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Barefoot Luxury in Carmel - Steps to Town & Beach

Holiday home with kitchen, 6-minute walk to Carmel Beach

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Living area
Living area
Interior
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4111.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Sunset Center
  • Place, Carmel Beach
  • Place, Carmel Plaza
  • Airport, Monterey, CA (MRY-Monterey Peninsula)

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

2 King Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub

Bathroom 2

Spaces

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

About this property

Barefoot Luxury in Carmel - Steps to Town & Beach

Welcome to your Carmel-by-the-Sea sanctuary — a storybook 2-bedroom cottage where time slows, ocean air cleanses, and every detail whispers comfort. Tucked behind a private garden gate, this historic home blends old-world craftsmanship with fresh, coastal elegance. Whether you’re sipping morning coffee with hummingbirds, curling up by the fire with a good book, or strolling to white-sand beaches and charming cafes, this is the kind of place where you arrive and instantly exhale.


WHAT TRAVELERS LOVE ABOUT OUR COTTAGE

Guests often tell us this cottage feels “like a dream you don’t want to wake from.” They rave about:

• The Best Sleep of Their Lives: Luxurious beds, Belgian linen duvets, and the gentle hush of ocean air create pure serenity

• Cozy Fireside Evenings: Curl up by the wood-burning fireplace with a novel or a glass of local Pinot

• Sunlit Mornings on the Deck: A peaceful retreat surrounded by whispering pines, trickling fountains, and the soft buzz of hummingbirds

• Sanctuary Gardens: Wander through flower-lined paths, listen to the fountain, or meditate among the cypress trees

• Unbeatable Location: It walk to everything - just a short stroll to downtown Carmel’s cafes, galleries, wine rooms, and boutique shops — and a short stroll down to the beach

• A Magical Host: Travelers often mention our attention to detail and warm hospitality — “It’s like staying with a friend who’s thought of everything.”

• Impeccable Cleanliness: Every corner gleams, maintained by one of the top-rated cleaning teams in Carmel.


ALL THE DETAILS

• Calm, Beautiful Interior Design

Step inside and feel an immediate sense of calm. The living room glows with natural light reflecting off whitewashed walls and original pine plank floors. Vintage wavy-glass windows and thumb latch hardware nod to the home’s 1920s heritage, while curated coastal décor and plush textures add an elevated, modern feel. Every space feels intentional, soothing, and quietly luxurious.

• Enchanting Gardens & Outdoor Spaces

Your private gardens are alive with color, fragrance, and birdsong. Relax on the sun-dappled back deck with morning tea, unwind by the fountain, or share wine beneath the twinkling lights of the patio. Guests say it feels like “a secret garden tucked within Carmel itself.”

• Fully Equipped Kitchen

The bright, well-stocked kitchen includes everything you need — from sharp knives and artisan tableware to high-end cookware and a three kinds of coffee makers. Whether you’re preparing a cozy breakfast or an elegant dinner, it’s designed to make cooking a joy.

• Sumptuous Bedding & Comforts

Both bedrooms feature hotel-quality mattresses, high-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets, and Belgian linen duvets from Restoration Hardware. Fluffy down and hypoallergenic pillows ensure personalized comfort, so every night feels like a spa retreat.

• Impeccable Cleanliness

Our professional cleaning team — among the best in Carmel — uses premium, eco-friendly products to ensure the cottage is spotless and fresh. From crisp linens to polished floors, we prepare the home to five-star standards for every guest.

• Authenticity & History

Originally built in the 1920s, this is one of Carmel’s beloved storybook cottages — restored with respect for its history and comfort for today’s traveler. You’ll find original pine plank floors, wavy pane windows, and charming thumb latch hardware paired with modern amenities including high-speed business class Wi-Fi, smart TVs, streaming music, entertainment, and personal development programming.

• Our Commitment to the Environment

We believe that caring for this magical place means caring for the planet. We use refillable bulk cleaning supplies, LED lighting, and smart thermostats to reduce waste and energy use. Our guests’ stays have helped plant over 1,000 trees worldwide, and we sponsor the replanting of native Monterey Cypress trees right here in Carmel.

SOME FEEDBACK FROM PAST GUESTS

• About the cottage

“Fabulous! I have stayed in many different rental homes from Boston, Nashville, Hilton head, Colorado, etc. This by far was the most perfect. The manager, Barry, goes beyond your wildest expectations. He must love what he does because everything is thought out on every detail. Don’t pass this place up. I can’t wait to return.”

“A Little slice of heaven. What a gem! Charming, beautifully decorated, every amenity you could ask for. We just loved it!”

“This cottage is magical!!”

“Don’t walk but run to book this! The beds were so comfortable, the fireplace was dreamy. We absolutely loved this place and will be back again!”


