FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

 

What is the best way to reserve the Chesa Madrisa?

The best way to reserve dates at the Chesa Madrisa is to book directly on this website via the "BOOK NOW" button.  The Chesa Madrisa is also listed on Airbnb & VRBO, but those sites add service/booking fees that can add up to 15% onto your total.  I'm happy to answer any questions prior to booking - info@chesamadrisa.com

 

What is your cancellation policy?

The Chesa Madrisa has a 'no refunds' policy, however we try to be flexible.  As a small business, cancellations can have a large impact.  Please see the rate page for more details on cancellation policy.

 

Do you have a minimum night stay?

There is generally a 2 night minimum stay, which goes up to 5 nights for peak summer season & select holidays.  Minimums can be flexible when filling gaps between bookings, or within two weeks of a booking - please feel free to reach out.  

 

How far are you from Bear Valley & where's the best sledding?

The Chesa Madrisa is 21 miles from Bear Valley & the drive can take 30 minutes or longer depending on road conditions. Visit the Sno Park website to check out sledding options.  Spicer is a popular Sno Park nearby. 

 

Do you provide outdoor gear?

The Chesa Madrisa has a set of outdoor folding beach chairs for guests. Our insurance prevents us from providing sleds & activity gear for guests. Bicycles & kayaks can both be rented from Bear Valley Adventure Co or SNAC in Arnold. 

 

Can we come early or stay late?  

Maybe!  Please inquire a few days prior to your stay as we offer a few options for arriving early or departing later (Flex Check).  The standard check-in time is 4pm.  The standard check-out time is 11am.  You may not arrive early or stay late without permission as this can disrupt our cleaner's schedule.  Flex Check offers early check in after 10am for $100 and late check out before 5pm for $100.  It's a great way to squeeze some extra time out of your vacation, but it is subject to availability so please ask. 

 

Is the Chesa Madrisa wheelchair accessible?

No, unfortunately our cabin is not wheelchair accessible.  It has steps between the garage and the home, and the bedrooms are all on the lower level of the cabin.

 

Are we allowed to smoke at the Chesa Madrisa?

No, the Chesa Madrisa is a completely smoke free property both inside & outside. 

 

What personal care amenities are included?

The Chesa Madrisa provides all the basics: shampoo, conditioner, body gel, and bar soap.  We also have a basket with common toiletries for guests that they may have accidentally left behind at home. Hair dryers are also provided in each bathroom.

 

Are linens included?

Yes.  The Chesa Madrisa includes sheets & bed linens, as well as bath towels, beach/pool towels & extra blankets for your comfort.  The cleaning fee does not include laundering of beach/pool towels & extra blankets.

 

What's provided for cooking?

The Chesa Madrisa supplies basic seasonings & cooking items, such as salt, pepper, oil, sugar, & flour.  We also have assorted condiment packets.  The refrigerator and freezer are clean and empty for guests.  Bring your favorite coffee, tea, or other consumables from home.  The bakeware & cooking utensils are more than ample, and many guests have made large holiday meals with everything provided.

 

Is there a grill?

Yes, there is a propane grill for guests to use on the deck.  Please clean grill after use for the next guest - cleaning is not included in the cleaning fee.  Spare propane tank is located in the garage. 

 

Can I squeeze in extra guests if they don't mind bringing sleeping bags?  

No. We strictly follow our maximum occupancy listed for the comfort and safety of all guests.  

 

Do you have cable TV & wifi?

Yes, we have good wifi & many guests have done work & school from the Chesa Madrisa.  We have cable TV on 2 TVs in the common areas, and no cable channels on the Smart TV in the middle bedroom - that is a Roku TV and guests may sign into their own personal accounts for entertainment.

 

Do you have a phone?

Yes, there is a phone for guests at the Chesa Madrisa, as cell service can be poor in our area.  The phone is part of xfinity service and if xfinity is down then the phone will not work. 

 

Do guests have access to a laundry room?

Yes, we have full size Electrolux front loading washer & dryer for guests to use during their stay, as well as detergent.

 

Do you need a business license to operate a vacation rental? 

Yes, Calaveras County requires owners to have a business license and we are #224.  We collect & remit county transient occupancy taxes to support our local economy.

 

Are there cameras inside or outside the cabin?

There are no cameras inside the cabin.  There are 2 cameras on the exterior in publicly visible areas.  Privacy of guests is valued. 

 

Can I ship a package?

Our address is not serviced by the United States Postal Service.  FedEx & UPS deliver to the cabin. 

 

Is there AC? 

Yes, there is AC at the Chesa Madrisa, however it is a challenge to get the large main upper level to cool off below 75 during peak summer heatwaves.  The bedrooms on the lower level all stay nice & cool.

 

What baby gear do you offer?

The Chesa Madrisa has an array of baby gear including Baby Bjorn portable crib, Fisher Price high chair, and Little Einstein exersaucer.  We also have toys for toddlers and children. 

 

What is the layout of the bedrooms? 

All 3 bedrooms are connected to a large hallway on the lower level.  Each bedroom has its own king size bed & attached full bathroom.

 

Where can children sleep?  
There are bunk beds for children and 2 extra folding twin size cots in the closet at the base of the stairs that may be moved where you would like. 

 

How can I stay in touch if I'm not ready to book yet?

The Chesa Madrisa has a quarterly newsletter - you can sign up on the website, or if you send an inquiry you'll automatically be added to the email list and you may opt out at any time.  Following on Instagram is another great way to keep in touch and be among the first to hear when dates are released @chesa.madrisa.vacation.home.

 

I just booked - What's next?

Thanks for booking!  You'll receive a confirmation of your dates, your card will be charged the balance due 30 days prior to your stay, and then approximately 2 days before your stay you will receive an email with lockbox key code and welcome packet full of details.  If you have questions before then please feel free to reach out anytime. 

 

Can I reschedule my dates if there's no snow? 

No, we can not accommodate cancellations due to weather, or lack of snow.  The snow season varies widely from one year to the next and is unpredictable.  Spring break sometimes has 4 feet of snow & sometimes it is 70 degrees and sunny.  If you must have snow for your visit I'd encourage you to wait to book until right before your travel dates. 

 

Who are you? 

I'm Hillary Gibson and my family has owned this cabin for 20 years - my grandparents were the original owners.  I'll be your point person throughout your booking - we do not have any 3rd party management etc.  I live just outside of Portland, Oregon with my husband & our son.  If you have any questions please feel free to reach out anytime.