Lovely, Large 1 Br Apt in Sunny Central Marin! On 2 acres of gardens & woodlands
What a special place this is! Sit on the patio, sip tea and look out over a hillside of peaceful woodlands. Wake up to the call of our resident redtail hawk, and go to sleep to the sound of our local owls. See the occasional deer walking the paths below you. Walk through blooming gardens filled with hummingbirds and butterflies to get to and from your car. Have a picnic on the front lawn. What a perfect retreat.
The Garden Apartment is on the ground floor of our family home, a Victorian dating back to 1903. The house sits on a beautifully landscaped 2-acre gated family compound with two other cottages and a central lawn which everyone is welcome to use. It's a truly unique property. And the location is just incredible. We are in Kentfield, one of a string of small towns (we call it a "string of pearls") in upscale Central Marin, an area world-known for its yearlong mild weather, hiking and nature, great restaurants and proximity to both San Francisco and wine country. This is a great launching spot to explore the SF Bay Area.
The apartment itself is lovely, comfortable, and quite large at 800 sf plus patio. It is a terrific value considering the grounds and the location. It has been recently renovated, and has a fresh new feel. The entry steps are entirely rebuilt, with great lighting and handrails. There is an in-unit washer/ dryer, a 50' HD flatscreen TV, a beautiful new dining set, and head-to-toe redesign including new light fixtures, window treatments, bed linens, throw pillows and more. It all feels very fresh and stylish. The one thing that hasn’t been redone is the original kitchen, whose retro vibe we love. It retains its’ funky handmade oak cabinets, blue tile counters and spanish tile floors. (I swear I grew up in that kitchen!) The apartment comfortably sleeps 3, with an enclosed bedroom and a twin bed/ daybed in a nook off the living room. Both of the beds are exceptionally high quality and comfortable, as are the linens and pillows; We take our sleep quality seriously here! The main bedroom features a premium latex bed and the twin bed nook a new Puffy memory foam mattress. The unit comes with a small patio, a private entrance and one parking space. It is quiet, serene, and ridiculously safe, with woodland views from every window. THINGS TO NOTE: This is a ground floor unit in a family home, so guests should expect there to be some upstairs noise: footsteps, voices, barking, etc. Most of our guests are entirely fine with the noise level, but very noise-sensitive folks might not find this unit comfortable.
PET POLICY: We love dogs and welcome them to this pet-friendly property! Here are the rules:
1 well-behaved dog 50 lb or less and older than one year allowed in the unit. $50 nonrefundable pet fee/ pet. Please abide by the following:
- Supervise your dog when outside at all times and clean up after him/her scrupulously - Only well-behaved dogs allowed. No chewing, excessive barking, etc. - Please don’t leave your dog alone for longer than 4 hours. Dogsitting easily available through Rover. - Make sure dogs are current on flea and tick treatment, with nails clipped. - IMPORTANT: Dirty dogs must be cleaned off before re-entering unit. If yur dog’s paws are muddy, wash and dry them at the provided “Dog paw washing station” near the lawn (towels are in the grey box). If your dog is overall dirty (ie they’ve been to the beach etc.) please give them a bath at Woodland Pets in Greenbrae. - Use provided couch and bed covers - PLEASE report any damage to us immediately, especially “accidents”, so that we can treat immediately before they set in - Have fun playing with Rosie our sweet resident Bernadoodle! She’s sometimes barks at new people (we’re working on it!) but is entirely friendly.
PARKING: The Garden Apartment comes with one parking spot. Nearby street parking is very limited: 45 minutes until 10pm weekdays. So please bring just one car.
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Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
No smoking, inside or out, of any substances.
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Turn off HVAC
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Long term guests agree to a phone interview shortly after booking to make sure that it's a "match". If not, they agree to cancel booking the same day.
Unit comes with one parking space. No parking additional cars on the property, even for a short time.
Person booking the unit must be the person staying in the unit.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 3773331
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 solar energy
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Greenbrae
Located in Greenbrae, this apartment is in the mountains. Muir Woods National Monument and Golden Gate Bridge are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at San Francisco Bay and Presidio of San Francisco. Book Passage and Novato Arts Center at Hamilton Field are also worth visiting. Kayaking and sailing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and mountain biking nearby.
Is Lovely, Large 1 Br Apt in Sunny Central Marin! On 2 acres of gardens & woodlands pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.
How much does it cost to stay at Lovely, Large 1 Br Apt in Sunny Central Marin! On 2 acres of gardens & woodlands?
