Topanga Canyon Inn Bed and Breakfast

This is a lovely place to go for a quiet rest or romantic getaway. It's right in Los Angeles, but in one of the many mountainous canyons; so there are only the sounds of the local peacocks and doves, and views of the rolling scrub oak hills and tall yuccas. Our room was spacious and comfortable, with two small terraces and a jacuzzi bathtub. Breakfast was delicious, but I am a slow eater (and like to linger over my meals) and the management scheduled their two breakfast servings a half-hour apart; so 25 minutes in, we were very politely asked to finish up and get out. Sort of defeats the purpose of a leisurely morning repast. Cell phone reception was almost nil, which in this day and age was unexpected, and therefore a bit bothersome. If we'd known, we could have made other communication plans. All in all, though, extremely bucolic and attractive, friendly, good food (if you're quick), and restful. I'd go again happily.

[Resource Id: innkeeperresponse, Set: reviews]
We are trying to figure a way to schedule two breakfast services so that the first is not too early and the second not too late. We will probably try to make them 45 minutes apart, instead of 30. We only have two breakfast services when we are completely booked. Hint: if you want to linger over breakfast, come to the second one. If you want to get going with your day, come to the first. We had AT&T cell service up until about ten years ago, but they had a tower destroyed in a fire and never replaced it. Although we have made numerous requests, they have not fixed the problem and the signal is too weak to even use a signal booster. We do have a signal booster for the Verizon signal and the service is adequate. We provide a house phone for free local and long-distance calls and the wireless internet is also free.

- Warren (innkeeper)

If you want to experience something other than the traditional hotel brands, with lots of space to call your own, good breakfast, much better views with competitive pricing, this place is great.

I can recommend this place this place to anyone, I can think of. Even if you travel a long way as I, coming from Europe, did; it's definitely worth a visit. The area is a great contrast to busy L.A. and the views from the mountains around is splendid. If I ever come back to L.A. I'll probably be back. A

It must have been a comet that lead us to this place. So quiet, so nice sky at night, such a good breakfast from such caring hosts. We came from almost 10000 km away and enjoyed so much. But we have to leave again. All the best to the hosts and may many more enjoy their hospitality! J.

We enjoyed our stay. It was so quiet and peaceful. Very homelike setting. Not pretentious in any way. Good food, good location. No complaints.

Location is perfect and experience overall was wonderful. Breakfast could be better. I would definitely recommend it. Would suggest a better breakfast and host.

Took my wife here for her birthday. Beautiful B&B houses. We had a floor to ourselves. Kind of a remote area but that was part of the charm. Warren and his daughter cooked delicious breakfasts for us. Warren shared some incredible stories. Definately would return.

My wife and I just had a wonderful 2-night stay at the Topanga Canyon Inn. We were fortunate enough to get the opportunity to experience two of the rooms, and they were both well-appointed, comfortable and distinctive. The hosts are friendly and the breakfasts are delicious and ample. A unique feature of this B-and-B is that the host Elena's artwork is everywhere in the two houses, and as she is quite an accomplished artist, it greatly enhances the beauty of the inn. This is a modern, well-furnished and beautifully maintained B-and-B that is right up against the scenic Topanga Canyon State Park.

We drove from Tucson for a romantic stay. We came away feeling as if we met a wonderful family and were allowed to invite our LA family for morning breakfast and visiting ! Grat hospitality!

The location is wonderful and the facility is very comfortable. Many hiking trails very close by. Warren and the kids were very helpful and pleasant all of the time. Conversations with other guests at the breakfast table was great. Our first breakfast was no so good. Always had to wait for coffee and did not offer decaf or tea, unless you asked for it. The food was okay, but first we were served muffins, then breakfast potatoes, then bacon and finally eggs. By the time the eggs came, we finished the other items. It could have been kept warm in the oven and all served at the same time. The second day breakfast was about 45 minutes late because the electric griddle broke, but contingency plans should have been planned ahead of time. The stuffed blueberry french toast was good, as was the sausage and melon. I may be a little critical because I am in the food business and expect better service.

