Summary: Terlingua Ranch Retreat: Solitude in Natural Harmony. 90 acres near Big Bend National Park. • Amazing 360-degree Mountain Views • Solar and Wind Powered Home • Screened Porch & Covered Porch • Books, Games, Puzzles and More
The Space: IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES. PLEASE READ BEFORE BOOKING:
LIMITED AIRCONDITIONING: -Cooling is provided by an evaporative cooler OR two small window unit ACs. The air-conditioners are only intended for use during days with full sun, while the sun is high. They can be run at other times IF the gas-powered generator is also running. Guests expecting inside summertime temps in the low 70’s or wanting to run the AC constantly should consider a different property. We would be happy to recommend other lodging options. SOLAR-POWERED HOME: -No electronic devices other than those provided or chargers for phones and consumer electronics. -Absolutely no electric device with heating elements of any type. -If you rely on medically necessary electronics, we would be happy to recommend a different property.
This cozy one-bedroom vacation retreat located on 90 acres offers unparalleled 360 degree views, quiet, and comfort in a remote setting. No nearby lights to interrupt the starlit sky of the Big Bend. Sleeps two people in upstairs bedroom queen, plus a twin/daybed with a high-density foam mattress. The nearest house is a half mile away. You can go weeks without a passing car.
House is light and modern, with bamboo floors, tile, and modern ceiling fans. The retreat is oriented so that at any time of the day, one of the two porches is in the shade. One is screened and the other open.
This is a great vacation rental. An escape from everyday life with a beautiful view of Nine Point Mesa to the north, Jack Eden Mesa to the northeast and Corazones Peaks to the south. The property is true to its desert climate, with dozens of species of cacti, along with ocotillo, yucca, and many varieties of prickly pear, strawberry pitaya, and rainbow cactus in abundance. In addition, bluebonnets, the Texas state flower, and resurrection ferns are found on the 90 acres. The property provides ample opportunities for watching birds and wildlife. We see foxes and deer regularly, and at night frequently hear coyotes howling in the distance.
To explore West Texas, the house is 30 miles from the Big Bend National Park gate; 23 miles to Study Butte/Terlingua ghost town and 35 miles to the famed Lajitas Resort.
The house is located three-quarter mile along a dirt road from the main ranch paved road, and the dirt road takes you over a rise so that traffic on the paved road is not visible or audible. All vehicles can make the short trip (but as always in this part of the world, have a spare tire just in case).
The property's solar and wind energy powers the lights, fans, appliances, and the radio/CD player, while propane gas powers the stove, wall heaters and hot water heater. The modern and eco-friendly separator toilet uses zero water. It separates liquid waste from solid and collects the solid wasted for composting.
To back-up the solar and wind power, there is a very quiet gas-powered generator. This will recharge the batteries if needed and will power the window air conditioners in the hottest months.
Thank you for understanding that there is a burn moratorium in Terlingua Ranch, and no campfires are allowed due to dry climate fire danger and fragility of desert vegetation.
One note of caution: the stairs to the upstairs bedroom are steeper than normal and may not be the suitable for those who have difficulty managing stairs
Interaction with Guests: We manage several properties and live a few miles away. We are available by phone, text, email, or messages through Airbnb. We are typically only on site for cleaning or maintenance issues.
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• Children allowed
• Up to 2 dogs are allowed with a pet fee.
• No Events or Parties Allowed
Important information
You need to know
Property # 144954vb
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
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
About the area
Terlingua
Located in Terlingua, this holiday home is in a rural area and in the mountains. Many Stones is a local attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Big Bend National Park and Persimmon Gap Visitor Center.
Is Terlingua Ranch Retreat: Enviro Friendly Home pet-friendly?
No, only service animals are welcome at the property.
How much does it cost to stay at Terlingua Ranch Retreat: Enviro Friendly Home?
As of 10 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Terlingua Ranch Retreat: Enviro Friendly Home on 6 Aug 2026 start from AU$181, 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 Terlingua Ranch Retreat: Enviro Friendly Home?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Terlingua Ranch Retreat: Enviro Friendly Home?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Terlingua Ranch Retreat: Enviro Friendly Home?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Terlingua Ranch Retreat: Enviro Friendly Home located?
Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is within 32 miles (52 km) of Many Stones, Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Library. Persimmon Gap Visitor Center and Starlight Theatre are also within 32 miles (52 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
My partner and I really enjoyed this little house surrounded by the open, beautiful land of west Texas. We loved how quiet and private this was. The actual house itself was really nice and had everything you needed for a nice short stay. It was also not too far from the main area of Terlingua and Big Bend National Park. We will definitely be coming back!
