Lake Arrowhead, California: Your Swiss-Style Mountain Escape Is Closer Than You Think
This California mountain gem delivers European vibes, lakeside beauty and cozy comfort foods
Get whisked away to “The Alps of Southern California!” Located in the San Bernardino Mountains, this picturesque community draws visitors with its Swiss-style architecture, evergreen-lined shores and mountain resort atmosphere that makes them feel like they’re vacationing in Europe.
Cruise the private lake and discover celebrity hideaways
Start your getaway by boarding the Lake Arrowhead Queen for a winter boat tour. Admire the views as you cruise this glistening private lake and learn from the captains about local history and the celebrity homes that surround it.
Experience mountain magic at SkyPark at Santa’s Village
At dusk, head to SkyPark at Santa’s Village, an outdoor adventure theme park. Watch live shows, ice skate in the Silver Bells Arena or ride an electric-powered train. For a restful break, grab a bite to eat at one of the on-site restaurants, with offerings like the So Cali sandwich at The Lunch Box or cinnamon rolls from The Gingerbread House Bakery & Sweet Shoppe.
Dine at RB’s Steakhouse
This spot, a favorite amongst both locals and tourists, is housed in a historic 1800s building. It was once known as The Chef’s Inn and now is home to several antiques.
Enjoy a picnic overlooking the gorgeous lake
It’s a picturesque spot to unwind and admire the views—no matter the time of year!
Treat yourself to a massage at the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa
The “Spa of the Pines” also offers couples massages, facials and other rejuvenating services. You’ll feel refreshed in no time!
Bonus: Experience the fun at home
Imagine you’re in Lake Arrowhead with a sandwich and a lakeside novel.
Grilled cheese sandwiches inspired by Lake Arrowhead’s Spade & Spatula
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of country-style white bread
- 4 Tbs. Dijon mustard
- 4 Tbs. mayonnaise
- 8 oz. fontina cheese, thinly sliced
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 1 ⅓ cups baby spinach
For each slice of bread, spread mustard on one side and mayo on the other. Place 4 slices mustard side up and layer each with cheese, tomatoes and spinach. Top with the remaining slices, mustard side down. Cook in a nonstick skillet until melty, about 5 minutes per side. Makes 4 sandwiches.
Read a Lake Arrowhead book: The Man in Cabin Number Five by Chrysteen Braun
In this compelling story told in parallel, two women retreat to Lake Arrowhead cabins in search of the missing pieces of their lives.
This story first appeared in the March 2, 2026, issue of Woman’s World magazine.
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