Suncrest Lodge at Lake Cuyamaca

34540 Engineers Road, Julian, CA 92036

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.7 from 100 reviews
5 stars
81
4 stars
11
3 stars
5
2 stars
0
1 stars
3

Board and Care Home

Suncrest Lodge at Lake Cuyamaca Costs & Pricing

Suncrest Lodge at Lake Cuyamaca offers competitive pricing for its private room accommodations, with a monthly cost of $3,900. This rate is slightly more affordable than the average costs in San Diego County and throughout California, which both stand at $3,939 per month. By choosing Suncrest Lodge, residents not only benefit from a well-appointed living environment but also enjoy significant savings compared to typical rates in the surrounding region. This makes Suncrest Lodge an appealing option for those seeking quality care without compromising on comfort.

Floor plansSuncrest Lodge at Lake CuyamacaSan Diego CountyCalifornia
Private$3,900$3,939$3,939

Overall Review of Suncrest Lodge at Lake Cuyamaca

Pros

  • pro Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge is praised as a quiet, peaceful retreat set in a beautiful, remote location.
  • pro The staff are repeatedly described as friendly, attentive, and welcoming.
  • pro The food is described as spectacular, healthy, comforting, and nourishing, with massages such as Lupita's being fabulous.
  • pro The lodge grounds are noted as rustic yet clean, well kept, and beautiful.
  • pro The setting offers a spiritual, meditative vibe that helps guests rest and reset.
  • pro Guests report transformative, restorative experiences, including mindfulness, meditation, and a sense of sisterhood.
  • pro The nearby area provides opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring Julian's charm.
  • pro The views are repeatedly highlighted as stunning, including night skies and riverfront scenery.
  • pro Lorien is praised as a gracious, warm, and attentive manager.
  • pro The all-inclusive option is appreciated for convenience and nourishing meals delivered to the suite.
  • pro The retreat is described as a hidden gem and a sacred sanctuary for rest and renewal.
  • pro Spa treatments and massages are regarded as luxurious and of high caliber.

Cons

  • pro There were ants in the guest room, the drapes were not blackout, and slippers or an iPad were not provided, giving an outdated feel.
  • pro The front desk attendant seemed to care less.
  • pro A second $1,000 charge was charged to the card without the guests' consent during a medical crisis.
  • pro The management did not respond to multiple attempts to contact them after the incident, leaving the guests feeling betrayed.
  • pro The reviewers would not recommend the property.

Review

Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge and Retreat near Julian, California sits in a place that feels almost carved out of the mountains and trees - remote enough to feel like a sanctuary, yet convenient enough to be a quiet stopover between San Diego and the Anza-Borrego Desert. Across a string of independent reviews, visitors describe a setting that is absolutely beautiful, deeply peaceful, and shaped by nature: a place where silence, rhythm of the outdoors, and mindful routines can ease the mind and reset the body. Several guests emphasize how the location itself contributes to the experience - clear night skies, river-adjacent grounds, and a tranquil, almost meditative atmosphere that invites visitors to be present and slow down.

The accommodations are consistently described as rustic and uniquely charming, with a level of comfort that prioritizes rest over polish. Some travelers find the rooms a touch dated or the decor a bit worn, yet many appreciate these very traits as part of the lodge's character. The overall vibe is well-suited to a retreat or a quiet getaway: simple, clean, and comfortable enough to feel like home, with a sense of authenticity that guests say adds to the experience. A few reviews note minor impediments - ants in some rooms, drapes that aren't blackout, occasional noise from neighboring guests - but these are often balanced by the surrounding beauty, the starry night skies, and the restful environment that guests seek here.

Food and wellness programs receive strong praise. Guests frequently describe meals as nourishing, diverse, and thoughtfully prepared, with particular affection for vegetarian options and the idea of mindful, soul-soothing cooking. One guest highlights a chef by name and the quality of the culinary offerings, while another mentions all-inclusive meal service delivered to the room, which can be a welcome convenience for those seeking a truly hands-off, restorative stay. In addition to meals, many guests speak highly of spa and body-work offerings. A standout massage experience with a practitioner named Lupita is repeatedly praised, and several visitors note the rejuvenating feel of spa treatments as part of the retreat's restorative appeal.

