Yosemite National Park is one of the American classics when it comes to the great outdoors. With the iconic Bridalveil Fall, giant sequoias, and dramatic rock faces of El Capitan and Half Dome, Yosemite is a must-see destination if you’re spending time in Northern California. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this National Park is not near any large city, so accommodation options are somewhat limited. That being said, these four properties are great options whether you’re staying for one night or a week or more.
The Ahwahnee
Image via Flickr by bryce_edwards
If you’re looking to live in luxury, The Ahwahnee is the place to stay. There are few hotel choices in the park, and to have one where it is, loaded with upscale amenities, restaurants, and services, makes this property quite the treat to stay in. Set in front of the majestic Yosemite Valley, the charm of its wood and stone architecture is undeniable. Step inside and be treated to a rustic retreat fit for past Presidents and Queens. The price is steep, as you would imagine, but you certainly get what you pay for.
Yosemite Lodge at the Falls
Image via Flickr by ifan
The alternative to The Ahwahnee, if you’re looking to take a less of a hit on your wallet, is Yosemite Lodge at the Falls. What I like about this property is that it still puts you in the park itself, which makes exploration a cinch because you don’t have to spend time commuting in and out of the grounds. The lodge offers surprisingly cosy, spacious, and comfortable rooms that also come with sweeping views of Yosemite Valley. Due to the popularity of Yosemite Lodge at the Falls, make sure you book ahead of time especially during high season.
Curry Village
Image via Flickr by gufm
For those that are looking for that deeper connection with nature, Curry Village provides the unique experience of being able to stay in either a basic hotel-type room, rustic cabins, or heated/unheated tents. The lodging choices also extends to the plethora of dining options that include a pizza deck, curry pavilion, meadow grill, curry bar, and coffee corner. This is an attractive accommodation option because you get to experience the camping way of life here and get to do it at a fraction of the cost of a full-service hotel.
Wawona Hotel
Image via Flickr by Don & Suzan Weller
All of the above properties are located in the central part of Yosemite National Park, which is known as Yosemite Valley. If you’re looking to be in an area that is a bit more secluded and away from the high traffic of cars that go through the area, Wawona Hotel is somewhere you’ll want to consider. Situated right by the Mariposa Grove Museum and the Wawona Golf Course, you’ll love the quaint European style of this hotel and the period pieces that will make it feel like you’re walking through a museum. It’s worth nothing that only 50 rooms have private bathrooms, while the rest use shared bathroom facilities. The prices at Wawona are quite reasonable and as a bonus, even includes free breakfast.
Leave a Reply