• About the host

“Dearest Barry, thank you for touching our hearts and for sharing this magical place with us. Our hearts remain full from the love and grace of your beautiful soul touching ours."

"We have traveled quite extensively and I can say we have never received more gracious and thoughtful hospitality. Barry provides a 5 Star Concierge Level service equal to any luxury hotel or premium resort."

“Our time in your cottage was so memorable. We will always relish our stay at your cottage as if something greater than all of us has suspended it in time. I can still “feel” opening the gate and stepping down the stone entryway into nothing short of enchantment. I relive it often in grace and harmony remembering the creative journey you continuously and so beautifully have given to those of us who need a deep breath of peace. Thank you for who you are, all you’ve done and how you continue to contribute everyday of your life to others. You’re an angel on earth driven with universal guidance in more ways than just one. We adore you!”

*******************************
PLEASE NOTE: Due to town ordinance we accept only one booking per 30 day period.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available

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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

Adults only
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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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
We try to minimize any clean up requirements so you can enjoy all of your time in Carmel! :)
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

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
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Carmel

Located by the sea, this holiday home is in Golden Rectangle, a neighbourhood in Carmel. Pebble Beach Golf Links and Fisherman's Wharf are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Carmel Beach and Monterey Bay. Check out an event or a game at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, and consider making time for Monterey Bay Aquarium, a top attraction not to be missed. Take the opportunity to explore the area for water adventures such as scuba diving.
Map
Carmel, CA

What's nearby

  • Sunset Center - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Carmel Beach - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Carmel Plaza - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • 17-Mile Drive - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Carmel Mission Basilica - 16 min walk - 1.4 km

Getting around

  • Monterey Station - 21 min drive
  • Monterey, CA (MRY-Monterey Peninsula) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Company - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Pizza Heaven - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Carmel Bakery and Coffee Company - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Dametra Cafe - ‬5 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Barefoot Luxury in Carmel - Steps to Town & Beach pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Barefoot Luxury in Carmel - Steps to Town & Beach?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Barefoot Luxury in Carmel - Steps to Town & Beach?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Barefoot Luxury in Carmel - Steps to Town & Beach?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Barefoot Luxury in Carmel - Steps to Town & Beach located?

Located in Golden Rectangle, this holiday home is within a 10-minute walk of Sunset Center and Carmel Beach. 17-Mile Drive is 0.7 mi (1.1 km) away.

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. 97 out of 97 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 97 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 97 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 97 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 97 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey S.

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

Carmel'a Best

Perfection-- location, our welcome, comfort, communication during our stay. Could not be better! Five Stars!!
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

DD M.

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

Just lovely!

We had a wonderful stay at this lovely cottage. The home was absolutely spotless and Barry was the best host we’ve ever had! He was so responsive and kind. The location was perfect to explore Carmel downtown and the beach. Thanks Barry!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Neal L.

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

Charm galore

Great home with farmhouse charm. Loved our stay and Barry was fabulous. Would stay again in an instant.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Andrea B., Laguna Hills

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

A great time in Carmel!

We had a great time staying at Barry’s beautiful home. He was very helpful and was a great host. The home was beautiful and really close to Ocean. We absolutely would stay again and highly recommend the property.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joe R., Phoenix Arizona

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

A perfect place!

The cottage was everything we hoped for and needed to enjoy a brief respite from the desert heat. Barry is a world class host and made us feel more than welcome and at home. Can't wait to return!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

annette h.

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

Charming cottage

We absolutely loved staying in this charming cottage in Carmel. It was a short walk to Ocean Ave. The yard is lovely. The kitchen is perfect. We will come back every year.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Laura E., Piedmont, California

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

Carmel comfort and elegance

We had a lovely stay. The house has many little generous touches that elevate your stay. Luxurious linens and coveted off street parking area are some highlights. Charming Carmel garden and deck for lounging, eating dinner, make this a little corner of paradise.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cathy C.

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

Perfect cottage

This cottage is so cute and in an ideal location! I would 100% stay here again. The host Barry went above and beyond with communication and fantastic surprises along the way. Don’t walk but run to book this! The beds were so comfortable, the fireplace was dreamy, the movies that he’s so thoughtfully had set up in advance or spot on.. We absolutely loved this place and will be back again!
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen B.

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

Gorgeously charming!

This cottage is one of my very favorites. We could not have asked for more. We were transported to pure joy in a matter of seconds upon entering this beautiful cottage. It set our trip into blissful motion.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Paul L.

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

Love, Lavender!

We loved our stay at The Lavender cottage, great vibe and location!! It was very well equipped, clean and well staged. Thank you Barry for welcoming us and making our stay so wonderful, you’re a fabulous host! See you again for sure. Paul, Patti, Ron & Mari
Stayed 10 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

George "Skip" B.