Mindfulness, meditation, and spiritual ambiance are central threads in many reviews. Several guests describe the lodge as a "sacred sanctuary" where mindfulness, silence, and nature become life-changing elements of the visit. One account even mentions an integration of Tibetan Buddhist and Hindu-inspired aesthetics and practices, suggesting a space that blends different spiritual influences to nourish the mind and soul. The property is repeatedly framed as more than a simple getaway - it's portrayed as a retreat that fosters inner reflection, quiet observation, and a sense of personal renewal. For some, the experience also includes community aspects like writing circles and opportunities to connect with fellow guests in a supportive, sisterly or peer-centered setting, which adds a social dimension to the quiet and contemplative environment.

Staff and hospitality are frequently highlighted as a cornerstone of the experience. Visitors speak of warm, attentive, and gracious service, with several names mentioned as making a meaningful difference. Lorien, described as a gracious and devoted manager, features prominently in multiple reviews as the face of hospitality: warm, attentive, and genuinely caring. Other staff members - sometimes identified by first names - are praised for their kindness and responsiveness, whether arranging an all-inclusive package, helping with special dietary needs, or simply ensuring guests feel seen and cared for. A common thread is the sense that the team goes above and beyond to create a calm, respectful space for healing and rest.

Not every note is perfectly harmonious, and a few reviews balance the positives with cautionary reminders. Some guests report challenges with communication and responsiveness, especially when trying to confirm bookings or adjust plans. There's also a notable cautionary tale about a traumatic personal situation in which a second charge was processed to a credit card without consent, followed by difficulties in contacting staff for resolution. That experience casts a shadow that some readers may find concerning, underscoring the importance of clear written terms and proactive communication if you're navigating sensitive or urgent circumstances. Additional minor drawbacks mentioned by a subset of guests include some noise from neighboring rooms, the occasional presence of ants, and the sense that the property's appearance can feel a touch dated. Taken together, these details suggest that while the lodge excels at quiet and restoration, it may require careful planning and explicit agreements in certain scenarios.

For travelers seeking a peaceful, restorative escape that emphasizes mindfulness, nature, and gentle, attentive service, Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge and Retreat offers a compelling option. The location's beauty, combined with the calm, meditative atmosphere, many guests say, provides a rare chance to unplug, reset, and reconnect with a slower pace of life. The food, spa experiences, and varieties of wellness activities - the writing circles, the chance to kayak or hike nearby, and the option to indulge in an all-inclusive meal plan - contribute to a holistic sense of renewal. At the same time, potential guests would do well to consider practicalities around communication and billing policies, and to confirm details in writing to avoid misunderstandings or delays should personal circumstances require changes. Overall, for those drawn to a quiet, sacred space that honors rest as a form of healing, the lodge appears to deliver an experience that many describe as unforgettable and transformative.

Features

Types of Care

  • Board and Care Home Board and Care HomeBoard and care homes provide a smaller, more intimate setting for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks but do not need the level of care offered by a nursing home. They offer personalized care, meals, and social activities in a homelike environment, ensuring that seniors receive individualized attention and support in their golden years.

Pets

  • Cats allowed Cats allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
  • Dogs allowed Dogs allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.

Amenities

  • Private PrivatePrivacy is important for seniors as it allows them to maintain their independence, dignity, and sense of control over their own lives. It also gives them the space and freedom to relax, reflect, and engage in activities that bring them joy and fulfillment. Creating private spaces within senior living facilities is crucial for promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Respite or short term stays offered Respite or short term stays offeredRespite or short term stays provide seniors with a temporary solution when their regular caregiver is unavailable, offering them the opportunity to receive additional care and support during times of need, while also giving caregivers a chance to rest and recharge.