[Resource Id: innkeeperresponse, Set: reviews]
We have to apologize because at this time I had just recovered from Whooping Cough and Elena, my wife, was home sick with it. We were short-handed in the kitchen and the electric griddle was starting to break down. We're back to normal now, and the food is coming out on time together.

- Warren (innkeeper)

We stayed two nights; looking for a quiet, romantic getaway. Topanga Canyon itself is lovely; it's amazing to find such a lush, undeveloped area so close to Los Angeles, and the Inn is tucked away in a remote hillside spot that makes it feel even more pastoral. The room was lovely, clean, and "as advertised." The property has lots of lovely vistas, patios for sitting, and other amenities. Best thing (for us, anyway) was having no TV in the room -- suppose this could be a deal-breaker for others, but for us it added to the sense of escaping the everyday and ordinary.

I was in town for a wedding and in my online search, found Topanga Canyon Inn. Now I will go back purposely for a stay and have already recommended it to others we need a getaway. Don't we all??! Making the reservation was quick and easy, with Warren's help. Elena and their lovely children were there to meet me upon arrival. Quiet, private, a beautiful home and fabulous views. Now to go and spend a morning hiking and an afternoon at the Inn will be on my short list.

Very cool place in a gorgeous canyon. Nice spacious room and a friendly layout in general. Excellent breakfasts on both days we were there. Owners are not the most bubbly of hosts but they certainly took care of all of our needs; they even think ahead to include extra items a guest might forget (razors, aspirin etc). Lots to do in the area too. all in all a thumbs up.

The Topanga Canyon Inn is a place to go back for more. With our return visit we were able to focus on some great hiking trails. We add our respite of sitting on the terrace at night sipping wine, exploring the sky and listening to the night critters of the valley. We appreciate Warren, Elena and their 5 children for this outstanding Inn.------------Janis and Dennis

Nestled in the Topenga Canyon this b&b offers amazing views, incredible amenities, and the perfect get-away from the big city hustle. The inn keepers are some of the nicest people you will ever come across and the inn is absolutely stunning. For a workaholic like me THIS was the perfect place to unplug, unwind and enjoy the beauty California prides itself in. What a treat!

Warren and Elena are wonderful hosts. We had the pleasure of their company for breakfast each morning as we had chosen the 9:30 (2nd and last) mealtime.Stimulating conversation on events around the world and at home. It is an easy walk to a trail into Topanga State Park where we enjoyed beautiful weather and stunning views of the Canyon. We had planned on a short drive to the beach and lunch in Malibu but we found we didn't need or want to venture far from the Inn. We were fortunate to have a entire floor of the house to ourselves where we could lounge in the living room reading and make ourselves a morning cup of coffee or evening cup of tea. We so look forward to making this our annual anniversary getaway. Thank you for a memorable weekend. Kathy and Barry - La Crescenta ,CA

My husband and I just spent a weekend here after renewing our wedding vows for our 30th Anniversary. It was a wonderful short getaway. Warren and Elena were so gracious and welcoming from the time we pulled into the driveway. Our room was stunning, and the views were breathtaking from our balcony. The separate common living areas on each floor lent to the quiet, private atmosphere. It is a wonderful place that seems hundreds of miles from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but close enough to everything if you desire it. We highly recommend this for anyone looking for a nice, quiet getaway. Breakfast cooked by Warren each morning is a wonderful treat. Warren and Elena make you feel like you are home, and graciously extend that invitation to all their guests. Elena's art work is phenomenal and such a pleasure to view. My husband and I will definitely return.

Sehr schön und sauber - mitten drin Los Angeles, zwischen die "Valley" und Malibu.