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

Spring in Carmel

This comfortable, quiet cottage conveniently located just a few blocks from the heart of downtown Carmel made for a wonderful vacation home base. We couldn’t have asked for more than what was provided. Above all, Barry (the host) was more than accommodating and quick to respond to inquiries.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Paula C.

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

Golf and shopping

Beautiful. Convenient. Quiet
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

David W.

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

A beautiful and charming home.

My wife and I just returned from a week in this beautiful cottage. We had high expectations based upon the pictures and our communication with Barry prior to our stay, and we were not disappointed in any way. The cottage is beautifully decorated with great attention to detail throughout. The location is ideal - on a quiet street only a short 5-minute walk to all the shops and restaurants of Carmel. This is a "no miss" in every way and I would not hesitate recommending to the most discerning traveler.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

jennifer w.

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

Carmel Oasis

A beautiful cottage that captures the magic of Carmel, this two-story house in the trees reminds one of the little bohemian hideaways that used to dominant the streets of California's most beautiful beach town. Barry has done a fantastic job of renovating with new bathrooms and kitchen, and beachy decor. Beds are super comfortable. If you're mobility challenged as my husband is, you'll be able to skip the stone steps down to the house and follow a path curving through the garden to the backdoor. Barry was an exceptional host, even bringing a special dessert for our last day. Thank you, Barry, for sharing your oasis with us. We can't wait to return.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Catherine S., Winter Park, Fl

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

Thank you, Barry!

Cottage lived up to the photos. Three blocks is Ocean Avenue. So, we walked everywhere! Cottage is well supplied: Very nice linens on super comfortable beds; Towels are luxurious; Kitchen has nice appliances; And, it has a fireplace…that just was perfect for chilly nights. Two bedrooms are upstairs; Main bathroom is upstairs too. Other is downstairs. Layout worked well even when friends spent the night. Barry is an exceptional host:: He made sure we were enjoying our stay.
Stayed 21 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Beautiful cottage!

What a wonderful stay in beautiful Carmel! Barry has thought of everything! He is a fantastic host!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janet W.

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

Carmel retreat

We had a delightful experience in Carmel and at Barry’s cottage. It was charming, close to the main village and very well appointed. Barry was available as the need arose and quickly responded to our queries. It was outfitted with a well equipped kitchen with fine cookware and appliances. It lacked for nothing. I would recommend it to anyone.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Monica B.

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

Magical place n the heart of Carmel

Wonderfully appointed property. Quintessential Carmel cottage with historic looking fireplace and cozy couches. We celebrated Christmas and Hanukkah here and it was lovely. Kitchen had everything we needed to cook and entertain and the twinkle lights added to the holiday spirit. The bedrooms were spacious and very comfortable beds. Will stay here again. The owner is super attentive and generous host.
Stayed 11 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pattie W.

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

Little slice of heaven

What a gem! Cozy, beautifully decorated, every amenity you could ask for. We just loved it!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Adrienne W.

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

Fantastic Week in Carmel

What an amazing week we enjoyed at the Lavender Cottage with our two kids! The cottage is magical and had everything we needed for our lovely week near (but not too near!) my parents & family. We had a super week and look forward to returning next year!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Teila T.

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

Fabulous

I have stayed in many different rental homes from Boston, Nashville, Hilton head, Colorado, etc. This by far was perfect. The manager, Barry; goes beyond your wildest expectations. He must love what he does because everything is very thought out on every detail. This cottage is so charming we ate breakfast on the patio every morning. Don’t pass this place up.I can’t wait to return.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mark P.

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

Hidden Gem

This property is fabulous. It has a quiet comfortable feel. with a mix it's glorious history, and the comforts of modern-day conveniences. The location is with-in walking distance of shops, restaurants and the beach. Barry's hospitality exceeded our expectations. Add in the special surprise treats that showed up from time to time, and our stay couldn't have been any better. We'll be back.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelley F.

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

Best Rental Ever!

This cottage was, hands down, the best rental experience we have ever had. The cottage felt like our own, warm and inviting. Barry was the ultimate host. This cottage was perfectly located while still feeling isolated from town at the same time. We absolutely loved it and it was a perfect place for our home base. Thanks Barry!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amy F.

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

Cute cottage by the sea!

