Pyramid House
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| Details | |
|---|---|
| Bedrooms | 2 |
| Bathrooms | 2 |
| Sleeps | 6 |
| House | |
| FlipKey traveler rating |
| 18 reviews |
| Stayed here? Write a review. |
Get the real scoop!
All reviews are written by verified travelers
Details
| Rental type | House |
| Minimum Stay | 2 nights |
| Bedrooms | 2 Total |
| Bathrooms | 2 Total |
| Sleeps | 6 |
| Suitability |
Pet friendlyAsk Smoking allowedAsk Suitable for childrenAsk Suitable for the elderlyAsk Wheelchair accessibleAsk |
Description from the manager
Dog Friendly / Internet / Riverfront / Spa Pyramid House, an architectural delight, is a rare find in a vacation rental. Not only are all the most desirable amenities offered, including river access and views, a hot tub, a gas fireplace , privacy, redwoods, dog friendly and high-end electronics , the house itself is unique and offers its lucky guests one-of-a-kind accommodations. Add numerous windows, comfortable beds with memory foam mattresses and fine linens, delicate touches and serene privacy, and you have a truly outstanding place to stay. The interior at Pyramid House is nothing short of amazing. The very open floor plan is at the same...Read more
Amenities
Location
Pyramid House
Monte Rio, California
What's Nearby:
Additional Location Information
Rates
Rates shown in $ USD (change)
| Date | Weeknight | Weekend Night | Weekly | Monthly | Minimum Stay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rate Summary | $255 - $325 | $255 - $325 | $0 | $0 | 2 nights |
| May. 27 2013 - Jun. 28 2013 | $295 | $295 | - | - | 2 nights |
| Jun. 29 2013 - Aug. 23 2013 | $295 | $295 | - | - | 7 nights |
| Aug. 24 2013 - Aug. 29 2013 | $295 | $295 | - | - | 3 nights |
| Aug. 30 2013 - Sep. 1 2013 | $325 | $325 | - | - | 3 nights |
| Sep. 2 2013 - Sep. 30 2013 | $295 | $295 | - | - | 3 nights |
| Can't find rates for your travel dates? Contact the manager | |||||
| Oct. 1 2013 - Oct. 14 2013 | $295 | $295 | - | - | 2 nights |
| Oct. 15 2013 - Nov. 24 2013 | $255 | $255 | - | - | 2 nights |
| Nov. 25 2013 - Nov. 30 2013 | $295 | $295 | - | - | 4 nights |
| Dec. 1 2013 - Dec. 19 2013 | $255 | $255 | - | - | 2 nights |
| Dec. 20 2013 - Dec. 28 2013 | $295 | $295 | - | - | 3 nights |
| Dec. 29 2013 - Jan. 1 2014 | $325 | $325 | - | - | 3 nights |
| View all 11 Rate Periods | |||||
Availability
AvailableUnavailable Last updated: June 11, 2013 ◀▶
What Past Guests Are Saying
Overall Rating
ExcellentVery Good
Average
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Annette
OaklandMystical, Beautiful
Left on 06/06/2013 for a stay in January 2013
I loved the Pyramid house. The actual house and grounds are private/gated without any cars whizzing by, I love the redwoods on the property, it was spacious, very clean, it has a kitchen and grill that makes you want to cook up a great meal. There's a wide open clear view of the river and trees from inside and of course from the large deck. While inside the structure/the home - even gazing to the top center of the house is incredible - you can see much architectural thought was put into the home. I love the warmth of all the wood and there are two private separate sleeping areas. I do love all the homes I stayed at thru Russian River vacation Homes - just this one has a depth to it that appealed to me. It was perfectly quiet and gave me the solitude in nature that I needed.
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 06/15/2013
Manager
Hi!
We love Pyramid House too! Thank you for sharing why you love it with future guests. We had a special treat meeting some of the original construction crew and general contractor of the house this year and they still love the project and speak of it fondly!
I hope we'll see you again!
:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
Chris Hines
Santa Rosa, CAPleasant Week-end.
