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7 BR
4.5 BA
Sleeps 16

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Age 18 and under.

Black Mountain

Wonderful Family Property

Description

Welcome to Black Mountain! This amazing property is the source of joyous memories for the owners and their extended family and friends for many years. And, they're excited to share it with you! The Farmhouse and Pool House are situated on 92 beautiful acres in the Russian River Valley, with views of serene forests and hills. Though private (there is an onsite caretaker family), Black Mountain is in the ideal location for your Sonoma County getaway. The Russian River is just under a mile away, and there are numerous wineries and vineyards within a short drive.

The Farmhouse was built in 1932 and retains much of its original character. On the main floor, the modernized kitchen with extensive counter space, breakfast table, bar seating and adjacent enclosed sun room with ping-pong table allows you to gather with friends and family while cooking, eating and playing without breaking up the festivities. The kitchen is well stocked for serious food events and well lit with generous windows and built in lighting. The living room with woodstove and TV (DVD player only), a second dining area and a bedroom with queen bed and a full bathroom round out the downstairs area. A wide deck with built in bench and additional seating stretches the length of the Farm House and wraps around the kitchen to end at an outdoor shower. Upstairs you'll enjoy the updated 2 full bathrooms and décor throughout the 4 bedrooms - each one is distinctive with original artwork and pieces collected locally and around the world blended with contemporary touches. Two of the bedrooms open to a balcony overlooking the valley and hills.

The Pool House, just down the driveway from the Farmhouse, was designed and custom built in 1999 by the current owners. Your first stop at the Pool House is the great room with open trestle ceilings, fireplace, built-in window seat, generous seating areas including a lovely wood dining table, and kitchen with ample wood and concrete counter tops. International folk art and on- of-a-kind furniture make this a remarkable space to gather. There are also musical instruments - a piano, guitar and drums - and sheet music and lyrics for the musically talented. With multiple exterior entrances and large outdoor gathering spaces, the vibe is distinctly upscale camping. An extensive covered patio with built in grill and large table connects the great room to the bedrooms and bathrooms. The two spacious bedrooms and half bath (toilet and sink) are up a set of exterior stairs. Exterior doors lead from a small covered outdoor hallway into each bedroom and the half bath. The bedroom facing the hillside has a queen bed and a private patio and the bedroom facing the lawn and pool area has two queen beds. Both have grand windows to allow sunlight and great views! On the ground level, the full bathroom is definitely upscale camping! The entrance is below the front bedroom and faces the pool area, but once inside the shower and toilet have separate rooms and there are benches and hooks for all towels, shoes and clothes while you play at the pool.

Abundant outdoor seating areas, numerous fruit trees, grassy lawns, pool, hot tub and BBQs inspire outdoor living at Black Mountain! The main area of outdoor activity is around the pool and Pool House. There are multiple BBQ options, including a gas grill and a built-in charcoal grill. The covered BBQ patio extends to the pool, which has a safety cover, and along the front side of the Pool House. At the far end of the patio is a 6-person spa.The lawn and stage area to the side of the wisteria covered lounge area are another great place for guests to hang out. Between the apple, pear and plum trees facing the pool is a kid's play structure with swings and a slide. There is truly something for everyone!

Know Before You Book

Maximum Occupancy and Quiet Hours: The maximum occupancy is 16. Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. Outdoor amplified sound is prohibited at any time.

Driveway and Parking: The driveway is an uphill ½ mile, gravel and single lane. On-site parking is permitted for a maximum of 7 vehicles.RVs, trailers and campers are prohibited.

Bed Sizes: Farmhouse: Main Floor Bedroom(downstairs): Queen Bed. Upstairs Bedrooms: Bedroom 1: Queen Bed, Bedroom 2: Twin Bed and Twin Bunk Bed, Bedroom 3: Queen Bed, Bedroom 4: Queen Bed. Pool House Bedrooms: Bedroom 1: Queen Bed, Bedroom 2: Two Queen Beds.

