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CHESA MADRISA - EV, open floor plan + 3 king bed suites in Big Trees Village

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Welcome to the Chesa Madrisa!
Swiss-Alpine inspired architectural design with covered walkway & two car garage
main entry - protected from snow & connected to the garage
double sided fireplace with seating areas on both sides
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms3+ bathroomsSleeps 10288.0 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Pet-friendly
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Dorrington, CA
  • Calaveras Big Trees State Park
    ‪19 min walk‬
  • Sierra Nevada Logging Museum
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Sequoia Woods Country Club and Golf Course
    ‪12 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Additional Beds for Kids

2 Child Beds

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed and 1 Single Bunk Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 King Bed

3 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 4

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Dining area

About this property

CHESA MADRISA - EV, open floor plan + 3 king bed suites in Big Trees Village

SIERRA NEVADA MOUNTAINS - BIG TREES VILLAGE


The Chesa Madrisa is a beautiful vacation home nestled in the quiet neighborhood of Big Trees Village in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, and resides at approximately 5,000 feet elevation. Featuring 3 bedrooms & 3.5 bathrooms, this Swiss inspired mountain home was custom built and can welcome 6 adult guests + 4 children.


The Chesa Madrisa is a great escape – fresh air & quiet solitude, with easy access to fun activities. The neighborhood of Big Trees Village borders Calaveras Big Trees State Park, just north of the town of Arnold, and approximately halfway between Bear Valley Ski Resort & the town of Murphys.

The Chesa Madrisa comfortably accommodates up to 10 guests (6 ADULTS MAX).


The Chesa Madrisa is the ideal getaway for travelers who are looking for a vacation home that meets a higher standard... Our home is available for short, mid, or long term stays. Monthly rates vary based on availability & season. Please reach out for additional information.

PREMIUM FEATURES
●3 bedrooms each with KING size bed & plush mattress topper

●3 bedrooms each have private attached full bathroom

●Siemens VersiCharge LVL 2 Universal Electric Vehicle Charger (Teslas - bring adapter)

●Amazing kitchen gear, from silverware to Vitamix - it's all there!

●Bed linens & plush towels (Cozy Earth sheets in primary bedrooms)

●Curbside trash & recycling

●Central AC with dual zones (on very hot summer days the larger & open main level cools to around 75-80 degrees, while the lower level bedrooms stay nice & cool)

●Wifi & 2 Smart TVs & a 3rd Roku TV in a bedroom

●Landline with free long distance (cell service very spotty up here, though Verizon is good)

●2 car garage with fairly level driveway & plow service in winter months

●Kids Toy Closet filled with games & activities (literally filled - 20 board games, puzzles, Legos, Brio train set, Lincoln Logs, play kitchen, dollhouse, pop up castle, arts & crafts)

●Large kitchen enables plenty of room to unpack your groceries & cook

●Power outage from storm or PGE? Built-in automatic generator for whole home

●Full size toiletries provided (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, bar soap) + basket of extras just in case anything was forgotten

●Kitchen & all 4 bathrooms feature Williams-Sonoma hand soaps & lotion sets

●All paper products are provided (and not the cheap stuff!) - no more running to the grocery to buy toilet paper on your vacation

●Wifi enabled thermostat so the home will be heated upon arrival in cool weather

●Dusk-to-dawn exterior lights so you don’t have to fumble with a lock box in the dark

●Wifi enabled security system so the alarm will be off prior to arrival

●Outdoor cameras to see screen shots of current weather - especially handy in winter months.

●Golden Poppy Pass for entry to Big Trees State Park

●Sno-Park Pass for access to local winter trails for sledding and snowshoeing etc



KITCHEN - A CHEF'S DREAM!

