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The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat

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Pool
Pool
Pool
Pool
Pool

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% based on
4 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 8231.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View map
Borrego Springs, CA
  • Place, Anza Borrego Desert State Park
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Empire Polo Club
  • Place, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Airport, Thermal, CA (TRM-Jacqueline Cochran Regional)
    ‪84 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Double Sofa Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo

Bathroom 3

Soap · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat

Welcome to your own private wellness retreat, the Stout Residence (c. 1969, architect J. Edward Esmay), as featured in Dwell. The pinnacle of mid-century modern style, comfort and charm, this historic post-and-beam home with echoes of Joseph Eichler’s best work merges form with function by seamlessly integrating indoor-outdoor living with multiple patios, a luxurious 50-foot pool, outdoor shower and barbecue and floor-to-ceiling glass revealing spectacular mountain views from each room. Set on a thoughtfully landscaped and private half-acre lot featuring lemon, orange and grapefruit trees, the spacious 4 bedrooms, 2.75 baths layout features terrazzo floors throughout, original teak and mustard metal kitchen cabinetry with top-of-the-line modern appliances, clerestory windows, custom built-in cabinetry and closets in each bedroom. 1 Gigabit Internet and two separate home offices also make the property ideal for WFH.

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque desert art colony of Borrego Springs, the home is located in California’s first International Dark Sky Community and adjacent to California’s largest state park (the Anza-Borrego Desert). Enjoy hiking, biking, golf (next door at the de Anza County Club and nearby at the acclaimed Ram’s Hill Club), tennis or pickleball (The Courts at Anza-Borrego), watch wildlife (jack rabbits, roadrunners and bighorn sheep), sunrises and sunsets from the front and backyards/patios or just lay back in the pool and gaze at the milky way swirling overhead. This is the place.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No parties or loud music, please. The property is located in a quiet residential neighborhood.
Pool heating is available with advanced notice for an additional charge of $90/day to cover the cost of propane.
For the added security of our guests, the home has a Ring Doorbell installed at the front door.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Borrego Springs

Located in Borrego Springs, this holiday home is in the mountains. The Sky Art Sculptures of Borrego Springs and Peg Leg Smith Monument are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at The Springs at Borrego Golf Course and RoadRunner Golf & Country Club. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Holiday homes in Borrego SpringsOpens in a new window
Map
Borrego Springs, CA

What's nearby

  • Anza Borrego Desert State Park - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • The Springs at Borrego Golf Course - 6 min drive - 4.9 km
  • Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center - 7 min drive - 5.3 km
  • RoadRunner Golf & Country Club - 7 min drive - 6.0 km

Getting around

  • Thermal, CA (TRM-Jacqueline Cochran Regional) - 71 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Borrego Springs Resort - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Carlee's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪The Palms at Indian Head - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Red Ocotillo - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Jilbertos - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

How much does it cost to stay at The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat?

As of 26 March 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat on 4 May 2026 start from NZ$872, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Milky Way Modern Desert Retreat located?

This family-friendly Borrego Springs holiday home is located in the mountains, within 3 mi (5 km) of The Sky Art Sculptures of Borrego Springs, The Springs at Borrego Golf Course and Anza Borrego Tennis Center. Anza Borrego Desert State Park and Hellhole Canyon Trail are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 61 out of 64 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 64 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 64 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 64 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 64 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Owen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very enjoyable home and location.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful and comfortable house.

The pool is huge. The house is beautifully appointed. A great neighborhood location on the country club. Perfect home base for desert adventures.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Regina P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mid-century gem

My husband and I hosted a short getaway over a long weekend with his parent's and our 14 year old… we really enjoyed this property. The pool is beautiful and the house layout is amazing; truly celebrating the old with the new.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elease S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Second Stay even better than the first.

We’ve booked this home twice just this year and plan on returning soon. It’s the perfect getaway from the San Diego coastal June gloom.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tena R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay in Borrego Springs!

A beautiful house in a fantastic spot with easy access to all the great things to do and see in-and-around Borrego Springs. The house was immaculate. Everything you need is there, including a fantastic pool. We had a terrific stay and hope to come back again.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderfully relaxing weekend!

Beautifully appointed house in a relaxing setting. We will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our Stay

The property is beautiful inside and out. It is a wonderful Mid Century Modern that is very well kept. John was very responsive to all our questions. We will definitely return!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Warren P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mid Century Desert Oasis

I am a repeat renter at this property! Very well maintained. The home is beautiful in De Anza with a beautiful pool. Beds are very comfortable. We look forward to returning!
Stayed 14 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Douglas M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!

Beautiful MCM home. Looking forward to more vacation days at 520!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elease S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Pure Dessert Bliss!

My husband and I were looking for an alternative to Palm Springs and found the perfect oasis in this beautiful and well-appointed home. We will be returning very soon.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Pleasure to Visit

It’s a pleasure to live in genuine mid century modern house as this one. The architecture and materials are stunning. The gardens are mostly native plants and the mature citrus trees are filled with fruit and fragrant blossoms this time of year. The bird life around the propert includes quails, doves, roadrunners, and himmingbird. Coyotes are plentiful and close up. Borrego Springs remains a natural wonder to visit.
Stayed 35 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nancy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Another wonderful visit

This house is stunning. It is both comfortable and beautiful. The pool is fantastic, the views amazing, the beds comfortable, the rooms delightful. The host is also very kind, helpful, and inviting. We are so grateful for the chance to have stayed here again this year. Thanks, John.
Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

BeBe C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Such a Cool Place!

