1) The location: Topanga in general is a beautiful place. A wonderful escape into nature that's close to Los Angeles. It boasts some fun restaurants, cool gift shops, and tons of hikes and trees. I truly treasure Topanga! Cassandra's home is in a great location--it's quiet but not totally isolated, among the trees but still a close drive to town. Everything in Topanga was a convenient drive from her place, including the lesser known Tuna Canyon hike, which she recommended to me.
2) The house: If you're an artist this will become a particular place of inspiration. Cassandra's clean, eclectic home always has something to stimulate you--she has collections from her travels or her father's art--every corner (and more!) has something, whether it's snowglobes or sculptures. The exterior is absolutely stunning, with flowers and the most hummingbirds I've ever seen in my life. The view of the sky was wonderful too. I truly felt myself overwhelmed with inspiration and a sense of peace in Cassandra's home. There's also a tub that you can take a proper bath in, which was a treat!
3) Cassandra and Lulu! Cassandra is the host and you can tell she's just one of those special people that has an inner light to her. She is communicative and incredibly thoughtful and friendly. She provided water infused with lemons from her garden, fresh fruit, coffee, tea, breakfast, and a chilled bottle of prosecco on my arrival, which was very welcome after the drive. I liked conversing with her, but she also respected my need to work and create. The perfect hostess! Lulu is the sweet dog she's rescued who is just an absolute burst of serotonin that will provide you with snuggles. I will miss them both.
Overall, if you are seeking an escape from the city in an inspiring, peaceful space with a lovely host and great dog, this is the place for you!