●KitchenAid double wall oven

●Vitamix blender

●Breville mini oven

●Breville microwave

●Set of Le Creuset ceramic bakeware

●Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee & Espresso Maker

●Keurig

●Mr Coffee

●Le Creuset french press

●Le Creuset tea kettle

●Williams-Sonoma pots & pans

●Bialetti Hot Chocolate Maker

●KitchenAid standing mixer

●KitchenAid Double Belgian Waffle Maker

●All-Clad 7qt Slow Cooker

●Black+Decker electric griddle

●Williams-Sonoma wok

●Williams-Sonoma cooking utensils

●Crate & Barrel dishware - Aspen collection



LAYOUT

The Chesa Madrisa opens to an inviting sitting area with tall windows and double-sided gas fireplace. This main level of the home features a half-bathroom, mudroom for ski gear, and a well-appointed kitchen overlooking the main living area & oversized sectional couch. The kitchen opens to the dining area with a table for six, which can be enlarged to accommodate ten guests. The dining area overlooks a TV area with patio access including Weber propane tank grill and outdoor patio table & chairs.

The entry has a flight of stairs down to the lower level, where the three bedroom suites are located & large hallway with "kids zone" for entertainment. Each bedroom has a king size bed and its own full-bath attached. The 1st bedroom also has a set of twin bunk beds for children (two additional twin size cots are available).


Many families have enjoyed multi-generational vacations at the Chesa Madrisa with grandparents in the far bedroom with a walk in shower, parents in the middle bedroom, and children all bunking up together in the 1st bedroom. The Chesa Madrisa does not accommodate more than 6 adult guests. There are 2 additional twin-size folding beds for children (guests #9 & #10).


The Chesa Madrisa has a two-car garage for guests, and a covered footbridge with steps leading from the garage to the main entry. The driveway is not steep, and in the winter snow season it is plowed with each fresh snowfall. There’s no better place to hunker down during an exciting snowstorm!



●Bedroom #1 - king bed & 1 set of twin bunks with attached full bathroom

●Bedroom #2 - king bed & attached full bathroom & Roku TV

●Bedroom #3 - king bed & attached full bathroom (walk-in shower)


FAMILY FRIENDLY

The lower level of the Chesa Madrisa has a "Kid Zone" featuring a fun red couch, TV area, and a closet full of toys, games, puzzles, and crafts. The garage has a mini-ping-pong table that can be set up anywhere a guest chooses. The closet in the 1st bedroom has a Baby Bjorn Portable Crib, Little Einstein Exersaucer, Baby Bjorn Babysitter, diaper changing pad to place on dresser, Cloud B Twilight Ladybug for bedtimes, bath toys, step stool, and red dinosaur humidifier. The dining room pantry has a high chair-booster combo seat for infants & toddlers.



FAQ

● The Chesa Madrisa has two exterior video cameras

● Primary Guest's email address is automatically added to quarterly newsletter & may unsubscribe at any time

● The Chesa Madrisa comfortably sleeps a maximum of 6 adults (& up to 4 kids with two in cots)

● Weekly curbside trash pickup & curbside recycling every 2 weeks

●The Chesa Madrisa is equipped with a generator in case of power loss during winter storm

●No RV parking

●Dogs are welcome - we bring ours! Recent flea treatment required - 2 dox maximum - $100 fee one dog/$150 two dogs


RESERVATIONS

All guests are required to pay a non-refundable 50% Reservation Payment, digitally sign contract & text/email photo ID within 24 hours of booking or same day if reservation is within 2 weeks. Large groups may be required to have refundable security deposit in addition to standard non-refundable Property Damage Protection insurance.



CHESA MADRISA LLC is a California limited liability company & this rental is managed by Hillary Gibson, Family Property Manager.



**Please note VRBO's AI sometimes overrides owner input information and photo titles. The most accurate details are in this listing description (notably we do not have 4 bedrooms and photos of Big Trees State Park are not on our property as VRBO indicates)** Any text under this line has been added by VRBO's AI and may not be accurate.

Property manager

Hillary Gibson - Chesa Madrisa Family Property Manager

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Twin bunks & portable cots for kids. Toy closet!
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
1st dog/$100 & 2nd dog/$50
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking/vaping anywhere on the property.
Guests will receive a detailed contract upon booking & need to e-sign within 1 day of booking, or same day if booking is less than 2 weeks away.
ID required for Primary Guest booking & paying for reservation.
There is NO SMOKING anywhere on the property including no smoking outside due to high wildfire risk.

