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Want to stay in a castle? Here are 8 of SLO County’s most unique vacation rentals

For those looking for an escape this summer, San Luis Obispo County is a treasure trove of vacation rentals.

From vineyards to beaches, there’s something for virtually every type of traveler.

But for those who are looking for something truly special, a quick search on Airbnb does reveal some interesting local gems. To help you as you consider your vacation plans, The Tribune has compiled a list of some of the most unique rentals available this summer and beyond.

From a refurbished lifeguard tower to a European-style castle, here are the eight most unique local vacation rentals available in SLO County as of July.

View On AirbnbMid-Century Creekside Gem -- easy walk downtown

Mid-century home in downtown SLO

Location: San Luis Obispo

Cost: $650 a night

Description: Located near downtown San Luis Obispo, this “charming mid-century home” was designed and built in the 1960s by the owner’s father, according to the listing. The entire home is paneled with redwood, giving it a unique retro look. It also features an open floor plan, cork flooring and a sunken fireplace. A deck circles the building, which is surrounded by large redwoods, and a seasonal creek flows nearby. The house has an eight-guest limit, so make sure to pack your vintage duds for the perfect “Mad Men”-inspired photoshoot.

View On AirbnbWestern Village

Old West replica village complete with horse

Location: Arroyo Grande

Cost: $237 a night

Description: Want a less traditional home stay option? Look no further than this “western village” in Arroyo Grande. A miniature replica of a Old West town, the Airbnb features several small, custom-built living spaces, according to the listing. Stay in the master bedroom, which features a large jaguar mural over the bed, or the bunk house, which comes with an overhead view of trees. Be sure to say “hello” to Mac, the horse that lives on the property; just don’t feed him without the owners’ permission.

View On AirbnbLifeguard Tower #2 & Boathouse-*Playground & W/D*

Pismo Beach lifeguard tower and kid-friendly boathouse

Location: Arroyo Grande

Cost: $299 a night

Description: If other vacation rentals appeal to grownups, this unique rental in Arroyo Grande is for the kids — and the young at heart. A converted lifeguard tower from Pismo Beach acts as a tree fort and bedroom next to a home filled to the brim with beach decor. A giant playground, fire pit and an outdoor shower feature prominently outside, while inside the main building, there’s a full kitchen and bath, plus a queen bed and a couch sleeper. There’s also an attached art shed with space for doing crafts or making snow cones.

View On AirbnbRio Del Sol Tiny House

Rustic tiny homes with Paso Robles bluff views

Where: Rio Del Sol, Paso Robles

Cost: $241 a night for tiny home, $133 a night for micro tiny home

Description: If you’re looking for a rental with some character, Rio Del Sol has several options for travelers at its 11-acre Paso Robles property. The micro tiny house nicknamed Dream Catcher is perched atop “some of the highest bluffs in Paso Robles,” according to the owner, and boasts amazing 360-degree views. Meanwhile, a “funkadelic” three-story tiny home features a glass bottle wall, a library and two decks. There are also several animals on the property, including cats and a miniature pony.

View On AirbnbThe Castle at Chateau Noland

French-style castle and carriage house in SLO

Location: San Luis Obispo

Cost: $1,021 a night for Castle, $216 to $233 for suites in Carriage House

Description: If you’ve ever want to stay in a French-style castle, Chateau Noland is the place to be. Nestled among San Luis Obispo’s hills, the private estate boasts guest rooms in both the main building, known as The Castle, and the Carriage House. The Castle features three main suites and is decorated with wall murals, hand-painted domed ceilings and antique furniture imported from Europe, according to the listing. It also includes a large lawn area that can accommodate events of up to 200 people for an additional charge. The Carriage House offers individual suites for guests, all with a view of the Castle.

View On AirbnbSerenity-Tropical Glamping Site-San Luis Obispo Co

Tropical glamping at Arroyo Grande guest home

Location: Arroyo Grande

Cost: $240 a night

Description: Camping meets luxury with the Serenity Tropical Glamping Site in Arroyo Grande. The guest suite rental features a new canvas cabin with views of 10 acres, plus a tropical pool area and hot tub. The safari-style tent has wood floors, and comes equipped with electricity, a queen bed and queen sofa-bed with memory foam mattresses, a fireplace heater, a white noise machine and a TV. Outside there is a hammock, a campfire pit and a gas rock fire pit, perfect for relaxing in the sun or enjoying some s’mores at the end of the day. The host also offers a shuttle ride from San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport.

View On AirbnbMontgomery Vineyard

Vineyard bungalow at SLO County’s oldest dairy farm

Location: San Luis Obispo

Cost: $247 a night

Description: When you book the bungalow at Montgomery Vineyard, you’re actually staying at the oldest dairy farm in San Luis Obispo County. According to the listing, the “unique accommodations” feature eclectic decor including antiques and Hollywood memorabilia, while outside views span the vineyard and hills beyond. Nearby, a dairy barn has been converted to a music venue for music-loving visitors. A stay at the bungalow also comes with a complimentary bottle of wine direct from the vineyard.

View On AirbnbSanctuary on Sunset Ridge ~ Panoramic Ocean Views

Modern home with 360-degree view of SLO hills, ocean

Location: San Luis Obispo

Cost: $495 a night

Description: Looking for panoramic views of SLO County? A modern retreat on the hillside above San Luis Obispo, Sanctuary on Sunset Ridge boasts 40 acres of ocean views. With floor-to-ceiling glass in every room, those views are visible from throughout the entire rental. And the outdoor deck is perfect for sunrise yoga or spotting local wildlife.

Know of a truly unique vacation rental listing in SLO County? Contact reporter Kaytlyn Leslie at kleslie@thetribunenews.com, and it could be included on The Tribune’s list.