Caretaker Cottage: The caretaker, Faik, and his family live in the cottage at the top of the driveway, just before and in sight of the pool house. Faik is very respectful of guest privacy. However, he has been instructed to call our office and report any gatherings that exceed the maximum occupancy, or any other guest activity that is in blatant violation of our rules and potentially dangerous or damaging to the property.

Rural Property: Black Mountain is a rural family compound. There is a variety of plants and animals living on and around the 92 acre forested hillside. Guests should be prepared to encounter spiders, ants, wasps, mosquitos, tics, poison oak, lizards, deer, raccoons, mice and more. While the homes and grounds are spacious, well-furnished, clean and comfortable, this is not a luxury property. There is no air conditioning, there are no window screens, and the home systems, such as the septic system and the well system, require conscientious treatment. Unattended trash will be ravaged by animals. Guests need to be prepared and willing to deal with the country environment, which requires a degree of mindfulness to ensure their own well-being and the well-being of the property.

Pool Heating: The pool has the passive solar heat turned on mid-March through mid-November. The amount of sun and the average temperature will affect the temperature of the pool. In Spring and Fall (mid-March to mid-May and mid-October to mid-November), the temperature varies between 60° and 80°. Mid-May to mid-October, the temperature is typically ideal for swimming, between 80° and 85°. During the winter months, the pool is not heated and stays around 50°. Because this system relies on the outside temperature and the amount of sun we get, we cannot guarantee the pool temperature at any time. Please contact our office if you need more information on pool temperatures.
*The nightly rate is reduced when the pool heater is not turned on. Take advantage - Black Mountain is a great place to spend a winter weekend and the hot tub is hot year-round!

Heat Source: The Farmhouse does not have central heat. There are electric space heaters in all bedrooms and living areas, and a wood-burning stove in the living room. The Pool House has zoned radiant-floor heating and a fireplace.

Distance to the Russian River: The river at the Hacienda Bridge is 1 mile away.
Cell Phones: Please be aware that many cell phones will not have service at this location. There is WiFi though!

Stairs: Exterior Stairs - The pool house bedrooms are up a flight of exterior stairs. Four of the Five Farmhouse bedrooms are up an interior flight of stairs. One Farmhouse bedroom and bathroom are ground-level.

Summer Rotation Day: Thursday
During the Peak Season, which runs end of June through August, Black Mountain has a 7 night minimum and rents on a Thursday to Thursday pattern. If you make an online reservaton outside of this rotation day requirement, we may contact you about altering your dates.

For the Summer of 2019: Many homes have waived the summer rotation days and lowered night minimums. Please search using your dates or inquire!

Sonoma County TOT #: 2095
Sonoma County Vacation Rental Permit: ZPE15-0153

Amenities

Amenities

  • Internet Access WiFi
  • Pet Policy No Pets Allowed
  • HotTub Spa
  • Pool Pool
  • Fireplace, Wood/Gas Fireplaces
  • Deck/Patio Patios and Decks
  • View Moutains, Forest
  • Walk to River - 1 mile
  • Miles to Guerneville 5.8 miles - 10 min
  • Nearest River Beach 1 mile
  • Miles to Monte Rio 10.2 miles
  • Nearest Ocean Beach 18.7 miles
  • River Access nearby beaches
  • Yard 92 acres
  • BBQ Grill BBQs charcoal & gas
  • Kitchen 2 Full Kitchens
  • Dishwasher dishwashers
  • Heat Source electric
  • A/C none
  • Square Footage, Est. 2243
  • Televisions TV w/DVD (no cable)
  • DVD/VCR DVD Player
  • Stereo s/CD Stereos. CD Player
  • Phone Local Calls
  • Game Room Items Ping Pong Table
  • Outdoor Bathing Outdoor Showers
  • Laundry Facilities Washer/Dryer
  • Additional Amenities hiking trail
  • Check-In Time 4:00pm
  • Check-Out Time 11:00am
  • Express Check-In Check-in at the home
  • Featured Amenity 1 Hiking Trail
  • Featured Amenity 2 92 Acres

