Emerald Bay - Winter Wedding Wonderland of Lake Tahoe

If a destination wedding is in your plans, you may want to consider one of the hottest spots in America. Emerald Bay has long been a popular place for couples to exchange their wedding vows, and the winter season is no exception. Lake Tahoe weddings take place year-round over the bay regardless of the time of year.

Located along the western shore of Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay towers 300 feet above the Lake, offering a panoramic view of the alpine "Lake in the Sky" surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range. Couples who arrive at Emerald Bay on their wedding day are in awe of the breath-taking views they experience as they climb the path to the wedding location on the bluff.

Though what seems like an area of seclusion, particularly in the winter months, Emerald Bay is not a difficult drive and only about 20 miles from the heart of the City of South Lake Tahoe. It is there on the south shore that many couples prefer to hold their post-ceremony reception and to enjoy their honeymoon since Tahoe has a great deal more to offer once the wedding vows are consummated.

Beautiful resort areas that cater to couples line the main strip, and there are plenty of restaurants and event centers that host receptions. Close to the heart of town is Heavenly Village, comprised of a variety of shops and fine art galleries. In close proximity to the village is the Heavenly Ski gondola that skiers as well as non-skiers ride, available to the newlyweds who desire a scenic voyage up the slope of Heavenly's mountain.

There is an abundance of night life in the general vicinity as well if the couple wants to carry on the celebration into the late night hours. The downtown casinos offer gaming, outlandish nightclubs and showroom performances. In addition to the nightly entertainment, the local casinos offer luxurious honeymoon suites for the newly married.

Keep in mind that when planning a winter wedding in Tahoe on the bluff of Emerald Bay, there is the possibility of road closures due to winter storms. Highway 89 north, the two lane highway that brings you to Emerald Bay, does occasionally close for avalanche control after heavy snow has fallen. However, weddings on the bluff remain to be popular in the winter season, and over the years of performing weddings atop the bay, few brides and grooms have had to change their ceremony plans.

It is well worth mentioning, however, and a great comfort for brides and grooms to know that most wedding coordinators (if you're using one) always have a plan "B" in an alternately beautiful but protected location if winter conditions look threatening. Nevertheless, if the infrequent situation arises, please note that I've never known a married couple to be disappointed with a substitute location, largely due to the excitement and beauty Mother Nature adds to their wedding day.

There are some whopping advantages, though, for braving a winter wedding at Emerald Bay. The wintery atmosphere atop the bluff over the bay with the surrounding white-capped mountains provides a whole different wedding theme. The backdrop alone for the wedding photos is a big plus in favor of a winter wedding. You'll find the winter experience is quite unique compared to other wedding venues, and should a few snowfLakes fall during the vow exchange, it can only add to the nuance of your special day.

If a winter wedding is in your forecast, always remember that Lake Tahoe weddings high on the bluffs of Emerald Bay take place year-round. Through snow or shine, couples in love make the trek to Tahoe to make those promises to each other and exchange the symbolic rings of commitment. Being one of the most popularly photographed places in the world, Emerald Bay may very well be rising in the ranks of popularity for a winter wedding destination, even though the snowy season may seem quite daunting. That very well may be for the reason that a snowy, white wedding has an ambiance of uniqueness and charm all of its own.

Lake Tahoe - Fun Facts and Fun Things to Do

Considered as a year-round vacation resort, lake tahoe is home to over a dozen ski and snow boarding facilities, top-rated golf courses, and is the center of a myriad of other fun activities including hiking, boating, gaming, sightseeing and more. What's more, the "lake of the Sky" is a sought after wedding and honeymoon destination for adventurous couples looking to unite in matrimony. With all its grandeur in addition to its partiality towards satisfying enthralling interests and providing congenial opportunities, lake tahoe is truly a bravura getaway attraction for those in quest of a thrill-seeking weekend or simply planning a tranquil, all-encompassing vacation.

Lake tahoe borders two states and is situated in Northern California and Nevada amidst the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range at an altitude of 6,225 feet above sea level. It is the second deepest lake in the United States having a maximum depth of 1,645 feet and is the third largest alpine lake in the world. Renowned for its natural beauty and adventurous attributes, tahoe also has an enriching history of origin.

Historically, the belief was that the lake tahoe basin was of volcanic origin. However, the valid theory is that tahoe's basin was formed by faulting fractures in the earth's crust. Faulting fractures cause blocks of earth to move up or down. The uplifting blocks are what created the Carson Range to the east of the lake, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the west. Downward moving blocks created the lake tahoe Basin that's presently situated in-between these mammoth mountain ranges.

