BELLA VISTA, CALIFORNIA · EARTH-COVERED RETREAT
Stay Somewhere
Extraordinary
A unique underground retreat crafted for comfort, adventure, and lasting memories.
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BELLA VISTA, CALIFORNIA · EARTH-COVERED RETREAT
A unique underground retreat crafted for comfort, adventure, and lasting memories.
Our Story
My love affair with Tolkien’s work started when I was a young boy watching the animated “Hobbit” movie and has continued to this day. While my wife was pregnant with our first child (who is now 24!), I read the LOTR trilogy to her and she fell in love too. Though, admittedly, I’m the bigger nerd.
We also enjoyed B&B Inns from the first time we stayed at the Amber House in Sacramento to our road trip down the Oregon coast. As we returned from the coast, we drove through a beautiful valley and dreamed of building a village of hobbit holes. We are passionate about showing hospitality and we strongly considered running a B&B of our own, but our children were a priority, so we put that dream on hold.
As I worked at a desk job, I dreamed of building a sustainable organic farm someday. I was inspired by Joel Salatin and other pioneers in soil management. I wanted to return to the simple work of growing food and leave the earth better off because I was here. While this never happened the way I expected, farming was part of the journey. Along the way, we also learned about earth-covered housing.
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Our Retreats
Inspired by Pippin, this hobbit hole brims with charm and whimsy — gray, silver, and blue tones echoing Minas Tirith. Enjoy a king-sized bed, spacious shower, cozy bathrobe, and wood-burning stove. Check-in 3PM · Check-out 11AM.
Inspired by Meriadoc Brandybuck, this hobbit hole features rich tones of Meduseld and the wood and stone of Fanghorn forest — live-edge headboard, plush bathrobes, spacious shower, and premium furnishings throughout. Check-in 3PM · Check-out 11AM.
Inspired by Sam Gamgee — carefully crafted and elegantly appointed. A cozy loveseat by the wood stove, a sleigh bed with sheer canopy, travertine mosaic bathroom and reclaimed buffet kitchenette bring Middle-earth to life. Check-in 4PM · Check-out Noon.
Inspired by Bag End — the home of Bilbo and Frodo. Plush chairs by the fire, fine linens on a wood-and-leather sleigh bed, a stocked fridge and snack basket, plus a massive shower await. Second breakfast delivered daily. Check-in 4PM · Check-out Noon.
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Discover What's Nearby
Discover local attractions, scenic spots, and experiences that make your stay even more memorable.
From winter sports to summer hiking and mountain climbing — a great destination for your next unexpected journey. Try the hike from Castle Lake to Heart Lake for stunning views.
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Explore Lassen National Park's dozens of volcanic features, trails and lakes. Hike to the summit or wander through geothermal wonders in this volcanic landscape.
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Listen closely and you can still hear the songs of the elves in the noise of the waterfall. A breathtaking natural wonder nestled in the Northern California wilderness.
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A 1/3-mile lava tube right off the highway. Perfect for hot summer days — stays at a cool 65°F year-round. Bring your light and explore this underground wonder.
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Dramatic granite spires rising from the forest. The Root Creek Trail is a favorite, especially in spring when the falls are flowing strong. Worth going around in circles to explore.
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Gardens of stone that Gimli himself would marvel at. Book a guided tour at lakeshastacaverns.com. Stays around 60°F year-round — bring a jacket for this spectacular underground journey.
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Not all who wander our 40-acres of rolling hills are lost! With over a mile of mowed paths, you can find some adventure without ever leaving the Shire.
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Hobbits have always been fond of skillful throwing or shooting games. Try your hand at any of these after second breakfast on a summer day.
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We have a decent collection to choose from, and guests will sometimes leave us an old favorite as a "mathom" for others to enjoy.
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Gather around for an epic game night in the shire. From classic board games to Tolkien-themed adventures, our game collection is curated for a magical evening.
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Wander freely across our 40-acre property. Stroll through the sustainable organic garden, breathe in the fresh Northern California air, and discover the quiet magic of the land.
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Wake up to a fresh chef's breakfast delivered to your hobbit hole door between 9:00–9:30 AM. Please let us know of any dietary restrictions in advance.
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Host your wedding or special event on our entire 40-acre property. Our event package includes all hobbit holes, breakfast service, and trash disposal.
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