Round House Ranch

Imagine a view that seems to go on forever. Perched near the crest of Palomar Mountain on 11.39 acres, Round House Ranch brings together a beautifully renovated, turnkey mountain home, exceptional usable land, equestrian and hobby amenities, and some of the mountain’s most remarkable scenery.

From this extraordinary vantage point, the landscape unfolds west toward the Pacific Ocean, with Catalina Island, San Clemente Island, and the Coronado Islands appearing along the horizon on clear days. To the north, Palomar Observatory rises into view with the distant profile of San Jacinto beyond. Towering cedars, firs, and oaks frame the setting, creating a wonderful balance of expansive views, mature forest, and privacy.

At the heart of the property is its distinctive twelve-sided Round House, thoughtfully renovated with quality craftsmanship while preserving the character that makes the home so unique. Soaring open beams of old-growth timbers frame the dramatic 18-foot vaulted ceiling, bringing warmth and architectural presence to the expansive great room. Generous windows capture the surrounding landscape and natural light, while a cozy wood-burning stove makes the space equally inviting on a crisp mountain evening.

The beautifully finished kitchen complements the home's natural character with leathered granite countertops and a waterfall edge, custom maple cabinetry, and premium stainless-steel appliances. Designed for easy entertaining, the kitchen and great room flow seamlessly outdoors to more than 700 square feet of Red Balau hardwood decking, an incredible extension of the living space for morning coffee, outdoor dining, sunset gatherings, or taking in the mountain air.

Throughout the home, beautiful flooring, iron stair railings, custom woodwork, and carefully selected finishes reflect the quality of the renovation without losing its relaxed mountain feel. Multiple entrances enhance the indoor-outdoor connection and make the home comfortable for everything from quiet weekends to gatherings with family and friends.

Three bedrooms each feature their own ensuite bath, offering privacy and flexibility for owners and guests. Downstairs, a spacious family room provides a second comfortable living, homeschool or entertaining area, while an indoor laundry and utility room adds everyday convenience. Mini-split systems, wall heaters, and decorative fireplaces provide year-round heating and cooling while adding warmth and ambiance throughout the home.

The acreage offers far more than a beautiful setting. Broad areas of level, usable ground provide room for animals, gardening, recreation, entertaining, equipment, and all the things that make a mountain property truly enjoyable. Existing barn and stable facilities add versatility for animals, hobbies, storage, or potential workshop and studio space. The workshop may also offer potential for conversion to additional living or guest space, subject to applicable approvals and requirements.

The property is especially well suited for those who want room for guests, RVs, hobbies, and outdoor pursuits, with existing RV hookups and ample parking. Wander beneath mature trees, follow meandering pathways, tend the existing vegetable garden beds, or keep chickens and embrace a more self-sufficient mountain lifestyle. A productive private well further enhances the property’s homestead appeal, while wildlife, towering trees, crisp mountain air, and four distinct seasons are all part of daily life here.

One of the property's more charming discoveries is a natural opening through the trees that feels like a “Cathedral Window to the Eye in the Sky,” an especially fitting feature in a place known for spectacular dark skies. At one of the higher elevations on Palomar Mountain, Round House Ranch offers the opportunity to truly experience all four seasons—from spring and summer beneath the forest canopy to colorful autumn days and the possibility of a snow-covered winter landscape.

For all its privacy and sense of escape, the property remains easily accessible and is located just over a mile from Palomar Mountain State Park, placing hiking, picnicking, scenic overlooks, and miles of outdoor recreation practically at your doorstep. The world-renowned Palomar Observatory is also just a short drive away.

Round House Ranch offers an authentic mountain experience: a beautifully finished, turnkey home with usable acreage, room for hobbies and animals, privacy, and extraordinary natural surroundings. Whether envisioned as a full-time mountain homestead, equestrian retreat, weekend getaway, or gathering place for family and friends, it offers the space and versatility to make mountain living your own.

For all its sense of escape, Palomar Mountain remains remarkably connected to the best of Southern California, with the beaches, coastal communities, dining, shopping, and metropolitan amenities of San Diego and Orange County within reach—making it possible to retreat to the mountains without leaving the Southern California lifestyle behind.