The ranch retreat was wonderful. It was isolated yet close enough to everything we needed. It was exactly as described in the profile. We had a great time and enjoyed the quiet and peaceful desert.
This is the perfect spot if you want to enjoy the area and still have your own space. The house and property were great! The owners have a great thing and I'm glad to have experienced it. Great place to stay to reconnect while you disconnect. Looking forward to returning!
We had a wonderful stay at this quiet, remote getaway retreat. So very peaceful and beautiful Southwest scenery. We saw coyotes, deer, kangaroo rats, scaled quail, rock wrens, cactus wrens, black throated sparrows, and curve-billed thrashers. The house was very clean and comfortable. We had a great 10 day stay and would definitely come back to this place if we are ever in this area again. Thank you to our hosts for sharing such a great place and being quick to respond to questions/needs we had.
Steve S.
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2025
Archival
10/10 Excellent
William B.
14 May 2015
awesome
We had a great time at the Terlingua retreat. Very relaxing, did a couple of tours. The best was a jeep tour at Far flung adventures. The guide was Chris/ Gypsy and he was awesome. Good location and great PORCHES!
William B.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
Hey, thanks for a super review! Those porches get more compliments than we ever imagined, but I agree, they are great to relax on.
Thanks too for the tip on a great Guide at Far Flung Tours, that's helpful for other guests.
I am so glad you had a great time. Come back and see us!
Dee
back to the basics quiet and seclusion ... it was a great place to be away from it all .... we played cards every night instead of watching tv! ... the mattress was uncomfortable and a long driveway to take at 5-10 mph, but overall we enjoyed staying here!!
Overall, I felt like the listing was fairly accurately represented. It was cozy in a remote sort of way. The beds were comfortable and the water was warm. The purified drinking water they provided tasted great and they had a decent assortment or pots/pans. There was salt/pepper, but no other spices/seasonings. Their fridge/freezer was full-sized. The freezer doesn't get super cold, and there's a few ice trays. So, I'd highly recommend bringing a cooler with a bag of ice. We didn't need to use the heaters or AC units, so I can't comment on those. But the lights, fans, wifi, and other devices worked. I will say that it's a little worn down. Screens have holes. Toilet might need a little work, utensils and kitchen supplies are old, screen door wobbles, wind whistles through all the windows day and night. And there were definitely daily spider/critter sightings. So, if none of that bothers you, this could absolutely be a charming space for you!The rocky road to get to the place is definitely passable, but we were glad to have an SUV. Some of the access instructions should be reviewed and updated. There is now a road sign for the dirt road. The only other thing I'll mention is how far it is from Big Bend. The park is remote in general, but we drove a solid 1.5 hours daily just to get to any trailhead. But they're about 30mins from a town/gas station. Overall positive review.
Jessa S.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2026
Archival
8/10 Good
Roxann H.
28 Feb 2014
Our little piece of heaven.
Will return for another stay. Everything was what we thought. Quiet and beautiful. Only negative the bed upstairs could use a new mattress.
Roxann H.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
Thank you for the helpful review, and the heads-up for the mattress. We will be checking into that as soon as we can.
Happy travels!
Dee and Wayne.
We loved our stay here. While it is very remote and may not be for everyone, we had a great stay! We loved the two decks, one on each side to take advantage of the beautiful sunrises and sunsets! The house had everything we needed. The small kitchen met our needs. We prepared all our meals without a problem. The bedroom was roomy and comfortable. Thanks for a great stay!
David Z.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Lisa M.
10 Jan 2013
We loved this place!!
We spent our Christmas at the Ranch Retreat and it far exceeded our expectations. The house is adorable, clean, and very well appointed. The view is stunning and the quiet is nothing like I have ever experienced. Darrell and Janet who manage the retreat are wonderful hosts and very accommodating. They really could not be nicer. We highly recommend this house for anyone needing to get away from it all. We will be back.
Lisa M.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
Thank you very much for the review, and we are glad you enjoyed your visit. We are very fortunate to have Janet and Daryl available to make sure the house is presentable and user friendly, and really wouldn't be able to offer the house without their assistance.
Thanks again, Dee and Wayne.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Deborah M.
20 July 2011
The beautiful sunsets were the "cake" and the stars at night were the "icing"!!