Imagine a home where every room is a small gallery of oils, watercolors, and chalks by world class Russian artist and where the host, a retired superb horn player, prepares outrageously good morning meals. Imagine this in a fabulous moutain setting, serenely quiet, and yet 40 minutes from LAX. The Enchantment Resort in Sedona and Los Caballeros in Wickenberg Arizona come closest to Topanga in atmosphere, but they cost $500 more per night without the art exhibit. An added bonus is the fact that I would be pleased to entertain any and all of the other inn guests at my own home. A delightful group of 20-70 year olds.

Spacious and clean! Stayed here w/ my 2 kids. I appreciated the comfortable, supportive beds. Warren made us a lovely breakfast in the morning and was very pleasant company. We'd definitely stay there again.

Lovely, tranquil, very hospitable, didn't eat so can't commend on the dining but I loved my getaway and will highly recommend

My wife and I had looked for a B&B near the Reagan Presidential Library and this looked like the best option, even though it was about 45 minutes away. We navigated the Topanga Canyon road from the PCH and wound our way up the mountainside to the Inn. While the access road could use some work, the payoff was worth it. Elena's young son helpfully guided us into the driveway and Elena, an accomplished artist from Lithuania who displays her work throughout the Inn, was waiting to greet us. The room we reserved was not available because the couple in it the night before had decided to stay an extra day but she had upgraded us at no charge to a larger room with a balcony and better view. It was very nice so we had no problems with the change. She provided details of the property, the town, the trails, and the dining options. She is a very sweet and interesting lady who obviously cares very much about assuring her guests enjoy their stay. We took one of her recommended hikes to Elephant Rock, a well known local landmark, to stretch our legs and work up an appetite. Elena recommended several options and described them well. We were very happy with Froggie's for excellent seafood in an informal atmosphere. We didn't see Elena again, as Warren took on preparing a classic American breakfast featuring very good blueberry stuffed French Toast and sausages, and telling tales of how he met Elena, his experiences and views of Moscow, and the nature of the B&B business in the local area. We also learned a lot about the local schools and the education system since they have five children and home school them all. One other couple had stayed there that night and we all enjoyed the Inn, the hosts, the breakfast, and the local area. We can definitely recommend this Inn if you don't mind making a little extra effort to get here. It is just a few extra minutes to something truly special.

A beautifully kept Bed and Breakfast. The innkeeper is friendly and hospitable. Great value for the price...the breakfast was outstanding. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of L.A. or any other city, this is the place to stay.

We visited from Los Angeles, and really enjoyed the solitude. The Inn is only a few miles from Malibu and the conjested beach, but it is quiet and relaxing. The views from the balconies are magnificent, and the innkeepers are warm and friendly. We look forward to our next visit.

A great place, central yet peaceful. Me and my son stayed for eight days in july and found it to be ideal for exploring th LA area. Good quality rooms, great hosts and interresting guests around the breakfast table made it a memorable stay.

So at the time we booked our room, the profile on BedandBreakfast.com said, "Guest pets are welcome (No pets in rooms. Kennel cage provided or can board locally.)" This is information crucial us as travelers as my husband is allergic to animals. Just to double check, I called ahead of time to make sure that there weren't any resident pets at the B and B. So we check in thinking we won't have any run ins with animals in the house (which by the way, is a very nice house), and then a couple of hours later, I open the door to go get a drink from the kitchen and discover a dog running about in the hallway. As it turned out, the other couple staying in the B and B had a dog, and despite the listed policy, it was staying with them in their room (the Clark and Carole for those who are curious) and, at the time that i saw it, loose in the house's interior common areas. I was mortified. Fortunately, when I explained my husband's allergies to the other couple, they immediately put the dog back in their room, and fortunately, it didn't touch my husband's allergies off. However, fretting over whether the neighboring dog would trigger my husband's asthma was not the romantic experience I was aiming for. As such, the takeaway is that if you have a pet, you might actually be able to keep them in your room with you. However, if you are highly allergic to animals, you might want to reconsider staying here. Another reason for certain low ratings... check in time is 3pm, and I actually called ahead of time to let the innkeepers know that we would be arriving at approx 3pm (we got there at 3:15 pm). However, our room wasn't ready. No towels, toilet paper, or bathmats in the bathroom. we informed them, and they immediately took care of the towels and toilet paper, but the bathmats never showed up though they said they'd take care of it (we ended up throwing a towel on the floor). I'd expect better for $250 a night.

[Resource Id: innkeeperresponse, Set: reviews]
Before Ron and Melinda arrived, we were under the impression that their plans were to park the car, check in and immediately go for a hike. When they arrived, their room and bathroom were ready except for hanging the fresh towels and toilet paper. They decided to use the room immediately, so we finished up and in lieu of bath mats (that had been washed and were being air dried) they were given extra towels that could be used as mats. When the mats were ready we decided to not invade their privacy by showing up with mats. The couple with the tiny, tiny dog (maybe two pounds) did not keep her in their room. Muffy was kept on the patio outside the Clark and Carole Room in a kennel cage that they brought. (Our cage was too big for her.) These are the rules and they kept to them. Yes, the puppy did get loose for less than a minute when they were taking her out through the stairway for a walk and joyfully ran through the upstairs living room which is floored with Saltillo tile and thus does not retain any hair or dander. The guests with the dog and my wife and I apologized for the dog breaking loose, but these things happen.

- Warren and Elena Roche (innkeeper)

This was our first time visiting the Los Angeles area and we had no idea where to stay. Atypically for us, we got around to arranging for accommodations at the last minute. We stumbled on to the Topanga Canyon Inn web site and decided to call and check availability. A quick conversation with Warren and we had a reservation for two nights. We arrived in LA the next evening, picked up our rental car and drove to Topanga Canyon. Upon arriving, Warren greeted us and gave us the rundown on the Inn - snacks, coffee, tea in the kitchen, DVD's/TV in the common area, books, etc. He also told us about local restaurants, nearby hiking trails and other attractions. We were the only guests for the two days so we pretty much had the place to ourselves. It was nice and quiet. The best part of our stay was having breakfast (included in the price) with the Roches. Elena put together delicious breakfasts on both mornings and we spent an enjoyable few hours over the two days talking around the breakfast table. The Inn is in a quiet country area only 15-20 minutes away from Santa Monica and Venice. It was nice to have a quiet getaway spot so close to the city. I would recommend a stay at the Topanga Canyon Inn.

This place was absolutely fantastic. Everything we could have hoped for a romantic getaway. Beautiful scenery. Wonderful room. Unbelievable complimentary amenities throughout our stay. And the hosts were exemplary. Thank you so much for such a wonderful stay!!

My wife and I hiked from West LA to the Topanga Canyon Inn. We spent a very enjoyable night there. Warren and Elena were fantastic hosts and the breakfast in the morning was spectacular. The room was nice, quite and very comfortable. All in all it was a fantastic mini-vacation.

My wife and I were guests for 2 nights at Topanga Canyon Inn in July 2009. We were absolutely thrilled with the outstanding hospitality,the quality of the room and service, and Elena's beautiful paintings adorning all the interior walls. As avid birdwatchers we even observed some new species for our life list ("lifers" in birders' parlance). Our experience could not have been more ideal! David & Marilee Rhody

We found this amazing place as a result of an internet search driving down from SFO to LA. It was late, but Elana and Warren could not be more helpful in accommodating us and directing us to the house (Its not that easy to find at night and the GPS may not get you to the door). Stayed 2 nights, loved it, very comfortable, some rooms with really great views over the countryside. The house is fabulous (Warren built it!) the location is amazing as you are so close to Malibu yet you can walk in the Topanga Hills park in the most spectacular county (its hard to believe this is LA). Great breakfast and very helpful hosts. Highly recommended all round.

