Exterior

Reviews of Away from city lights, nestled in the Foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains


Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 84 out of 85 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 85 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 85 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 85 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 85 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Gina P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Incredible
First of all, Ken and Julie were absolutely the best hosts. Whatever question we had, they answered. The breakfast they set out each morning was delicious- Julie makes the best blueberry muffins. We had the entire area (sunroom, jacuzzi, barbeque area, outdoor fireplace area, and outside sitting area by the koi pond to ourselves. Everything was super clean. Our bed was comfortable. It is very clear that the hosts love this place and take great care of it. We cannot wait to go back.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brandon D.

Liked: Cleanliness
A lovely weekend getaway
My fiancé and I had an incredible stay at the Bear Den. We enjoyed the property including the hot tub. The hosts were extremely thoughtful by having a fire set up for us to use, a celebration banner and even a box of chocolates for my fiancé who we were celebrating. We would definitely recommend a stay here. Can’t wait to come again!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marie C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful place to get away!
My husband and I stayed here for a weekend retreat to celebrate our anniversary. Our stay was absolutely wonderful! The hosts are so nice and accomodating. The sunroom was stunning and the room was cozy. Highly recommend for a getaway in the woods. We will definitely be staying again!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Renee J.

Liked: Cleanliness
A cozy hideaway
My friend and I had a lovely stay here for a small birthday celebration. They added some personal touches with a happy birthday sign and made breakfast in the morning. The owners were so nice and helpful with every request we had. This location is close to amazing food and shopping in Nevada City, as well as hiking and other adventures. Will definitely be coming back in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nancy M., Springfield, Oregon USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely setting, awesome hosts!
We had an amazing time. This lovely wooded setting was so relaxing and beautiful. We had several soaks in the very nice hot tub. We enjoyed the outdoor seating area with a waterfall and Koi pond. We slept well— the bed was so comfortable! The hosts gave us complete privacy but were reachable when we needed anything. We look forward to revisiting this location in the future. Nancy & David Springfield, Oregon
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dawn

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property itself is laid out to be very tranquil. The hosts, Ken and Julie are fabulous people and made the stay even more enjoyable. My biggest decision was which part of the yard did I want to settle into. I chose a different part each time and I will be back. Amazing location and hosts.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kelly O.

Liked: Cleanliness
Island in a storm
I was so lucky to find this wonderful destination! Ken and Julie accommodated me on short notice and welcomed me in to their home and made me feel like an old friend. They are truly a special couple and their property reflects their love for hosting! I highly recommend the Bear Den!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Gloria + John W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Weekend Stay
Exceptional, friendly hosts! It was a pleasure to stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Wendy Y.

Liked: Cleanliness
Best of the best
Loved the comfort of a bnb with the privacy of a vacation rental. Personable hosts, satisfying breakfast and all the amenities needed to make it the perfect getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Juan S., Capitola

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing place
Amazing in every way you can imagine, super friendly hosts. Will stay here again!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Karen G.

Liked: Cleanliness
A relaxing getaway
What a treat! This BnB was such a nice relaxing venue. The hosts, Ken and Julie are hospitable and welcoming. We used the jacuzzi multiple times and also enjoyed the BBQ and outdoor dining space. We will definitely be back ilater this year.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

agueda

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Julia and Ken are wonderful hosts. The room is cozy and super clean. They thought about every little detail you can imagine. My husband and I enjoyed breakfast with a variety of choices and excellent quality. We also had the opportunity to grill and enjoy our dinner in the patio. They have a fireplace and Ken gifted us a S'mores kit to enjoy with our fireplace. The hot tub was fabulous, and relaxing. We highly recommend the "Bear Den"
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

MICHAEL P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very nice stay
I suggest staying more then one night.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

William B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Bear Medicine
As a solo guest of the "Bear Den" I felt beautifully welcome and looked after. Julie and Ken, the hosts, have thought of everything. If you would like to chat with them, conversation is marvelously thoughtful and polite. At the same time, they are also highly conscious and careful of not intruding on your time or space. The grounds are wonderfully well-kept and tranquil. You have all the peace and privacy you need to feel at home and unwind. Bear medicine indeed!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

sara a.

Liked: Cleanliness
PERFECT
We relaxed under a small canopy of trees in a crystal clear hot tub surrounded by the beautiful wooded property. Utilized the outdoor
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Apr 2022
It was a pleasure hosting Sara and David. They followed all the house rules and left the Bear Den immaculately clean. They even emptied the waste baskets. We hope to get the opportunity to host them again.