World-class ski resorts have been developed due to these earthly shifts, producing plenty of winter fun in tahoe. Seven of these world-class ski resorts that are quite popular include Mt. Rose, Northstar at tahoe, Squaw Valley USA, Sierra at tahoe, Alpine Meadows, Kirkwood, and Heavenly Ski Resort. Heavenly is an enormous draw for winter tourism as it is a well-known resort with 4,800 acres of ski terrain that spans across two states, California and Nevada.

Golfing is big in tahoe in the summer months and early fall. Particularly notable as one of America's top golf courses and host to a variety of major golf events including the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship, Edgewood tahoe is a first-rate facility that is conveniently located on the south shore on the Nevada state line. Many well-known personalities have golfed on the extraordinary course of Edgewood.

Another popular tahoe activity to partake in is hiking because there are a variety of trails around the lake leading to the most scenic views imaginable. Eagle Rock, for example, is a dormant volcano located on the west shore, and a 30 minute hike to the top reveals an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the rich blue waters of lake tahoe. In close proximity are the trails of Emerald Bay Falls. These are easily travelled paths leading to spectacular views of the falls and tri-colored bay. On the east shore is Spooner lake, which consists of hiking trails that lead to striking views of the Eastern Sierras.

Boating, parasailing and water skiing are the aquatic summer sports that happen around the lake with boat launches conveniently located throughout. Zephyr Cove Resort on the Nevada side and the Ski Run Marina in California are two places on the south shore of tahoe that provide skidoo and small paddleboat rentals for those who want to take part in this sort of summer fun.

Having an approximate diameter of twenty-two miles and a width of twelve, lake tahoe has a super long shoreline perimeter totaling seventy-two miles. This equates to loads of beaches for sun tanning or lounging, many of which are equipped with picnic tables, barbeque pits, playgrounds, and volleyball and tennis courts. Additionally, there are seasonal afternoon concerts at several beach locations about the lake to add to the summertime enjoyment.

Many times these same beach locations also serve as wedding venues throughout the year. Numerous amounts of engaged couples love the thrill of a lakeside wedding in the exciting town of tahoe. Regan Beach is one such spot on the south shore where newlyweds-to-be unite in marriage and then undergo the honeymoon celebration with what tahoe has to offer.

As you travel around the lake you'll discover many of the small towns frequently hold craft fairs, which offer another form of summer and springtime fun. These fairs are typically composed of jewelry, gift items, modern artwork and an assortment of other items of interest. You'll also find gaming casinos on the northern and southern shore of tahoe if you're interested in some fast-paced action. The casinos provide 24 hour entertainment including slot machines, table games, restaurants, outlandish nightclubs and nightly showroom performances.

Of course, this is not an all-inclusive list of the year-round fun in tahoe, but it is a small glimpse of what to expect when you arrive. If your preference is a leisurely walk along the sandy beaches or a power hike up the steepest mountain peak, skiing the mogul slopes of Heavenly or playing 18 holes on the finest golf course around, you can bet it's available at the "lake of the Sky". For the weekend thrill-seeker or laid-back vacationer alike, lake tahoe is a year-round, dazzling getaway that has it all.

South Lake Tahoe, A Piece Of Heaven

If you are looking forward to a great vacation, South lake tahoe should be your destination. From lodging to activities to entertainment, it offers a wide array of choices fit for all kinds of people—families, students, business groups, or newlyweds.

The living accommodations vary from hotels, bed and breakfast, private home rentals, vacation rentals and cabins, campgrounds, and RV parks. For quaint and intimate setting, bed and breakfasts, like Inn at Heavenly and Black Bear Inn Bed & Breakfast will be the perfect place to stay. It is less costly without sacrificing comfort. For people who like luxury and pampering, hotels and resorts are available all over lake tahoe with amenities like heated pool, full service day-spa, and Jacuzzi tubs. Condos and homes are situated in the top areas around the lake. This is an alternative for families who are staying longer than usual and for those who prefers privacy and comforts of one’s home. During summer, campgrounds are just the right backdrop for those burnt marshmallows and barbecue.

Although there are many choices, booking may be a problem especially during peak seasons. For less hassles, you can make reservations online. For the townhouses, the real estate will be more than happy to accommodate your needs.

South lake tahoe is the best place to be, whatever time of the year it is. In winter, they offer skiing and snowboarding. It is, after all, North America’s largest concentration of ski and snowboard resorts. From November until April, the place is filled with tourists seeking fun and adventure in snow.

In summer, they have activities like golf, boat-riding, and hiking to keep you occupied. Lake tahoe is the home of Edgewood tahoe Golf Course where the 18th annual American Century Championship Celebrity Golf Tournament. More than 75 stars in sports and entertainment visited and loved the golf course.

With the breathtaking mountain view of South lake tahoe, weddings and honeymoons are made unforgettable. Chapels, ministers, coordinators, and photographers are handy to make that walk-in-the-aisle truly a memory to cherish. One of the famous hotels in the area, 3 Peaks Resort & Beach Club has a Romantic lake tahoe Vacation Package including champagne, romantic dinner, and a dance cruise. Newlyweds will surely go back to lake tahoe for their second honeymoon.