Left on 10/21/2012 for a stay in September 2012
The Pyramid House is certainly interesting construction, and it is enjoyable to week-end on the Russian River; however,the house needs a rigorous cleaning. There was dust in the air when we arrived and grit underfoot. The furniture is all so low that it is not meant for tall or old people, and we are both. It is not comfortable furniture. The outdoor furniture is also utilitarian. A window pane downstairs beside the side door had a long crack in it which made us feel we should not use that door. I have to say we were shocked that the house would be rented with that crack in the glass. We called the office immediately after seeing it, but no one was there to speak to us. All the windows are dirty and the views are a large part of the reason for doing this kind of vacation. The linens are good but seemed as if they had been sitting in the dryer and so were very wrinkled which made us think, at first, they had not been changed. The river front of the house is wild and thus it is hard to get to the river. It looks as though terracing was begun but not finished. That would be an important project to make the house more enjoyable. The lack of a boat dock complicates the use of kayaks provided. Outside lighting in the front of the house is very poor and creates a dangerous situation as the stairs are irregular. Sound carries throughout the house so a snore in any part is heard all over the house. The TV upstairs does not work well. Most channels it gets are snowy.
At the same time I would have to say the kitchen is well supplied, everything (except upstairs TV) worked as it should, and once we had adjusted to the disappointments I have mentioned, we had a good time.
A few improvements are needed. Terracing the front, building a boat dock, getting some real furniture and cleaning it up including shiny clean windows would make us want to return. As it is we will try other rentals for our next river trip.Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 10/27/2012
Manager
Hello -
We're so sorry you didn't just love the house! Under the redwood trees it's downright difficult to keep windows clean and there's a constant accumulation of redwood debris and dust. That said, they house should be clean and we're happy to call the cleaners back if something isn't right. We bring in professional window cleaners to address the up high windows, that normal folks just can't reach, a couple times a year.
Sadly, we are aware of the cracked window next to the door. It is a single pane in a wall of many windows and has been examined by a glass specialist. It's not dangerous nor easily replaced, so we are working with the owners and glass specialist to determine the best way to change out that one window pane. Of course, this has to happen when there are no guests for a good chunk of time, so special planning is required.
I can see from the dates of your stay that the summer dams had been taken out prior to your arrival the the water level in the river had dropped. When the water level is higher, the river access looks like the photos and a dock is not necessary. Once the dames are removed floating docks are not permitted as they can break free in a storm or flood and cause damage down river. And boats are not available once the water level goes down as well, for guest safety.
We wish you'd left a message at the office so we knew about your concerns with the window and TV and could let you know the window is safe and the TV may have just needed a single adjustment. It is working correctly now. Every TV is different and sometimes going back to the default settings clears up whatever's going on. Our whole area has also just switched to the new Comcast Digital service and every TV now has it's own box.
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
Happy camper
Discovery BayBeautiful private house in a great setting
Left on 10/20/2012 for a stay in September 2012
We loved this place. The front yard is totally secure for letting our 2 dogs roam. The deck was also a gated secure area. Although the beach is shared with 2 or 3 other properties we were fortunate to have it to ourselves all week. The design of the house worked fine for us. We did not use the ground floor bedroom but I can understand other reviewers concern about the proximity of the bathroom. Sun bathing was limited to mornings due to the surrounding greenery.
We found it strange that there was no kettle or toaster.
The doors that open to the deck can be hazardous but I know management are working to resolve that problem.
The management staff were great and could not be more helpful.
We would definitely stay again and would even consider purchasing it if it ever went on the market.Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 10/27/2012
Manager
Hello!
Thanks for the review!!! It's a great chance to clear things up! We're so glad you had a great time at the house - it's a favorite among guests.
After your review, we sent someone to double check - and they found the toaster in the kitchen... Maybe it had been moved into a cabinet during your stay, odd though. And if something like a toaster is really missing, we have loaners! But that sort of thing is generally checked before guests arrive.
The downstairs bathroom is directly below the upstairs bathroom which means it is closest to the kitchen. With such unusual architecture, the builders kept the plumbing (kitchen and bathrooms) in the same area to preserve the openness in the rest of the house.
And we are working closely with the owners to find a way to make the doors to the decks better. Again, as a function of the amazing home design, the huge windows on the "walls" facing the windows make traditional doors difficult. The doors are not what I would call hazardous, but more difficult. One is slow to close and needs a tug to latch while the other has a tendency to close and lock when you step outside... We've added a sign next to this one so guests aren't locked out! We hope to have this resolved shortly... And without disturbing the feel of the house.
And one last bit - in California, all navigable waterways are public. This includes the river front and beaches up to the high water mark. Generally folks are pretty cool about sticking the the area in front of their homes and the big public beaches for the wide sandy stretches. Occasionally folks will pull up in front of other homes to get out of their boats and carry them over to their own property if there isn't a good spot in front of their houses. As a river community, we're pretty comfortable with that. It's a community thing, and a great opportunity to get tips on the best fishing holes and say hi to the locals!