10/10 Excellent

joe

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A perfect setting and felt like home away from home.. such a perfect getaway and our hosts were amazing
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Chantal S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful BnB
Julie and Ken are incredibly welcoming and the BnB property was exactly what the pictures show if not even better. I would definitely come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Malcolm R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Scenic and Relaxing
The house is just a few minutes away from the city, and all the exploring you would want to do there, but it's also far enough away that no cars or foot traffic are ever going to bother you. I feel like whether you're looking for a home-base to explore the area, or a completely quiet stay-in experience, this is a great spot The only other thing I'd like to add is that I normally try to rent full homes whenever possible, but Julie and Ken were very respectful of our privacy. The next time I have the chance to getaway for a bit, this place is going to be near the top of my list.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nancy W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful and Private Setting
Julie and Ken are the perfect hosts, and their Bear Den was the perfect peaceful and private setting for a last minute, one night getaway for two, complete with a scrumptious more-than-continental breakfast. We plan to return in the spring when we can stay longer to enjoy the amenities and for Hubby to do his astrophotography thing. I can't wait!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lyss E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Loved it!
Thanks so much to Julie and Ken for letting us stay in your beautiful BnB, I enjoyed it so much and you guys are so kind and respectful. I would recommend this place to anyone 5 stars for sure :)
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Paige H.

Liked: Cleanliness
An Oasis
Just an excellent escape in the woods. Private access to the hot tub, amazing property with really thoughtful amenities and features. Julie and Ken couldn’t have been more wonderful. Would absolutely return! Loved every moment.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Deo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Winter Wonderland BnB!
Ken and Julie have an amazing property which is beautiful to stay at. They were really great and cordial hosts and we can't wait to come back and stay at their BnB again.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kat S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very pleasant property and owners are very hospitable.
We’d like to stay again in the future. Super nice people and the breakfast was awesome too!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Dec 2021
It was a pleasure having both you and Ted as our guests! We sure learned it's a small world sometimes. We hope we get the chance to host you again. Julie And Ken

10/10 Excellent

Lindsay I.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place and very clean. Not far from towns and event.
Peaceful and very well taken care of
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Nov 2021
Hi Lindsay, We truly appreciate your business. You were so easy to take care of. We hope we have the opportunity to host you again in the future.

10/10 Excellent

Mary H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great getaway!
Perfect place for a private getaway!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Nov 2021
It was a pleasure hosting Mary. Mary and her husband were warm and friendly. I hope we get the opportunity to host them again in the future.

10/10 Excellent

Dennis A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent Stay
We had a great stay at the Bear Den Vrbo. Ken and Julie were amazing hosts. Our room was comfy and clean. We had private access to a sun room, hot spa, Koi pond, and walking trails. Who could ask for anything more. Julie served a delicious breakfast each day. This was a 10 in our book and we would love to come again.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic
We had the most relaxing 2 day stay. Listening to the waterfall, watching the Koi. to sitting out back in front of an amazing fireplace with a glass of wine. The hosts are very welcoming and made us feel very compfy. The charcuterie board and wine selection was spectacular. Thank u again Julie and Ken.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

gordon s., ANNAPOLIS, MD

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique and interesting
This is by far the nicest B and B that we have ever visited. Our host and hostess were the greatest. The setting in the woods is magnificent. More amenities than expected! We would highly recommend this location to any and all.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

gordon

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

danya

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
It was wonderful, our hostess were the nicest people we have ever met! We hope to visit again. You couldn’t have had a better experience. Great breakfast beautiful private yard to ourselves. Ken and Julie we nice, helpful, and fun. We think we have some new friends.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Monica R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Luxurious Spot for Hibernation
Julie and Ken were such wonderful hosts! They were so accommodating, that when I requested a date change for checking in, they refunded me for the lost day, no questions asked! We truly enjoyed our stay at the Bear Den! Our stay included a bear themed suite with a private bathroom, private entrance and private access to the sunroom and hot tub! The backyard forest is stunning! They have a beautiful waterfall koi pond leading up from the main house to their very own hangar! We didn’t get to see any planes land during our stay but we for sure will be back to visit again! Each morning, we were happily greeted by both Julie and Ken with a delicious and filling breakfast! Some BnBs ask that you strip your bed. Not the bear den! Your stay at the Bear Den will be a true vacation!

