRES ANYWHERE ON THE LAND except you can use the Fire Pit. Keep Fire CAGE CLOSED at all times.
Pets
Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total pets
Note from host: Please do not let your pets roam free at property
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
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
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
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
Property Registration Number 2-0701001-18
About the neighborhood
Jacumba Hot Springs, CA
What's nearby
- Wisteria Candy Cottage - 16 min drive - 14.9 km
- Golden Acorn Casino - 22 min drive - 24.2 km
- El Vallecito Archaeological Zone - 40 min drive - 38.5 km
- Camp Alaska Site Museum - 44 min drive - 44.5 km
- Laguna Mountain Recreation Area - 58 min drive - 74.5 km
Restaurants
- McDonald's - 12 min drive
- Subway - 6 min drive
- Tepary Southwest Grill - 8 min walk