As of 15 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Lovely, Large 1 Br Apt in Sunny Central Marin! On 2 acres of gardens & woodlands on 21 May 2026 start from AU$416, 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 Lovely, Large 1 Br Apt in Sunny Central Marin! On 2 acres of gardens & woodlands?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Lovely, Large 1 Br Apt in Sunny Central Marin! On 2 acres of gardens & woodlands?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Lovely, Large 1 Br Apt in Sunny Central Marin! On 2 acres of gardens & woodlands?
Checkout is at 12:00 PM.
Where is Lovely, Large 1 Br Apt in Sunny Central Marin! On 2 acres of gardens & woodlands located?
Situated in the mountains, this apartment building is 0.6 mi (1 km) from Kentfield Hospital and within 3 miles (5 km) of San Anselmo Town Hall and Robson-Harrington House. San Francisco Theological Seminary and San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
9.2
Wonderful
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Place was very nice and as described. Very comfortable and having a washer and dryer was a bonus! Property grounds are lovely. Location was good given I have family in the area. And easy to get around to see and do all things the bay area has to offer. Would definitely stay again if back in Marin.
This quiet property is close to San Anselmo, and is just as described and pictured. The host was very friendly. Everything was very pretty, clean, comfortable and spacious, and the TV was pleasingly large. We enjoyed walking through the beautiful landscaping to and from our door. Be aware there are 22 pathway steps down to the entry, but many are generously wide which helps a lot. We were very satisfied with our stay experience.
Vivienne R.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Nov 2025
It was a pleasure hosting you Vivienne, and I’m so glad you’ll enjoyed your stay! I’m especially glad you enjoyed the gardens, they are such a pleasure to us all. And yes about the steps down to the unit. They are newly rebuilt and well-lit but there are a lot of them, and you’ll be carrying suitcases up and down them - so please note that. Most guests are totally fine with this but those with mobility issues might find it a challenge. In any case, come back soon Vivienne!
We enjoyed our stay. The VRBO was clean and cozy and beautifully decorated. We are looking forward to coming back to this lovely place!
Cindy V.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 24 May 2024
I’m so glad you enjoyed your stay Cynthia! Thanks for pointing out the decorating :) We worked really hard on all the updates! It was so nice hosting you, come back anytime!
We loved our stay in Marin! Beautiful hikes and near Muir Woods. The place was tucked away in quiet wooded neighborhood. Just perfect. San Francisco was just a.ahoet drive over the bridge.
Peaceful paradise on top of hill surrounding by Laurel Bay Trees
Very nice properties including adjoining cottage and nearby full size home that is available. We would highly recommend this location to anyone visiting Marin, particularly in the Kentfield/Ross neighborhood. We look forward to another future visit to my old stomping grounds in Fabolous Marin
The property was wonderful and as described. The yard and surroundings are beautiful. The unit was clean, quiet and amenities just right. Very secure area with quick access to 101 and quaint nearby towns.
June A.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Robin Jeanne
21 July 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
A lovely, private apartment surrounded by tall trees- The quiet balcony looking out at the wooded area and the mountain- A tranquil oasis-
This was a great location for us to visit the surrounding area. The closeness to the Larkspur ferry terminal was an added bonus to get to downtown San Fran. Easy access to cross the GG bridge. Felt very safe and didn’t even lock the door when we went out for the day. Would definitely recommend.
The apartment was perfect for the two of us, clean, well equipped, good WiFi and lovely surroundings. Jenny and her family were very welcoming, and responded very quickly to any queries. Rosie their gorgeous dog is delightful and her cuddles were an added bonus for me! The location is ideal for exploring both the Marin headland, San Francisco and all it has to offer.
We thoroughly enjoyed our 2 week stay and would highly recommend.
The apartment was beautiful and well equipped. All the kitchen cupboards were labeled which made making breakfast easier. The location in Kentfield is perfect for where my children live. The only issue we had was at check-in with the parking space. There were workman occupying the designated guest parking. Also, there are numerous steps leading to the apartment which I overlooked when I booked. The host was quick to help on both accounts- he had the workman move and he carried our suitcases to and from the apartment. .
Sylvia S.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Nov 2025
We’re so glad you enjoyed your stay Sylvia! And found the apartment lovely and well-equipped. We’re sorry about the workmen parking in your space - that was during the renovation of our other cottage and someone got confused. That’s over now - and thanks for your patience. As for the steps, yes guests please note the 22 steps down to the unit. They are newly rebuilt and well-lit, but still you’ll need to carry your suitcases up and down them. This is fine for 99% of our guests but those with mobility issues might find this a challenge. In any case - I’m so glad Sandy could carry your bags this time Vivienne! It was a pleasure hosting you!
