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House Manual

Serenity Retreat

Welcome

Welcome to Serenity Retreat!

We’re so glad you’re here.

This cabin home is part of our Nordic spa-themed retreat series in Arnold, created as a place for rest, reconnection, and a slower pace of living. Inspired by Scandinavian traditions like friluftsliv (open-air living) and hygge (cozy contentment), it’s designed to help you settle in, breathe deeply, and ease into the rhythm of the mountains.

This space is personal to us. It’s where our family gathers, where we reset, and where many of our favorite memories have taken shape. We hope that, during your time here, it becomes that kind of place for you as well.

Inside this guide, you’ll find everything you need, from how things work in the home to a few of our favorite local spots.

You are welcome here, beneath the green canopy.

Matt & Jenny

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Check-In & Check-Out

Check-in: 3:00 p.m. Check-out: 12:00 p.m.

If you’d like to upgrade to an early check-in or late check-out, feel free to reach out. We’ll always do our best to accommodate when possible, depending on our cleaning schedule and subject to additional fee.

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Arrival & Parking

Parking is available directly at the cabin.

2 vehicles will likely fit comfortably in the driveway

Please avoid street parking, especially in winter, as snow plows need access and they may tow vehicles

Winter note (November through April): All-wheel or four-wheel drive is recommended. During snow or icy conditions, you will likely need to walk the final stretch.

A quick reminder: Please don’t leave food in your car/outside. Bears are active in the area and will investigate!

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Wi-Fi

Network: Serenity Retreat Password: Wh1speringWØØds

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Before You Leave

We keep checkout simple and appreciate your help with a few basics:

Start the dishwasher

Place used towels in a pile

Gather trash and any outdoor pet waste

Turn off all heaters and mini-splits (CRITICAL)

Lock the door by pressing “Yale” and confirming it’s secure

Thank you for taking care of the space!

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Things to Know

Septic System

The home is on a septic system. If you aren’t familiar, it’s kindof a big deal (i.e. sensitive). To help us protect it:

No food down the sink (trash bin please)

Only toilet paper in the toilets

Hot Water

Hot water is plentiful, though it may take a minute to warm up. Thank you for your patience.

House Guidelines

We aim to keep the space peaceful and well cared for:

Absolutely NO parties or events

No smoking

Registered guests only

Quiet hours: 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM

Please care for furnishings and avoid rearranging furniture

No illegal substances

Please be mindful of the septic system

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How Things Work

Upstairs Living Space

Upstairs is intended as a step away from the noise of everyday life; a place to read, talk, rest, or simply be.

In that spirit, the television usually stays tucked quietly out of sight.

If you’d like to use it, you’re welcome to, of course. You’ll find two remotes nearby: one raises the TV from behind the console, and the other controls the TV itself. When you’re finished, just lower it again to return the space to its calmer rhythm.

Heating & Cooling

Mini-splits are located upstairs and downstairs, with remotes nearby. Use the temperature up and down buttons to adjust to your comfort.

We kindly ask that you use only the power and temperature controls, and turn the units off when leaving for the day.

Kitchen

Oven: Press “On”, then set your desired temperature

Dishwasher: Please run whenever full. Pods are located under the sink

Coffee

A few ways to start your morning:

Fresh local beans and grinder in the lower cabinet

Nespresso on the counter

Drip machine and Keurig in the upper cabinet

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Outdoor Spa

Hot Tub

A quiet soak under the trees is one of our favorite rituals here.

Please rinse off before entering

Additional cleaning due to misuse will result in a $100 fee (what our spa guy charges)

Controls:

Jets: bubbles with a push of a button

Timed Jets: 20-minute cycle (also supports cleaning)

Heat: adjust by turning the relevant knob

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Explore the Area

Arnold offers a kind of quiet beauty that reveals itself slowly.

Private Lake Access

You have access to Lakemont Pines private lake and beach. Passes are located in the black hutch near the front door.

Please wear them at all times while visiting the lake and return them after use. Lost passes incur a $20 replacement fee per pass.

Outdoors

Arnold Rim Trail

Natural Bridges Trail

White Pines Lake

Lake Alpine

Calaveras Big Trees State Park

Food & Local Favorites

Sequoia Woods Country Club The area’s best dining. Reservations recommended.

Chevron Station (yes, really) A local favorite for surprisingly great sandwiches. Closes early.

Heart & Soul Country Kitchen Warm, hearty breakfasts with Cajun influence.

The Lube Room Casual, lively, and perfect for an easy meal.

Red Apple Go for the apple donuts. Stay for a few extra.

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Emergency Information

Emergency: 911

Fire extinguisher: Located in the closet in the bedroom with the owl wallpaper

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Contact

If you need anything during your stay, we’re here.

Matt & Jenny 530-400-3872 Also available via Airbnb messaging

We respond quickly and are always happy to help.

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A Final Note

Take your time here.

Step outside in the morning air. Listen to the wind in the trees. Let the pace shift, just a little.

We’re truly glad you’re here.

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