Take a step back in history as you stay in one of the earlier-built homes in Cascade. Relive part of the history of the canyon and our family’s connection to Cascade as you look at the old photographs on the walls and leaf through the books on the mantle or the picture albums on the family trunk. Pretend you are sleeping under the 1870’s hand-woven throw that is displayed on the wall in the guest bedroom; or try to determine the origin of the pencil drawings on the framed muslin chair cover which was found underneath the replaced upholstery of the ladder back chair in the living room. And then picture all of this while enjoying the modern conveniences of the 21st century.

Raphael’s Retreat (elevation 7,548’), at the base of Pikes Peak and surrounded by the Pike National Forest, offers its visitors the best of all worlds. Though only minutes away from US Hwy 24, you forget that you are near civilization as you relax on the large porch or on the back deck and hear the nearby stream, gaze at the surrounding pine-covered mountains, or watch the hummingbirds as they fight for food at the feeders. Walk a small distance and let your children enjoy hours on the Cascade Community Park playground. Stroll a little beyond, and stick your feet in the cold stream. Grab one of the several hiking sticks and venture to the trailhead of the Heizer trail to test your hiking abilities or take an easy climb up to Mother’s Rest. Everything you could ask for--all within walking distance of your front door!

Inside, Raphael’s Retreat is furnished with everything you might need during your stay. Wake up in the mornings, look out any of your bedroom windows, and see yourself surrounded by the mountains. When not out visiting the many attractions in the area, entertain yourself with board games, books, old movies, and of course, cable and Wi-Fi (NOT AVAILABLE 1/3/256-4/17/26). Take a break from eating out by taking advantage of the fully-stocked, remodeled kitchen or grill up a delicacy on the charcoal grill. And, finally, after a busy day, enjoy either a bath or a hot shower in one of the two bathrooms.

Of course, venturing out by car will take you to the many places of interest in the area, as well. Be sure to check out a sampling of those activities under the “LOCATION” section of our listing. Additionally, we have provided you with notebooks about local restaurants and activities (no matter what your interests might be) in the wooden tray on the coffee table. There are also numerous books above the fireplace that will help you find spots to hike and explore.

We have owned Raphael’s Retreat since 2012, but you will learn that our story in Cascade began many years before then. We were finally fortunate to find this retreat from our daily lives and now spend approximately three months each year in our second neighborhood. How lucky we were to find a home with such character and utility, a garden to work in, and the best neighbors you could ask for. We are excited to be able to share our home and the wonder of Cascade with travelers such as you.


**As stated in the amenities, please remember there is no land line phone. Verizon, AT&T, and T-mobile are the three cell phone services that work in the canyon. Other services may work but if they do not you must go to Hwy 24.

Guests' Comments: (See more current ones under "Reviews"):
7/2013 "There is not much down time in our real world. Our visit to Raphael's Retreat was a much needed break from the norm. We hiked a little, splashed a little, and enjoyed many laughs. Our family couldn't have had a better time. Thank you for a family vacation we will remember always."
9/2014 "Sally and Tom, you've created a perfect haven here in Cascade. Everything about your home was easy, comfortable and welcoming. The details reflect you in little ways that seems so familiar--family photos (historic!), pottery and artwork-very meaningful. Your yard and garden are a wonder--the bees and birds were all very buzzy and busy--and I love your bottle rail on the deck!"
12/2014 "We had a fantastic family Christmas at Raphael's Retreat! I was so excited when we arrived and saw how lovely and cozy the house is. We logged a lot of time in the kitchen cooking some of our favorite family meals and around the table playing games and laughing until our cheeks hurt!"