This is the place for anyone who truly wants to get "away from it all"! We had a fantastic time at The Terlingua Ranch and enjoyed every minute of our stay! I always look for places that meet our 3 "C" requirements: Clean, Comfortable and Cost. The Terlingua Ranch Retreat surpassed all of them! Words just can't do justice to the scenic views, piece and quiet that surounds the retreat. A big THANK YOU to the owners for sharing a little part of their heaven with us and the caretakers for ensuring that everything was perfect!!
Deborah M.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
Thank you for your very kind words. We think the views from the house are great. The only thing we know to do that will make the scenery more enjoyable is to keep the house as easy and comfortable as possible while minimizing any impact on the surroundings. That seems to suit most folks, and we are glad you enjoyed your stay.
Thanks again,
Dee and Wayne.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Virginia and Carey S.
4 Apr 2014
Unique, private, superior views, loved it!
This vacation house was perfect for us. We love the adorable house windows all around with million dollar views. The photos do not do it justice, its up high and no neighbors in view only Mountains and valleys with blooming cactus (Ocotillo). We drove into Big Bend NP everyday, enjoyed all the hikes took 800+ photos. I think my best photo was the sunset at the Telingua Ranch Retreat from the back porch, just beautiful! If you like remote, off grid, get away from it all this is for you. Absolutely loved it.
Virginia and Carey S.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
Thanks very much for the glowing review! Access to the Park from the house is one of the many things we enjoy about it. Big Bend is a tremendous park and well worth exploring. We like being able to support that exploration when we can; using the Retreat as a "base camp" can be very helpful. Thanks again, and Happy Travels!
Dee and Wayne.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
PAULA F.
8 Apr 2014
Terlingua Retreat
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Terlingua Ranch Retreat. We watched deer right outside the house everyday and even saw a 10 point buck. They seemed to love eating the red ocotillo cactus like plant. The landscape is so beautiful around the house and we watched the stars at night through the skylight window above the bed. It takes a little getting used to the green amenities but we felt like we were saving the planet and it was really a lovely adventure. Would love to come back.
PAULA F.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
Thank you very much for your kind review. It's always nice to hear about highlights of guest visits. Of course, I'm jealous of your getting to see the deer - we have only seen them once ever! We're very pleased you enjoyed your stay, and as always I give the credit to Janet and Daryl for keeping the house respectable.
Happy travels!
Dee and Wayne.
Beautiful and awe inspiring views. Saw Sunrise from one porch and sunset from another porch. Viewed deer, javelinas, jack rabbits and quail. So quiet! Cabin was clean and cozy with kitchen well stocked with essentials. Access road was very rocky for our CRV so ride in was very rough. But, that was the ONLY challenge of the stay. Thank you to the managers for making our trip so enjoyable and easy to book. Thank you to owners for sharing your home!
Gary H.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
Thank you for your wonderful and informative review. As managers, Janet and I take great pride in providing the best guest experience possible. I'm particularly proud of the Retreat because I built it. Selling it to some wonderful owners is what got us started in the Vacation Rental business. The owner is a wonderful woman that is overjoyed to be able to share her little piece of heaven with travelors like you.
No neighbors at this quiet desert cabin.
Did not need to test cooling system except for few hours one day due to timely northers and nearby thunderstorms each PM. Plenty of space for walks around desert in cool mornings. Quail and other birds were plentiful, as were cactus blooms. Shower and toilet sure beat camping, but took some getting used to. Our 2 mutts got to run aound and quickly learned to avoid cactus.
The total peace and QUIET, watching the sun dance across the desert and the mountains and mesas with ever undulating colors...just wow. That's just the daytime.How it comes alive at night with the coyotes and four legged creatures moving across the shale and making it clatter is nothing compared to being able to reach out and grab whichever star you like because they're all within reach. Retreat indeed. Wish I could've not left at all. Terrific remote spot with excellent hosts. The house had everything I needed and did not disappoint in my hopes and anticipation.
Cath
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
Verified
6/10 Okay
John H.
24 Mar 2023
Liked: Communication
Disliked: Check-in, listing accuracy
Trails' end.
Very few unspoiled views. Remote location.w/..plenty neighbors. The house was clean but not ment for large people. No couch. or comfortable chairs in the house. No box spring on bed. Dinning table/chairs were child sized.
John H.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2023
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jack N.
27 Feb 2015
Amazing
Even though I have used this site many times and stayed in many wonderful places this is the first vrbo review I have ever written. I felt that the Terlingua Ranch Retreat was so amazing that I had to share it with others. My wife and I have stayed in at least 4 other vrbo properties and we agreed that this was the most gorgeous and relaxing place we have ever been. We are not morning people at all but we actually set our alarms so we could wake up and watch the sun rise over the mountains. The hardest part was leaving.
