Name: Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge, Retreat & Spa
Address: 34540 Engineers Road, Julian, California, United States of America, Julian, California, US
Price range: $54–$211 per night
Rating: 9.05

What guests think

At Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge, Retreat & Spa, travelers repeatedly highlight a peaceful, wellness‑oriented escape with scenic lake and mountain views, very friendly staff, and a calming atmosphere that encourages unplugging, reflection, and quiet time away from city noise.

Rooms are often praised for comfort and lake views, though the older property shows wear in places and occasional maintenance or cleanliness issues are reported. Facilities earn kudos for the spa, yoga and meditation spaces, and the outdoor hot tub, while unpaved parking, dim night lighting, a dated gym, and a few hot tub problems are noted. Service is widely described as warm and responsive, although some disliked frequent upsell messages, door/access code hassles, or communication gaps. Set in a scenic, somewhat hard‑to‑find spot near Julian, with food that ranges from excellent to basic, this is best for travellers seeking quiet restoration and views rather than a highly polished, full‑service resort.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Facilities

Guests appreciate the spa, yoga/meditation spaces and the outdoor hot tub with lake views. Downsides include unpaved or limited parking, dim lighting at night, a dated gym, occasional hot tub issues, and unclear lake access or walking paths.

Related guest reviews

10

Candice

May 13, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

We came for the night to watch the northern lights, I wish we could have stayed longer to enjoy all the amenities and beautiful area. Gym and jacuzzi were great! The lady who welcomed us was very nice and friendly.

6

John

Jul 30, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Quite

8

Lauren

Apr 14, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Staff was very nice. I was a little disappointed with our room. The pictures definitely make it look much nicer than what it was. Gym was a little outdated. Also there are quiet hours on property which I wasn’t aware of before.

4

Paul

Nov 11, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Sara was helpful about my back pain issues with high bed access-providing stepstool--DOOR CODES ARE A PAIN--Their ice machine is ridiculous--Please provide room freezer compartments for iceboxes so small quantities of ice can be made. Hot tub doesn't work properly and bubble because not enough water in it. Help is scare during the day because they are in the main office area only. The room cleaning agents are top notch with no terrible fumes. Occasional field mouse kitchen area and the main hall rug should be removed or at least cleaned more often. Rooms are cleaned well.

10

William

Sep 11, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

This place is an amazing location to come find peace of mind and discharge and disconnect from everything. The hot Jacuzzi outside overlooking the lake and mountains is very relaxing. Rooms are beautiful. Recommend getting the king size bed. Only recommendation is to be careful with your GPS because it will take you to the wrong spot. Use the address of the lodge, not the name. Once you are close enough you will see a fire station. One you are at the station make a right and then left on second street you see. You will be there in 2 minutes. Worst case scenario call the lodge or ask a fireman at the station.

8

xochitl

Mar 24, 2024

·

Stayed 4 nights

This was a relaxing visit, the room was comfortable and private. My only complaint is that I could hear the staff working upstairs and the parking lot/road to my room was too dimly lit.

10

amber

Oct 18, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The Quiet mind lodge was so cool! And a much needed getaway for me and my partner. We enjoyed the food, pool table, and beautiful views! Our room was cute and the bed was very comfortable. We are definitely coming back. Thank you Adam and Sarah for the hospitality and good vibes.

2

Nicholas

Dec 27, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

This place has gone down hill since my last stay. I paid more than I did for their lowest room vs. a suite. The hot water took 20 min. to get warm. The breakfast is dry bagels and plastic yogurt vs. the fresh croissants, and yogurt in the mason chairs with granola. No free sound bath. Hot tub visibly dirty.

8

KIMBERLY

Jul 21, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Gorgeous room & quiet surroundings but i wish there was a clearly marked trail or walking path. I also feel registered guests should have free access to enjoy the lake area.

10

Kim

Aug 2, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Very zen environment, pretty room, great menu of spa offerings, clean/well-kept jacuzzi, mini-fridge, communication via text with staff members. I enjoyed myself, looking forward to another booking!

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Cleanliness

Feedback is mixed: many mention clean rooms and fresh‑smelling products, while others report bugs (ants/spiders), dirty carpets or outdoor furniture, and a few dusty or musty areas. Some hot tub cleanliness issues were also noted.