If you are one of those people who lives during the night, your nightlife is not going to suffer while staying in lake tahoe. Good music, grilled food, friendly bartenders, well-stocked wine cellar, chilled beers—you can find these in the local bar and restaurants. There are specials once in a while like dinner/dance cruises and karaoke.

If you are not the bar type, entertainment still would not be a problem. Casinos are open all days of the week providing first-class entertainment like annual Summer Outdoor Concert Series. Montbleu Resort Casino & Spa has a theatre house featuring movies old and new.

You won’t worry where to eat your next meal. There are over 100 restaurants in the South lake tahoe area. Whatever you are craving, be it Italian or traditional Mexican, it’s just a short walk away from your hotel.

Of course, before going home, shopping is a must for souvenirs, mementos, and postcards. For this task, tahoe Emporium boasts stores offering local, regional, and national brand names. From clothes to sports equipments to books, you will find what you are looking for. The stores are conveniently located near resorts and hotels.

Vacation is something all people are looking forward to. It is like a much craved dessert that you would want to savor bite after bite. South lake tahoe has all the ingredients that will satisfy even the most fastidious appetite there is.

Lake Tahoe – Destination Wedding Favorite

Of the many destination wedding venues across America, Lake Tahoe stands out as one of the most beautiful places imaginable for any couple to walk down the aisle on their wedding day. The south shore of Lake Tahoe is loaded with grandeur wedding locations and offers a variety of settings suitable for most any bridal theme.

From the sandy beaches in the summer season to the wintery mountain peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, Lake Tahoe has all any bride or groom could ever ask for when it comes to an outdoor wedding location. The crystal clear, tri-colored water of Tahoe is at an altitude of 6,220 feet, and its 72 miles of shoreline is surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenic views one can ever envision.

Beginning from the west shore to the east, Emerald Bay, Tahoe Paradise Park and Logan Shoals are just a few of the various ceremony sites located along the shoreline that covers the two states of California and Nevada. The drive from the west to the east is just a little over 30 minutes, so if you're undecided about having a California or Nevada wedding, all of these locations are in close proximity to each other.

Not only is having a Lake Tahoe wedding an extremely popular wedding destination for many couples in love, but it is also a great place for a honeymoon. There are scores of hotels and vacation resorts that cater to newlyweds and are comprised with some of the most luxurious bridal suites that would rival the best. Restaurants are plentiful too, and some offer a most desiring atmosphere of romance that would exceed any newlywed's expectations.

There's no lacking either in the amount of activities that the married couple can enjoy when beginning their new life together. Practically within walking distance from the main area of town is boating, water or jet skiing, parasailing, hiking, fishing, touring across the Lake on the Tahoe Queen, and the list goes on. If it's the winter season and the snow has fallen, there's snow skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing as well.

Of course, the night life in Tahoe provides equal opportunities for fun. There are romantic night cruises on the riverboats up the Lake's coast, exotic nightclubs, dancing and gaming. For those with shopping or browsing in mind, Heavenly Village is conveniently located near Stateline and is open daily till early evening all year round and consists of a myriad of shops with quaintness and charm.

Having robust seclusion, beauty and romance, Lake Tahoe is truly a remarkable location for the marriage prospects. Destination weddings take place in each of the 4 seasons around the south shore of Tahoe. Winter or summer, spring or fall, on the sandy beaches or on the mountain peaks on skis, multitudes of brides and grooms choose these exhilarating outdoor locations as the place of choice to make that commitment to each other, praising Tahoe as a true favorite for their destination wedding day.

Time to Chow Down at Lake Tahoe Restaurants

Lake Tahoe restaurants come in all shapes and sizes, and are just as varied as the hotels, resorts, and activities that you'll find to entertain you in this great tourist town. Not many people actually live in Lake Tahoe, as it is more of a seasonal destination for vacationers and tourists who want a fun summer adventure or some of the best skiing in the world during the winter months. There are a variety of restaurants both inside hotels and resorts, as well as freestanding, and they include a variety of cuisines and types of food from all over the place.

If you're staying in Lake Tahoe, you might find that your hotel or lodge has a restaurant that suits your pleasures. However, if you want a night out on the town or a chance to experience something different, consider visiting one of the many restaurants in and around the area, where you can find food from all over the world, including American, Mexican, French, and Asian food, which are the most popular types in the area.

In South Lake Tahoe, for example, you can find The Cantina, which is a Mexican restaurant serving home-style Mexican food in traditional large portions. You'll also find Evans and Freshies, which are both listed as "eclectic" dining locations, offering something different that you won't find just anywhere.