This was our first visit to Carmel. We loved the area , and location of the cottage. you can walk to shops, restaurants and the beach. Barry was a wonderful host. Very communicative, and has so many lovely touches to make your stay memorable and comfortable. The bedding was SO comfy! The area has so much to offer with Big Sur close by and so much more. We loved it so much, we rebooked another trip!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Wonderful Vacation Destination

After a difficult year of medical challenges, my wife and I choose to spend our vacation in the Lavender Cottage in Carmel by the Sea and it was an absolutely fantastic decision. The cottage is exactly as advertised and the reviews of Barry (the owner) were spot on. All the little things Barry did to make our stay comfortable were amazing and made our vacation memorable. The cottage and property were outstanding, the location is hard to beat and Carmel is now one of our favorite places to visit. We cannot more strongly recommend the Lavender Cottage to anyone looking for the "white glove" treatment - thanks for everything Barry.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

About the host

Hosted by Barry, Owner at Carmel Retreats

Host profile image
Hi, I’m Barry — a lifelong lover of old homes and the quiet stories they carry. I’ve spent years restoring places with soul — homes built with care, meant to be lived in slowly. There’s something deeply fulfilling about uncovering a house’s hidden character, honoring its past, and giving it new purpose.

I grew up in Chicago, surrounded by timeless architecture and true craftsmanship. In my twenties, I wandered through North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, falling in love with the art of hospitality — the shared table, the unspoken warmth of being welcomed as family. Those experiences taught me that real connection lives at the intersection of people, place, and space — a feeling I try to evoke in every home I create.

Hosting happened naturally. Friends began staying in my renovated cottages, and I realized how much joy came from crafting spaces where people instantly feel at ease — spaces that are simple, serene, and genuine.

For me, hosting isn’t business; it’s an extension of care. I want guests to rest well, breathe deeply, and leave a little lighter than when they arrived. I believe the smallest details — soft light, a quiet reading nook, the scent of ocean air through an open window — can shift how we feel.

When I’m not hosting, you’ll find me exploring the California coast, sketching ideas for another design project, or traveling to gather new inspiration. Wherever I go, I’m drawn to that same timeless grace — the kind of hospitality that makes you feel instantly at home.

The best part of all this is hearing from guests who say they found peace here, or that they didn’t want to leave. That’s when I know the spirit of the place has done its work.

Welcome to Carmel — I hope your time here feels as restorative as it was to create.



— Barry

Why they chose this property

Carmel-by-the-Sea has always felt like a place apart — a small coastal village that moves at its own rhythm. I first came here for the beauty of the ocean and the trees, but I stayed for the feeling it gives me every time I return: a sense of calm, creativity, and belonging.

The air here carries the scent of salt, pine, and cypress. Mornings arrive with soft fog, and by afternoon, light filters through the branches, scattering across stone walls and garden paths. It’s beautiful without trying to be — quiet, natural, and timeless.

What I love about this neighborhood is its simplicity. There are no streetlights or sidewalks, just narrow lanes, ivy-covered fences, and homes that reflect the people who’ve cared for them. Each cottage feels individual, shaped by hand and history.

My home sits in a peaceful spot close to town and the beach. You can walk for coffee, stop at the bakery, browse a few galleries, and be back in time to hear the waves through the trees. The pace is unhurried, and that’s part of what makes it special.

The people here are another reason I love this place. Artists, travelers, and longtime locals all seem drawn by the same quiet spirit. It’s easy to start a friendly conversation on a morning walk or while tending a garden gate.

Even after years of living here, I still feel grateful each time I turn down the hill and see the ocean ahead. Carmel has a way of slowing you down and bringing you back to yourself.

That’s why I chose this neighborhood — for its natural beauty, its human scale, and the simple peace it offers. I hope you feel it too.


— Barry

What makes this property unique

What makes this cottage special isn’t any single feature — it’s the quiet harmony of light, space, and intention. From the moment you step through the garden gate, there’s an ease to it — a sense that everything belongs exactly where it is.

When I found the cottage, it was worn but full of promise. The bones were solid, the craftsmanship honest, the spirit intact. I restored it piece by piece, keeping what was real and true, and bringing in light, warmth, and calm. Every choice — from the hardware to the linens — was made with care, not to impress, but to feel right.

The cottage sits behind native gardens and old trees that filter the sun throughout the day. Inside, the design is simple and intuitive. Morning light pours through the windows; evenings settle into a quiet glow. The materials are natural — wood, stone, linen, glass — creating a timeless calm that reflects Carmel’s landscape.

What sets this place apart is its balance: old soul, modern comfort, and a genuine sense of ease. It’s a space meant for slowing down — to read, rest, or watch the light shift through the trees. Guests often say it feels larger than it is, not because of size, but because of how open and peaceful it feels.

The cottage is close to both town and the beach, yet tucked far enough back to feel secluded. You can walk for coffee, dinner, or a sunset stroll without ever starting your car. Mornings bring the scent of ocean mist; nights carry the hush of waves in the distance.

I didn’t restore this home as an investment, but as an act of care — to preserve a small piece of Carmel’s quiet spirit. Over the years, guests have told me the same thing: that the cottage helped them slow down, rest, and reconnect.

It’s not a showpiece. It’s a refuge — a simple, soulful home that holds space for you to feel at ease.

— Barry

Languages:

English

Premier Host

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