Related guest reviews

10

Olga

Jul 20, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Great place. Stayed with my 7 yr old son . He loved the hot tub. Breakfast also great they had hot oatmeal, boiled eggs, muffins, bagels with cream cheese and jelly , different cheeses , fruits, nuts yogurt. Breakfast served between 8-10 am. Very quite place by the lake . Buddha themed and has onsite yoga studio. Super clean too and bed was comfy:)

6

Javier

May 20, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The location of this hotel is what makes it stand out. However, the place itself can use some TLC. The room we stayed could use some touch up paint to spruce it up. The balcony was full of caterpillars (apeeared to be an infestation) dead and live ones. The outdoor furniture was dirty so didn't care to use. The bed was comfortable but one thing I didn't like was it has a skirt that touches the floor and can lead to insects crawling onto the bed. The staff was nice and accomodating. The spa services were good overall and when one of the scheduled services didn't meet my expectations the staff apologized, took it off my bill and was receptive to constructive criticism which shows they are open to improving. I would come back but hope the owners spend some money and update the decor and rooms. The exterior of the property can also use some updating.

10

Phan

Nov 12, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Great stay, vey quiet and relaxing. Clean room and friendly staffs.

6

Janet

Jul 29, 2024

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Stayed 2 nights

I liked the serenity of the property . However , it’s an older property which is outdated . Found several spiders & bugs . The views are nice from the Lake side . Beds were comfy and recommend the suites. Parking near the facility is limited.

8

Cecile

Aug 19, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Beautiful surroundings, peaceful place with lots of opportunities to unplug and relax. Cleanliness and comfort of the room could use more attention.

2

Nicholas

Dec 27, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

This place has gone down hill since my last stay. I paid more than I did for their lowest room vs. a suite. The hot water took 20 min. to get warm. The breakfast is dry bagels and plastic yogurt vs. the fresh croissants, and yogurt in the mason chairs with granola. No free sound bath. Hot tub visibly dirty.

10

Ricardo A

Aug 11, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

everything was clean and inspired by cleanliness, comfort and relaxation to the max, I went back to work loose as cream corn.

2

Kirsten

Feb 1, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

I found out from some locals that this used to be a nursing home I guess that is why there is a creepy feeling there. Our room was extremely noisy all night long. I could hear what sounded like an ejector pump. I could hear things crawling in the walls. I got no sleep there at all The room was very dusty, shower leaks. Our room was in the basement, which smelled very damp and moldy. There’s no phones in the room had to use our cell phone to contact staff and cell service is sketchy, so I could not get reception to reach the staff except for one time. issues kept popping up all night long, and I was unable to reach anyone to help us This entire facility is in dire need of repair. The entire facility is dusty, dirty, smells damp and moldy. The decor is haphazard at best with junky, leftover furniture from the 1980s with the Buddha theme,, No elevator. had to carry suitcases down a long, narrow, dark set of steps. there’s no way to lock your bedroom door. I was scared and creeped out the entire night two big pros number one I survived the night and number two I got to leave in the morning I will never be back what a waste of $300. This is the absolute worst place I have ever stayed.

8

John

Mar 23, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Very nice staff and location. The property needs a little tlc and cleaning. Staff was terrific!

10

Heather

Jun 7, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

We loved our stay here and definitely plan to go back to the same room. The staff was super friendly, the room was clean, and the atmosphere was just the peace we needed for a getaway.

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Rooms

Rooms are often comfortable with lake views, balconies and features like soaking tubs or steam showers. Some feel dated with minor maintenance issues (e.g., loose fixtures, lighting, jammed keys) and occasional noise from nearby areas or road.

Related guest reviews

8

Christie

May 21, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

We enjoyed the proximity to the lake and hikes. The staff was very kind. It was super quiet and cute. Could use a comfier mattress or topper.

10

Gwendolyn

Mar 22, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

The Mandala Room was absolutely perfect! It had breathtaking views, amazing bed and wonderful shower and bath tub. So romantic and sweet! Staff were also very kind and attentive!

8

xochitl

Mar 24, 2024

·

Stayed 4 nights

This was a relaxing visit, the room was comfortable and private. My only complaint is that I could hear the staff working upstairs and the parking lot/road to my room was too dimly lit.