In Tahoe City, you can check out Lake Tahoe restaurants like Fiamma, which is an Italian bar and grill, or the Fire Sign Café, which is a great little diner serving up the best in American diner cuisine. There are literally dozens of restaurants to choose from in the Lake Tahoe area, giving you free reign to find and investigate and restaurant that piques your curiosity. King's Beach offers the best selection of grills and beach-friendly food, as well as old fashioned Italian cuisine from Lanza's. You'll also find the Log Cabin Café here, which is budget-friendly and has great cuisine.

Eating is often part of the adventure for many people who take vacations. This is why Lake Tahoe restaurants offer such a wide selection of options for people to choose from. It doesn't matter if you want a typical American dinner or if you want to eat something new and different. There are so many options to choose from in Lake Tahoe, that you're sure to find something that suits your needs quite well. Given all of the options, you might spend a week in the area and only begin to put a dent in the list of available restaurant choices.

Enjoying Lake Tahoe One Shore At A Time

Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful places in North America to visit. Located in between California and Nevada, the Lake has been dubbed the jewel in the sky and for good reason. When visiting Lake Tahoe you will realize that it is nested up in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, sitting at an elevation of 6,225 feet and having a maximum depth of over 1,645 feet at some points, the shore lines are incredible and very diverse. After reading this, you will be a little more familiar with the characteristics of Lake Tahoe.

The north shore of Lake Tahoe is probably the most neglected. Kings Beach is a little town that brings the most character to the North shore. If you look hard enough or just ask a few locals, you will discover the best Mexican restaurants in the area tucked away in the side streets. Tahoe City is by far the most popular city in the North shore, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists each year, especially during the fourth of July and the Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. Here you will find your common tourist shops selling anything and everything with the name Lake Tahoe on it. A popular place for tourists to gather is the Fanny Bridge, which leads to the west shore of Lake Tahoe. Here you can look over and see hundreds of trout eagerly waiting to be fed.

Once you cross over the Fanny Bridge, you will be on your way to the west shore of Lake Tahoe. The west shore is where you will find some of the biggest houses around, many owned by popular celebrities. If you have seen The Godfather Part Two you would have seen bits and pieces of west shore Lake Tahoe, a lot of the filming was done over there. As you make your way south you will eventually run into a part of the shoreline properly named The Gold Coast. This piece of shoreline is a number one contender for the most beautiful beach on earth. The coast is decorated with a flowing display of gold sand that would make any king envious. Unfortunately, most of the gold coast sands are private property and not shared by some of the richest of the area. Don't worry though because a quick drive south will take you to one of Lake Tahoe's most popular features, Emerald Bay, home of the only island in the Lake, Fannette Island. Located on Fannette Island is the "Tea House" which is of the best examples of Scandinavian architecture built in the western hemisphere. The west shore of Lake Tahoe is very beautiful in the spring, summer and fall but beware of the tremendous amounts of snow during the winter. This shore is typically hit the hardest and due to the fact that there is only one road out you may just happen to find yourself stuck and snowed in. Which may not be so bad if you have a pair of skies with you or a snowboard? So if and when you plan a visit to Lake Tahoe, don't forget to visit the north and west shores.

Lake Tahoe, California: Rebalance, Renew and Rejuvenate With Help From Local Inns and Innkeepers

As humans, we have the power to influence the world around us by adopting a positive attitude. We can choose to be a positive force in the world that makes a difference. In order to accomplish this, we need to get ourselves into the right frame of mind. If we are permitting our problems to bear down on us day after day; if we allow negative energy and influences to accumulate so that positive ideas have been choked off; if there is disharmony and imbalance in our lives and relationships, then perhaps it is time to take a break. It is not what we do that is important but why we do it. True happiness and contentment does exist; we sometimes have to go looking for it.

For those seeking to rebalance their lives, there is immense power in taking a getaway vacation. Taking time away from our normal environment to recharge, renew and refresh will help us make sense of the concept of rejuvenation and why it plays such a vital role in our interactions with other people. And yes, when we are away, enveloped in natural wonders, there is even a strong possibility that we may change our perceptions, actions, and the world around us.

True success is achieving a goal that is more than material; real success includes spiritual connection, emotional renewal, health cultivation, social contentment and career satisfaction.

We all possess the ability to modify ourselves. Putting ourselves in a different environment will help us change the way we think, the way we handle obstacles, and ultimately the way we feel. Once we recognize how to tap into these areas, we will discover that our attitudes change in a constructive way, and thus the path to contentment becomes that much easier to achieve.

Most of us seek balance and harmony in our lives; and when things are imbalanced, anxiety can arise. When we are calm and relaxed, we are in an optimal state for functioning. What is important is that we become aware and understand how stress operates, how it unfolds and how it can take over our lives and keep us out of balance. In order to aid our consciousness, we can provide ourselves with the tools that are needed to dissolve the stress and anxiety that is often triggered by a plethora of events in modern life.

