south lake tahoe, california
The largest Alpine lake in America, Lake Tahoe is a quintessential weekend getaway in both summer and winter. After skiing at Heavenly and Kirkwood in the South Lake area last winter, I've been wanting to come back and enjoy the area in the summertime. After dodging traffic to escape the city, we were rewarded with some pretty amazing views and fresh mountain air.
Pack... For a summertime adventure you don't need much more than some active clothes to hike in, solid sneakers or hiking shoes (these Merrell's are my favorite) and a bathing suit to cool off in the lake (or pool) afterwards.
Sleep... The Coachman Hotel. Old motel turned hip and modern hotel is a perfect escape and launching point for a South Lake Tahoe getaway. The Coachman is a comfortable, well designed and no fuss retreat. A great selection of beers on tap to enjoy while making s'mores at the bonfire or relaxing by the side of the pool, and waffles and Stumptown coffee are a perfect way to wake up in the morning. I particularly enjoyed the Malin & Goetz bath products and Frette sheets in our cozy room. The heated toilet seats are a nice perk too.
Bring Home... Matches from the Coachman Hotel and stock up on Malin & Goetz products while you're at it.
{ wander}
Hike to Gillmore Lake in Desolation Wilderness. An 8 mile roundtrip hike that ends at a peaceful alpine lake. For the more adventurous hikers, you can also access Mount Tallac from here.
Read by the pool at the Coachman Hotel.
Head to the lake for some beach time. You can also rent a boat to get out on the water and soak in the beauty from a different perspective.
If you visit in the winter, be sure to ski at Heavenly or Kirkwood resorts.
{ eat }
Base Camp Pizza - So good that we went twice! Strong selection of beers on tap and unique pizza offerings in a fun atmosphere.
MacDuff's Pub - We stopped in for lunch and enjoyed our sunny table on the patio. Food is pretty much what you would expect from a pub, I recommend going easy on the fried foods.
Fire Sign Cafe - Brunch spot in Tahoe City. Very popular but worth the wait!
{ September 2016 }