I hope this all helps clarify and that we'll see you again next year!!!
:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
The Hammond family
Granite Bay, CaliforniaThe pyramid house was a memorable experience.
Left on 09/20/2012 for a stay in August 2012
We arrived at the pyramid house tired and stressed. We left a week later relaxed and filled with wonderful memories. The house is right on the river which we ventured out on every day. Sitting on the large deck was the most relaxing experience we could hope for. The house was well maintained and clean. Our family will always remember this vacation as one of the best ever.
Randy and Kathy HammondResponse from Russian River Vacation Homes - 10/01/2012
Manager
That's the magic of the River!
Lena Hoffman
Russian River Vacation Homes
-
Alexander, a builder
San Franciscoone loft, no doors, no privacy, no steps to the river
Left on 07/21/2012 for a stay in April 2012
Deposit from the credit card was charged $150 without an invoice, sun on the property 3 hours a day
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 08/30/2012
Manager
Hello -
This guest's deposit was returned in full. Whenever guests pay with multiple credit cards or half by check and half by credit card, the security deposit is returned the same way it was paid. This means the security deposit is refunded to each card, or by check, and doesn't always show in one lump amount. If there is damage to a property and we have to withhold funds from the security deposit, we let you know! If there's a receipt for cleaning or repair we're happy to forward it along as well. It just depends on the type of damage done as to whether or not we have an invoice.
Pyramid House is a superb property and it is architecturally unique! It's been featured on FlipKey's top picks and we love it. But, you do need to read the description and look at the photos to see how the rooms and spaces work together. All the bathrooms have doors - of course! And houses tucked under the redwood trees have wonderful shade! We love that too! When it's a 100 degrees in Santa Rosa, it's cooler at the river and the redwood trees are our air conditioning!
Like almost all homes on the river, Pyramid House has steps to the high water line and a path beyond that to the river. Otherwise, the river covers and erodes the stairs every winter when the water comes up!
I hope this helps folks understand our procedures and the house... And we wish this guest had called to talk with us during his stay if he was so unhappy. But we have checked and double checked that his full security deposit was refunded. -
Vicki C.
Fresno, CAUnique with views
Left on 04/09/2012 for a stay in March 2012
My sister and I stayed at the Pyramid House and found it very comfortable. Others expressed concerns that the bedrooms lacked privacy, this was not a problem for us. The beds were comfortable and enjoyed the view of the River. However, the pots and pans really need to be cleaned out. Some old crusty stuff in there. The broiler did not work. However, we love the area and will return again.
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 04/28/2012
Manager
Hello!
Thank you for the review! We're sorry to hear things weren't in tip-top shape when you arrived. We've asked the cleaners to address the pots and pans, but we encourage you to call us if there is ever anything amiss with cleaning or appliances! While we rely on the cleaners and our home inspectors to check things between guests, it's hard to check every setting on the oven or each mode of a blender.Your feedback helps us so much. Thank you! And we will send cleaners out to a home if something's been missed.
Pyramid House is completely unique and we've posted photos and descriptions on our website to show the bedrooms and open living spaces. It is hard to describe, but we think it's pretty darn wonderful... And we're glad it worked out for you.
:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
John
San FranciscoDeck issue
Left on 03/21/2012 for a stay in February 2012
The deck has potential structural problem as one of the two major cantilever deck beam is rotting. Feel free to contact me about more information.
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 04/09/2012
Manager
Dear guest, thank you for following up with us about your review! For those reading, we have spoken with this guest and he was just bringing something to our attention that is the beginning of a potential problem sometime in the future. We also had a contractor swing by and look at the deck. The deck is sound and any potential structural issues will be addressed before they become a real problem.
-Ellen -
The MoKeChiin's
San Bruno, CAA weekend to remember...
Left on 03/19/2012 for a stay in February 2012
It was a last minute Valentine gift decision for my lovely wife... and it was a weekend to remember! This home is a one of kind, unique experience that me, my wife, and our cute poochy "mochii" had ever done. Although the weather didn't cooperate, the spectacular interior accommodations were enough to satisfy. Comfy beds, loungy couches were superb and the kitchen was also great. The outside surroundings of this magnificent home is to die for. The redwood trees were picture perfect and of course the river was stunning. Birds sung every morning as the sun touches the river as it shines. Wonderful! We will be going back soon!
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 04/28/2012
Manager
Thank you!
For the awesome photo and the review! Both capture the essence of the Russian River and why it's so great to be here at any time of year! We'll put in a request for sun during your next visit though...
:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
Ms. Marcianelli
San FranciscoBest House on the River!
Left on 02/28/2012 for a stay in October 2011
We love to vacation on the Russian River and after staying at many houses over the years this one is hands down the best! The Pyramid house is simply gorgeous, photos don't do it justice. The kitchen had everything we needed to cook, and since I don't have a dishwasher at home it was an extra treat. We had so much fun lounging on these amazing couches around the fireplace which perfectly facilitated conversation and found ourselves drifting out to the deck to admire the river. We saw so many birds and wildlife I wish I would have remembered my binoculars. The was more than enough room for our party of two couples and we are already planning another trip back.
Although we could have just stayed there the whole time and just grilled on the deck and played games there is just too much to do in the area to resist. The house is right in wine country and very close to some of Sonoma's best vineyards. We really enjoyed the tours at Merry Edwards and Martinelli. For a special treat dinner at the Farmhouse Inn could not be more romantic and delicious. But the best part is the private hot tub under the redwoods waiting for us at the Pyramid house. We cant wait to go back!
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 04/28/2012
Manager
Wow!
You said it all... Thank you! We're so glad you had a great time and shared it with us and potential renters. I hope we'll see you soon - and thank you for sharing a photo too!
:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
Stephanie Ruby
Oakland, CAWhat a great space!
Left on 02/15/2012 for a stay in January 2012
We had a wonderful stay there in January 2012 for romantic birthday getaway and the house is quite stunning and spacious. We stayed there in large part because of the winder special rate!! The only critique to make is that none of the dishes are real dishes...only the glasses and coffee mugs. Everything else is plastic?? That sort of killed the romantic home cooked meal experience. Every other vacation home we have stayed in has always invested in real dining ware...seems like this place should also. Otherwise, everything else was just great!
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 02/18/2012
Manager
Hello!
Thanks for sharing your review! Pyramid House is pretty darn awesome! A quick response about the plates and such is that they are not plastic but a tempered glass that makes it shatter-resistant. It's called "Corelle." The owners selected this style because it's dishwasher safe, doesn't scratch when stacked and if it does somehow chip, guests are less likely to be cut. I hope that makes sense...
:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
Paivi H.
La Crescenta, CAGreat energy!
Left on 01/18/2012 for a stay in December 2011
My husband and I, and our two dogs, spent a week at the Pyramid House over Christmas and we all loved it! The house has great positive energy. The open floor plan, high ceilings and views of the river and the trees truly expand the mind. However, if one is looking for privacy inside the house, there is none.
We enjoyed the mornings on the river, days at the beaches (many allow dogs) and evenings outside in the hot tub, surrounded by the great trees. Very relaxing! It was also a pleasant surprise to find a Christmas tree waiting for us since we had planned on buying one ourselves.
The staff at Russian River Vacation Homes was extremely helpful and very personable, adding to our satisfaction with the stay. They even had turned the hot tub on for us before our arrival! Just fix that side door; I nearly broke my finger when it slammed shut.
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 01/19/2012
Manager
Hello!
Thank you for sharing a review and your kind words! We enjoyed your stay as well... Especially the office pup!
The owners of Pyramid House had a tree brought in just before you arrived, so we're extra glad you appreciated the effort! I'll have to call you offline to ask about the side door - we're not aware of something awry with it... We're always happy to hear from guests during their stay if something needs to be fixed! Someone will look at it right away!
Have a great year and I hope we'll see you again!
:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
a group of teachers
Castro ValleyRelaxation
Left on 12/22/2011 for a stay in November 2011
Our group was celebrating a 40 birthday party. We loved the uniquness archeitecture of this cabin. In fact we would have loved to know the cabins history. There were windows every where and the views were beautiful. The furniture (beds, sofas, and tables)were high end and very comfortable. We all had a great night's sleep. The kitchen was sufficient but not for a gourmet cook. The deck was very large and the river truely a short walk to the bottom of the hill. I would stay at this cabin for sure again. With that said it is important for prospective renters to be aware that the cabin is very open and lacks privacy. Not ideal for two couples that might like private time. I would go there with my family or a group of of close friends. There is plenty of secure parking. This is a great place, check it out!
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 12/28/2011
Manager
Hello!
Thank you for sharing your experience with future guests! We try to let folks know about the very open floor plan of this home... There are not doors on the bedrooms and the walls are open some too since the rooms are loft-style. It's such an architecturally interesting home that many folks don't mind the openness.
