The River Island

A Stunning Former Cherokee Settlement Site along the South Fork River Banks

There are few spots more magical in California than the Sequoias, and this former Cherokee settlement site along the banks of the South Fork River is as enchanting as it gets.

Erected directly into a massive span of bedrock with the pyramid-shaped Blossom Peak as a backdrop and the ever-present flow of the river as your view, it was constructed to honor the landscape in serene harmony with nature.

An idyllic setting for a restorative retreat, it's also the perfect basecamp to explore the beauty of the Sierras.

Tucked away in the foothills of the Sequoia and Mineral King National Parks, this vacation home rental is set among over five acres of lush forests along the pristine South Fork riverfront. Anchored into the ancient bedrock, this landmark area once served as a settlement for Cherokee tribes where you'll find the remains of their markings in the rocks.

Constructed using muted natural materials including rock, slate, and brushed concrete, the house blends smoothly with its environment. 

The great room with its banks of windows focuses on the breathtaking scenery with two main sitting areas, one with a piano for a little musical accompaniment to the bucolic surroundings, a fully equipped kitchen, and a large dining area that seats ten. 

A winding stair up the turret leads to the en suite master bedroom featuring a unique slate and wood bathroom and a private terrace overlooking the property. There are two additional double guest rooms and two baths with room for five.

The separate guest house is an all-in-one space with a sleeping area and fully equipped kitchenette and a fun loft space large enough for two sleeping areas and a lounge, each with lovely views. 

Both buildings have expansive observatory rooftops with majestic views of the river and the landscape.

There's a heated spa nestled above the water's edge with dining and lounge terraces scattered around the structures and a separate yoga studio.

Enchanted pathways wind through the property with peaceful grassy and forested areas, a sheltered outdoor lounge, a fire pit, and a small sandy beach along the banks.  

You can wander freely and explore the expansive property where a private hiking trail leads into the woods and along the river.

AT THE BASE OF THE SIERRAS

Iconic, majestic and one of nature’s most dazzling wonders, the Sequoias, and surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains are some of the best that California has to offer. Centrally located, the house is a ten to fifteen-minute drive to the main entrance to Sequoia National Park station and both Slick Rock recreation areas and King’s Canyon National Park, and just a few minutes from Three Rivers town restaurants and shops.

South Fork Drive, where the house is located, dead-ends at the lesser-known entrance to the park where there are no fees and where you can still access great hiking trails and camp spots. There are no giant sequoias here but it’s a beautiful 20-minute drive that turns into a dirt road for the last couple of miles. Surrounded by the golden hills of the lower Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Kaweah is 10 minutes south.

It’s approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Los Angeles and 4.5 hours from San Francisco.

LOCATION 

Sequoia, California. Nearest Airport: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (1.5 hr) 

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year-round