Consider taking a few days off in Lake Tahoe, California. Tahoe is a destination that promotes health and well-being. It should be pointed out that becoming refreshed, recharged and rejuvenated is not only important to the whole of us, it also affects every cell, joint and body part.

Glistening softly in myriad shades of blue and green, Lake Tahoe, which straddles the California-Nevada border, is one of the most beautiful lakes in the country, with an average depth of one thousand feet. It is a destination that is very easy to get to. Once you digest the basic importance of getting away for a few days, you will discover that the wait was well worth it. What is quite fascinating is that Lake Tahoe is a very compelling locale. Tahoe provides a creative, stimulating environment for visitors.

Driving around the lake's 72-mile shoreline rewards travelers with heart-stopping scenery that will stimulate a sense of creativity and wonder. Three out of every four days, Tahoe receives sunshine, making it an ideal destination for outdoor pursuits of all types. The landscape incorporates large ideas for recreation and leisure that will satisfy the uniqueness of every one of us. The environment cleverly bridges nature's beauty with the whimsical imaginations of tourists to create a delectable vacation in any season. Visitors can draw on a smorgasbord of activities to explore the area. Swimming, boating, guided-cruises, fishing, kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving, paddleboards, windsurfing and other water-sports are available. Hiking, walking and scenic drives are also fun. In the marina, pleasure boats are lined up side by side, as the morning sun bounces off the lake, giving the light a glittering, touchable quality.

In summer, you might observe sailboat races, or firework shows over the lake. Winter brings abundant snow, perfect for downhill skiing at more than a dozen world-class ski resorts. Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are also options. There are plenty of lake front restaurants scattered along the shoreline; most come equipped with docks and buoys. Lake Tahoe, California is the kind of place that can ignite a deep awareness and understanding of our enormous inner potential.

There are numerous hiking and mountain biking trails all around the area, which can range in length, difficulty and popularity. The 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail circumnavigates the lake and is quite famous. The Granite Chief Wilderness is great for hiking and camping. Desolation Wilderness and Eagle Lake Trailhead are also quite popular for hiking. Several paved off-road bicycle paths are also an option. On the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, you'll find gambling casinos, restaurants and entertainment.

For pure pleasure, few experiences are as gratifying as visiting a bed and breakfast inn. It is a chance to explore new territory, new foods and new landmarks. Awake to mornings filled with golden sunshine; the smells of sizzling bacon, pine and wood smoke and the boasting cries of birds of prey.

The key to getting the most out of your vacation begins with the innkeeper, who is like your best friend in Tahoe. The innkeeper can help you find activities that blend with your own definition of contentment, which may differ than that of other visitors.

Our definition of a good time is unique to us and when we have a clear vision of what a trip to Lake Tahoe personally could do for us, we will be able to work towards accomplishing a memorable getaway. Fundamentally, the innkeeper might require a snapshot of our likes, dislikes and what is important to us. Once the innkeeper gets a handle on how we perceive a fantastic holiday, the host can formulate an itinerary to help us on our way.

Marty Cohen, innkeeper of The Shore House at Lake Tahoe, in Tahoe Vista, CA shares: "We have lived here for 37 years and have had the inn for 17 years. It gives us a good background to share the area with guests." To help you on your journey, innkeepers will provide a road map that will lead you to having a rejuvenating experience. The innkeeper has a certain amount of knowledge and expertise about the area and can recommend certain excursions without much effort.

Experienced innkeepers will know all the good information, stories and places a visitor will want to see. Typically, innkeepers are warm and conversational; with in-depth knowledge about the location; they are well organized, and accessible. And it is here where customer service really shines, as innkeepers skillfully craft a compelling experience with graciousness and class. They know just the right place for those who are seeking a quiet sanctuary.

The towns and landscapes surrounding Lake Tahoe are refreshing. Here you will experience light bright flashes of new territory. It is a region that gives visitors a different perspective; we see our smallness against the vastness of nature. "Many people get married and come back for anniversaries," remarks Marty Cohen of The Shore House at Lake Tahoe. "We get a lot of writers. They love sitting out by the lake. It is a very comfortable atmosphere for them to be creative."

"A particular couple has been coming for 15 years," continues Marty, "The husband had been diagnosed with non curable cancer, and they keep coming every summer. It is the best rejuvenation for him."

Problems seem less insurmountable while taking in the magnitude of mountain peaks, expansive lakes or soaring pine forests. When we return back to our regular lives, if we can remember to remain positive and recognize that there are no problems but rather, only solutions, this attitude will give us a different perspective on many of life's challenges.

It goes without saying that the grounds and facilities of many small B & B inns in Lake Tahoe, California are peaceful and soothing to the eyes. A welcoming atmosphere is evident throughout them. The location feels like being in the mountains on the water's edge of a pristine lake, with some of the best sunsets imaginable. This gives visitors a sense of privacy and romance. The beautiful setting along with great service makes this a destination of unsurpassed charm.

