The occurrence of serendipity by definition is: a seeming gift for finding good things. I am delighted to share with you my gift of discovery about an inn that illustrates my good fortune.

Let us journey to the county of Calaveras east along Highway 4 to the town of Arnold located at approximately 4,000 feet above sea level. It is here nestled among the Sequoias that I found a most enchanting establishment known simply as the Black Bear Inn.

This particular inn is a hybrid, a combination of lodge and inn featuring the feel of a rustic mountain resort along with all the coziness and warmth of a Bed & Breakfast. Proprietors, Kirk and Doreen Swanson have constructed the Black Bear Inn to fulfill a dream to provide a unique place where folks can find peace and serenity. The Swanson’s have built their inn from the ground up and opened the doors for business in November 2002. Their son-in-law, Jason Jarman of Jarman Construction in Arnold worked diligently on the project and was instrumental in the success of the project.

Upon your arrival you will be captivated by the 1.3 acres of park like setting that surrounds the inn. As you enter the premises your enthusiasm will mount as you peer upward toward the vast vaulted ceiling of this 5,200 square foot timber frame constructed inn. Direct your eyes forward and behold the Great Room. Standing before you poised for warmth and comfort is the large rock fireplace handsomely accented by the leather sofas that wait to soothe you with extreme comfort. Take notice that throughout the inn are black bear mascots of all sizes and shapes to keep you safe and secure as would those soft, cuddly Teddy Bears from your youth.

Offered at the inn are five well decorated guest rooms with private bath, king sized bed, large Jacuzzi tub (In 4 of the 5 rooms), old fashioned gas stove, satellite television and French doors that open to the great outdoors. The views from the inn are picture perfect and the absence of city noise is greatly appreciated. In the evening the stars are heavenly on the patio and stand in great contrast to what us flatlanders see in the valley.

In addition to these wonderful features you will always be kept cozy because the Inn features a radiant heating and cooling system, which basically means tubes run beneath the floor and heat or cool from the foundation. I might add it is wonderful on a cool morning to step onto a tile section of flooring and be treated to warmth rather than chilled tootsies.

Also, coming soon is a large outdoor hot tub and a gazebo. The gazebo will be located just below the inn on a terraced area specially designed for weddings and other special events.

To further your appreciation of the inn they offer afternoon tea and cookies, an evening wine & cheese hour featuring local wines and in the morning a home cooked family style breakfast. The breakfast is prepared to delight your appetite. Chef Doreen is assisted by her loving husband Kirk and together they succeed in offering up a scrumptious breakfast. I enjoyed strawberries and bananas with cream for starters followed by a spinach quiche accompanied by blueberry muffins and a chocolate-covered strawberry and kiwi. Delicious! Up next the main course that included French toast with vanilla maple syrup and bacon. The portions were large and filling. What a way to start the day!

Time for activities! The Black Bear Inn is close to Skiing, Golfing, Calaveras Big Trees State Park, Caverns, Mountain Biking, Whitewater Rafting, Restaurants, Antiques, Galleries, Live Theater and of course Wine Tasting. All of this activity adds up to an abundance of wonderful times made to be shared with that someone special.Speaking of that someone special should you choose to have plans for an upcoming wedding the Swanson’s are preparing the grounds to host intimate weddings, retreats, anniversaries or any special event.

the black bear inn is accessible from Hwy 4 and is easily reached from the Bay Area and the Central Valley. Visit their web site at arnoldblackbearinn.com or phone 209-795-8999, toll free 866-795-8999 Local Rates from $139 to $225.