Availability

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#Night Available#Night Unavailable#Arrive Only#Depart Only
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Rates

DatesNightlyNightly Min. StayWeekly
09/12/19 - 09/18/19$1,1903$7,140
09/19/19 - 09/25/19$1,1903$7,140
09/26/19 - 10/02/19$1,1903$7,140
10/03/19 - 10/13/19$1,1903$7,140
10/14/19 - 11/23/19$1,0853$5,910
11/24/19 - 11/30/19$1,1904$7,140
12/01/19 - 12/19/19$1,0853$5,910
12/20/19 - 12/29/19$1,1903$7,140
12/30/19 - 01/01/20$1,3003$7,140
01/02/20 - 01/04/20$1,1903$7,140
01/05/20 - 02/13/20$1,0853$5,910
02/14/20 - 02/16/20$1,1903$5,910
02/17/20 - 04/30/20$1,0853$5,910
05/01/20 - 05/21/20$1,1903$7,140
05/22/20 - 05/24/20$1,3003$7,140
05/25/20 - 06/10/20$1,1903$7,140
06/11/20 - 06/17/20$1,1903$7,140
06/18/20 - 06/24/20$1,1903$7,140
06/25/20 - 07/01/20$1,1907$7,140
07/02/20 - 07/08/20$1,1907$7,140
07/09/20 - 07/15/20$1,1907$7,140
07/16/20 - 07/22/20$1,1907$7,140
07/23/20 - 07/29/20$1,1907$7,140
07/30/20 - 08/05/20$1,1907$7,140
08/06/20 - 08/12/20$1,1907$7,140
08/13/20 - 08/19/20$1,1907$7,140
08/20/20 - 08/26/20$1,1903$7,140
08/27/20 - 09/03/20$1,1903$7,140
09/04/20 - 09/06/20$1,3003$7,140
09/07/20 - 09/16/20$1,1903$7,140

Reviews

Leave Review

Magical Place

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Saturday, July 27, 2019
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5

Our Family Reunion at Black Mountain was just what we hoped for. Beautiful dwellings, property, facilities, pool, vistas, privacy, quiet. Large well equipped kitchens and a great room for communal dining. Convenient to river, groceries, many wineries, fabulous parks, redwoods, hiking trails. And the night sky—magical.

Can’t say enough about this very special place and can’t wait to return.

Alice
Oakland

Wonderful!

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Thursday, May 2, 2019
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5

Our stay was wonderful! The house had all of the amenities to make it a perfect weekend for a large group.

Kate

Thank You!

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Thursday, April 4, 2019
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5

Wonderful location and property with adjacent hiking trail. Very clean and well stocked with more than what is necessary to enjoy your stay. Very professional and courteous communications. Thanks!

Kristin

great time

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Friday, January 18, 2019
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5

We had a great time at the house. The place was perfect for our little reunion.

-Airbnb Guest-

Jule

truly felt like a retreat for our team-

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Thursday, January 10, 2019
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5

What a wonderful compound- truly felt like a retreat for our team- and the great hall was perfect for gathering for larger meals and relaxing. The views of the mountains and forest were breathtaking and the farmhouse and poolhouse had plenty of room for our group of 12.

-Airbnb Guest-

Julie

We had a wonderful and relaxing stay.

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Wednesday, December 26, 2018
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
4

The farmhouse and pool house are spectacular and comfortable. We had a wonderful and relaxing stay.

-Airbnb Guest-

Paula

The home far exceeded our expectations.

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Thursday, October 18, 2018
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5

The home far exceeded our expectations. We had a large group and needed a large kitchen and many beds. This place had not only a large kitchen and plenty of beds, but a wonderful location, a beautiful pool, and every amenity that we would need. But probably the best feature was the fact that they were responsive to every question we had had both before and during our stay. Highly recommended.

