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Ojai Wilderness Mountains - Sespe Retreat House 100% Solar

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Terrace/patio
Living area
Living area
Exterior
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Spa pool on site
  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washer/dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue

Explore the area

View map
Ojai, CA
  • Place, Howard Creek Trail
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Place, Rose Valley Falls Trail
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Place, Golf Course at Ojai Valley Inn and Spa
    ‪39 min drive‬
  • Airport, Oxnard, CA (OXR)
    ‪75 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Guest

1 Queen Bed

Master

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

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

About this property

Ojai Wilderness Mountains - Sespe Retreat House 100% Solar

Unplug from the stressful World! Come relax in this 100% solar powered, 2 Bedroom + 2 Bath 1200 sq. ft. OFF-THE-GRID, Hidden Mountain Home w/ XL Deck, Ramp, Campfire Yard and STUNNING 360 degree Mountain Views! Very Peaceful, Quiet, PRIVATE and Secluded. Surrounded by Los Padres National Forest+ 2 Creeks (seasonal swimming hole). Private Road with Locked Gate. 30 minute drive North of Ojai, CA.

Unique Eclectic Interior Design

Fully furnished, OFF-THE-GRID, 100% solar powered, 2 Bedroom + 2 Bath 1200 sq. ft. Home w/ XL Deck that wraps around 2 sides of House, Ramp and Campfire Yard. House has High Ceilings, Tower Dormer Windows, Solar Tubes throughout for abundant natural light, Fully stocked kitchen with Fridge/Freezer, Corain countertops, gas stove, Pantry, washer/dryer, utility room w/ deep European sink, Efficient Evaporative Cooling System, Central Heat, Satellite Internet/WiFi (WiFi calling on most Smart Phones).
Bluetooth Speakers. Bring your Music ! ! !
Birdwatcher's Paradise, Hiking Trails, Plenty of Sage and Wild Medicinal Herbs.
Panoramic night skies ! ! !
Hosts live on the lower property, are committed to providing privacy and are available if needed. We have 7, mostly large, free-range dogs whose job is to protect the property and occupants from any wildlife intrusions. They are all very friendly and some will likely interact with the guests and likely accompany guests on local hikes. They are never allowed in the rental house.
No EV charging!

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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

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
Property use is for registered guests ONLY.
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
$45 per guest per night after the first 2 guests. A 5th guest can sleep on the sofa and will be charged $45 per night.
No third-party bookings. All guests must be disclosed at booking.
No unauthorized guests may be on the property at any time.

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
Note from host: Property use is for registered guests ONLY.
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
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

Ojai

Located in Ojai, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. Howard Creek Trail and Los Padres National Forest reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Ojai Art Center and Meditation Mount. Ventura Botanical Gardens and Ventura County Fairgrounds are also worth visiting. Make sure you don't miss outdoor adventures like cycling, hiking and mountain biking.
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Map
Ojai, CA

What's nearby

  • Howard Creek Trail - 15 min drive - 4.4 km
  • Rose Valley Falls Trail - 18 min drive - 7.4 km
  • Golf Course at Ojai Valley Inn and Spa - 39 min drive - 35.6 km
  • Ojai Valley Museum of History and Art - 43 min drive - 37.4 km
  • Ojai Art Center - 43 min drive - 37.8 km

Getting around

  • Santa Paula, CA (SZP) - 57 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Big dog and beer reserve - ‬38 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Ojai Wilderness Mountains - Sespe Retreat House 100% Solar pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Ojai Wilderness Mountains - Sespe Retreat House 100% Solar?

As of 6 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Ojai Wilderness Mountains - Sespe Retreat House 100% Solar on 8 July 2026 start from NZ$499, 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.

How much is parking at Ojai Wilderness Mountains - Sespe Retreat House 100% Solar?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Ojai Wilderness Mountains - Sespe Retreat House 100% Solar?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Ojai Wilderness Mountains - Sespe Retreat House 100% Solar?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Ojai Wilderness Mountains - Sespe Retreat House 100% Solar located?

Situated on a river, this holiday home is 2.5 mi (4 km) from Howard Creek Trail and within 20 miles (32 km) of Los Padres National Forest and Golf Course at Ojai Valley Inn and Spa. Ojai Valley Museum of History and Art and Libbey Bowl are also within 20 miles (32 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 38 out of 38 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 38 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew T.

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

Another Perfect Stay!

My wife and I love this place . . . a return visit for us! Picture-perfect location, beautiful home, hospitable hosts, so much to do for those who love the outdoors. Looking forward to staying there again!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer T.