A stay at Lake Tahoe is recommended to anyone who wants a good dose of serenity, privacy and relaxation. Rest on a balcony and just gaze at the beautiful wooded landscape with Lake Tahoe shimmering in the background. It is a place where you can spend easy times in good conversation with friends.

Most B & B inns in Lake Tahoe are a lovely blend of warm service, sumptuous breakfasts, and home-style charm. The accommodating staff, comfortable rooms, abundant amenities, exceptional location, and excellent value make for a pleasant experience.

Rooms are typically comfortable, airy and inviting. Relaxing beds, bathrobes and signature toiletries are usually provided along with hairdryers. Some rooms have refrigerators and balconies; some come equipped with gas log fireplaces, and some rooms have two person whirlpool tubs. There is normally free WiFi, cable TV and a DVD player. Complimentary coffee, water and hot chocolate are normally available in the dining room 24/7. Fresh baked treats and chocolates are placed in the rooms everyday. Some rooms are decorated with pine walls, and log furniture. Unique artwork throughout the property provides a glimpse into Lake Tahoe's character. In addition to the spacious comfort, rooms are immaculately clean with tasteful design. Some properties have several gardens, and a pier over the water.

Expect to receive gracious service with a warm smile. The owners/innkeepers typically known for their genuine hospitality, efficient service and willingness to help plan activities or excursions. The innkeepers are knowledgeable about the area and provide helpful suggestions to all of their guests. Spa treatments and massage is also available to guests upon request.

Some inns are known for providing an exceptional, and hearty breakfast that is artfully presented. Most dining rooms are filled with character. Award winning Monte Cristo breakfast sandwich and a chili egg puff with fresh baked scones and muffins are some of the items on the menu. Covered balconies, or lakefront lawns and gardens by the waters edge are the ideal reading areas for visitors. The common rooms are peaceful areas with a variety of different books, magazines, and board games. The lakefront lawns and gardens have superb views overlooking majestic Lake Tahoe with its towering pines. Every afternoon at 5pm, the inn may host an afternoon social gathering that includes wine and appetizers. It is a great opportunity to interact with other guests.

Lake Tahoe is an ideal location for those who want to feel they are in a quiet serene lakeside getaway, yet still within a few miles of all other activities. Shopping is a few miles away, as are some of the well-established galleries where you can purchase jewelry, ceramics, textiles and paintings or Lake Tahoe memorabilia. Performing arts centers, spas, dining, parks, attractions, and cultural activities are just a short distance from the town. Its proximity to fishing, hiking, biking and water activities provide incomparable value. Some inns provide complimentary kayaking. There are also cruise boat excursions including lunch and swimming, (at extra charge.)

The B & B's at Lake Tahoe are known to be spotless, especially the guestrooms. The grounds and gardens are meticulously maintained. Overall everything, including the town, is quite picturesque.

Compared to a standard hotel room, a bed and breakfast inn provides an excellent alternative. The niceties, friendly conversation and attentiveness of staff make the difference. The guests appreciate being asked if they are comfortable. The innkeepers are helpful without being intrusive.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,California,Inns,Innkeepers

Lake Tahoe - A Perfect Winter and Summer Getaway

If you are planning to spend your vacation time around the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe, make sure that you rent an accommodation that offers a lot more than just adequate lodging.

If you are an admirer of snowy mountains and crystal waters then the best place to visit is Lake Tahoe. The natural beauty of Lake Tahoe is reason enough to visit the destination. Visitors from around the world come to Lake Tahoe to experience the calm and serene surroundings. If you are interested in activities like skiing and snowboarding, Lake Tahoe has numerous excellent ski resorts to visit. Over 400 inches of annual snowfall at the ski resorts makes the Lake Tahoe area a winter wonderland for Alpine and Nordic skiing. Apart from the memories of a great trip, you may want to bring back souvenirs which are available in the many towns and villages surrounding Lake Tahoe. You will find everything from designer clothes and shoes, to outdoor gear clear for mountain activities.

Fannette Island, the only island of Lake Tahoe, offers an enchanting look of the woods and the mountains. Regan, Ski run beach, Tallac picnic area, Baldwin beach, Marina beach, Connolley beach, Emerald bay beach and El Dorado beach are some of the best attractions of Lake Tahoe. Most of these sites offer activities like camping, parasailing, tennis, volleyball, water skiing and fishing. On Marina beach you can go boating, paddle boating and kayaking. You can even rent a boat house or a yacht to experience a smooth sailing experience. Restaurants, barbeques and various bars offer a variety of beverages and food.

Grover hot springs state park, Tahoe paradise park and Emerald bay state park offer great opportunities for fishing in the calm waters of the lake which is also perfect for water skiing. In the land area of the park, you can find basketball courts, playgrounds for children, volleyball fields, swimming pools and a picnic area. The best attraction of Emerald bay is Vikingsholm Castle, an exemplary example of Scandinavian architecture, which can be toured during the summer. The Taylor creek visitor center has an underground chamber which features a cut-away of the stream so that a variety of fish can be viewed through glass. Desolation wilderness incorporates hundreds of glacial lakes, valleys, forests and high peaks.

You can easily find a number of resorts and homes around Lake Tahoe. Vacation rentals are a better option for many vacations when compared to hotels. These rentals are located at convenient places close to various tourist attractions. Renting a house for your family is a viable choice as these are not as expensive as hotels which typically require multiple rooms for a family. You can cook a few or all of your meals in your own kitchen which saves the extra expenses that would incur in a hotel. Apart from a homely feel and convenience, you get many other facilities like a private pool, hot tub and garage, wireless Internet, TV and DVD. You enjoy your vacation with more privacy and freedom in a vacation rental without the restrictions of a hotel room. You can get more features in a fully equipped house than a hotel and that too for a lower price. Vacation rentals offer you great accommodation with various facilities according to your requirements.

If you are planning a perfect vacation at a beautiful and enchanting place, you can search the Internet and find companies that offer convenient and spacious Lake Tahoe rentals that ensure a great accommodation for you.

This article has been written by an expert associated with Lake Rentals, a trusted website providing Lake Tahoe vacation rentals at reasonable prices.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Vacation,winter,summer

Are Lake Tahoe Hotels and Accommodations a Deal?

Lake Tahoe hotels are popular in North and South Lake Tahoe. The South shore of Tahoe is home to Harrah's and Harvey's, two of the most popular casino hotels on Lake Tahoe. The North shore of Tahoe is home to many smaller hotels along with a few bigger ones at Stateline, and of course the Hyatt located in Incline Village, Nevada.

After a recent South shore downtown redevelopment, which now includes many upgrades to the area's attractions, there is new accessibility to Heavenly Valley, a wider array of shopping, and also more dining options. The South shore hotels are located very close to the Lake and many rooms have great views..

On the North shore, you can enjoy two outdoor ice arenas, one on each end of North Shore (North Star and Squaw Valley). You will also find many specialty shops, boutiques and restaurants. There are plenty of opportunities for renting Ski-Doos, kayaks, and ski boats. Some hotels directly offer these rentals in addition to great nightlife in their casinos. No matter what, recreation opportunities are never far away in Lake Tahoe. Both North and South Lake Tahoe hotels are popular for couples looking for a top travel destination.

Why aren't Lake Tahoe Hotels the best choice for your family getaway?

If you are planning a vacation with family or friends, you may want to steer clear of the hotels and rent one of the thousands of rental homes or condos for your accommodations in order to benefit from the lower cost, much more space, views, kitchens and other amenities to feel all the comforts of home while enjoying your vacation.

There are many different types of vacation rentals, so you'll want to choose the right one for your needs and budget. Sharing the cost of a vacation house is usually more affordable than everyone staying separately in any of the Lake Tahoe hotels. Most people find vacation rental homes much more convenient and cost-effective for a family or two.

It's best to make reservations well in advance for both Lake Tahoe hotels and vacation rentals. Also, keep in mind that summer and winter are peak seasons, and quality hotels, lodging, vacation rentals and other resort accommodations can book up fast. Many websites offer a variety of Lake Tahoe hotels but Lake Tahoe Vacation rentals just may be the better deal for you and your family 's accommodations instead of a hotel room.

There is no doubt your vacation will certainly be centered around all of the outdoor activities you plan to participate in, stay close to everything you love about the area with a conveniently located vacation rental.

Vacation rentals can be found just steps away from the ski lifts or ideally situated on the blue waters in the basin for an exciting, entertaining vacation in some of the most beautiful surroundings possible. Start your vacation planning today for the perfect accommodations that offer an all-season retreat beyond the ordinary.

The difference between choosing one of the hotels in the area vs. a vacation home rental is simply a matter of choice when it comes to vacationing, no matter what time of year. This travel hot spot has all kinds of accommodations for even the most selective traveler, but remember, book your getaway early!

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4 Great Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

Ready to take that next vacation in style? Lake Tahoe offers some super vacation spots, great activities, sweet shopping, and much more - all at an affordable price that won't break you. Want to know about some of the great things that you can do while on vacation here? Here are four activities that you don't want to miss when you are there:

#1: Ski resorts - Lake Tahoe and the surrounding area are known for some of the best ski resorts in the Southern US and there is good reason for that. Since the area has several superb mountains that line the lake, there are ample places for great slopes - from beginner to expert - for vacationers to enjoy. And, there are so many great ski resorts in the area that you actually might have a hard time finding only one to ski at. Here are some of the best ski resorts in the Tahoe area that you should look at when you are ready to visit: Heavenly Mountain Resort, Diamond Peak, Northstar at Tahoe, Sugar Bowl Ski Resort, and Kirkwood Mountain Resort. At any of these wonderful ski resorts, you will find some of the best slopes around, as well as shopping and fun in the snow.