Ot was everything I needed. The lication is easy to get to anywhere. I felt safe and cozy. I was surprised by all the wildlife that was in the area. Roger the lizard, birds deer, the local squi r ell. And of course Rosie the dog was such a sweetheart. Thank you for making my stay even better. Home away from home.
Th
Roomy, clean, lots of amenities.
Washer-dryer a plus. Cable and TV too.
Would suggest a storage bin foot outdoor cushions; we couldn't use because they were wet from the mist.
Shades in bedroom needs fixing (mechanism to turn blades is broken).
Someone walked quite loudly upstairs (seemed like stumping almost) until about 11:00 PM a couple of nights; could try be quieter, that late especially.
Roger P.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr 2026
I’m glad you enjoyed your stay Roger! The shades in the bedroom have been replaced, so no worries there. Sorry about the late footstep noise - that would be my youngest adult daughter. There’s always one loud walker in every family! The good news for future guests is that she has now moved out of the house :)
Verified
8/10 Good
Richard S.
14 Nov 2018
Very nice, but a few little things...
Beautiful property and terrific location from which to explore Marin. Apartment is comfortable and very nicely furnished/equipped. A couple things to note: the sidewalk/stairs down to the front door are very rustic. We arrived very late (which the owners were aware of) and there were no lights leading down! The owners warn of some footsteps above as the unit is ground floor and family lives above, but the noise was a lot more than just footsteps - an insomniac teenage girl walking around at all hours - 2 -3 am! If you are a light sleeper, beware! Finally, the garbage disposal broke during our stay (certainly not predictable) and couldn't be fixed, but there was no adjustment to the bill offered. Finally, beware VRBO and HomeAway apps - very difficult to navigate and the site does not disclose cleaning fees in its pricing until you get to the very end of booking.
Richard S.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr 2026
Note: Since Richard’s stay, two of my three children have moved out of the house, including the “insomniac teenager” referenced above. Now it’s just three of us, and much quieter.
About the host
Hosted by Jennifer Israel
I am a native of Marin, and love everything about it! Hiking, beach barbecues on Muir Beach, Mountain Home Theater, burritos in the Mission, Fairfax Scoop, wine tasting in Napa... the list goes on and on.
I love Marin even more as I took a long detour from it. Our three children were born and raised in NYC, and I persuaded the family to move back here in 2013. Quite the change, brownstone Brooklyn to nature-filled Marin! We love both but are so happy to have landed here.
I am an architect, an artist, and a stay-at-home Mom. I love yoga, hiking, hanging with the family, reading on the porch, and dinner with friends. My husband Sandy is a professional musician and teacher. We are a relaxed, creative family.
My motto? I guess it would be: 'Have a Gratitude Attitude."
Why they chose this property
A huge attraction of this property is Marin County itself, one of the most magical places on earth. Marin is famous worldwide for it's astounding natural beauty and the huge amount of land protected for public enjoyment. There are few places on the planet where you can hike, mountain bike, surf, sail, horseback ride and camp on thousands of acres of untouched wilderness, all within an hour of a major city. The variety of fun to be had in the area is unmatched: all the restaurants, museums and shopping of SF, the stunning beauty and outdoorsy lifestyle of Marin, plus wine country just 40 minutes north. Can you tell I love this place?
Kentfield is in central Marin, the sunniest and mildest part of Marin. it is just north of the Mill Valley fog belt and is sunny and mild most of the year. This is one reason we chose a house here. Kentfield is one of a string of charming small towns along the Ross Valley. I grew up one town over, in Ross, and have always loved this area, with its nearby hikes, schools, bikes paths, restaurants, shops, and small-town feel.
What makes this property unique
I first became intrigued with our property when I heard of it's unique history. The property was owned by the Archdiocese of San Francisco, and the house and two cottages were built in 1890-1905. They were together known as "The St. Francis Outings Club", a summer and weekend retreat for Catholic women, both nuns and laypeople. Catholic factory-worker girls from the city were invited here to relax and reflect. In the Main House (118), the two central living spaces were used as prayer rooms and had pews as late as the 1970's. The Musician's Cottage (117) was the Mother Superior's private quarters, while the other cottage (116) was a barn or garage. A path through the woods had the 12 Stations-of-the-Cross, some of which remained until the 1970's.
Those were the roots, but several incarnations followed. In 1946 the property was bought by a retired war colonel. When his widow died in 1978 the property was sold, used as a rental, and fell into disrepair. We've heard that it became something of a wild place, with a local reputation, fitting for its' times. It was then reclaimed by the owners before us, and lovingly restored. We've continued this effort.
We love all the long and varied history of this property. The property is all at once a spiritual retreat, a colonel's home, a flop house, and now the happy home of two artists and their family. All of these layers are present in historic properties like this.
Languages:
English, Spanish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests