Published 28th Jun. 2021
Reading time
A great alternative to the Ahwahnee Hotel, Tenaya Lodge is just outside Yosemite National Park's south gate surrounded by almost 50 acres of beautiful forest. This lovely stone and timber lodge is perfect for relaxing US holidays, merging the feel of an alpine lodge with a Native American twist.
There are two types of accommodation at Tenaya Lodge - a large main lodge with 244 rooms, and 50 private cottages five minute's walk away from the hub. The main Lodge is perfect for those wanting a hotel experience, whereas the seclusion of the cottages is perfect for groups and couples after a touch more privacy. The cottages are very homey, using lots of wood and earthy tones, native artwork and rustic decor. There is plenty of space with a great fireplace for that extra warmth on cold nights.
There are a number of choices when it comes to eating within the resort. The pizzeria is a great spot for low key, relaxed dining, offering a fresh salad bar, TV screens showing sport, inexpensive wine and huge pizzas. Also with a similar chilled vibe is Jackalope's Bar and Grill, a western style bar serving all things American. Those wanting a more upscale dining experience can try Embers or Sierra. Finally, for snacks there is the Park Side Deli and in the summer, the resort also does a mean barbeque.
Yosemite National Park is only 2 miles away for activities such as hiking, biking, climbing and bird watching, but the resort also features plenty of on-site activities. These range from archery and rock climbing walls to swimming, kids' camp and an ice rink. Nearby there is also golf, horseback riding, fishing, rafting, skiing, snowboarding and snowshoe. Spa facilities include indoor and outdoor pools with four hot tubs, as well as a spa with steam room, sauna, fitness centre and treatment rooms.
Why We Love It
The lodge slogan is 'It's like roughing it, minus the rough part.' Can't say fairer than that.
The Majestic Yosemite Hotel sits in splendid isolation in the middle of the Yosemite Valley and for setting alone would rank as the best hotel in the National Park.
There are 123 rooms, suites and cottages in total, with the rooms located in the main building, and the cottages with small stone terraces located among the dogwood and pine trees in the grounds.
The Dining Room with its vaulted ceiling is breathtaking and has fab views of the surrounding mountains, and there is also an outside garden area where they have bar service.
Why We Love It
If you aren't staying, it's still well worth visiting for a beer on the terrace while appreciating the views.
From New York to California and all the states in between, our team knows the USA's hotspots incredibly well. What we really excel at, though, is the under-the-radar regions, thanks to our in-depth experience and the hand-picked guides we work with on the ground. Whether you’re travelling as a family or à deux, road trips are the ultimate way to explore the USA, and we're brimming with suggestions to improve journeys, from scenic route options to photogenic stop-off points (all based on our own experiences, of course). And if that's not enough, you'll have our in-country Concierge team on hand at all times for extra help and advice.
ENQUIRE NOWPractical advice and inspiration for your next trip
Wondering what to see in San Francisco? Wonder no more. This is your invitation to discover the city beyond postcards and social media posts (though we’ll admit, it’s a very photogenic place). We’ll delve into its history, highlight some of the most walkable neighbourhoods and lead you to green spaces for a breath of fresh air. Explore the fantastic food scene and find the best spots to enjoy unforgettable views.
18th February 2026 - USA Travel Inspiration
Spring in the City of Angels has had some rather downbeat descriptions over the years, with Angelinos annually bemoaning May Gray and June Gloom. April, however, retains a glowing reputation – and not just because it’s a harder rhyme. Always an exciting time, April is marked by desert-dwelling festivals, migrating marine mammals and a (slight) decline in crowds. For the lowdown on all the exciting events popping up in and around the city, read our roundup of reasons to visit Los Angeles in April.
16th February 2026 - USA Travel Inspiration
Love it or hate it, winter rolls around every year. So, why not spend this polarizing time on a polarized continent? From skating on the frozen lakes of the Canadian Rockies and crunching through the snow-blanketed plains of Alaska to sampling internationally renowned wines in the vineyards of Northern California and cruising between the laid-back microcosms of The Florida Keys, North America has something for everyone during winter.
24th December 2025 - USA Travel Inspiration
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
