Julian is a cozy mountain town in San Diego, California, that brings in travelers throughout the year to enjoy the crisp fresh air and views of the Cuyamaca Mountains. Whether you’ve got a family of avid hikers or amateur fishermen, this mountain paradise has an abundance of recreational activities for every taste, as well as quaint shops and restaurants. If you’re planning an excursion to the mountains this year, this list of the top eight Julian vacation rental locations will help you find the perfect rustic accommodations.
1. Three Sisters Falls
If you’ve got adventurous hikers in the family, choose a vacation rental near Three Sisters Falls. This beautiful scenic area is home to a 4-mile hiking path that leads you to a small, yet beautiful waterfall. Pack some water and snacks, put your hiking gear on, and head out to the Falls for a fun outdoor adventure. If it’s warm enough, dip your feet in the cool waters of Boulder Creek, which leads to the Falls.
2. Lake Cuyamaca
Vacation rentals in the Lake Cuyamaca area are surrounded by the lake itself, offering spectacular waterfront views and convenient access to fishing and boating. The Lake Cuyamaca area is also just minutes away from Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, where you’ll find beautiful desert plants, walking trails, campsites and creeks for fishing. Spend the day at the park exploring the desert landscapes, or stay close to home and take the boat out on the water for a little lake time.
3. Spencer Valley
For amazing mountain views and convenient access to local creeks and lakes for fishing and water fun, choose a vacation rental in Spencer Valley. Located just a few minutes away from the Bailey Creek Lodge, Spencer Valley is the perfect spot for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Pay a visit to the lodge and sign up for a day of fly fishing, or go for a family swim in the lower or upper lakes.
4. K.Q. Ranch
Named for the King and Queen Gold Mines discovered the late 1800s, the K.Q. Ranch community is the perfect vacation rental location if you’re looking to have some good, old-fashioned, down-home fun. The area is just minutes away from the K.Q. Ranch Resort, where you can spend the day fishing on the resort’s fully stocked Ol’ Fishing Lake, or pitch a tent for the night on the campgrounds.
5. Deer Woods
For beautiful mountain views surrounded by the woodsy wilderness, choose a vacation rental in the Deer Woods area. Rustic accommodations sit peppered among the trees and wildlife of Deer Woods, providing the perfect oasis for families who are looking to get away from cell phones, video games, and the hustle of city life. Wake up early and catch a glimpse of gray mountain squirrels frolicking through the trees or wild turkeys that roam the grounds. Keeping true to its name, you’ll also spot plenty of deer, and a few may just come up and eat from your hands.
6. Pine Hills
The Pine Hills community sits just minutes from the Cleveland National Forest, where you’ll find a wide range of outdoor activities, as well as the Palomar Observatory. Hike through the scenic trails along the Palomar Mountains, or do a little fishing in Cedar Creek. For a fun and educational day with the family, take a tour of the Palomar Observatory and view galaxies far and away through its massive telescopes.
7. William Heise County Park
If you’re planning on spending some time with the family camping under the stars, choose a vacation rental close to William Heise County Park, where you’ll find campsites, hiking trails, and a park for outdoor dining and recreation. Gather the family and head to the park for a few days and nights in the great outdoors. Set up a tent or two, and tell ghost stories around the campfire without an electronic device in sight.
8. Wynola
If you’re looking for a vacation rental location with a little of everything, Wynola is a great choice. Located in southern Julian, Wynola is a busy little community with a heart of gold. Not only will you enjoy amazing mountain views and easy access to the surrounding parks and lakes, you’ll also be just minutes away from one of Julian’s most popular attractions, Wynola Junction. Wynola Junction is a charming area filled with antique shops, surrounded by the Wynola County Garden. Do a little perusing at the junction, then pop by the garden for a souvenir plant.