In town for a four day workshop, I was looking for something that would allow me to relax and clear my mind while getting work done. This was the perfect setting. The cottage is artistically decorated, and comfortable, and the hosts were accomodating. Plus, the walk into the yard each evening immediately clears the mind, with the sculpture gardens and lovely plants. There is a refrigerator for storing food (from the Trader Joe's a few blocks away:) ), and a toaster oven to heat up leftover sandwiches. Being a few blocks away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, I was able to stay in Berkeley without a car. Very sweet.

The cottage is private and quiet - I slept soundly and never heard any traffic or voices. Only two blocks from shops, farmer's market, and restaurants. The hosts provide every amenity imaginable - and the facility is spotless. Beautiful decor, surrounded by gardens and trees, and yet not far from the UC campus and city life. They provided home made bread, many tea samples and a tea kettle, and the patio is perfect for an early morning cup of tea.

I have stayed at many bed and breakfast establishments over the years, but Garden Cottage stands out for its comfortable accommodations, unique setting, and the gracious hospitality of the owners. My recent return visit could not have been nicer. I looked forward to seeing the gardens, visting Mort's sculpture studio, and staying in the wonderful Japanese inspired cottage. This is a place that nourishes the spirit as well as providing lovely accommodations and delicious breakfasts. The cottage is located at the rear of the property and a serpentine path through the gardens leads to the front door. The large, nicely appointed one-room cottage (with full bath and shower) perfectly suits the needs of an individual or couple who value privacy and appreciate the natural setting. Yuko prepares simple but tasty breakfasts and Mort is happy to spend some time showing his studio, which is steps from the cottage. His diverse and interesting sculpures also adorn the gardens. Mort and Yuko are helpful and attentive but respect the needs of their guests for quiet in a setting resembling a small sanctuary. Breakfast on the terrace, surrounded by plantings, is a serene feature of a visit here.

I can verify that Garden Cottage is within easy walking distance of cafes, shops, restaurants, and the post office. It is also quite feasible to walk to the UC campus and one of the major commercial districts of Berkeley near Telegraph Avenue. In fact, I walked through the Berkeley campus to the UC Botanical Gardens (the Asian collection is notable). Mort accurately predicted that this hike would take me at least 45 minutes one way (it is a 10-minute drive, easy to find from Garden Cottage).

Garden Cottage meets or exceeds all of the practical requirements of a fine bed & breakfast. But I highly recommend a stay here for the intangible qualities: the peaceful setting, the owners' appreciation of art and beauty, and the friendly, gracious ambience. This is a "one of a kind" bed & breakfast that will satisfy discerning individuals and couples who value Garden Cottage's special characteristics.

We recently stayed for a week at the Garden Cottage B&B in the actual cottage.....it was a peaceful haven and wonderful to return to after sightseeing in San Francisco all day! The hosts, Mort and Yuko, do everything possible to ensure your comfort without intruding in your space! The cottage is wonderfully clean and has a refrigerator handy to store Sonoma Valley wine in.....a coffee/tea maker, a small TV, and a spacious armoire to hang clothing in as well as large drawers.
We purchased some of Mort's pottery and he graciously showed us around his studio. The garden is filled with plantings, pathways, pottery, and a water feature.....there is a small patio with chairs and a table where we relaxed occasionally. Quiet neighborhood, a 10 minute walk to BART, and many bakeries and restaurants close by for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This was an exceptionally lovely B&B and we hope to return in the near future!