Tenaya Lodge: Luxury in the Sierra Wilderness

Tenaya Lodge Resort, near the south entrance to Yosemite National Park, could be the ultimate destination for those seeking scenic wilderness, rustic charm and the modern comfortable conveniences of a four star hotel.

For people with conflicting vacation styles, this might be the perfect compromise.

Why choose between relaxing hotel accommodations and beautiful natural outdoor wonders when you can have both?

This location provides easy access to some of the world's most spectacular mountain experiences, including the Mariposa Grove of giant redwood trees, the breathtaking vistas of Yosemite Valley and the refreshing experience of spectacular waterfalls.

Here, you could spend the day hiking nature trails in Yosemite and return to the indulgence of ultra comfortable accommodations, fine dining and even spa services when you are ready to relax.

The Tenaya can hook you up with tours and all popular happenings and events in the area.

Hiking, fishing, birding, kayaking and golf are only a few of the outdoor activities available in this area.

In the winter you can make your arrangements for skiing, ice skating and even renting an inner tube for snow play.

One of the surprising things about Tenaya Lodge, is that you have to be practically at the front entrance of the hotel before you are aware of the spacious scope of this complex of five story buildings with 294 guest rooms.

It is a beautiful getaway spot in a pristine forest wilderness with all of the comforts of home and more.

Not only is it surrounded by a natural evergreen forest, the grounds have been planted with native evergreens in a manner that naturally blends in with the area, and actually hides most of the buildings.

From most views you can hardly see the the hotel.

The resort is a great base for those who wish to explore Yosemite national Park, but also provides a lot of activities for its guests right on the grounds.

There are indoor and outdoor pools with jacuzzi hot tubs, an ice skating rink, as well as sauna and steam room and fitness center.

This is not your big city hotel-- at least not on the outside, but it has all of the amenities you might expect on the main street of any metropolis.

Horseback riding, bike rentals and a rock climbing wall can be experienced by those who seek challenging activity. There is also a relaxing menu of specialized spa treatments and massage for those seeking full relaxation.

Rooms are comfortable, and the luxury suites may include fireplaces and balconies. You can also rent a "rustic cottage" which also includes access to all of the special amenities..

There are great facilities for conventions, conferences and other events at the resort, with several meeting rooms of various sizes, and a banquet staff that is ready to serve a crowd.

Speaking of food, the resort has become something of a culinary destination with several eating venues that make meals a special experience.

The upscale "The Embers" restaurant for fine dining, and the Timberloft Pizzeria, featuring delicious Italian fare are only two of the dining choices.

There is also the more casual Sierra Restaurant, and Jackalope's Bar and Grill with a pub-type menu. The Parkside Deli has sandwiches and other picnic items. During the summer there are outdoor barbecue events which includes a ride in the draft horse-drawn chuck wagon and s'mores around the campfire.

Special dining events throughout the year for guests and local residents are popular too.

Prices tend to be in the upper ranges, but the food is fresh, excellent and served with a lot of eye-appeal. The employees are helpful and friendly.

Tenaya Lodge resort is part of Delaware North Companies, Inc. which also manages facilities at other national parks and vacation destinations around the US and In Canada.

Footnote: Just to make sure Tenaya Lodge is not confused with the famous hotel located in the Yosemite Valley, the following points need to be made:

Tenaya Lodge is near the south entrance to Yosemite National Park, north of Oakhurst, two miles from the park boundary.

It is near the Famous Mariposa Grove of Redwood Trees, inside the park, and near the historic hotel and Pioneer Village At Wawona. It also is also convenient to Badger Pass Ski resort in Yosemite National Park.

Check your maps and travel resources. Also check for off- season prices and special deals. Yosemite is beautiful in all seasons and especially enjoyable when the summer crowds are gone.

When you are in Yosemite Valley, be SURE to visit the beautiful Majestic Hotel to enjoy its impressive vintage décor and historic significance.

If you are planning to stay there, your visit will be memorable though you will find that the rooms are smaller, the prices may be higher and some of the extras will not be the same.

Wherever you plan to stay (and there are many more economical options) you will be sure to enjoy your visit to one of the most beautiful spots on earth.