-Airbnb Guest-

Phil

It's a great easy space to have lots of people.

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Thursday, September 13, 2018
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5

We had a fun reunion at this property with four families with little kids. The pool house is where we spent all of our time, playing in the pool, in the yard, and making meals. It's a great easy space to have lots of people. It was harder to hangout at night with little kids since the kids were split, sleeping in both the upper house and pool house, and monitors can't reach that far. But other than that, it was a lovely property with lots to do very close by.

-Airbnb Guest-

Caroline

Amazing Views!

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Saturday, July 14, 2018
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5

Fantastic place with amazing views! Would love to stay here again.

-Airbnb Guest-

Joe Bailey

Rustic Charm fit for Large Groups

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Wednesday, May 16, 2018
Rating: 
4
Property Rating: 
4
Experience Rating: 
4
Value Rating: 
4

We had a large group of 12, consisting of 2 separate families (all adults), celebrating my recent engagement and my 30th birthday so the two houses were perfect for our group. This was everyones first trip to wine country and overall, we had a GREAT experience and stay at this property and by the end of the trip, everyone was sad to be leaving! Knowing all I know now, we would definitely stay here again! This rental has SO many great amenities and features- the pool house was the perfect place to gather as a group and relax and the pool and hot tub were big hits! Between the two properties, all the essentials were covered. All that said, I do want to call out some caveats for any future renters to just be more clearly aware of. Like mentioned, the drive up to the property is quite a bit more complex and off the beaten path than I realized even after reading all the info. You have to drive up a VERY narrow winding one lane dirt road, through the woods, to the very top of the mountain, and at nights, this is very dark. I would recommend a vehicle with a GPS as cell service goes out as you get closer to the property. Our winery shuttle driver was still able to find it and make it up and down ok which was great! This is also a very rustic property. Truly more cabin like. Make sure to arrive during daylight and give yourself time to get acquainted, how to control the heaters, where everything is, etc. The towels were clean but smelled a little musky so we just washed them (in unit laundry at the farmhouse!) which worked out ok. Lastly, there is NO WIFI or TV signal and little to no cell service while on the property. After restarting the modem and trying numerous attempts it still didn't work. Plan to be mainly off the grid until you get down the hill into town. Net Net- it was a BEAUTIFUL property, with amazing views, and truly a hidden gem in wine country!

Manager Response:
Thank you for the review!!! We are looking into why the wifi wouldn't work during your stay... It's not the fastest signal, but it's usually good for email and social media updates!
~ Megan

Rebecca

Perfect!

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Thursday, April 5, 2018
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
4
Our group was fifteen women on a bachelorette trip. The pool house kitchen + living room was perfect as a common area! We even had a private chef for one evening, and the pool house was ideal for socializing and dining as a big group. We didn't feel crowded despite the size of our group, and the number of bathrooms was great. The farm house has a lot of charm, with a nicely updated kitchen. The driveway from the pool house up to the farm house is short, but at a steep incline - not an issue for our group, but for a less mobile person, it would be challenging to move between houses. Cell service was non-existent in the pool house, with a weak signal in the farm house. WiFi was not strong in either house, which was sometimes inconvenient, but other times nice to not have a reason to check phones all of the time.
Source: Airbnb
Response:
We are really glad you had a good time at Black Mountain! =) We'd love to have you stay with us again! =) A note on the Wi-Fi: The Wi-Fi Modem is located within the Farmhouse, and the signal does not reach the pool house. If guests experience slow Wi-Fi, usually a restart of the modem does the trick. If a restart doesn't work, and the signal is still slow, guests should call the office - we are happy to check in with Comcast. :)
Hollie

Country Estate

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Friday, November 3, 2017
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5
This "country estate" is just perfect for a quiet get away where you feel like you're the only people for miles! Our group of grown ups had an amazing time venturing out for wine tasting or lunch but mostly just hung out at the pool house where there was abundant space for 16 to enjoy each other's company and eat meals together. Early mornings watching the fog in trees form the hot tub were magical! We're all looking forward to coming back in the summer with the kids to enjoy the pool and playground!
Source: Airbnb
Brooke

Excellent Weekend Getaway at an Incredible Property

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Friday, October 6, 2017
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5
We visited Black Mountain for a weekend retreat and reunion with 14 people. Not only is it located in a beautiful and secluded area but there was plenty of room for everyone and all the amenities we could want. Each couple had their own room and there's also a bedroom with 3 single beds. The pool house was the perfect gathering area and two fully functional kitchens made dinners in the evening a real treat. We would highly recommend the property and property manager. If we're able to plan a future getaway in the Russian River area we will definitely look to stay here again!
Source: VRBO
Scott B.

Perfect for a big group.

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Friday, September 22, 2017
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5
The place was just perfect for a big group. The two houses each have its own unique feel and all our friends loved it. The pool area is great for a group dinner and we took advantage of it all weekend. The hosts were always so quick with any help I needed along the way too. I would definitely rent this again.
Source: Airbnb
Jeannine

Welcoming

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Friday, June 2, 2017
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
4
This property was very beautiful and clean upon arrival; a welcoming place for a large group. The poolhouse is the perfect communal space for meals, etc. and it definitely felt like a little vacation. The location is very rural and getting there was straight-forward up a steep dirt driveway, but it ended up convenient enough for our needs. I would come back and stay in this lovely home with a group again someday and recommend it to anyone!
Source: Airbnb
Karen

Loved It!

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Friday, February 17, 2017
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5

We absolutely loved our stay. There were 7 couples and we were all super comfortable for the entire long weekend. The property is beautiful and the decor is stylish. Both kitchens are awesome and the pool house is a great hang out spot for a big group of people. Keep in mind that the pool house is separate from the main house, by about a 3 minute walk. It didn't bother us at all but something to keep in mind. We would love to come back in the summer to enjoy the pool, hot tub and amazing BBQ area. Our group loved cooking, playing games, and just hanging out, and the property definitely made our weekend memorable. Thank you so much!

Kaela C.

The property is great and well maintained.

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Friday, August 12, 2016
Rating: 
4
Property Rating: 
4
Experience Rating: 
4
Value Rating: 
4

Eight adults and eight children enjoyed the farm house, pool house and pool very much. The property has great amenities and is well maintained. The only real issue was the bees/yellow jackets around the pool. Perhaps some bee traps could have helped! Also, if live sporting events are important to guests, there's no TV service, so that could be an issue. Otherwise, all was great!

    • Stayed: August 2016
    • Submitted: September 12, 2016
    • Source: VRBO
Fred K

Great place for family gathering!

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Saturday, July 9, 2016
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5

We enjoyed our week at Black Mountain...especially the pool!

  • Stayed: July 2016
  • Submitted: August 16, 2016
  • Source: HomeAway Family
Stan T

Excellent Weekend Getaway at an Incredible Property

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Friday, October 2, 2015
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5

We visited Black Mountain for a weekend retreat and reunion with 14 people. Not only is it located in a beautiful and secluded area but there was plenty of room for everyone and all the amenities we could want. Each couple had their own room and there's also a bedroom with 3 single beds. The pool house was the perfect gathering area and two fully functional kitchens made dinners in the evening a real treat. We would highly recommend the property and property manager. If we're able to plan a future getaway in the Russian River area we will definitely look to stay here again!

  • Stayed: October 2015
  • Submitted: October 14, 2015
  • Source: VRBO
Scott B

Awesome rustic getaway for a group!

Property Reviewed: 
Black Mountain
Dates Stayed: 
Saturday, September 19, 2015
Rating: 
5
Property Rating: 
5
Experience Rating: 
5
Value Rating: 
5

Black Mountain is a fantastic property. Our group of 16 adults fit perfectly, and had a wonderful Labor Day weekend. We thoroughly enjoyed the pool and left a ton of fun floats for the next guests (you're welcome! ;)), cooked big meals in the pool house kitchen, star-gazed from the pool deck, and enjoyed the nearby redwood hikes and wineries. The location cannot be beat! We decided to keep all of our food and drinks in the pool house kitchen because we spent most of our time down there (rather than at the Farmhouse, which is about 50 yards uphill). It was nice to have an indoor space that was separated from the bedrooms so the the group had a place to hang out after the 10pm quiet time without disturbing anyone. We're a pretty loud group (lots of musicians and constant laughter), so we had to keep our outdoor volume in check once it got late. Despite the large acreage, the houses are close together and the groundskeeper cottage is closer to the pool than we expected, but there's a privacy wall and we didn't see him more than a few times over the weekend. A few things worth noting: - there's no TV or internet in the pool house, and it's pretty much a dead-zone for mobile service due to the metal roof. - there was an issue with ants in some of the bedrooms in both houses, so I made sure to bring that up and I'm sure it will be dealt with swiftly. - while the furnishings are nice and stylish, the property is definitely rustic -- the pictures may look like a villa in napa, but think hiking shoes over stilettos. Was the perfect mix for our adventurous group. All in all, a pretty idyllic weekend. Hope to make it back to Black Mountain someday!

  • Stayed: September 2015
  • Submitted: September 10, 2015
  • Source: HomeAway Family
Taylor C

Average Rating 5 of 5

"This place is awesome for a large group!"

5 of 5

We had 15 of us gathering for my wife's 50th birthday celebration and, in planning, found it somewhat difficult to find a place that would accommodate our size group. I stumbled across this place on-line and, after reviewing it and seeing the photos, decided to give it a try. Everyone in our group thought it was amazing. Although it says you are in the country and close to nature, we had no issues with anything animal related. In fact, it's actually quite close to the main road, and easy to get to the wineries. There was a nice hiking trail on the property and plenty of room for everyone to spread out and enjoy. We had both the farmhouse and the pool house occupied, and there were no complaints. The only issues we encountered were when a couple people in our party both fell on the driveway going from the pool area to the farmhouse and skinned some knees. It is dark and uneven. The vacation rental company warned us to bring flashlights but, of course, we didn't, and accidents happen. Also, the oven in the pool house didn't work so we had to go to the farmhouse to prepare our food, hence the slipping on driveway as mentioned. Hopefully they will fix the problems as I addressed them with the caretaker, who was great, by the way. He left us to our business and only appeared when we needed something. I'm not sure we could have had a better time at another property, especially for the price that we paid to stay here. We all agreed this was an AWESOME place and we would definitely stay here again if the party was large enough.

-Erik R on 09/27/2016

 

"Incredible experience with minor considerations"

