Knickerbocker Mansion

Nestled among the towering pines, breathtaking lake and charming Village of Big Bear Lake, California, is the distinctive Knickerbocker Mansion. On the edge of the San Bernardino National Forest the main lodge and carriage house were once a private estate that was converted to a one-of-a-kind, bed and breakfast in the mid 1980's. A four season resort perched on 2 1/2 acres, the Mansion and Carriage House are two of the oldest and most historic structures in the region. The Inn is known for its unique vertical log construction, serene location, and easy going hospitality. Within the Knickerbocker are the two original fireplaces and the split, half-log steps of the staircase, fashioned by Bill Knickerbocker himself. Up those stairs are the four Legacy bedrooms, all with private baths and an open deck that runs the length of the Mansions' second floor. Up another flight of stairs lies the Mansion Suite, and as with all the rooms, its decadently comfortable bed--a sleeping experience fit for a king or queen or valiant travelers from down the hill looking for a little mountaintop rest and relaxation. Breakfast here is never ordinary--whether served inside the fine-dining Bistro or outside on the back veranda where you may get to know the innkeepers and other guests. Prepared by Chef Robert Velasquez, each serving is " to live for". Just steps from the Mansion and older still, is the Carriage House featuring a handicap accessible room and an adjacent suite with gas log fireplace. Upstairs are four more smaller but very cozy and comfortable rooms. A ten minute drive will bring you to Snow Summit or Bear Mountain, both great ski resorts. In the summer, a ride up the lift at Snow Summit for lunch will provide a jumping off place for hiking, and extraordinary mountain biking. The lift ride back down with its views of the lake and valley will take your breath away. An extended visit to the Mansion brings with it a contentment and relaxation seldom achieved today. It is that pause we all search for between traffic jams, work deadlines, raising the kids and social demands that never relent. The Knickerbocker Mansion is that intermittent retreat, that time of refreshing, hidden between layers of life. Please join us and wrap yourself in the warmth and uniqueness of the Knickerbocker Mansion!