Jack N.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
Hello Jack,
You cannot imagine how delighted I was to read your review of our Retreat. I have often cried when leaving there as to me the little place is full of magic. We have always endeavored to arrange things so that everyone who has eyes to see can share this experience. I am delighted that you all, too, were able to enjoy this little piece of paradise. And thank you especially for taking time to write about how you enjoyed it. That will help others to find their way to us.
Best Wishes,
Dee
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Carolyn B.
9 May 2015
Paradise in the Desert
Wow. We could not have been happier with the Terlingua Ranch Retreat. What a perfect house, off the grid and so peaceful. When we were there, 90% of our time was spent on the porches, soaking up the incredible views. Enjoyed hearing the coyotes in the early AM, listened to the bees buzzing around the blooming ocotillo, and watched birds of all kinds. Only disappointment was that there was a nearly full moon so didn't get to enjoy the star party we were hoping for.....oh well, next time.
Carolyn B.
Response from VrboOwner on 22 May 2020
What an awesome review!! Thank you, guys, how you have described the Retreat, I think, is to describe its magic! we have found very often that just relaxing on the porches and watching the birds and flowers opening and hearing the sounds of silence, has done us so much good that sometimes we have not done a lot except enjoy the Retreat and its surroundings.
Sorry about the star party (they are wonderful) but as you say, there is next time and we look forward to welcoming you again.
Dee
This place is exactly as advertised. It is a rustic, off grid, home away from home in the desert backyard of a big Bend National park. The views are nothing short of divine. Both porches offer spectacular views and sunrise/sunset are to be savored each day. The outdoor shower is a must, especially on hot days when done exploring the park. We highly recommend use of the propane grill for as much as you can use it for as it keeps from adding additional heat inside. The house is at least 30 minutes from the entrance to Big Bend, but it means you are off on your own in the morning and evenings. The sense of solitude is nothing short of energizing. We will happily stay here again on our next Big Bend adventure.
Michael R.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your stay and plan to return. We look forward to having you as our guests again.
We highly recommend staying at this property! We fell in love with the serenity the retreat offers and would gladly return. The drive to Big Bend is around 40 minutes making this location a good spot for travelers to the park.
The retreat is fully equipped and we recommend a stop to Alpine for supplies before arriving. Much of what is offered by the owners prior to arrival helps in the planning process.
The retreat is off-grid so be prepared to consider conserving resources. The stairs are steep for those who might want to sleep in the main level as a twin bed is provided. The evenings are cool and opening windows gives you a refreshing cross
breeze.
The absolute best selling point are the views! Cannot be stated strongly enough, absolutely stunning and beautiful! The position of the 2 porches is perfect for viewing and photos.
We also suggest arriving before dark on the first night to aide in location.
Thank you to our host for sharing a beautiful memory!
Pete and Kim
Kim S.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Betsy B.
22 Feb 2012
Great Trip!
Just back and would love to turn around and go right back to Big Bend and this retreat. Property was a great place to come back to after our days of hiking. Loved the amazing quiet and views and all was comfortable and as listed. We had one small issue our first morning there - up early so it was still dark and there was no wind either so we did not have enough electricity to make a pot of coffee. If no coffee one morning would ruin your day consider taking a french press along just in case. Other mornings we had enough power. Of note: there is an old stovetop percolator at the retreat. Information about the retreat that came after booking was thorough and excellent. Would definitely stay again and recommend. Go, see this amazing place! FYI - came from the midwest in winter so thought I was well versed with dry skin but SW TX put Michigan dryness to shame. Take good moisturizer with you, your skin will thank you.
Betsy B.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
Thanks very much for the review. Janet and Daryl are always working hard to make visits to the retreat special, relaxing, and fun. It's a tall order, but they manage to make it seem effortless. Thank you also for reporting the problem with the power. Daryl has already started looking into the situation and we are confident that the coffee will be brewing in time for your next visit. Thanks again, and happy travels! Dee & Wayne.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Somer G.
9 Oct 2013
A must visit!