10/10 Excellent

Sharon W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful VRBO!
Ken and Julie are lovely welcoming hosts, and the quite beautiful setting made it the perfect place to have as our home base during our stay in Grass Valley. In addition to a very sweet “bear den” room they provide access to their back sunroom, BBQ area and hot tub. Loved our time here and 5-star recommendation for a VRBO
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Rachel N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Peaceful Getaway
The Bear Den was the perfect place for a quiet pre-holiday getaway. Julie and Ken were delightful hosts and offered sweet little touches like a s'mores kit when we got a fire started and chocolate pretzels in the room. The bear den itself (the bedroom) is small, but that doesn't matter, because guests have access to the sunroom, the outdoor area including fireplace and grill, and the beautiful grounds. I highly recommend this place.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Brice B., Reno NV

Liked: Cleanliness
Nevada City-Grass Valley weekend
My girlfriend and I stayed at the Ken and Julie's Bear Den recently and we had a great time in a fantastic location. The room we rented was clean and cozy with access to a great hot tub, sun room, patio and beautifully landscaped backyard amongst towering pine trees. Ken and Julie did a fantastic job of checking us in and getting us familiar with our room, hot tub and other ammenities. They even prepared a great breakfast for us every morning which was included in the cost. Overall, we had a great stay in a beautiful, private setting. Highly recommended. Brice
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Mar 2020
Brice, It was a pleasure hosting you and Kim. You were the perfect guests. We're so glad you took advantage of the hot tub multiple times. You left the room spotless, which we really appreciate. We hope you come back and visit us again soon. Thank you for your business! Julie and Ken

10/10 Excellent

Mac, Conejo Valley

Business traveller, Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Located in a wooded area... clean and fresh yet not to distant from life.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Sarah S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Little BnB
Ken and Julie were the MOST wonderful hosts! This quaint little BnB has everything you could need and more. It’s so perfectly centrally located, that even though you are not far from downtown Grass Valley or Nevada City, you get a sense that you are tucked far away from anyone else. I would love to come back and just enjoy my time there again soon!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Erin B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cozy and luxurious
Way more than I expected. Beautiful home and surrounding areas. Big comfy furniture too.

6/10 Okay

Verified traveller

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome place to getaway
We Loved everything about this stay! Ken and Julie go above and beyond.

10/10 Excellent

Joseph M., Windsor, CA

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing in the woods and new friends.
A beautiful home in a wooded area, private accomodations (Bear Den), wonderful Host and Hostess, and we were treated as honored guests. We couldn't have been more pleased with our stay. Our thanks to Julie and Ken for their hospitality. Joe & Gretchan McBurney

10/10 Excellent

Gloria + John W.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Bear Den. 2019
Ken and Julie were very gracious hosts. Very warm, friendly and eager to please. The room was a bit small but the extended space we were allowed to use was quiet, lovely and expansive. We enjoyed our stay and will not hesitate to stay there again. Gloria and John Whitney
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

DenB., Berkeley, CA

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Bear Den was cozy, well appointed and very accommodating. The owners couldn't have been nicer. They provided everything that was needed and genuinely enjoyed having us stay there. The hosts made it perfect! I highly recommend them.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It happened to be my birthday. They had a sign, birthday crown, and card so sweet! After a wonderful hot tub we had a delicious breakfast. Thanks to the wonderful couple who made our stay lovely!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The ambiance was relaxing, the entire place was beautifully appointed, and Julie and Ken were extremely gracious and hospitable. We couldn't have asked for more of an incredibly "chill" environment to be in. Only regret is that we didn't knock on the door and say goodbye (worried about imposing) and that we didn't stay longer.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Patrice A.

Beautiful Property!
We had a wonderful stay at Ken and Julie's this past weekend. The property has so much to offer whether you want to sit in the hot tub (which was lovely), relax by an outdoor fire, shoot some pool, have a barbie, sit by a beautiful koi pond, read, play games and just plain relax. The bed was super comfortable and we really enjoyed breakfast in the gorgeous sunroom. It is perfect for a couple getaway. Thank you again Ken and Julie....we shall be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca C.

Small Place with Great Hosts
Julie and Ken have their act together. They have a thorough orientation and pride themselves on taking care of their guests. The bedroom is comfortable and the bathroom is small; however, the use of the sunroom really enhances the hospitality of this place. The use of the hot tub is another plus, but we were not able to find time to use it. This place is near a small airfield. You will hear small planes revving up to take-off in the morning. I think that was kind of cool and would have liked to take the time to watch them take off. Breakfast was served promptly at the time that you pick. Loved the accent of the chocolate-dipped strawberries. :)
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Lorraine H.

Bear Den was perfect
the weekend at the Bear Den exceeded our expectations. It was relaxing, private and perfect
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Daniel W.

Great service
Had a great stay
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2019