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
Long-term renters welcome
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
Property Registration Number 224

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Arnold

Located in Arnold, this holiday home is in the mountains. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Calaveras Big Trees State Park and Calaveras South Grove Nature Preserve, while Sierra Nevada Logging Museum and Murphys Creek Theatre are cultural highlights. Travelling with kids? Consider Leland Meadows and Twain Harte Miniature Golf. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Dorrington, CA

What's nearby

  • Calaveras Big Trees State Park - 19 min walk - 1.6 km
  • Arnold Rim Trail - 9 min drive - 7.6 km
  • Sierra Nevada Logging Museum - 12 min drive - 10.1 km
  • Sequoia Woods Country Club and Golf Course - 12 min drive - 9.7 km
  • White Pines Lake - 13 min drive - 10.5 km

Getting around

  • Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) - 142 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Lube Room Saloon - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Bistro Espresso - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Giant Burger - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Snowshoe Brewery - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪El Vaquero Authentic Mexican - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does CHESA MADRISA - EV, open floor plan + 3 king bed suites in Big Trees Village have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is CHESA MADRISA - EV, open floor plan + 3 king bed suites in Big Trees Village pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at CHESA MADRISA - EV, open floor plan + 3 king bed suites in Big Trees Village?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at CHESA MADRISA - EV, open floor plan + 3 king bed suites in Big Trees Village?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is CHESA MADRISA - EV, open floor plan + 3 king bed suites in Big Trees Village located?

This family-friendly Arnold holiday home is located in the mountains, 1 mi (1.6 km) from Calaveras Big Trees State Park, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Arnold Rim Trail and Sequoia Woods Country Club and Golf Course. White Pines Lake and Meadowmont Golf Course are also within 9 miles (15 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. 51 out of 51 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 51 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 51 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 51 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 51 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Ramon s L.

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

Outter arnold

Great space, had everything to cook and dine with.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Katie K.

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

Beautiful home in Dorrington

Our family of 2 parents, 2 grandparents, and 3 kids loved staying in this beautiful home for the holidays! The kitchen and supplies were spectacular and were perfect for baking cakes and other holiday fare. The view from the kitchen and living area was spectacular with nearly floor to ceiling windows and a sweeping view of tall pines and redwoods. The beds, bedding, and bathrooms downstairs were all very nice, with plenty of space for everyone. The dog run was ideal for our dog to get outside even during a snowy stretch of weather. We skied 2 days at Bear Valley which was a short trip up the hill from this lovely home. We hope to return to Chesa Madrisa some day!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shirley S.

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

THE VERY BEST!

This home was above and beyond all expectations. The house was very clean and had more amenities than you could imagine. The location was quiet, yet close to accessing all the wonderful things to do in the area. My family definitely would love to come back and enjoy this beautiful home again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tatyana M.

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

Beautiful, spotless, comfortable A+++

This house is everything and more! Just like every review wrote, the house is spectacular. It’s very big and every room has a suite bathroom. The house is well cleaned and maintained. It has everything you can think off. If a hot tub was added, it would be perfect. We loved our stay and everyone was wowed by the house. We had a group of 3 families with young children. It was a lot of fun with all the games downstairs. The host is very responsive, some rules are strict but understandable. Best house we stayed in a while.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joaquim N., San anselmo, Ca

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

5 stars

5 stars all around. We’ve already booked another stay here and can’t wait to get back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mark M.

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

Really wonderful house in the woods

We planned a family get together with 8 people and our dogs. We absolutely loved this house. The manager was very responsive and we had no issues with anything while we were there.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca K.

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

Spectacular rental!

