The Ahwahnee

Location

This is one of the best located hotels, and certainly the most comfortable, in Yosemite, with views up to Glacier Point, Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the region is something of a pilgrimage site for nature lovers, where visitors are treated to carpeted valleys framed by granite cliffs and streaked with waterfalls feeding into crystal clear lakes. Stock up for a hike through this incredible location at Yosemite Village, just 1.5 miles down the road from the hotel.

Accommodation

The hotel’s great granite façade, striking beamed ceilings and massive stone hearths help mirror the wilds of Yosemite. However, warmly coloured, well-appointed rooms appointed with Native American art bring trekkers back up to temperature. Featured Hotel Rooms come with balconies or large decks to take full advantage of Yosemite scenery, a rugged contrast to the hotel’s lawn and grounds. For larger accommodation, 24 cottages are dotted among the dogwood and pine trees that surround the lodge. Originally built in 1928, their interiors feature cherry wood finishes, leather laced shades and, in select cottages, roaring fireplaces.

Dining

Dine under chandeliers and a 34-foot-high beamed ceiling supported by granite pillars at the award-winning Dining Room. The kitchen serves breakfasts, lunches and dinners – remember to pack your collared shirt for latter. All menus have a gourmet take on hearty Californian mountain classics; enjoy pan roasted pork tenderloin or tuck into caramelised organic eggplant. For a more relaxed dining setting, its has an intimate indoor and al fresco atmosphere.

Facilities

The massive stone fireplace of the Great Lounge greets returning walkers while, during the day, its floor-to-ceiling hand-stained windows foster an equally warm ambience. On occasion, the lounge hosts wine tasting classes and Native American basket weaving displays under the glow of its iron-wrought chandeliers. Indeed, the resort is full of club rooms and lounges hidden away for you to discover with a good book. Possibly the finest of these is the Solarium, which looks onto the majestic Glacier Point. There’s also a pool if you hadn’t had your fill of exertion from the park’s trails.