After nearly a year of uncertainty in the world’s current climate, the economy, job market, politics, and social life, my mind was beginning to fry. Thanks to Whimstay, I was able to book a last-minute staycation with friends, giving us all the opportunity to relax and enjoy some health and wellness away from the stress.

Why Pick Whimstay

What I like about Whimstay is that you can book exceptional properties at the last minute. If you suddenly get the urge for a spur-of-the-moment trip (like I did) or need an immediate stress reliever after a long week, it is easy to book without incurring extra costs for last-minute decisions. In fact, they actually offer last-minute deals that knock a percentage off the standard rates. So you’re actually saving money for booking so close to your actual start date.

You’re also dealing with professionals. Until recently, these properties were managed by qualified property managers and companies, not individuals or couples who suddenly decided to turn their homes into rental spaces. Although that has changed now, and independent hosts can sign up, it is still carefully curated to give you the best experience for your money.

Service & Management

The customer support was excellent. I was provided with all the necessary information for a contactless check-in and check-out 24 hours before the start of my trip. They also contacted me during the staycation to make sure everything was working smoothly to our satisfaction. Any potential issues that arise can be quickly sorted out, allowing you to return to a state of relaxation.

Property Review

Whimstay primarily focuses on North America, rather than being a global provider. As I was located in Los Angeles, I wanted something close enough that it would be easy for my friends and me to drive to from the city, but still a long enough distance away that I could feel that I was on a staycation, away from the world and enjoying the outdoors and small town living I had come to truly appreciate.

After reviewing available properties, we settled on this spectacular cabin in the mountains surrounding the small town of Idyllwild. What sold me on this location was that it was at the end of a cul-de-sac, so it was extremely quiet and private. It also featured a central dome on top of the home that opened out to an outdoor patio situated on a hill. From there, you received panoramic views of the entire valley below. During the day, you could see the whole valley, and at night, you could actually see the stars in the sky.

Property Features

For a place of this size, you can accommodate up to ten guests. This means it is a property best suited for large family gatherings, possibly a company retreat or workshop, and definitely a bachelor or bachelorette party. For a group of 4, we had so much extra space we didn’t know what to do with it.

Be aware that you will be climbing a lot of stairs on the outside to get everywhere. After a while, it can be a workout, especially after a day of eating and drinking. The first floor would be considered the recreation area, consisting of a billiards table, televisions, a foosball table, and a small kitchenette. With a few bunkbeds thrown in, this is where you can keep children and teenagers entertained inside for your trip if you choose to bring them.

The second and third floors are where the magic happens. Open window spaces in the dome design allow for a lot of natural sunlight during the day. You have a full kitchen with everything you need to prepare meals at home if you prefer not to dine out, and an outdoor BBQ. There is a main bedroom and bath on the side, while the top floor consists of the loft and bedrooms, one of which features an additional bunk bed.

Cleanliness & Maintenance

Not every place is perfect, and you may have high expectations that the price matches the experience. But this property came as close as I have ever come across while traveling. It was well-maintained both inside and out. All the rooms and shared spaces were spotless. We didn’t find any bugs or pests, even though we were in the mountains.

The only noticeable issues we found were in the evening, when some of the lights outside, which help guide you up the stairs from the parking space to the house, were out. This was a simple and easy-to-fix problem that I made sure to let them know about for the next visitors. Everything else was spectacular!

Property Highlights

What you will really enjoy are the extras. There are a pair of cold tubs placed outside on the side of the second floor. On a hot summer day, this is truly enjoyable, especially with the scenic views. Take the nearby stairs up again to the jacuzzi for an end-of-the-night dip. Behind the backyard is another patio area alongside a dry sauna. On a California evening in the fall or winter, this can be a delightful change of pace.

Value for Cost

It’s pricey compared to some of the other properties in the area for a small group. This is why a larger group is better for splitting costs and the additional discounts Whimstay provides as part of their platform. Yet the experience you are going to receive is worth it.

What to Do in Idyllwild on a Staycation

It’s not just about the Whimstay property, though. Their team ensures you are in the right area for activities and experiences, unlike Airbnb, which now partners with tour operators and local guides as an addition to the overall package. Whimstay and the property managers provide suggestions, letting you figure it out on your own. The commission that Airbnb takes is roughly the same as tour operator sites like GetYourGuide or TripAdvisor, so don’t feel like you are missing out on something special.

For Idyllwild, their focus is on the outdoors and small-town charm. For nature enthusiasts in the area, there are hiking trails, scenic overlooks, bicycle riding, and rock climbing opportunities. In town, you have a variety of boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, and handmade arts and crafts for mementos and souvenirs. It’s a quiet life here, perfect for the slow traveler type.

Conclusion

After this weekend getaway, I felt completely rejuvenated in mind and body. My friends also felt the same. This place had really allowed us to cut loose in our own way with some good laughs and good times. There were no problems in the world in this charming mountain town. We were sadly disappointed that we couldn’t stay any longer and had to return to reality. We definitely want to book similar properties like this in the future, both locally and abroad, in the U.S., and you should too through Whimstay.