8

William

Apr 14, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Deluxe room, the Radiant suite. Decent for a last second stay. Very austere. It seemed a little overpriced, even with the discount. Shower head was too short and close to the wall, water pressure could have been better. Sink faucet and knobs were not securely bolted. Balcony lights didn't work at all.

10

JoAnn

Aug 4, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge was a perfect getaway to unwind. The staff was friendly, we had a beautiful view of Lake Cuyamaca, we enjoyed sitting in the private patio relaxing. The rooms were clean, the AC kept the room nice and cool. Julian is very close nearby, the lodge offers several amenities to unwind. We enjoyed the lodge very much, we’d stay here again, it was very peaceful.

10

Liloa

Nov 28, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Amazing place to get away. Adam and Sarah are perfect hosts. Great staff especially Carol and Kyle. It was hard to leave. Staying in a lake view suite is a must. Such a great hidden gem. Checking out was the hardest to do- wanted to stay longer. Back to the grind.

10

Vahid

Aug 18, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The only nice thing here is the hotel view and the size of the room. I didn’t really find any special beauty in this place.

6

Brandi

Aug 27, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Beautiful views, friendly staff and comfortable bed. There was a lot of road noise and the facility is very outdated.

10

Linda

Dec 17, 2024

·

Stayed 5 nights

We have fished Lake Cuyamaca for many years and wanted a view of the Lake to celebrate our 40th Anniversary. We had a beautiful view and a restful time. Our room was equipped with a bidet, clawfoot jacuzzi tub and a shower with so many settings that it was delightful showering and being spoiled. The staff was amazing and helped make our stay special. Special thanks to Sarah, Uni and Adam for taking such good care of us. We are already planning our next visit.

10

Jodi

Sep 5, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Pleasant start to finish. Attentive staff. Quiet. Super comfortable room. Modest accommodations w excellent feel for calm, restorative time away. Private outdoor space w super speedy wifi. 10/10

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Service

Staff are widely praised as friendly, welcoming and responsive, and several issues were resolved promptly. Critiques include frequent upsell texts/calls, door or access code hassles, and isolated communication problems such as missing codes or a last‑minute room cancellation.

Related guest reviews

10

Tim

Dec 26, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The staff are exceptionally friendly and helpful.

4

Paul

Nov 11, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Sara was helpful about my back pain issues with high bed access-providing stepstool--DOOR CODES ARE A PAIN--Their ice machine is ridiculous--Please provide room freezer compartments for iceboxes so small quantities of ice can be made. Hot tub doesn't work properly and bubble because not enough water in it. Help is scare during the day because they are in the main office area only. The room cleaning agents are top notch with no terrible fumes. Occasional field mouse kitchen area and the main hall rug should be removed or at least cleaned more often. Rooms are cleaned well.

10

Petra

Aug 21, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Everything about this property was excellent from the easy check in to the checkout. Reina who assisted us with check in was very welcoming and made us feel like VIP. The continental breakfast was good and had a great selection. We will definitely stay here again in the fall.

2

MIRIAM

Feb 18, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

I booked this trip over one month ahead. I received text messages as well as emails from the hotel welcoming me to my future trip and asking if I wanted to book activities in their hotel. Upon arrival they said a water pipe burst near my room and my room was no longer available. They said they tried reaching out to me two days prior as well as that morning but I never received anything. it is very strange that they emailed and texted it to me the whole month but today’s before my booking they can’t get a hold of me to let me know not to come to the property. I drove over an hour to arrive and for them to tell me they have no room for me. Everything in the area was booked so I had to drive back home. Extremely horrible experience. I will definitely not book with this hotel again I will not risk it.

6

Susan

Aug 8, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Room was clean and comfortable. I booked the room 2 weeks prior to our stay for the night after a wedding. I was contacted >15 times during the 2 weeks with offers for spa services and upsells, including rapid fire voicemails and text messages. I repeatedly declined and said we'd be staying for one night after a wedding and yet the text messages/phone calls/Expedia messages continued, even after a very clear phone call that specified that we were not interested in additional services. I ended up dreading the stay based on how many times I had to decline additional services (and confirm the same info about our stay over and over). The property itself could use some updating. Room was clean and comfortable overall and check-in was fine as well.