Care Services

  • Ambulatory care Ambulatory care"Ambulatory care services provide essential medical support and treatment to seniors without requiring hospitalization, allowing them to maintain their independence and quality of life while managing chronic conditions or receiving routine medical care."
  • High acuity care High acuity careHigh acuity care is important for seniors because it provides specialized medical attention and support for individuals with complex medical needs. This level of care ensures that seniors receive the appropriate treatment and assistance to maintain their health and quality of life as they age.
  • Incontinence care Incontinence careIncontinence care is essential for seniors to maintain their dignity, hygiene, and overall quality of life. By addressing incontinence issues promptly and effectively, seniors can enjoy a sense of independence and comfort in their daily activities.

Dining

  • Kosher KosherKosher options are important for seniors because they adhere to dietary laws that are significant to many Jewish individuals, providing them with peace of mind and an opportunity to maintain their cultural traditions and beliefs while living in a senior living community.
  • Meals provided Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities.
  • Vegetarian VegetarianA vegetarian diet is important for seniors because it can help lower the risk of chronic diseases, maintain a healthy weight, and provide essential nutrients needed for aging bodies. Additionally, plant-based diets are often easier on digestive systems and can contribute to overall well-being in older adults.

Description

Suncrest Lodge at Lake Cuyamaca in Julian, CA is a charming assisted living community offering a range of amenities and care services to cater to the unique needs of its residents. With a focus on creating a comfortable and enjoyable environment, Suncrest Lodge offers respite or short term stays for individuals seeking temporary care.

The community's care services are designed to provide high acuity support, ensuring that residents with complex medical needs receive the utmost attention and assistance. In addition, specialized incontinence care is available for those who require it, ensuring their comfort and quality of life.

Meals at Suncrest Lodge are provided, with an emphasis on providing nutritious and flavorful options. The dining experience caters to different dietary preferences and restrictions, including vegetarian choices. Whether residents have specific dietary requirements or simply prefer a plant-based lifestyle, they can find delicious meals tailored to their needs.

At Suncrest Lodge, residents can enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Cuyamaca in Julian, CA while receiving exceptional care and support from a compassionate staff. From personalized assistance to engaging social activities, this assisted living community aims to enhance the well-being and overall happiness of its residents.

Nearby Places of Interest

Physicians

  • Southern Indian Health Council (13.6 miles)
  • West Coast Eye Care & Acuity Eye Group - Alpine (15.6 miles)
  • David S Dassoff MD (17.1 miles)
  • Dr Susan Homesley's Office (17.2 miles)
  • Pushpanjalie Wijeratne, MD (23.4 miles)
  • Elahe Toulouie, MD (23.8 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (14.6 miles)
  • CroBean (14.7 miles)
  • Starbucks (20 miles)
  • Kendall's Cafe (21.7 miles)
  • Calico's Coffee Shop (21.7 miles)
  • The Fudge Factory (21.8 miles)
  • Okavango Outpost (25 miles)

Restaurants

  • Janet's Montana Cafe (14.9 miles)
  • Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (17.5 miles)
  • Jack In The Box (20.1 miles)
  • Sycuan Casino Resort (20.2 miles)
  • The Fox Den Bar (21 miles)
  • Big Horn Bar & Grill (21.1 miles)
  • The Arches (21.4 miles)

Pharmacies

  • CVS Pharmacy (15.5 miles)
  • Rite Aid (17.3 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (17.5 miles)
  • Health Mart Pharmacy (21.6 miles)
  • Walmart Pharmacy (21.9 miles)
  • Rite Aid (22.5 miles)
  • Walgreens (24.5 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Our Lady Of Perpetual Help Cathollc Church (20.9 miles)
  • Christian Center (21.2 miles)
  • Community United Methodist Church (21.4 miles)
  • Borrego Lutheran Church (21.4 miles)
  • Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (22.1 miles)
  • Southern Baptist Convention (22.2 miles)

Parks

  • Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (21 miles)
  • Superstition Mountain Ohv (21.2 miles)
  • Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area (21.2 miles)
  • Borrego Springs Park (21.6 miles)
  • Christmas Circle (21.9 miles)
  • Iron Mountain Trailhead (22.6 miles)
  • Shadow Hill Park (23.9 miles)

Transportation

  • U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (21.9 miles)
  • Borrego Valley Airport (L08) (23.6 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Nearby Communities

Related Resources

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