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

Ojai

The property owner was amazing. Clean with every amenity you need. The best part was the peaceful property and the care the owner puts into every aspect of your stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Megan B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place is so special! It’s for the committed though, and is worth it if you’re up for the drive and solitude it offers.You’re greeted by Carol and a cute rescue pack of dogs that roam the property and keep a watch out for wildlife. It was a joy to wake up and see one of the Pyrenees, Yeti, keeping guard for us in the mornings, outside at the driveway. And Elmo, the gentle giant, even went on a walk with us to check out the river.We’d love to come back again soon.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sartaj A.

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

Beyond All Expectations

Everything about our stay was amazing- the location and setting, the facilities (house, fireplace, tub, decks, parking, driveway), Sespe hounds (7 lovely dogs), warm and welcoming hosts. This is one of the best vacations we’ve had. All of us from 27-65 agreed on that.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Curtis P.

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

Awesome getaway

Carol and Doc have built a great place out in the mountains of Ojai. It's everything seen in their profile plus more. I highly recommend this place a visit and will likely be trying to get back there with my partner.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chandler H.

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

Perfect place to recharge

Doc and Carol have provided the perfect place to unwind and recharge. The property is absolutely beautiful nestled into the mountains about 20 minuets outside of Ojai. A big perk of the property are the amazing dogs that keep you company throughout your stay. It was the best place to get away from it all.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kelly C.

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

Sespe Getaway

Sespe Retreat is the perfect getaway for those wanting to go off the grid and enjoy nature but with all of the cozy comforts of home. The scenery and walking trails were stunning and Carol, Doc and the super hounds (especially our concierge Yeti) were so welcoming. Our only regret was not being able to stay longer!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew T.

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

Sespe Paradise

My wife and I just had our favorite vacation together at this property! It offers perfect views, beautiful scenery all around, and so many hiking trails nearby. The house is very well-maintained, clean, and stocked with everything you might possibly need. Our hosts Carol & Doc were so gracious and hospitable. They made sure all of our needs were met, responded quickly to questions we had, and were simply great people to get to know a bit. If you love the wilderness but don't want to camp, then this is the best place you can stay. We will be back for sure!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura I.

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

The best birthday

From the time I booked the home to check out, Carol was a gem. The information was very clear. There were no surprises. All was very easy. There is something for everyone: games, tv, soaking tub, swimming hole, hiking, bird watching, lounging, cooking, sunbathing, and the campfire ring. The night sky was magnifi
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Yael G.

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

Serene Location

We had a wonderful introduction to Carol's property. She and the dogs greeted is with enthusiasm and open arms. The view is spectacular and the quiet was perfect for the experience we were looking for. Carol and Doc were attentive and responsive to our needs. The decor of the place is so well curated. We loved having the dogs around and they are sos sweet. There is plenty of hiking around. There is a wonderful hot tub to use and star gaze from at night. The fire pit is perfect for those cold nights outside.We had an issue with the toilet and shower backing up which they addressed immediately. We wanted to cook most of our time there, but we arrived with a dirty refrigerator and pots/pans that we had to wash before using. The cabinets could have also been cleaned. That was a bit disappointing. Carol said she would speak to the cleaners for next time.Overall it was a good experience.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kaitlyn C.

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

Wonderfully rejuvenating serene retreat and amazing hosts

This is the place for you if you are looking for a wilderness retreat away from it all without missing any of the comforts of home! We felt worlds away, but were within easy reach of Ojai town and LA. We enjoyed the solitude and silence of this place immensely. We came here to have a few days of total peace and quiet as well as to have dark skies to view the Perseids meteor shower. Night skygazing here was SO good and the set up for it is perfect - wide open clear sky and there are many comfortable reclining chairs and two different decks to view from. The entire experience was so amazing - the house, the outdoors area, the surroundings, and the hosts!!! We particularly loved the very comfortable bed, the fully stocked kitchen, the very cool evaporative cooling system, and the outdoor tub and fire pit. Carol and Doc have thought of everything - they even provide fire starter paper and firewood if you need it. Carol's communication, directions, and check-in process were so easy and clear. Carol, thank you for the warm welcome from you and your sweet dogs - we loved meeting you!!! Carol and Doc have put so much love into this property and the guest experience. They told us to reach out if we needed anything and they meant it - we realized upon arrival that we forgot a toothbrush - and they brought an extra up from their house right away (otherwise we would have had to drive all the way back to Ojai town the next day). Now that's service - so amazing! They are such kind people and genuinely care about you having a wonderful experience. One thing to note - the property is solar-powered - and you'll still have all the good stuff (a/c, heat, washer/dryer, etc) but there are a few items you won't find or be able to use here because they will totally overwhelm the power system - that is, hair dryer, toaster, and electric kettle. This wasn't an issue for us at all, but just something to be aware of expectations-wise. We used a kettle on the oven to heat water for coffee, grilled toast on the stovetop, and let my hair air dry in the very warm, low-humidity air out in this magical wilderness :) Staying here is a completely rejuvenating experience for those seeking peace/quiet/rest without having to rough it. We will definitely be back. Thanks again, Carol and Doc, for a wonderful stay and for sharing your beautiful home and property with us!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary B.