10

Liza

Jun 22, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Friendly courteous staff, very peaceful and beautiful location

8

Mary

Oct 16, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

I would return to this property. Room service is excellent and accommodations lovely & very quiet. I had some difficulty with the room access codes however staff was very helpful.

8

SANDY

Jan 18, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

The staff are very efficient and helpful and pleasant. The view is spectacular. There were a few little hiccups in our stay however, Adam took care of the issues promptly and swiftly.

10

Trent Trevor

May 28, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Staff was very welcoming and responsive to all requests and inquiries. Top notch.

10

Patricia

Jul 16, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

This place is a gem and I only wish we had more time to enjoy it. The whole vibe is peaceful and quiet and the views are amazing on the lake side of the property. Breakfast was very yummy and I will be back another time to fully enjoy this property. Everyone we encountered who worked there was amazing and very personable. My only suggestions are that it would be nice to be able to cover the light on the A/C unit as it's very bright, all night long. Otherwise, if you need complete darkness to sleep, I would bring a sleeping mask. And, being able to call and reach someone is preferable to me vs. texting with reservation questions.

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Location

Scenic, quiet setting overlooking Lake Cuyamaca and close to Julian and popular hikes. Several guests found it hard to find (small signage/GPS), cell service can be weak, and reaching the water typically requires a short drive.

Related guest reviews

10

MICHAEL

Apr 15, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Great friendly staff. Beautiful views from the room and the dining area. Access to local hiking areas and the lake Good breakfast selection.

10

Joe

Mar 30, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Peaceful, remote, serene mountain setting, way off of the beaten path. This is a quiet retreat center, not a place to party. Less than an hour East of the craziness of San Diego, it offers exceptional beauty and tranquility. Cell phone signal strength is very weak but wi-fi more than compensates. We have traveled far and wide, around the world, but this is a real " hidden gem".

10

Gabriel

Feb 4, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Fantastic restful peaceful retreat near Anza Borrego, overlooking the lake.

10

ivy

Nov 4, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

It was in a great location for Julian. The front desk staff was very kind and offered us any help that we needed. The lodge was very quiet and offered Disney Plus for our young daughter. We were able to grab a quick bite at the local pub across the way and the view of the lake was really wonderful. Great for a weekend getaway

10

William

Sep 11, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

This place is an amazing location to come find peace of mind and discharge and disconnect from everything. The hot Jacuzzi outside overlooking the lake and mountains is very relaxing. Rooms are beautiful. Recommend getting the king size bed. Only recommendation is to be careful with your GPS because it will take you to the wrong spot. Use the address of the lodge, not the name. Once you are close enough you will see a fire station. One you are at the station make a right and then left on second street you see. You will be there in 2 minutes. Worst case scenario call the lodge or ask a fireman at the station.

10

Lindsay

Aug 4, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Food was good. Everyone was nice. It’s a little hard to find in my opinion, they need a bigger or brighter sign at their entrance road. I got so lost trying to find it. It’s the dirt road before the Cal-Fire station. That’s where you see tiny rusted sign. Otherwise, good experience! I will be back!

10

Jasmine

Apr 27, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Everything about this place is soothing and everything I needed to decompress. Only complaint I have is the pictures of the property make it seem it's on the lake front. It is near the lake and have to drive to a different area to access the water. Overall the view and scenery is breath taking

10

Alexander

Oct 1, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Awesome staff and quiet throughout the area. Tranquil place and a couple destination for many should experience. Near Julian, CA and beautiful quiet town.

10

John

Dec 3, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Location location location

10

Lisa

Mar 17, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

It was beautiful comfortable. Great location.

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Dining

Continental breakfast and vegetarian or room‑service meals earn many compliments, though on some stays options felt basic or items ran out. A few guests disliked dinner quality and nearby dining choices are limited.

Related guest reviews

10

Ruth

Nov 6, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Quiet and peaceful, beautiful view, and the furnishings are quaint. Excellent room service and a good selection of food. The bed was comfortable and made me feel like a princess. Staff was very friendly and helpful. The area is beautiful. I will be back.

