Dorland is a gift to any creative. I just returned from 1.5 weeks there and I was able to get a ton of writing done with no distractions, beautiful views, and peace. I stayed in Markham cottage which is the most private and it was incredible to sit on my porch and see the hills stretching out before me. The cottage had everything I needed to write, cook, and unwind. I especially loved the giant writer's desk with windows on two sides. I had been concerned about warmth in the winter, but the space heaters and insulated cottage did their job (I was too nervous to try the wood-burning stove). It feels like you are a million miles away from civilization, but in reality, Temecula is a short drive if you need groceries, etc. The director, Janice, was friendly and there to help out if needed. I have already recommended it to other writers and will definitely be returning soon. It is truly an oasis for creativity, which I very much needed, especially to escape the hectic energy of L.A. Do yourself and your art a favor and apply! read more

See all

This is a magical place, imbued with an atmosphere that fosters creativity. The solitude is welcome for writers, musicians, composers, and artists. The surroundings are a beautiful oasis in the hills near a busy city, making it feel like many miles away from reality. The proprietor is caring and looks after every need while allowing residents to retain their privacy. The quality and experience as a resident is an incredible value. I can't recommend Dorland highly enough. read more

I just returned from my third stay at Dorland--another magical and productive week. Each time I've stayed in the Markham cottage, perched at the edge of the sage-scented hills, with a view over the Temecula valley (complete with hot air balloons floating over the wineries on many mornings). The Markham is perfectly sized and appointed, with everything I need (cozy, separate kitchen-bedroom-bathroom, variety of chairs and views for working, stunning native plant habitat with surround-sound bird song). The spring wildflowers on Dorland's wonderful hiking trails, reflective beauty of the ponds, and the resident hosts' kind hospitality are all much appreciated as well. I am so grateful for this place . . . even when I'm not there I can return in my mind and conjure up that feeling of creating in peace . . . and then get back to writing in my usual (city-loud) surroundings. read more

Dorland Mountain Arts - Rainbow view from the porch at Markham cottage. - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Temecula, California

See all

Dorland is a great place, very quite and conducive to work. It's simple and straightforward to check in, and the hiking trails are great. There are no services on the mountain (besides great cell reception), so make sure to bring supplies! read more

Dorland Mountain Arts - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Temecula, California

Staying at Dorland was ideal for me. I stayed in Connors. Each cabin is self-contained, with kitchen/bathroom. There is space enough to write, create art, and more than enough quiet to get things done. Bonus for me were the peaceful grounds, the bunnies, the hiking, Duchess, and the yoga mat in the cabin. Janice was so helpful. Duchess was a sweet comfort. I highly recommend it. read more

A spectacular place for artists, writers and composers. The cabins are pitch-perfect, the scenery and ambience on point. Prepare to come away inspired. A true oasis for creative people, managed by creative people. read more

I've ever spent. I went back again in January of 2019 and had a similar experience, only this time I attended the weekly social gathering and I was so impressed by the artists I met. The place is a haven for painters, writers, and musicians. I almost hate to tell the world because it feels like such a little hidden gem. But it only seems right to sing their praises. If you get the chance, go to Dorland. read more

The perfect place to enhance your creative experience in a peaceful environment surrounded by nature . Janice and Robert are the perfect hosts and incredibly talented as well read more

After knowing about Dorland Mountain Arts Colony for several years, I finally made the reservation, was accepted and spent one glorious, work- and pleasure-filled week. I stayed in Connors Cottage--simple, studio space with a writing desk that allowed the view (I loved all the windows in Connors; the light is excellent), an ample kitchen, and perfectly fitted bathroom. Comfy bed, reading chair, front porch with a rocking chair! Plus the grounds--peaceful, inspiring (Sunrise Point/Sunset Point), a labyrinth, a Reflection Pond, and views to take your breath away. Janice, our host is friendly, accommodating, and welcoming. Yes, I'll go again--for a longer stay next time. Five stars, more if it were possible. read more

I've been to Dorland twice and have been happy with the experience both times. It's a good place to tune out all the noise, stress and distractions of everyday life and simply focus on your creative project. For me it's writing but this place would be just as good for artists and composers (two of the cabins have pianos). I've stayed in one of the larger cabins and one of the smaller ones. I enjoyed both. All the basics are provided (tables, chairs, bed, kitchen, kitchen tools/pots/pans, towels, shower, etc.) If you want to really focus in you will want to cook all your meals in the cabin, which is no problem as there is a Sprouts and Ralphs within a ten minute drive. If you don't like cooking then there are restaurants the same distance away. The environment is quiet and relaxing and there are a few hiking trails accessible from the property. Janice and Robert are great, live on the property and are very helpful if something does come up that needs attention. The smaller cabin I stayed in (Connors) had a small bed (twin), which is the only thing I wish had been different about it (though I got used to it pretty quickly). Otherwise the cabin was wonderful and I had no problem concentrating on the task at hand. The larger cabins have larger beds, if that is important for you, and give you a fuller kitchen (regular oven as opposed to convection oven). There are nice views and beautiful sunsets and relaxing bird song. If you are serious about focusing on your project (and nothing else) for a week or two or more, then you should give this place a try. You won't regret it. My wife is also a writer and she has also been to this place twice! read more

Dorland is a gem of a retreat in the hills of Temecula. I've done two, quick stints there to work on my writing and I found it to be very supportive of my process. The cottages are clean and simple and have everything you need to allow for the creative process to flow. The first time I went I missed the weekly gathering of artists as it happens on Wednesdays. It was so great to break bread and share art/music/writing with the other residents. It really enhanced my experience and it was such a pleasure to be around other creative people. Janice could not be nicer, she's an organized director, and she is a talented artist in her own right! I am super grateful for the experiences I've had a Dorland and I hope to return again and again! read more

Dorland is a very special artists' retreat with beautiful, simple cottages and wonderful people running it. The cottages are completely outfitted with everything you need and the location is peaceful, providing total privacy if that's what you want, or interaction with other artists, but it's really up to you. Dorland has come back from a devastating fire over a decade ago -- its new incarnation echoes it's rich history and creates something new and wonderful. The natural beauty of the setting is something I never quite experienced growing up in L.A. -- it's a southern California that I thought was long gone: undeveloped and natural in the mountains. I will also mention that Janice, the executive director, was accommodating and flexible with various special circumstances I had -- I really appreciated it! read more

I spent a summer week at Dorland and it changed my life. I cannot wait to return. The cottage is clean and in excellent shape, with everything you need to be comfortable for the week. The caretakers are fantastic humans, and so very interesting to sit down with if you have a minute. I cannot recommend Dorland enough. I have found my second home. read more