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

A Slice of heaven!

Let me start off by saying that my husband and I are always searching for the most distinctive experiences when we travel. We like to drink in the local cultures and natural environments that make each place unique. Resort travel is shiny and pampering but it doesn't represent the true local experience and lifestyle. We love to find the hidden gems that make us feel like we've found something that no one else knows about. The Sespe Retreat met all of our expectations and then some! The amazing adventure starts with the breathtaking ride up the mountain. It sets the vibe through 15 miles of serene landscapes, different at every turn. It's about a 30 minute drive into town but we didn't want it to be any shorter. A quicker trip back to "civilization" would steal away some of the magic of the Sespe Retreat. This property was immaculate! The detail and care that has been put into this property well exceeds the photos. Carol, Doc and the Sespe hounds were wonderful hosts. Carol stayed in contact via text during our stay and she or Doc were instantly available to answer questions or tend to issues. They are just down the hill and across the stream. Close enough to be available in 5 minutes if you need them, but far enough away to give you all the privacy that you would like. The property is 100% green, yet it doesn't restrict you from enjoying all of the comforts of home but appliances with internal heating elements such as toasters & coffee makers tax the solar system. Carol did communicate this in advance so we were well prepared! There is a pour over coffee pot which we did use and it made a good cup of coffee, but if you are a coffee junkie like us, stop in town at Starbucks and grab a box of joe! Worked perfectly!:) The view is vast and glorious! 360 degrees of ever-changing mountains that make you feel like you've discovered a best kept secret. We loved our daily visits with the Sespe hounds! They are energetic yet gentle and entertaining. If you are looking for a retreat to relax, breathe, and reconnect with nature and one another, this is the perfect place. We did not want to leave. We don't usually return to the same spot twice but we loved it so much that we are considering making the Sespe Retreat an annual event. Thank you Carol, Doc & The Sespe hounds for your gracious hospitality! You have something extra special on your mountain and we are so thankful that you are willing to share it with others. Until the next time. Mary & Roger.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

karin e.

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

Amazing! The reviews were 100% accurate!!

My husband and I were looking for a place to experience: quiet, nature, amazing views ( preferably mountains), sounds of fresh water, beautiful weather, comfortable and CLEAN setting, ideally a hot/cold tub, accessible hiking,….you get the idea. Our adult daughter came with for a well needed Work retreat. The kitchen set up, ease of finding things, the bathrooms, laundry, even filtered water and MANY comfy places to read and relax, even a lush hammock! Each bedroom is set up to wake to a stunning sun rise and the night sky was full of star gazing. Carol n Doc have thought through the guests experience in a remarkably detailed way AND their communication was quick and simple. The protective dogs were just that. Non intrusive, delightful and pleasant to see hanging around. Indeed, the only tough part of this stay was leaving!!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

William K.

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

Slice of Paradise

Carol and Doc are wonderful hosts! The property is a slice of paradise with the most spectacular views and nature surrounding you. The house is immaculate and thoughtfully designed. It’s the perfect place to nourish your mind body and spirit. We will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alise S.

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

Exquisite Mountain Retreat

Everything about my stay at the Sespe Retreat was a dream. I was looking for the perfect solo nature retreat, and this was all that and more -- the house was so beautifully decorated, so cozy and easy to use and filled with thoughtful, comfortable details, the mountain was beautiful, Carol and Doc and the Super Hounds were so generous and present if I needed anything (and quiet and unobtrusive if I didn't). It was a homey, warm, and beautiful place. I'll definitely be back. Thank you for everything, Carol, Doc and sweet Yeti!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sue A.

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

Excellent

Thoroughly enjoyed the property, the landscape, the quiet and the stars. Carol was fantastic with information and responsiveness. The dogs were awesome and we felt protected at all times. Loved the goats too :). Would definitely return. Thank you Carol and Doc for a great stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa T.

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

Under the Stars

Off the grid with high speed internet, you got me. This house was perfect, our hosts delightful and the dogs were all adorable. It's not often we find places that rate a 'must return'.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joanne H.

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

Comfort and wilderness.

Beautifully decorated and perfectly situated. Carol could not have been more welcoming and helpful. Peace and quiet and the creature comforts! Thank you Carol and Doc.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Fantastic!

