Doors of Perception

Whether you pick the cotton-candy pink door or the minty blue one, you'll be in for a treat when you arrive at this double home in Joshua Tree. Two identical buildings, they've got quite a good trick up their sleeves. Walk through each of the distinctly desert styled houses and you'll spot all the comfortable living space you'd expect. They both have a lot of character, with wooden beams and fireplaces, and there's a trendy, vintage theme to the furnishings. There are well kitted out kitchens in each home, along with dining tables, and each has three bedrooms and a stylish bathroom. But step out into the yard and you'll spot what makes these places really stand out. Joined via the back gardens, these two spaces become one. A group of up to twelve of you can hang out, soak in the hot tub, play games and relax in the hammocks. Take a cowboy-style bath in the outdoor tub, rustle up meals on the barbecues and light the fire pit as the sun sets. There's plenty to do here in the garden, but with great hikes on the doorstep and just a short walk to the centre of town, you won't be stuck for activities. A great choice for large groups, it's a rare find, and one you won't forget in a hurry.

Home truths:
*This is two homes connected by a gate in the back garden – perfect for two families or a large group of friends
*Two bathrooms covering all six bedrooms means you might have to wait for the shower
*You're asked to play safe in the hot tub, not leave any children unattended and not add anything like bath bombs to the water
*There's plenty of private parking
*Each home has its own private entrance
*There's laptop-friendly workspace
*Pets are permitted only with a $125 fee – speak to the host
*Strict local rules mean quiet time is between 10pm and 7am
*Please socialise in the back garden, not the front – and the host would prefer you not to gather in one house
*A cleaner will access the hot tub each Monday and Thursday