On Hwy-18, 30 miles East of Lake Arrowhead. When Angelenos and residents of the Inland Empire want to escape the dusty flatlands, they make for Big Bear Lake, a year-round recreation spot 7,000-ft-up in the San Bernardino Mountains. It’s ideal for villa holiday rentals. The 7-mile-long reservoir here is enclosed by dense woodlands, and activities include hiking, horse-riding, boating and fishing (and, in winter, skiing). Fresh air and invigorating alpine landscapes are here for the taking, but don’t rely on solitude – this is a very popular place.