We had an amazing time! The house has everything you can need, and more! I love how all the bedrooms have en suite bathrooms. It was perfect for our two families, each of the couples got a room with a King size bed, and the 4 kids shared the ones with the King and the bunk beds. The community pool was also really nice. I highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tracy h., PLEASANTON

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

Swiss chalet in Arnold

Gorgeous Swiss style chalet just minutes from Big Trees Calaveras. Hilary's was great to work with and her place is a hidden gem. We loved the classic touches such as the cow bell and old school X county skis. I appreciated the kid friendly accommodations incl PakNPlay/high chair/baby gate and my kids loved playing with all the toys. There was a sled in the garage. Tons to do and large kitchen for any chef. We enjoyed fondue and Raclette and our dogs loved running in the back yard and walking around the neighborhood. Close to Bear Valley and Moaning Caverns and town of Arnold
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lauren K.

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

Winter Wonderland

My family and I absolutely loved our stay at Chesa Madrisa during the Christmas holiday. The beautiful floor to ceiling windows in the living room allowed us to watch the snowfall and be completely immersed in the snowy forest. Hilary (the host) is absolutely amazing. She is kind, friendly, and goes out of her way to provide any information needed. I felt she went above and beyond as a host. But my favorite thing about the house was a completely well-equipped kitchen so we could feel at home cooking holiday meals. This is something I have found to be a rare thing with rentals. Would 100% rent this house again! Loved our stay here. I miss it already :)
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Martine L.

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

Great family trip

Thanks for another great stay!
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Gregory S., Napa

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

The best!

Wonderful experience. Property is very roomy and elegant but still has a cabin feel to it. The three bedrooms are fantastic! Thus priority is close to everything. We especially liked it’s location to the trail that led to Calaveras Big Trees. The toy closet was a special treat and property manager is second to none.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Britton C., Bay Area

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

Incredible property

Top of the line rental for this area. Hillary is an extremely attentive host. Beautiful home with wonderful details and reading material! Our vacation was perfect.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Marsha A.

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

Sharing Good Times

Beautiful cabin, Great time had by all. As close to being perfect as you can possibly get. Thank You, Marsha Agudo
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Aniruddha K., San Francisco, CA, United States

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

Amazing zen heaven in the middle of the woods

Chesa Madrisa is an amazing property just a couple of hours from the hustle-bustle of the Bay Area. The house is so very well designed and has spaces for relaxation, and leisure very well created. The sprawling house is fully stocked with all the things required to throw a gala feast and the tree views from the large windows are soothing. Hillary does a great job of thinking ahead of all the things a big family can need, from beach towels, to extra fans to first aid kits. The bedrooms are cozy and inviting. The kids' play area was a hit with the kids and the adults alike. There is a lot of thought put together in designing those spaces and ambiance. The home is tucked away in the woods, close to some really nice walking trails, and a quick drive from Arnold and Calaveras Big Trees State Park. We enjoyed our time in the home, so did the kids and the dog :) . Will come back to visit in winter.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

The B., Gilroy, CA

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

Excellent location. Close to Big Trees State Park.

Such a lovely mountain getaway. The house accommodated our family of 9 in a comfortable setting. The home was nicely updated and fully stocked with every item you could possibly need. We enjoyed our weekend stay and will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jason P.

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

Fantastic Stay

Chesa Madrisa was perfect for a family getaway in the snow. Hillary provided everything we needed, and was super responsive to all of our questions about the house and the area. We'll return next year!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Martine L.

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

Such a great spot

My family really enjoyed our stay near Arnold. The house was beautiful and there was so much to do. It was a great break for both kids and adults.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth C., San Mateo

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

Beautiful house!

Beautiful house! The location is great, and family friendly with toys, games, etc. Very well-stocked kitchen. Property manager was very responsive. Hope to stay here again.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Evelien V.

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

Mountain Cabin Perfection!

We absolutely loved our stay at Chesa Madrisa! The house is comfortable, inviting, and well-stocked. The location is great - close to Big Trees, a short drive to stores, and an easy jumping off point to the slopes (about 30 minutes). We will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

liya y., Campbell, CA

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

The most wonderful vacation property

We absolutely loved our stay at Chesa Madrisa! The home is so lovely and had everything. We enjoyed all the space, it was easy to spread out. The rooms were large and the beds were so comfortable. Hilary is a pleasure to work with and she really makes sure her guests have everything they need. The kids loved playing with all the toys, we loved the kitchen (quality appliances, all the gadgets, beautiful dishes and flatware), and all the books and interesting things to explore in the house, not to mention the beautiful forest setting right outside. Also, this home is perfect for those staying with babies as this house has a closet full of baby items. We’d be grateful for the opportunity to stay here again in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Leslie P.