This property is the best! A mix of cool retro, great location, fun vibe, and luxury at it's finest. Everything needed to make for a great getaway. The layout of the house is perfect and the outdoor area is amazing, the pool is clean and warm, with pool toys and towels provided. The neighborhood is quiet and beautiful - great for early morning and late evening walks. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Athena D.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

We enjoyed our stay in this nice, spacious renovated mid-century modern home. Everything was as described; clean, airy, comfortable. We are golfers so it was great to just walk a hundred yards to the pro shop every morning. We look forward to staying again in the future, maybe we can even get some friends to join us since the house is so big. We had a wonderful week.
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tim J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Desert oasis

All around a seamless experience. Everything was as advertised. The pool is fantastic- almost long enough to sit proper lap swimming. Decor is wonderful and consistent, for a mid century modern immersive experience. If you’re ready for the heat- you’ll have a wonderful time.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020
Verified

8/10 Good

Rebecca F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Desert magic

Borrego Springs and 520 Pointing Rock are beautiful wonders. The desert park is endless and astounding. The house is architecturally wonderful and appropriate in the surrounding view. The gardens are a delight to walk through. John is good to communicate with. We enjoyed a splendid month.
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Warren P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

De Anza’s Finest!

This is the second time we have stayed at this magnificent property. It is absolutely perfect in every single way and look forward to staying there again. John the owner, and Jenny the property manager are VERY responsive and helpful. The property if VERY clean and well appointed. Abundant roadrunners, coyote's, flowers, stars and rainbows this year! Borrego does not disappoint!
Stayed 13 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cameron T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mid Century Dream

This meticulously restored mid-century gem was bright, spacious and comfortably outfitted inside and out. Comfortable beds with lovely linens, and loads of high quality towels. Same for the backyard... fabulous chaise lounges and dining table, bbq, plenty of pool towels, lots of pool floats etc. Owner Lisa was fantastic and responsive.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Borrego Springs Star

John's home is a very special place to spend time at. The views from inside and outside the home are spectacular. We enjoyed the peacefulness of the community and the star gazing at night was unbelievable. Orion's Belt was shining every night! John is an excellent host and communicator. He took care of a few issues without hesitation. His manager Jenny is also a gem of a person. Would not hesitate to stay here again should our travels bring us to the area.
Stayed 36 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jill F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stupendous Anza Borrego getaway

Beautiful mid century architectural home, totally updated and super clean. Gorgeous views from all angles, great light. House borders the deAnza country club, excellent for neighborhood power walks and walking distance to Galleta Meadows fabulous serpent sculpture. Loved this comfortable, spacious house as our base for hiking and dining in town. Super extras include corn hole, grapefruits, and Sonos sound system. Thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gregg and Carrie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous Home

Absolutely the BEST Vrbo we've EVER stayed in!!! Over and beyond with anything needed. Kitchen perfect! Beds ALL very comfortable. Bathrooms stocked with multitude of towels, paper supplies, shampoo, shower gel...etc....Pool, plenty of floating mats, towels, ...I could go on forever!!! Looking forward to our next stay...love the fact that we will not have to search for the perfect vacation home, because, THIS IS IT!!!!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Danielle M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hidden Gem in the Desert.

What a beautiful home. My husband and I came into town for a wedding. It was our first time visiting and we already want to go back. The pool is where we spent the majority of our time. I also loved all the games they had for us to play. Corn hole was probably my favorite. Lisa was more than responsive and accommodating. We had a fantastic stay. :)
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A beautiful Mid Century Modern experience

This home is a beautiful architectural experience. From the original steel kitchen cabinets to the flowing terrazzo flooring the details are stunning. The views are captivating from sunrise to sunset and we really enjoyed that aspect of this home. The spaces are very comfortable and the work space/4th bedroom is great place if you need to get some real work done. Kitchen was well appointed and we did not need a thing. Hope to return soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nancy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!

This is an amazing place to stay. The home is beautiful, and also really comfortable, a special combination. The two larger bedrooms and living/dining room have full walls of windows making the indoors feel part of the beautiful outdoors. The outdoor spaces, in turn, are also wonderful. The gardens are filled with beautiful local plantings, including two grapefruit trees. The pool is heated and long enough for real swimming, another real bonus. The owner made everything easy from start to finish. We have already booked for next year. Loved this home!
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jenny P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heavenly Vacation

It was such a joy staying at the home of Lisa and Steve. Lisa was super communicative and the house was delightful. Spacious, comfortable, and with a large pool which was wonderful for swimming in. The rabbits, bees, road runners, hummingbirds all made this quite an animal and insect filled time which was delightful! A much needed escape from the city indeed! If you want to go somewhere and unwind, disconnect (despite excellent wifi and all streaming means on two beautiful tvs) this is the place. I almost don't want to share how lovely it is so it remains our little secret. Oh and the milky way! This is the best place to star gaze :-) We will be back!
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2020

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