It would be absolutely impossible to describe a more perfect getaway place than this little cottage tucked into the rolling hills of Topanga Canyon. This was my first vacation in five years, and I could not have been happier with my choice to be Isabelle's guest for two weeks.
The surrounding garden is pristine and full of succulents, herbs, and even tomatoes, and upon my arrival Isabelle had prepared a pot of fresh mint tea with mint from the plants right outside the door of the cottage! A short 10 minute drive gets you to the beach, where you can turn right on PCH and explore the beautiful homes and rocky beaches of Malibu, or turn left and find a spot on the sand to catch some rays and splash in the waves at Santa Monica, Venice Beach or Marina del Rey.
Isabelle was extremely accommodating, answering my questions promptly during my decision making process of choosing a place to stay, as well as after my arrival, for example, informing me of when she was turning on the sprinkler system to water the garden, sharing the names of local massage therapists, and providing a portable bath tub for a wonderful post run or cycling workout treat. There is also a swinging chair/couch at the top of the garden that overlooks the mountains and is a perfect spot for morning meditations or afternoon naps.
The cottage is decorated in a lovely blue and white color scheme (very French!) and there are basic cooking utensils, pots/pans, dishes, silverware, a cute tea container, two different kinds of hot water kettles, and a fully stocked spice rack for all your cooking adventures. It was so relaxing to fall asleep at night to the sounds of crickets and the breeze blowing through the trees, and to wake up to a sunny morning full of hummingbirds feeding in the garden. I cannot wait to come back to visit. It truly is a getaway with everything one might need to escape and relax in every way possible. There is a TV available, but I forgot about it after the first day. Isabelle also provides a small guidebook for your convenience, but she was always available to answer questions via text.
All in all, this place is spectacular. I can't wait to return for another getaway. Thank you Isabelle for being the perfect host!