LAKE TAHOE
Sheer, Blue, Clean & Refreshing
By Isabelle Reynolds
Most people don’t know it, but there are two distinct parts of Lake Tahoe: The South Shore and the North. Both have easy access to the magnificent freshwater lake, but the south is saturated with casinos and bars, and the north is more laid back, with fewer people and more of a mountain-vibe.
This story is about the North, where there’s truly something for everyone, from hiking and biking to birding, and amazing dining. And, of course, plenty of swimming.
“While North Lake Tahoe offers a wide variety of activities and experiences, it continues to be imperative that guests follow the health and safety guidelines our businesses must adhere to in order to stay open,” said Jeffrey Hentz, North Lake Tahoe Resort Association CEO. “Our mountain community has demonstrated its resilience and determination over the last year, and it’s up to all of us to continue to support them in their efforts to stay open.”
As for COVID precautions, GoTahoeNorth.com has all the up-to-date information you’ll need to know before you go.
Bonus! Jet Blue has resumed its direct flights from JFK to Reno, about a 45-minute drive from North Lake Tahoe. So, there’s no reason not to add Lake Tahoe on your bucket list.
HEAVENLY STAYS
The Resort at Squaw Creek offers luxurious accommodations with grand picture windows and sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. You can choose anything from deluxe rooms to fireplace suites and bi-level penthouses.
The Resort at Squaw Creek offers luxurious accommodations with grand picture windows and sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. You can choose anything from deluxe rooms to fireplace suites and bi-level penthouses.
After a tough day adventuring outdoors, pamper yourself with a Muscle Melt Massage or Gua Sha Instant Lift Facial at the spa.
Enjoy an a la carte breakfast on property at Cascades (open daily from 7am-11am), or Sandy’s Pub for dinner. Info: destinationhotels.com/squawcreek?src=corp_lclb_gmb_seo_rnodh
West Shore Café & Inn is one of the most romantic hotels and offers four elegant mountain-inspired guest suites and two classic mountain-inspired guest rooms. The property overlooks Lake Tahoe on one side, and the mountains on the other. The hotel recently underwent a $250,000 remodeling, including new hardwood floors in each room, carpet through common areas, a new HVAC system allowing better airflow throughout the property, updated light fixtures, and 4k Smart TV’s.
All rooms are amazing, but our favorite is the Marlette Peak Suite, a one-bedroom with two bathrooms with shower and tub, two fireplaces, and verandas with prime lake views.
Coffee and tea are offered in the lobby every morning, and the hotel will provide guests with continental breakfast delivered to your room each morning. For dinner, you can dine inside or outside at the café, with a seasonal menu and world-class wines.
Be sure to visit the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion (also known as Pine Lodge), a summer home built in 1903 in a grove of pine and cedar. From the turn of the century until 1965, the lands of what is now Ed Z’berg - Sugar Pine Point State Park were owned by financier Isaias W. Hellman, and later by his daughter Florence Hellman Ehrman. Info: westshorecafe.com
The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino is nestled perfectly into the Sierra Nevada mountains, with cottages right on the lakeshore. Spend your days exploring the area’s winding trails, relaxing at the on-site spa, and dining at the hotel’s award-winning restaurants (like the Lone Eagle Grille) before retreating to one of the rooms, upscale suites, or private waterfront cottages. The Stillwater Spa and Salon has fabulous treatments; after, you can try your luck at the on-site casino.
While you’re here, enjoy a walk along the East Shore Trail. This paved lakeside trail provides stunning views of Lake Tahoe and access to Hidden Beach and Sand Harbor. For a hiking option, check out Monkey Rock (so-named because it looks like a..monkey!). The trailhead starts at Tunnel Creek Café. Diamond Peak is the nearest ski resort and boasts some of the most stunning views of Lake Tahoe. Nearby Spooner Lake is also a stunning recreation area. There’s also the hotel’s “Takeout Tahoe” campaign, a directory to restaurants around the region.
Info: hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/nevada/hyatt-regency-lake-tahoe-resort-spa-and-casino/tvllt/policies
