Summary:
Welcome to Your Cozy Secret Garden Cottage — A Rustic Retreat in the Heart of Downtown Berkeley!
Tucked away in the backyard, this charming cabin offers a unique "camping in the city" experience. Relax on your private patio, sip coffee or wine surrounded by lush greenery, and enjoy the rustic charm of a true urban retreat. You'll have your own washer and dryer, plus a designated onsite parking spot for easy convenience. Please note: the cottage is cozy and rustic, and some city sounds may drift in, adding to the authentic Berkeley vibe. Walk to BART, UC Berkeley, cafes, and shops — everything is just steps away!
The Space:
*Amenities Highlight:
- Cozy cottage with a rustic charm
- Berkeley's oldest oak tree at the doorstep
- Thoughtfully furnished with functional furniture and equipment for short and long term stay
- Fully equipped kitchen with a full-size fridge, smart countertop stove to prepare delicious meals
- Fully stocked coffee bar to start your mornings off right ensuring you rise and shine.
Guest Access:
- Whole Cottage
- Unwind in the outdoor sitting area for cozy evenings under the starry night sky.
- Private and surreal garden offers a serene oasis for relaxation
The Neighborhood:
Welcome to Downtown Berkeley!
Downtown Berkeley is the vibrant heart of the city — a perfect blend of arts, culture, academia, and local flavor. Living here means you're just steps away from world-class dining, eclectic shops, historic theaters, and the legendary UC Berkeley campus.
Things to Do:
UC Berkeley Campus: Explore the stunning architecture, botanical gardens, and hiking trails like Fire Trails behind the university.
Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA): For art and film lovers.
Berkeley Repertory Theatre: Catch a Broadway-caliber show just blocks from your door.
Sunday Farmers’ Market: Stock up on fresh, local produce and artisanal treats.
Tilden Park: Just a short drive away — perfect for hiking, picnicking, or visiting the charming Little Farm.
Where to Shop for Groceries:
Berkeley Bowl: A local institution — unbeatable for fresh produce and specialty items (closest is Berkeley Bowl West, a short drive).
Trader Joe’s: On University Avenue for convenient staples.
Monterey Market: A neighborhood gem for produce lovers (locals' favorite, a bit further but worth it).
Pro Tips for Living Here:
Walk or Bike: Downtown is very walkable and bike-friendly. Parking can be tricky, so using BART (just minutes away) or biking is often faster and easier.
Explore Side Streets: Some of the best restaurants, coffee shops, and bookstores (like Moe's or Pegasus) hide just off the main streets.
Be Prepared for Events: UC Berkeley events and street fairs bring great energy, but sometimes heavier foot traffic — a good time to plan grocery runs early!
Local Secrets:
Cheeseboard Collective: Locals line up for this bakery/pizza spot — grab a slice and eat it at the grassy center strip on Shattuck.
Julia Morgan Center: For small, intimate theater experiences.
Hidden Cafés: Places like Strada or Café Leila are beloved, laid-back spots for studying, meeting friends, or simply relaxing with a great coffee.
Getting Around:
You’re in an incredibly central location — tucked into a quiet, charming pocket but just a short stroll from all the action. Here’s everything you need to know to navigate like a local:
🚶 On Foot:
UC Berkeley Campus: Just a 10-minute walk — perfect for students, visiting families, or anyone wanting to explore the beautiful grounds.
Downtown Berkeley BART Station: About a 10-minute walk (straight down Shattuck Ave). Easy access to Oakland, San Francisco, and beyond!
Grocery, Cafés, Restaurants: Tons of options within a 5–10 minute walk, including Shattuck Avenue, Telegraph Avenue, and Durant Avenue.
🚲 By Bike:
Berkeley is super bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and plenty of racks.
You can rent bikes easily through apps like Lime or Bay Wheels (which is part of Lyft’s bike-sharing program).
Great for quick trips to campus, nearby parks, or even up into the scenic Berkeley Hills!
🚇 By Public Transit (BART & AC Transit):
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit): The Downtown Berkeley BART station will connect you to San Francisco (about 25 minutes), Oakland, or other Bay Area cities.
AC Transit buses run frequently — perfect for getting to Oakland, Emeryville, or around Berkeley without needing a car.
Tip: Download the Transit app or use Google Maps for real-time bus and BART schedules.
🚗 By Car:
You have designated parking at the property, a big bonus in this area!
From Channing Way, it's a quick drive to Highway 580, 80, and 24 — giving you easy access to San Francisco, Marin, and Contra Costa County.
Local Tip: Street parking can be tricky during peak hours, so having your own spot is a major perk.
Other Things to Note:
A Little Heads-Up:
Our charming backyard cabin offers a private, peaceful retreat tucked behind a front 3-unit building, complete with its own fenced area for extra privacy. Being in the heart of lively Downtown Berkeley — just a short 10-minute stroll to UC Berkeley — you’ll be surrounded by the vibrant energy of a university town. From time to time, you might hear the happy buzz of city life or student celebrations nearby. We hope you’ll embrace it as part of the authentic Berkeley experience!
Interaction with Guests:
With 24/7 keyless entry, you can check in anytime. We’re always available via in-app message or phone call, and our dedicated cleaning and maintenance team is on call to assist whenever needed.
