Just 45 minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge, come to the newly renovated Marin Castle for a serene escape from the everyday. Stay for a week and immerse yourself in all the wonders North Bay has to offer, or plan a weekend staycation to relax and enjoy breathtaking views from Samuel Taylor park’s highest point (altitude: 1475 feet).
Across the moat bridge and inside the fortified castle doors (reclaimed from an old Irish prison), you’ll be welcomed by a spacious yet cozy interior that marries modern design with vintage castle charm. Each room has large windows with mountain and forest views, in addition to air conditioning and heating to keep you comfortable.
The kitchen is fully equipped with double stove, induction stovetop, microwave, fridge, and dishwasher, in addition to a coffee machine and a waffle maker.
Want to relax after a long day out? There are two Roku TVs, and the game room features an air hockey table and a wide selection of board games. Fear not, for this fairytale retreat is equipped with all the modern conveniences a monarch could desire, including high-speed internet and 5G connectivity.
The highlight of your royal retreat is the outdoor terrace. Take advantage of Mt. Barnabe's dark skies while soaking in the brand-new hot tub with panoramic views, or stargaze next to heaters from the deck couches. During solar storms, you might even catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis. In the front yard, challenge your group to a round on our private 5-hole mini-golf course set against the rolling hillside.
Retire each evening to luxurious memory foam beds. This regal abode comfortably sleeps 6 adults and can accommodate up to 8 guests:
- Master bedroom downstairs in the dungeon with a king-size bed and ensuite bath; additional twin bed in reading nook
- Queen-size bed in the main floor bedroom
- King-size bed in the upstairs loft
- Additional pull out twin bed in game room
All three bathrooms have heated bidet toilets. (The castle tower is a actually a throne room, featuring a restroom with the best views of the house!)
A washer/ dryer combo is also available for your convenience, with complimentary detergent, so you don’t have to worry about packing extra clothes.
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Step out the castle gates and Samuel P. Taylor State Park awaits. Embark on a hike through enchanting redwood forests along trails like Devil's Gulch and Bill’s Trail, or enjoy a loop around beautiful Lagunitas on the Ridge Trail.
The Marin Castle also serves as your gateway to the North Bay’s best attractions. Within an hour’s drive, you can:
- Explore Point Reyes National Seashore : 12 miles
- Savor fresh oysters on Tomales Bay: 22 miles
- Marvel at giant trees in Muir Woods: 25 miles
- Venture to nearby wine country (Sonoma, Napa): 40 miles
Other details to note:
Access to the castle is via a one way partially-paved mountain road. Parking spaces are available for three cars. We strongly recommend arriving before dusk to check-in and enjoy the sunset.
The castle is on top of a mountain and sits within a vital wildlife corridor and borders protected wilderness, offering a rare front-row seat to California’s natural inhabitants. You’ll likely spot coveys of quail and grazing deer right from the deck. Because this is a thriving ecosystem, we share the land with mountain lions, rattlesnakes, and smaller residents like ticks. We ask that you remain mindful of your surroundings, stick to the paths, and always perform a quick "tick check" on yourself and your pets after a day of exploring the tall grasses of the ridge.
There may be wind and weather events during your stay. Please bring layers, especially if staying in the fall and winter.
Due to the unique nature of this property, guests are required to sign a short rental agreement within 24 hours of booking. This helps ensure all terms are clearly understood and agreed upon before your stay. If you have any questions about the agreement, feel free to ask before booking.
This listing is for overnight stays for registered guests only. The reservation may be cancelled without refund if the number of guests exceeds the number in the booking.
To keep the property secure, we have three exterior-only cameras: one overlooking the parking area from the shed, one by the deck stairway, and one in the tower pointed toward the main entrance.
