Embers Lodge and Cabins

I was riding from LA to Vegas and stayed here for a night. The little room was super cozy. It got pretty cold after dark, but the heat worked great. I'd happily stay again for more than one night.

It's practical and affordable, with a great location for a weekend away as a couple. We found it extremely clean and comfortable, and the reception staff gave us a warm welcome. Our room was already warm, and there was a personalized anniversary card waiting for us. Nothing fancy, but a thoughtful touch. It's close to major tourist spots and restaurants, and parking felt easy and safe. The fireplace is huge, with firewood available for $9 if you want it. The smoke lingered in the room and was too strong, so it needs ventilation. The bathroom was the smallest we've ever had. Still, it suited us well as a place to sleep between outings, and we'd come back.

I didn't feel like camping once the weather started getting chilly, so I used my Hotel Tonight app to look for a room in Apple Valley or Big Bear. I was heading to Cougar Buttes for the 2nd Annual SoCal Jeep Junkies Birthday Bash, and the earlier reviews, location, and room photos convinced me to try Embers Lodge. Glad I did. There was a great Mexican restaurant right next door. If I need a room in Big Bear again, I'll stay there.

The cabin was attractive, the Wi-Fi was decent, and there was a big kitchen with plenty of seating. It had everything we could have needed, and the kind staff let us check in early, which helped. Getting around was easy too, with everything in the area about a five-minute drive away. The downsides were a $75 cleaning fee for the larger cabin that wasn't apparent, and some cleaning had been missed: trash was left on the back patio by the previous tenants, with a few pieces inside as well. The biggest cabin's layout also didn't offer much privacy. Two queen beds shared a bedroom, and a curtain was the only divider between that room and the living area. Sound carried across the cabin, making it hard to sleep.