We just got back from a weekend at the Terlingua ranch retreat. Huge mistake to have thought a weekend was enough time... I woke up the last day wondering if we could call and extend. My boyfriend and I vacation in this area annually and won't be stayying anywhere else again. I absolutely loved the solitude and you will not find a better sunset or sunrise anywhere else. I loved that there are no clocks, no tv's and no cell service... wonderful! (a phone in the house for emergencies..don't worry. :)) We kept the windows open and enjoyed the breeze through the house and cooked meals in the well-stocked kitchen. I had never stayed in an "off the grid" house, but really enjoyed it. We had big plans to head into the park and hike on Saturday but opted to spend all of our time at the house playing cards, drinking wine and enjoying one of the two great porches at the house. I just can't say enough about it. I don't think we will make it a year before returning and I have already recommended it to multiple friends. The pictures really don't do it justice. It's a place you can really disconnect with life and connect with whomever you have chosen to travel with which is what we were looking for. Loved it and so will you!
Somer G.
Response from VrboOwner on 9 May 2020
Thank you for the great review. We are always happy to hear that guests had a great visit. We also have seen plans for a park visit crumble when facing the prospect of having to leave the Retreat.
Happy travels!
Dee and Wayne.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Charles A.
20 Apr 2015
A very special retreat!
We recently had 3 nights at the Terlingua Ranch Retreat and were so happy we chose this spot. The hosts have gone to great lengths to build a cabin respectful of environment and guests. The cabin was very clean and well organized. All the pre-read directions to reach the cabin and for the use of equipment were so helpful. The site for this cabin is great; those 360 degree views of the Big Bend area can't be beat!
We made use of the grill every night, thus saving time in the kitchen and energy. We did bring our own bottled water, but didn't need to as plenty was available at the cabin. The outdoor shower was great and felt very private, with no neighbors closeby. Not having TV/DVD was fine by us. We enjoyed the chance to stargaze, read, listen to CDs or play a few games. Not to mention, that was did sleep well after days spent hiking Big Bend!
Our only (slightly) negative comment would be to advise future guests to be aware that the stairs to the sleeping qtrs (for the larger bed; single bed in on main floor) is a bit awkard. The stairs are narrow and the landing at top is only about 2 feet deep. If one needs to go downstairs during the night, one should be very careful and go slowly with a flashlight. No prob for us, but can see potential danger if care isn't excercised.
What a great experience this has been for us at TRR. We sure hope to come again!
Charles A.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
Thank you for your very sincere and splendid review of The Retreat! we are so glad that you had such a good time and appreciated our attempts to be environmentally "friendly".
The stairs to the upstairs bedroom are steep, I agree: in fact at age 82 I find it best to descend backwards like sailors do on steep stairs aboard ship.
We do have a warning about this on the website but it does call for caution,
even in youngsters!
We will be delighted to welcome you again to TRR. Take care and thank you so much for writing.
Dee
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Peter N.
6 Mar 2017
impressive off-the-grid location
For those who want to experience a fairly remote desert location with views in every direction, about a half-hour north of Big Bend National Park, and who don't mind the minor differences in daily routine associated with being "off the grid," this is an excellent, comfortable cabin or small house.
The location has quiet, solitude and excellent desert views in every direction. At night, there are a few lights from RVs and cabins sprinkled throughout the desert, but much of the settlement in the valley is hidden by the hills and location on a ridge, and the "neighbors" that do exist are so far away that the location is completely quiet. Sunrises and sunsets are excellent - quiet, but for a few birds perched on the ocotillos, and a vast landscape in which to watch the play of light and shadow. The cabin is well-designed with many windows in all 4 directions, and 2 patios, one facing roughly east and the other west.
The property managers are very helpful and do a very nice job running the place. Janet answered emails very promptly, and we had the pleasure of meeting Daryl when he came to refill the water tank. They provided a detailed PDF with all the instructions for how to operate the cabin, which uses solar, wind & generator power. They've provided pretty much every amenity you might want - it really doesn't feel like a motel or rustic cabin; it feels much more like a comfortable small house. And in spite of being off the grid with respect to electricity, water & sewer, it is "on the grid" with respect to telephone & wi-fi.
From what we saw in the area while staying a week in this cabin, it's hard to imagine many other spots in the area being better. We wouldn't hesitate to stay here again.
Peter N.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
Hello Peter,
We are very grateful for your careful, thorough, and outstanding review of The Retreat.
When we bought the Retreat, we determined to work towards creating exactly the comfortable and homelike cabin in a totally quiet environment, just as you describe it today. It is a place that lives up to its name, a Retreat from the busy world which we all know, only too well. But in your description you hit the nail on the head!
We are so happy that you experienced exactly what we hoped our guests would experience.
And thank you , too, for adding a shout out to Daryl and Janet. Without them it would not at all be the same! We hope that you will come back to stay at the Retreat, many times!
With very best wishes,
Dee
About the host
Hosted by Janet Eby
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests