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Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views

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January 2025

Photo gallery for Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views

Property grounds
1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Smart TV, books, stereo
Interior
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroomSleeps 2684 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Hot Tub
    Hot Tub
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Outdoor Space
    Outdoor Space
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Free WiFi
    Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
Catheys Valley, CA
  • Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch
    22 min drive
  • Mariposa Museum and History Center
    25 min drive
  • Mariposa County Visitor Center
    25 min drive
  • Mariposa, CA (RMY-Mariposa-Yosemite)
    26 min drive

Room options

About the neighborhood

Catheys Valley

With a stay at this cottage in Catheys Valley, you'll be 11.2 mi (18.1 km) from California State Mining and Mineral Museum and 14.4 mi (23.1 km) from Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch. .This cottage is 15.3 mi (24.7 km) from Windows on the World Books and Art and 15.4 mi (24.7 km) from Mariposa County's Old Stone Jail.

What's nearby

  • Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch - 22 min drive - 14.4 miles
  • Mariposa County's Old Stone Jail - 23 min drive - 15.4 miles
  • Mariposa Museum and History Center - 25 min drive - 15.9 miles
  • Mariposa County Visitor Center - 25 min drive - 16.1 miles
  • Lake McClure Bagby Recreation Area - 41 min drive - 22.6 miles

Getting around

  • Mariposa, CA (RMY-Mariposa-Yosemite) - 26 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tap Room - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Ranch House Cafe - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Heavenly Grounds - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪The Oasis - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Krispy Krunchy Chicken - ‬10 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Yosemite Gateway/HorseRanch Cottage/Outdoor SoakingTub & Shower/Scenic Views

If you want to detach from your everyday life and/or the crowds in Yosemite, a respite, a retreat to recharge at RoundHat Ranch is a natural remedy for you, replete with Outdoor Soaking Tub and Outdoor Shower for added relaxation.
A RoundHat Ranch stay is a great addition to your Yosemite vacation experience. Located in the pastoral Catheys Valley, an area of large and small ranches, 2.7 miles off State Hwy 140 (the only all-weather route to Yosemite, and parallels the route of discovery of the Yosemite Valley along the Merced River Gorge by Indians, explorers, and miners).
The 'Cottage' is nestled within the ranch, having its own private fenced area. You can move about the ranch along the many tree-lined trails, seeing the animals, and taking in the sights, sounds, and feel of the ranch.
The Cottage has been designed, both inside and out, for an intimate and serene experience for its guests
The Ranch has a full-time owner/manager living at the Ranch Headquarters and can answer any questions you might have during your stay.
RoundHat Ranch has a no pets, no children, 1-2 ADULTS ONLY (21 and over) rental policy due to liability issues concerning the horses and other animals on the Ranch. The policy does allow us to not charge a Security Deposit.

From RoundHat Ranch, it is 3.3 miles to restaurant, gas, and convenience store at the Catheys Valley crossroads at Highway 140 and Hornitos Rd., then it is 10 scenic miles to the historic mining town of Mariposa, another 12 scenic miles later, you enter the spectacular Merced River Gorge (this is the beginning of your Yosemite experience) traveling along the river (Hwy 140) straight into Yosemite Valley. The Arch, West Yosemite Park Entrance (beginning of the Valley), is 45 miles from the ranch, but be advised the scenic beauty may cause you to stop, observe, or linger along the way, so, time to Yosemite Valley varies.

RoundHat Ranch Cottage is 1 bedroom with queen-size bed, 1 bath with shower, and additional outside shower.
There is outside the cottage, within the private fenced area, shade-cloth covered arbor patios, a roof covered all weather patio with double chair swing, cement table with inlaid chess/checker board, fountain, outdoor shower with stall and dressing area, propane BBQ, Chaise lounges, patio furniture all shaded by large mature Oak trees.

Inside the Cottage the 1 bedroom is appointed with things related to the ranch and Yosemite, and a Queen size bed w/ linens, blankets, comforter, futon chair/bed and ceiling fans.
The Cottage has Satellite TV, WiFi internet access, full bath w/shower with large multi-setting shower head, soap, towels.
The kitchen has microwave, refrigerator, 2 burner electric stove top, large kitchen sink, peninsula island cabinet, coffeemaker, some seasonings, cookware, utensils, plates, bowls, cups, and dining table.
Living room has sofa, love seat, captains chair w/footstool in Mission-style furniture, and ceiling fan.
The heating and air conditioning is a Fujitsu split system that both heats or cools to the set temperature and is very quiet.
There is some reading material and games.
The utility room has a washer and dryer, extra bathroom and kitchen supplies, and an ironing board, iron, and hair dryer.


Make yourself comfortable in this air-conditioned cottage, featuring a kitchen with a refrigerator and an oven. There's a private patio. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and a Smart television is provided for your entertainment. Conveniences include a phone, as well as a microwave and a coffee/tea maker.
Enjoy recreation amenities such as a spa tub or take in the view from a garden.
Guests will find features like internet access and onsite parking.

Property manager

Stephen and/or Gayle Saunders

Languages

English

Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Spa tub

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Outdoor shower
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Fenced yard
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: NO SMOKING INDOORS Smoking is allowed outside

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Property does not allow children
  • Unit size: 684 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

This property does not allow children
Note from host: RoundHat Ranch breeds

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is required for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

Yosemite Gateway Cottage/roundhat Horse Ranch/views/ House
Yosemite Gateway Cottage/roundhat Horse Ranch/views

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 192 out of 194 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 194 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 194 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 194 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 194 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mjraid24

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful home
Our stay at this beautiful ranch was absolutely perfect! The property is stunning, with breathtaking views, charming animals, and a peaceful atmosphere that made it hard to leave. The location is ideal—close enough to Yosemite for easy day trips, yet far enough to enjoy the quiet serenity of the countryside. The owners were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. This is truly a hidden gem, and we can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

CRAIG S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfection!!
Wow - what can I say, this place is amazing. We stayed for 3 nights explored Yosemite and surrounding area, if you want a perfect location with amazing host’s I can’t recommend this place highly enough, it takes approx 1.30hrs to get into the park, but the drive is easy and scenery is amazing…The cottage is exactly as described and so far our favourite location whilst touring around the area.If we ever come back to visit the area, we will definitely be back…1st rate 👌
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lauren G.

Liked: Cleanliness
The perfect getaway
Man where to start! This place was unbelievably comforting to us. We have been on a month long roadtrip for our honeymoon and of all the places we stayed this was by far our favorite. I felt like I was at home it was so nice. Thanks so much!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Katie C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Comfort on the ranch
Wonderful place, just as described. Very comfortable and relaxing after full days in the park. The drive to and from the park is about 40 miles but the drive is beautiful and Mariposa down the road is a fun town to stop and have a beer or something to eat on the way back. Once you get back you will forget about the drive. Great amenities including the outdoor shower and covered patio. We loved it!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joni P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Yosemite Get Away
Isolated charming ranch cottage for 2. Hosts Gayle & Stephen friendly & accessible if needed. Fun to walk around & see the horses, donkeys, mule, & other animals on site. Quiet & relaxing, comfortable retreat site with outdoor patio & great view of stars at night. 25 min drive from Mariposa & 1hr to Yosemite entrance.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rob & Summer A., Saint Paul

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Stay - 2nd Visit
Such a cute/amazing place on the ranch, so much fun to stay there and close to town and Yosemite This is our second time staying here, thanks again for your hospitality, Stephen & Gayle!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ye L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Ranch
It’s been a great experience staying at the ranch. Very peaceful and quiet place and the host is very friendly and welcoming.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sarah T.

Liked: Cleanliness
The ranch was the perfect anniversary retreat spot!
My husband and I stayed at the ranch for our 7th wedding anniversary trip and had an excellent time! The hosts were lovely and told us about all of the horses and donkeys on the farm. My husband and I spent an afternoon hiking around the back of the property climbing on the boulders and petting all of the animals. Several of the horses were extremely friendly and would come right up to the fences for attention. The mini donkeys were absolute dolls and we spent a good 20 minutes just taking photos and giving them head and neck scratches. As far as the facilities go, I have no complaints there either! The bed was comfortable and there was space to spread out our luggage. There were even cotton spa robes hung in the bathroom, which was a great touch. There was cold water in the fridge when we arrived and coffee to make in the morning. The hosts provided a binder with some info on local restaurants, which we appreciated. I would recommend this place to anyone looking for a secluded retreat from the world with excellent views and tons of friendly animals. 10/10
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Richard C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Yosemite visit
The Cottage was exactly as advertised, it was appointed with everything needed for a comfortable stay and the pictures showed the property accurately. We couldn’t have asked for a better host and stay for our Yosemite visit. Enjoyed talking with Steve and Gayle.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sarah P., New York

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing gem!
First off the property itself is beautiful. It’s on a ranch with horses, chickens, donkeys etc. The hosts are great people, we got a chance to chat with Stephen before we headed out. The best part of this ranch is the drive IN TO YOSEMITE! This is the unique part about the property. It is about and hour and a half from the main entrance of Yosemite and an hour or so to the meadows entrance. The drive in is stunning! There are mountains, valleys, flowing rivers and lots of places to pull over to just take in the views. Highly recommend doing this, the drive does NOT feel like a normal 1.5 hour drive, it’s scenic and it’s just as beautiful in the morning as it is in the evening for the sunset. You drive through a nice little town called Mariposa on the way in and out. We stopped and got coffees near there in the morning and would grab dinner on the way back home. The outside shower and back deck are great additions to the ranch, you can also walk around the property and enjoy the ranch during your stay. I don’t have a bad thing to say about this place and would absolutely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christa V.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely place to stay
A great property on a horse ranch. You are the only quests, so guaranteed great evenings to enjoy the sunset and beautiful sky in totally silence. A nice, very well equipped house for 2 persons, with even a washing machine, dryer and gas BBQ. The outdoor shower and bath are a nice extra. Great place to stay when visiting Yosemite, but also for a longer stay, just to relax. Friendly owners, we had nice chats with Steve. A place to come back!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Charlene G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay. Would come back.
Immaculate in cleanliness. Great decor and attention to detail. Thoughtful hosts. Fast response from hosts. Sweet animals on the premises.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marco B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Best Ranch Ever in Cathey’s Valley
Oh my goodness , this place is absolutely amazing The cleanliness, amenities , its all you can have Its quiet and you can walk around the ranch and see tons if animals ( cows , horses , rabbits , donkeys and birds ) We love the patio where you can lay down and rest after visiting Yosemite park Communication was awesome and I would describe this paradise as a 6/5
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Trenton M.

Liked: Cleanliness
My best VRBO yet!
I can’t say enough about this property! Our lodging in Yosemite NP was cancelled a few weeks prior to our trip so we scrambled to find an alternative, luckily the RoundHat Ranch was available - a blessing in disguise! In terms of unique stays this one is up there with the best. The house was beautiful, clean, and in such a picturesque setting. We loved walking around the ranch to see the animals and take in the scenery, and it was convenient to Mariposa and Yosemite beyond. The soaking tub and outdoor showers were perfect after long days of hiking, as well as the grill for a quick meal before hitting the hay for the next busy day. I’ll definitely be recommending this stay for friends and family heading to the Yosemite area!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tyler D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Spot
Very nice, comfortable and secluded. 10/10
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

aly W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Yosemite visit
Charming piece of property
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gabby M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic Farm Getaway!
This was a lovely place with basically no neighbors and tons of animals, both domestic and wildlife. We saw everything from horses and donkeys to owls and even a bobcat! Overall if you enjoy rural living, you will LOVE this place. I really can’t say enough good things about it.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Zach R.

Liked: Cleanliness
My girlfriend loved this place
I booked the Roundhat Ranch Cottage as a surprise for my girlfriend who loves farm animals. It was beautiful. The outdoor shower and tub are perfect after a long day hiking. Super relaxing and great spot to get out of town to.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful!
We had a wonderful stay! It was the most peaceful vacation I’ve ever had. The hosts were great, the attention to detail was amazing, and the animals on the property were a huge bonus. We would love to come back!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness
Paradise!
The Round Hat Cottage is just an amazing place to stay. Look forward to returning on our next trip to Yosemite. Thank you Steve for letting us enjoy your piece of paradise. The pictures do not actually capture how beautiful the cottage and area is - so be prepared to enjoy your stay.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nelson O.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Cottage on the Ranch
Stayed here while working at U Merced for a week. This place has everything you need and so much nicer than a hotel. BBQ on my own patio, nice furniture, really comfy bed and excellent wifi and tv. Can say hello to the many animals each morning and all the rabbits running around. Hosts were very friendly and gave me my privacy. Highly recommend for anyone staying in the area. Many Thanks !
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property was beautiful and very well appointed. The owners were very friendly and helpful. A truly unique setting and experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca H., Annapolis, Maryland USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Delightful Stay!
We had a comfortable and peaceful stay at Roundhat Ranch Cottage. The house is very comfortable and the hosts were extremely accommodating. It is a bit of a drive to get to Yellowstone, but we prefer to be away from the crowds, so this place was just perfect for us.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

JOE L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Quiet back country ranch
The property was kept up nicely especially for a working ranch. The ammenities were excellent, clean and the style appropriate for the setting. Anything that was needed was provided. The property manager/owner was friendly, helpful and well informed about the area. Overall an excellent property and not too far off the beaten path, but far enough for peace and quiet.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Erin O.

Liked: Cleanliness
perfect place for our honeymoon
The property was absolutely beautiful! Great hosts too. The cottage had everything we needed to make most of our meals there. It was cozy inside, comfy bed, and being outside was just a great. We loved watching all of the critters outside and the outdoor bath and shower was awesome. Only a 20 minute drive from the wonderful town of Mariposa, and 1.5 hour drive into Yosemite. Great price, we would stay here again!
Stayed 6 nights in May 2022