It could not have been better. We wanted to get away from everything for a few days, and Sespe House was ideal. Carol and her sweet dogs gave us a warm welcome when we arrived, answered any questions we had, and then gave us complete privacy although we knew we could text or call her if necessary. It was exactly the experience we hoped for. The house is beautiful, perfectly equipped, with amazing views from every room. A soaking tub, hammock, fire pit are all extras that add to the experience. Thank you, Carol and Doc, for your generosity in sharing your house with us.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daniel P.

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

Excellent Retreat Location

We stayed at this property for 3 nights in Jan and despite the chilling evenings and occasional snow flurry (which we enjoyed!), we didn’t leave the property, and we took long walks, played with the dogs, and enjoyed the incredible views. I would recommend buying all of your food and not leaving. It’s not a super convenient drive to downtown Ojai, but also not necessary if you choose this type of VRBO and want a true escape from the hustle band bustle of normal urban life. There is only wi fi at the house, so we downloaded movies and shows before our trip and that worked out well. But, there is a TV and DVD options and access to some streaming. But, the real magic of the property is the fire pit, the really fun soaking tub, the incredible views, and the clean and wonderful fresh mountain air. I would recommend this property and would suggest packing for the season and preparing to feel transported to a different world.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kaity C.

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

Restful Retreat

Staying at this property was a dream escape. Every moment was easy from communications before arriving, checking in, and the super easy check out. Myself and one friend stayed here for two night and woke up on the third day vowing to never leave. If you're looking for a true getaway weekend to decompress, this gem is the place for you. We can't wait to come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Millie F.

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

Amazing house with unbelievable views

Carol, Doc and her 6 dogs made us feel welcomed for our weekend trip to Ojai. The house is even better than what you see in the photos! The house itself is super charming, clean, amazing layout, and thoughtfully pulled together. The kitchen is organized and will literally have everything you need to make an amazing meal. I highly recommend staying here and can't wait to come back! Thanks Carol & Doc!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Holly H.

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

Best Getaway Ever!

I stayed at the Sespe Retreat House with my little brother (who I do not get to see very often) and it was a great way for us to reconnect and have a bit of a summer vacation, especially during these crazy and uncertain times. First of all, the location is INCREDIBLE! It's not too far of a drive from Ojai, yet you feel like you're in the middle of nowhere. Not only was the house beautifully decorated, but everything was extremely clean and certified up to all COVID standards, plus the remote location with easy access to the creek gave us plenty of room for exploring and activities without having to worry about running into any large groups of people. The host Carol greeted us with all of the sweet dogs when we checked in. She was super nice and helpful and offered lots of ideas and tips for things to do during our stay. We cooked over the campfire every night during our stay which was wonderful, however they have a full kitchen and new gas grill as well. The location was one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. I really can't say enough good things about this property and I definitely hope to come back soon!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer K.

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

Perfect secluded getaway

We had a relaxing, restorative time at Sespe. Carol was very communicative and explained everything we needed to know upon our arrival. The place itself is all you need - stunning location, nice, clean home, and driving distance to Ojai. We had the best time hanging out on the porch with the dogs, making fires at night, and taking walks around the property. It was also great to see how seriously Carol and Doc took Covid - upon arrival, all windows and doors were open and everything had been sanitized. Highly recommend - we hope to be back some day!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth B.

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

Absolutely Amazing

We spent three nights at Sespe Wilderness Retreat House and wish we could have have spent three more nights, or perhaps 3 months. The house is perfect for a relaxing getaway and we enjoyed every minute we spent on the property. We did several beautiful hikes that are nearby: Piedra Blanca , Rose Valley Falls, East Fork of Lion Camp Trail, but were always delighted to get back to the house. Yeti, one of the six dogs on the property, kept a constant vigil while we were at the house. He is a gentle giant, and we loved his company. My advice? Bring lots of groceries and enjoy this magical place. Our favorite night was when we cooked at home, then had a wonderful campfire out in the fire pit. The stars were incredible, Yeti kept watch and we were in heaven. We will be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2020

About the host

Hosted by Carol

Host profile image
Retired Hollywood Make-Up Artist. Apple Farmer, Animal Lover, Off-the-Grid-Pioneer-Woman.
Family oriented gal. Caregiver for senior/disabled parents. Captain of the Local Neighborhood Watch. I value Peace and Quiet above most things.

Why they chose this property

Remote wilderness. Completely surrounded by National Forest.
Off-The-Grid. 100% solar powered electric.
No mechanical sounds unless we make them (or occasional jets).
Amazing night skies!
Always cool at night.
Winter snow.
Several creeks.

What makes this property unique

Living in the wilderness with 21st century amenities!

Languages:

English
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