What a treat to stay in an actual log cabin that had all the amenities of home. We had a very relaxing time. My son commented that this was the best Airbnb that we had ever rented. Kudos to team Jon and Melissa. It is evident that you care about the experience of your guests.
The location is great, only a few miles to grocery stores and restaurants. It is about 15 minutes into Santa Cruz, and about a half-hour into San Jose. Once you turn up Ryder Road and enter the redwoods, you have escaped the city and are greeted with the calm of the woods.
The kitchen has Kitchenaid appliances, toaster, waffle makers, and all accoutrements. There is an outdoor gas bbq. It was moderately cold for our thanksgiving stay. Cooking in the kitchen made the cabin even cozier and the food tasted even better.
The beds were comfortable, and the main bedroom had en suite bathroom. Both bathrooms were modern and comfortable.
We enjoyed using the gas fireplace heater in the main room. You could control temperature, flame height, light and fan speed. HINT: make sure that the remote is close enough to the unit, and that you hear a BEEP when you are adjusting it.
We spent a good part of our stay in the main room in front of the fire, lounging on the comfortable couch, loveseat with ottoman and rocking chair. The large screened televisions were great, as was the surround sound. We played Christmas music off of our iPhone. The Wi-fi was great, but our AT&T cellphone signal didn’t reach well into the forest. It was nice to have a break from cell phone calls, but I did find that if I stood in the front doorway, I was able to place a call.
We were glad to find a pet-friendly cabin. Be sure to always leash your dogs when outside with them for their protection.
There were so many touches that show care by the host: Thanksgiving themed placemats and centerpiece, holiday lights on the overhead beams. There were so many lights, switches and dimmers throughout the cabin.
The cabin was clean and fresh. I did not notice any off-putting woodsy smell, and I am sensitive to odors.
We also treated ourselves to a couple massage at SpaSantangelo, owned by Melissa. What a great way to unwind from city life.
Melissa was our contact person. Her communication is excellent. I felt comfortable asking her questions, and always received a speedy reply. She is a gem.
Our family all agreed that we would like to stay at the Ryder Log cabin again.