We enjoyed our stay at the Topanga Canyon Inn. A wonderful area which provided a great starting point for a hike through Topanga Canyon. Elena's art filled the rooms. A delight to have that artistic touch.

What a wonderful retreat from the city! The Topanga Canyon Inn is a beautiful Mission style villa on a quiet street tucked into the Topanga Canyon hills. We had a great room, awesome views and wonderful hosts. Warren had us spell bound at breakfast with tales of the Adventures of Jack. If we didn't have plans to hike in Topanga State Park (a short walk from the Inn) that morning, we would have been begging for more stories. Warren and lovely Elena are terrific as is their beautiful Inn. I have nothing but praise for this exotic place. We found a treasure and plan to make it our home away from home whenever we are in the Los Angeles area.

Great location & views, outstanding accommodations, wonderful breakfasts, very interesting and friendly innkeepers; we were in heaven! Elaine is an artist and kept us spellbound with her tales of Russia. Warren prepared the breakfasts and his story about how he met Elaine was wonderful. Privacy and seclusion yet minutes from Malibu and the ocean. One of the very best B&B's we have ever experienced. Len & Mary Kirberg, St. Louis, Missouri

My husband and I were in Malibu for Thanksgiving and Warren kindly met us at the Inn after our Thanksgiving dinner was over. We checked in at about 8:30 pm and everything was perfect upon our arrival. The next day we were able to go on a beautiful hike in the area and that afternoon we had reservations at the Getty. That night we met friends for dinner in Malibu. We had to leave the next morning to pick up our daughters from the valley and then we headed home to Orange County. All in all, it was a perfect romantic getaway for two nights. And, btw, the breakfasts were excellent and Warren and Elena were wonderful hosts! Ellen and Claude Goldenberg

An LA actor friend tipped me off to Topanga Canyon--saving me an unpredictable drive south to Laguna Niguel. I was in dire need of a place where I felt secluded and checking in mid-week I got a great rate & the peace and quiet I was looking for. There's a lovely hike up from the Inn and I found a rock with a beautiful view to meditate on. There are horses on the nearby properties which I loved. Warren & Elena were wonderful hosts who I enjoyed getting to know. They served the most incredible home-raised free-range eggs I've ever tasted. I wasn't there for a shopping/dining/beach experience so you'll have to refer to other reviews. The most interesting thing in town (to me) seems to be the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum. I had the room with the patio/deck which gave me the space to sit and write. I will say that the patio isn't far from the air conditioning system of the building, so you'll hear that hum if it's on. Overall, the hosts provided personal & professional service with a homespun touch. I look forward to returning for another getaway.

I came down to the LA area for a concert that ended up getting cancelled. Needless to say I spent a lot of time at the Inn and it made my trip worthwhile. This is in the heart of the canyon and it's even more beautiful in person. The hosts are nice and welcoming. I am 24 years old and I have stayed other places where the hosts who are older have treated me weird because I'm significantly younger. I felt right at home here.

This was a weekend....that will never be forgotten. I came from NY...to celebrate the life of my dear friend Kenny Rankin, who has passed away in June. Not knowing anything of Topanga Canyon, I wasn't sure of where to stay, and I needed to be close to the service. Well.......all I can say, was it was perfect. Not only was it just up the road from where I needed to be early in the morning, the setting of where this "secret" is.....is something very difficult to describe....such beauty. Being alone.....my stay was so wonderful staying with Elena and Warren. They are where they should be......and made my stay.....so enjoyable, at a very hard time for me. I also had heard why Kenny loved this place so. Now I know. My room was just lovely, and how nice it was, to have everything I needed in the kitchen, if in case I was hungry! All the ammenities are here... I highly recommend staying at this gem.

If you love to hike or just want to get away with your honey from crowded LA (but be close enough to enjoy it!) this is the place for you. A lovely home away from home in beautiful Topanga Canyon with interesting attentive hosts to offer advice or just leave you to your own devices -- whichever suits you best.