5 of 5

This is a beautiful, seriously beautiful location - the view from the main house (on top of a rather steep curving driveway) is spectacular. The pool house is amazing and the pool was perfect. It's definitely isolated (except for the caretaker's house which is visible from every building on the property) and at the same time, in the heart of things in the area.Pros: massive capacity - with five bedrooms in the main house and two more in the guesthouse, plus couches, areas outside for tents it allows you an exceptional flexibility in terms of sleeping arrangements.TWO kitchens - the entertaining flexibility is also unparalleled - there are two, enormously well appointed kitchens (the pool house is larger and more open, allowing for larger numbers, and the barbecue and in-wall, elevated fireplace were really put to great use.Pool - the pool while not heated (at least not that we detected) absorbed a lot of heat during the day to make it very pleasant in the evening. Kids things - toys for the pool, games in the house, toys in the kids room, two kinds of rope swings and a wooden play structure make this a fantastic place to occupy children of all ages (and the ping pong table saw heavy use for everyone).CONS: Internet - the internet sort of works. They are on a use-plan, which translates into if you are there at the beginning of the month, you have decent internet access, speeds, and data use, but toward the end of the month (when we were there) with 11 connected adults and kids, the connection slowed to virtually nothing. While this was a blessing for some, it was exceptionally painful for others - caveat emptor with the data connection.Temperature - while it does absolutely cool down in the evening (we were there in August), there is no AC in either house. The Farm house has screens on all the windows, so at least you can keep the insects out while cooling off, sort of. They do provide fans in each room though, so that helps a bit.The pool house has no screens, so when you open the windows to cool off, you also get TONS of bugs - flies, bees, (there was clearly a nest near by and we had tons of yellow jackets). Citronella candles and bait traps seemed to mitigate that to some extent.Proximity of the caretaker: While we only had one conversation with the caretaker, and it was very pleasant and he was very nice, it does feel a little like you've got eyes on you while you're there. His house is right next to the pool - and the "privacy wall" doesn't block a view of the pool, the people, or the goings on. The road: it's a VERY narrow road - with almost no turnouts, on the way to the property. This means that if you're in an SUV, someone is going to have to reverse their way back up or down the precarious road if there's a meeting of vehicles. The drop-off on the side of the road is potentially very scary for people who are anxious about that kind of thing, so be prepared for a slow careful drive up the driveway.Disabilities, or movement impaired people will struggle greatly with the entire property. The farmhouse does have one bedroom on the bottom floor, so it's easy to access for anyone who might need assistance walking or uses assistive devices. The driveway from the main house to the pool is also so steep that people with difficulties walking will likely need to be driven down to the pool. The pool house's rooms are both up two flights of stairs. So that might be a consideration for people to think about.Overall - we had a WONDERFUL time and with he exception of Internet and cell service being so slow or non-existent and it being generally very hot until late evening, it was seriously worth every penny our family spent on one of the best weeks we've had.

-Jim T on 09/19/2016

 

"Excellent Weekend Getaway for Group of 14"

5 of 5

We visited Black Mountain for a weekend retreat and reunion with 14 people. Not only is it located in a beautiful and secluded area but there was plenty of room for everyone and all the amenities we could want. Each couple had their own room and there's also a bedroom with 3 single beds. The pool house was the perfect gathering area and two fully functional kitchens made dinners in the evening a real treat. We would highly recommend the property and property manager. If we're able to plan a future getaway in the Russian River area we will definitely look to stay here again!

Manager Response:

Thank you so much for the kind words and we're glad you enjoyed Black Mountain! It is a delightful place for larger groups that also want to spread out and have rooms to themselves. I hope you had a chance to check out the hiking trails on the property, hot tub and pool!

Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes

-Scott B on 10/14/2015

 

"Perfect for our group. Location and Amenities"

5 of 5

The property worked great for out large group with the large hall separate from the sleeping areas allowed for group activities and privacy. We have all been traveling together for years and this was classified as "a do over"

Manager Response:

Hello and thank you for sharing a review with future guests!
:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes

-Keith B on 09/22/2015

 

"FABULOUS PROPERTY"

5 of 5

We had a group of 12 at Black Mountain in Forestville over the 4th of July for a week and very much appreciated the beauty of the land and the total privacy we had there, the pool, the tub, the newly renovated pool house with a lovely spacious kitchen, and last not least the couple who live there, both not only super responsive, but welcoming and personable.Everybody loved the comfort and quality of the furnishings; comfy rooms, comfy beds, great towels and sheets, generally things feel classy and put together with thoughtful consideration.THANK YOU !!! Don't think twice! Black Mountain is booking up quickly!

Manager Response:

Hello!
Thank you for sharing your experiences for future guests to read. And it sounds like you had a great time - we're so glad! The on-site caretaker lives in a cabin closest to the driveway at the beginning of the main part of the property. For the most part, they keep to themselves and respect your privacy and we ask guests to do the same for them. In case you need help with anything, give us a call at the office and we'll have the caretaker head over to help!

Black Mountain is really a superb property! We really recommend looking at all the photos and reading through the description and notes since it's not your average vacation home.

:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes

-soul-traveler2015 on 07/24/2015

 

Location