For my husband’s birthday this year, I planned a little surprise getaway to Danehill Manor, up near Point Reyes and overlooking the Nicasio Reservoir. It is perhaps the best B&B experience we have ever had, staying in a luxurious treehouse secluded amongst several acres of cascading, rolling hills where wild horses roamed freely. The host was genuinely one of the most inspiring and kind souls I’ve ever encountered whom we’d like to consider a friend despite the short time we’ve known each other. The idyllic ambiance was a little like The Sound of Music and a haven for those looking to recharge. For those looking for more space, she also books out several rooms in the manor house itself.

We spent several of our evenings taking long walks around the property, where our host had built chairs or little alcoves to enjoy the views.

Where we stayed

We stayed in this lovely treehouse that our host, Karin had designed. I’d call it a pocket of hygge heaven where you can enjoy a good book and watch the stars while lying in bed.

Karin includes a two part breakfast, the first of which she brings to the treehouse deck. The second is a tasty brunch she cooks for you to enjoy in the main house overlooking the water.

This was the view from the loo:

Our treehouse stay included a well-furnished outdoor kitchen, complete with a fridge and instant hot water, which we enjoyed using for tea. We hung out here during the warm evenings and had dinner. While we could have eaten in town, we preferred bringing takeout back to enjoy the rare scenery.

Around the property

There were many areas to explore, every angle leading to some breathtaking view from afar or in detail. Karin also offered to take us on an ATV tour of the property and recommended several trails to follow around her home.

Here’s Karin below, driving her tractor to clear out weeds and level the ground:

Wandering with the horses

While my husband setup his camera for long exposures, I found myself wandering the fields with the horses as they munched on the greenery, unbothered by my presence. Warmed by the sun and lulled by the gently blowing breeze, I felt content and oddly settled for the first time in a while.

I hope we can return here one day. I think all three of us enjoyed our stay before returning home (where I then threw in another birthday surprise). Little did my husband know, his cousins were lying in wait to surprise him inside the house.