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

Lovely long stay

We had the unique opportunity to be in this house for a month during COVID. It was wonderful. So much to do in the surrounding area. The house itself is large and comfy, stocked well, and Hillary is very responsive (we were back and forth about some prescribed burns that happened during our stay, and some bears!). We loved sitting on the front porch during sunset, and walking the nearby trails. Good wifi, king beds throughout, some recreational supplies provided, as well as bathroom/kitchen/laundry supplies. Having AC was helpful on some really hot days, but we also appreciated the fireplace during colder evenings. We miss being there and will be back.
Stayed 33 nights in May 2020

10/10 Excellent

Matthew K.

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

Thanksgiving at Chesa Madrisa

You know that feeling when you don't want to overhype something for fear of disappointing people when they finally experience it themselves? Yeah, that isn't possible here. Hillary deserves all the praise that she's receiving, and more. This alpine home is a beautiful, one-of-a-kind gem in the forest. I've been to many vacation rental homes, and this one is easily the best. Not only has Hillary thought of everything, but she appointed the house with all the good stuff. High quality linens, up-to-date electronics, beautiful furniture. And hand soaps! I have to buy my hand soaps from Williams-Sonoma from now on, because this house has spoiled me. Be warned: this house will spoil you too. And then there's the kitchen. Oh, what wondrous gadgetry! I'm not kidding, this kitchen is gorgeous, and it has everything. We cooked a big Thanksgiving dinner, and I was wondering ahead of time if I might need to bring some kitchen stuff from home, which is common with vacation rentals. It turned out that I needn't have worried. (Fellow kitchen nerds: not one, but two Microplanes. One flat and two balloon whisks. Two roasting pans big enough for turkeys. Le Creuset everywhere. Breville toaster oven and microwave. Two Kitchenaid ovens. Tons more, but I just want to illustrate how well-appointed the kitchen is. Seriously, she thought of everything.) In summary, this house is perfect, ten relaxing days flew by too quickly, and we can't wait to come back. Do not hesitate to rent this home.

10/10 Excellent

Susan R., Penn Valley, CA

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

One of the best ever!

It would be hard to top this property. From Hillary, the manager, to the spacious and comfortable layout, everything was as close to perfect as you could want. Toys and games for everyone, a chef’s kitchen “to die for”, three master suites with king beds and private baths, plus extra beds for the kids, all in a beautiful forest setting. Great for a family gathering or friends getting together!!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019

10/10 Excellent

jordie h.

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

Best VRBO find to date!

Chesa Madrisa is the best VRBO I have ever stayed in. The house was stocked with every single thing you could possibly think of - from extra toiletries to baby toys. From the moment I rented this place, Hillary made everything a total breeze, she was a pleasure to work with, gave us all the information we could have needed in a timely manner and even helped when we left a pillow behind. (Didn't realize we absolutely didn't need it!). We all agreed we would go back in a heartbeat. A great, central location!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jenny C.

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

Great house!

We really enjoyed our stay here. The house was wonderful, perfect if you have kids. Centrally located to the lakes and the ski mountains. Hilary is an amazing host and truly did a fantastic making our vacation great! Everything was thorough and easy to find. The house had everything we needed and more! We would stay here again!!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2019

About the host

Hosted by Hillary Gibson - Chesa Madrisa Family Property Manager

Host profile image
I'm Hillary Gibson, and I am the Family Property Manager of the Chesa Madrisa, LLC - this is our family vacation home, built by my grandparents in 2001. I live in Lake Oswego, just outside of Portland, Oregon with my husband, son, and pup. I am readily available to guests via email, text, or phone & I have a great team on the ground in Big Trees if needed.

HISTORY
Lawrence & Luana Wilsey built this home in 2001. The home’s design was inspired by Swiss ski chalets that the Wilseys had grown fond of during their travels. The name “Chesa” means home, and “Madrisa” was the Wilseys’ favorite ski run in Switzerland, from Klosters to Davos.