10

Robert

Nov 5, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Courteous staff, decor, peaceful setting and gardens. The food was fresh and delicious. We will definitely come again for a stay! Thank you. Perfect continental breakfast and the rooms are very reasonably priced.

10

Olga

Jul 20, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Great place. Stayed with my 7 yr old son . He loved the hot tub. Breakfast also great they had hot oatmeal, boiled eggs, muffins, bagels with cream cheese and jelly , different cheeses , fruits, nuts yogurt. Breakfast served between 8-10 am. Very quite place by the lake . Buddha themed and has onsite yoga studio. Super clean too and bed was comfy:)

10

Alina

May 19, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Need better choices for free breakfast. No butter since it was used and not enough plates and silverware Never received access code for check in Directions were hard to find Great room and shower

10

Petra

Aug 21, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Everything about this property was excellent from the easy check in to the checkout. Reina who assisted us with check in was very welcoming and made us feel like VIP. The continental breakfast was good and had a great selection. We will definitely stay here again in the fall.

8

Marie

Jan 16, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

It is a nice hotel, I personally was looking more of a cozy, comfortable, cabin type hotel, the decoration was a little too much for me, I didn't get to relax or felt I wanted to stay until check out time, the breakfast is very basic, I was expecting more variety and options vs the cost to stay here. The towels were old and damaged. Adam was very nice and courteous, he showed us the property and gave us some history of the hotel & owner background. 15 minutes away from Julian and nothing around but a Pub

10

Francisco

Feb 13, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Such a beautiful and peaceful experience, a great and much needed getaway from the world! Awesome staff and service and phenomenal food!! Can’t wait to go again!

2

Nicholas

Dec 27, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

This place has gone down hill since my last stay. I paid more than I did for their lowest room vs. a suite. The hot water took 20 min. to get warm. The breakfast is dry bagels and plastic yogurt vs. the fresh croissants, and yogurt in the mason chairs with granola. No free sound bath. Hot tub visibly dirty.

8

Julie

Jun 4, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

The hosts, Josh and Sarah were so warm and helpful. Beautiful view of the lake. Nice lodgings. Food was ok- nothing special.

10

Patricia

Jul 16, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

This place is a gem and I only wish we had more time to enjoy it. The whole vibe is peaceful and quiet and the views are amazing on the lake side of the property. Breakfast was very yummy and I will be back another time to fully enjoy this property. Everyone we encountered who worked there was amazing and very personable. My only suggestions are that it would be nice to be able to cover the light on the A/C unit as it's very bright, all night long. Otherwise, if you need complete darkness to sleep, I would bring a sleeping mask. And, being able to call and reach someone is preferable to me vs. texting with reservation questions.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Month	Average price
January	$109
February	$133
March	$119
April	$116
May	$105
June	$102
July	$105
August	$104
September	$115
October	$129
November	$130
December	$122

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
				1 $106	2 $197	3 $197
4 $125	5 $110	6 $109	7 $110	8 $119	9 $131	10
11 $101	12 $107	13 $106	14 $109	15 $109	16 $170	17 $173
18 $111	19 $110	20 $111	21 $109	22 $111	23 $122	24 $211
25 $112	26 $109	27 $111	28 $110	29 $108	30 $123	31 $127

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
		1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15 $54	16 $96	17 $86	18	19
20 $90	21 $108	22 $96	23 $95	24 $90	25 $166	26
27 $104	28 $98	29 $96	30 $98

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Monthly average prices

About this property

Location

Room options

Deluxe Room, Balcony, Lake View

Panoramic Studio, Bathtub, Lake View

Signature Room, Refrigerator & Microwave, Mountainside

Grand Suite, 1 Queen Bed, Jetted Tub, Lake View

Royal Studio, Jetted Tub, Lake View

Premium Room

Superior Room, Patio

Lake Junior Suite

Elite Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Jetted Tub, Lake View

Luxury Studio, Bathtub, Lake View

Hilltop Junior Suite

Romantic Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Lake View

Exclusive Room, Balcony, Lake View

Guest reviews

Superb

What guests think

Property Policies

Check-in instructions

Good to know

Optional extras

FAQs about Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge, Retreat & Spa

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Prices for upcoming dates