I'm glad you enjoyed the property - super-nice beds - and the decks and views too. It's an awesome spot to relax at the river in sunny or rainy weather.
Thanks again!
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
Linda
VallejoA mixed bag
Left on 10/27/2011 for a stay in September 2011
The house was easy to find and we appreciated the enclosed parking area. The setting was serene and we enjoyed relaxing and dining together with gorgeous views. There were challenges though, the folks in the upper sleeping area were too warm and downstairs too cold. The outside lighting was minimal making the trip to the hot tub at night kind of scary. Finally, during the day we would have liked to open doors and windows for air flow but doors and most windows don't have screens on them, and yes, there are mosquitos.
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 11/02/2011
Manager
Hi!
Thank you for leaving a detailed review for Pyramid House! We'll check on the heating system! And remind the owners how great window screens are for guests... Feedback helps make a house better every time!
:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
Earthman
Aliso Viejo, CaAwsome House
Left on 09/22/2011 for a stay in July 2011
The Servise was exceptional and attentive, they even changed the hot tub water before our arrival. The home is very comfortable and the location on the river is awsome. The house could use some brighter lighting inside to read, which currently is impossible without a head lamp. We used the Kayak;s every day and the location is close to everything you may want to do. I highly recommend the zip line through the redwoods in alliance Grove. The house is perfect for a small Family of three with a lab, or friends that are super comfortable with each other since the bedrooms are basically open. One of The best things is the yard is large and fenced in so the Lab Sophie could be out without worry. She really enjoyed swimming in the river. Overall we had a great time in the Pyramid House and will stay there again.
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 09/24/2011
Manager
Hi!
Pyramid House is totally unique with an open floor plan, mostly open architecture and built in netting sculpture! But, you are right about traveling with folks you like... Sound does travel between the rooms and there are not firm lockable doors on the bedrooms (there are on the bathrooms though). The house's unique design doesn't lend itself to lots of lighting fixtures, though there are many now, for spot-specific lighting. The owners have been working with an electrician and have updated much of the wiring in the process. We'll pass along your comment about reading lights and see if we can remedy the issue.
And we're glad Sophie enjoyed the yard and river!
:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
Jeremy
San FranciscoGreat place to relax!
Left on 09/15/2011 for a stay in August 2011
Right on the river and very comfy. Perfect week away to do nothing and relax in the house or in the water. Have a fire outside or inside while watching a movie.
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 09/17/2011
Manager
Hello!
We're glad you enjoyed Pyramid House! We love it too!
:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
Leigh W.
Redwood City, CAGreat family vacation
Left on 09/14/2011 for a stay in August 2011
We loved the Pyramid house, very unique. It does not have many walls or doors so you are all "living together" and there is almost no privacy but for a family experience it worked out fine. The property's river access/kayaks were good for young children as well as the neighborhood beach down the street. It was an old fashioned family trip with blackberries to pick along side the road and a river to swim in.
-
DJ in PS
Palm Springs, CAGreat House
Left on 08/18/2011 for a stay in June 2011
Spent the weekend at the Pyramid House, great location over looking the river. The building is amazing, nothing like it in the Russian River area. Had a great time.
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 08/19/2011
Manager
We're glad you enjoyed Pyramid House!
:)
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes -
CharlesB
San FranciscoFantastic Getaway House
Left on 05/13/2011 for a stay in March 2011
My partner, our 6 month old and our dog was supposed to spend a nice long weekend in Yosemite. Unfortunately the weather was not cooperating so at the last minute we changed out plans and decided to spend the weekend up near the river. Although Monte Rio is by no means Yosemite, what we really needed was a place to get away for the daily routine and relax. The Pyramid House was the perfect place for this.
It rained the entire weekend we were there, but having the flooring to ceiling windows and the spectacular views of the river, we were quite content staying indoors.
The house is more ideal for a small family and not a group of friends as all of the bedrooms are open. The hot tub is not in the ideal location, just off the road. But overall this house is fantastic and we will definitely be back.
Response from Russian River Vacation Homes - 06/03/2011
Manager
Hi!
It's great to hear you enjoyed Pyramid House even in the rain! I think it would be awesome in any weather... The hot tub is on one of the decks behind a very secure and private fence, but it is on the road side of the house, sort of. The pictures on our website show it pretty well. You can't see or be seen from the road while at the hot tub... Structurally, it is the best spot for the hot tub on the deck. But we'll pass the note on to the owners.
Megan Perkins
Russian River Vacation Homes
Here 3 more rentals located nearby.
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