The Wilsey family has deep roots in the Sierra Nevada region. The original owner’s father was a leader in the logging industry in nearby White Pines, Big Trees, and Angel’s Camp. The town of Wilseyville, also up in the Sierras, was named after the original owner’s father.

Be sure to admire the vintage wooden Norwegian skis hanging in the stairway that were retired by the original owner decades ago after amazing runs in Norway, Switzerland, and Colorado.

Why they chose this property

Big Trees Village is an ideal location for a relaxing home base at the Chesa Madrisa while you explore the Sierra Nevada mountains. Fresh air & quiet solitude, with easy access to fun activities in Big Trees State Park, Bear Valley, Murphys & Angels Camp.

Avoid the crowds of Tahoe and enjoy relaxation just a 3-4 hour drive from the Bay Area, and just over 2 hours from the Sacramento airport.

Year round the nearby town of Murphys is the perfect destination for guests who enjoy one of a kind shops, nice restaurants, and wine tasting. This historical mining town in the Sierra Nevada foothills is now well known for excellent wineries and its charming Main Street lined with boutiques. Pack a picnic, or grab a sandwich from Aria or Alchemy in Murphys, and then head to the picnic tables by the creek and let the kids enjoy the playground and water. There’s even a bocce court! The 1st Saturday every October is the annual Calaveras Grape Stomp & the Annual Gold Rush Street Faire. In March, Murphys Irish Day features a parade and entertainment all along Main Street.

REGIONAL ACTIVITIES
●Big Trees State Park - Giant Sequoias, Beaver Creek, Sour Grass Bridge
●Bear Valley Ski Resort - Downhill alpine skiing & expansive groomed cross-country skiing trails
●Lake Alpine - Summer water sports such as swimming, stand-up-paddle boarding, & kayaking
●Murphys - Irish Day (March), Calaveras Grape Stomp & Street Faire (October), Day of the Dead (November)
●Angels Camp - Calaveras County Fair & Jumping Frog Jubilee (May), Mark Twain Wild West Fest (October)
●Stanislaus River - fly fishing
●Mercer Caverns
●Columbia State Historic Park
●Union & Utica Reservoirs
●White Pines Lake – summer swimming next to town of Arnold
●Arnold Rim Trail - hiking
●Sierra Nevada Logging Museum
●Big Trees Village Recreation Center - summer swimming pool

What makes this property unique

This is our well loved family vacation home, and not a generic investment rental property. If you're looking for a home that values quality over quantity, then you are in the right place. Our goal is not to get "heads in beds" - we want families who appreciate the extra amenities and will enjoy our home as if it were their own special retreat.

As a frequent guest of vacation homes with my husband & young son, I have tried to outfit the Chesa Madrisa with every item I've ever found to be lacking in other homes - nothing has been overlooked here!

The Chesa Madrisa is one of the few vacation rentals in the area that has premium features such as nice linens & towels, as well as top of the line cooking gadgets. This home is amazing in all seasons with a wide variety of outdoor activities & we also loan out Golden Poppy Pass & SnoPark pass.

Guests love the Chesa Madrisa layout because all three bedrooms have their own private bathroom, and the rest of the home has plenty of room to spread out and relax.

Got kids?
I've yet to stay at another vacation home outfitted with so many toys to keep the younger crew busy while the adults can relax. Legos, Brio trains, arts & crafts, dollhouse, play kitchen, board games galore....

Tired of Departure Chore Lists?
We pretty much just ask you to start the dishwasher before heading out. If you use extra blankets or beach towels then those need to be laundered, but our cleaners will launder all of the bed sheets, duvet covers, and bath towels. 100% of our cleaning fee goes to our cleaners. Enjoy the final morning of your vacation!

Don't like surprises?
Our home is well taken care of and we do routine preventive maintenance. In the past few years all of the following have been replaced: double oven, dishwasher, refrigerator, AC, generator, furnace & water heater. We try really hard to have everything in tip top shape for our guests to enjoy & relax.

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