Snuggle up in Idyllwild

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What is so awesome about California is that you can be in the snowy mountains in the morning and surf on the sunny beach by afternoon. With a short drive from the Inland Valley or the dessert of Palm Springs you could be snuggling up in the cozy mountain village of Idyllwild, CA in about 45 minutes.

My husband and I have been celebrating every anniversary in Idyllwild since we met in high school. Oh what a romantic escape it is. For years we’ve only stayed at the Quiet Creek Inn, which has a five duplex like cabins situated along Strawberry Creek. Each cabin hosts a studio or suite attached, but no worries these rooms are completely separate by entrance and has their own private deck. See picture below:

Studio room attached to one cabin

For our one year of marriage anniversary, we went big and rented the studio room with the hot tub on deck. It was fabulous! There is nothing like sitting out on your deck in freezing weather, snow all around and stars up above, all while you are warm and cozy in a spa.

In our hot tub on deck

What we love about Quiet Creek Inn are the surroundings. The private location and the soothing sound of Strawberry Creek as it trickles past the cabins makes one feel as if they have truly escaped. To stay at Quiet Creek Inn it will run you $122 for a studio to $180 for a one-bedroom king during a holiday weekend. As always, I’m looking for the best deal so I recommend a studio room stay on a weeknight. You will not be lacking in luxury for choosing the studio, I assure you. All studio rooms include a queen bed, private bathroom, fireplace, mini-fridge, microwave, coffee machine, toaster, cable TV, WiFi and private deck. For a two night stay or longer during the week the rate is $122 a night. It is just perfect for a romantic stay for two.

Cabins at Quiet Creek Inn

Private Decks

Fireplace at foot of the bed...oh la la

Studio room at Quiet Creek Inn

 Quiet Creek Inn is the perfect spot to wake up in the morning, grab a seat on your deck or on one of the many scenic spots on the grounds and enjoy a cup of hot coffee, while peacefully watching the nature that surrounds you.

Morning coffee at Strawberry Creek

Good Morning!

Last year my husband and I decided to be a little adventurous and stay somewhere new. We wanted to be within walking distance of town, so we checked into the Fireside Inn.

Fireside Inn

Our room

We really enjoyed Fireside Inn and definitely to go back. Not only is it easy access to all the great shops and restaurants in town, but the room rates are really affordable and they have pleasant grounds. There are a number of bright red Adirondack chairs positioned whimsically around the property begging you to sit and relax. These cozy seating arrangements are perfect for enjoying some quiet time alone looking at nature, reading a good book, or for gathering with friends and cracking open a bottle of wine. Rates for Fireside Inn start at $65-$130 a night Monday through Thursday and $80-$145 a night on weekends; depending on what size unit or cabin you choose.

Now that was just the lodging! Idyllwild offers many fun activities, shops and restaurants to keep you entertained all weekend. To frank, my husband and I go for the food. Sounds crazy, but Idyllwild is home to some of the best cuisine around. Some of our favorites include, Café Aroma, Restaurant Gastrognome and Mountain Restaurant. When in Idyllwild dinner is all the romance you need. The food here will seduce you. Mmmmmm.

Cafe Aroma

On the lighter side for both your stomach and pocket book, Idyllwild has a number of options. Bone Daddy’s is great for lunch, but is also pretty rocking at night if you are looking to let your hair down. They feature a New Orleans Cajun inspired menu and an atmosphere to along with it.

If you are in the mood, Idyllwild has some great Mexican food. La Casita is a great stop for a refreshing margarita and some authentic Mexican fare.

Breadbasket is our favorite spot for breakfast. The atmosphere feels as though you are visiting grandma’s house and the large breakfast portions makes you feel as though grandma is really serving you. My husband loves their large skillet breakfasts and I love the carb overload of the bread basket.

Breakfast at Breadbasket

You can make Idyllwild as relaxing or as active as you choose. If you are feeling adventurous, there are many great trails to hike. It’s a great way to see some remarkable views. Go to the local market, grab some goodies or a fresh baked pizza and spend the whole day reading by your cabin. Take a rejuvenating break from shopping at Idyllwild Tea Company or Higher Grounds Coffee Shop before enjoying a luxurious meal at one Idyllwild’s amazing restaurants. It’s up to you!

shopping in Idyllwild

Painting pottery

Hiking a trail

Idyllwild Tea Company

Whether it’s a snowy winter you’re after or warm summer adventure, Idyllwild is the ideal mountain retreat for any budget.