Sessions Retreat & Hotel

We decided to add a night to our Big Bear trip and were glad we chose Sessions Retreat & Hotel. The adjoining rooms worked perfectly for our group: two queen beds for two couples and a king room next door for a family of four. The location was very accessible, too. My sister and I pay attention to details, and we both liked how the hotel’s unique design was balanced with practical touches. It felt cozy throughout. Venicia was kind and accommodating, and helped make sure we could stay next to each other. Thanks to the whole Sessions team for a memorable one-night stay. I’d happily return and recommend it.

The reception was friendly, but the facilities didn’t feel worth $200. Guests are expected to do all the paperwork on their own phones. Our first room had no heater, and after waiting 30 minutes, we asked to move. The replacement room was meant for two people but had just one chair. The heater made loud noises all night. At 7:45 in the morning, the office was closed, even though morning coffee there is advertised. No one was around to help, and there weren’t even basic items like a spoon. After check-in, it felt like a ghost hotel and we were on our own. The owner seems to mistake self-service for comfort. It’s more like an Airbnb, except you still have to bring everything yourself.

The staff were so kind, and having complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate in the lobby where you check in was a nice touch. We stayed in a motel-style room with two queen beds, a bath, and a fridge. It was a little tight for the kids to roam, but still worked great for our family of four. There are larger rooms and suites too. It was my first stay here and I already fell in love with the place. It was super cold but hadn’t started snowing yet, which the kids still enjoyed. I didn’t get to see the bar area because there was an event going on, but I’ll definitely come back when it’s warmer so we can use the pool. I’d recommend it. If you see my review, I have a 15% off code to share, use BBSESH 🫶

I liked how easy it was to make the stay my own. You can journal, chat with people, or just settle by the fire and enjoy Big Bear, without being put on a strict retreat schedule. Sessions Retreat feels more like a thoughtfully designed mountain hotel with a wellness feel. The sauna, cold plunge, outdoor fire pits, and relaxing shared spaces make it easy to unwind and recharge. It’s peaceful, beautifully designed, and has a cozy lodge atmosphere. If you want something different from a regular cabin or hotel while visiting Big Bear, Sessions is worth checking out.