#2: Casinos - Although Nevada is famous for Las Vegas and gambling, there are some great casinos in the Lake Tahoe area as well. And, with all of the different casinos that run 24/7, you are sure to find one that suits your fancy. Some of the most popular casinos in the Tahoe and surrounding areas include: Harrahs', MontBleu Casino, Hyatt Regency Casino, and Crystal Bay Club. All of these offer casino gaming at it's best and you will find slots, poker, and plenty of table games to game the nights away while you're on vacation here.

#3: Lake Tahoe itself - Who can come to Lake Tahoe and not enjoy some of the great water sports. There are beautiful beaches that line Lake Tahoe that offer swimming and laid back tourist areas, boat rentals, sea doo rentals, plenty of great lakefront restaurants to enjoy all over the lake, as well as Scuba diving. Since Lake Tahoe is one of the deepest natural lakes in the world, it is a great place to Scuba dive - but it is considered an advanced area as there is a major risk of decompression sickness here since the lake is at a high altitude.

#4: Shopping - Who doesn't love to go shopping on vacation, even if it's just for souvenirs to bring home to the family? Lake Tahoe offers some great areas for shopping, from the ski resorts to the casinos and everything in between, you will always be able to find some great shopping to enjoy at any time of the year.

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Lake Tahoe - A Destination For Any Season

If you are a winter sports enthusiast you will no doubt be enjoying some skiing or snowboarding at one of the area's many fantastic resorts. Heavenly Ski Resort is on the South Shore and is a well rounded resort and one of North America's largest mountains. The 3500 foot vertical drop is unmatched anywhere on the west coast. Heavenly is famous for its gondola, located half a block west of Stateline, and putting the serenity of the mountain just steps away from the major casinos and nearly 5,000 hotel rooms. The eight passenger enclosed compartments take you 2.4 miles up the mountain in 12 minutes while you marvel at the staggering views of the lake. Once you arrive at the 14,000 square foot observation platform, you will be treated to views of Carson Valley, Desolation Wilderness, and shore to shore views of Lake Tahoe. Regardless of whether or not you are continuing to Adventure Peak at the top of the mountain to enjoy winter activities such as skiing and snowmobiling, a trip on the Heavenly Gondola is something that everybody should do while in Lake Tahoe, the views will be unmatched.

Another popular ski Resort is the Squaw Valley Resort on the North Shore. The Resort, home to the 1960 Olympic Games, is set over six magnificent mountain peaks and offers over 4000 acres of skiable terrain. This is a large resort with an abundance of activities for all the family to enjoy. As well as many recreational opportunities, Squaw also is home to the Village at Squaw Valley, an interesting collection of stores, boutiques and some great eateries, and is a great way to spend a leisurely day.

After an exhilarating day on the slopes, Lake Tahoe allows you the chance to either relax over a good meal in one of the area's exceptional restaurants, or for those with energy left to spare, there are a huge variety of thrilling nightlife options, mostly centered around the casinos. Lake Tahoe is famous for its casinos, most of which you will find on the South Shore, and each with a multitude of dining, entertainment, gaming and dancing options. Most casino resorts have up to ten different restaurants, and several bars, lounges and nightclubs. Day or night, there is always something going on, but with the gaming laws, all the casinos are on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, with the Stateline area being where most of these resorts are clustered together. Harrah's Lake Tahoe, Harvey's, the new MontBleu Resort and the Horizon Resort and Casino are all great choices for 24 hour action under one roof. No trip to Lake Tahoe would be complete without a visit to at least one!

Of course winter is not the only time that Lake Tahoe is buzzing, the summertime brings with it blue skies and warm weather, and opportunities for enjoying the outdoors like no other place on earth. Hiking, boating, fishing, golfing, swimming, kayaking, rafting, the list is endless and the backdrop for any of these activities will take your breath away. Tahoe is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, full of hidden coves to discover, hiking trails that afford views unlike any other, magical treasures just waiting to be found. One of the most scenic games of golf anywhere can be found at the Edgewood Tahoe, an elegant resort situated on the South Shore, and designed by George Fazio. Edgewood is the home of the annual celebrity golf championship and if you enjoy golf, this beautiful course will test your skills with its challenging but fair game. If you prefer to hike than play golf, then try the Emerald Bay to Vikingsholm trail. Starting in the spectacular Emerald Bay in South Lake Tahoe, the trail is wide and well maintained, but can be a little steep in places. It runs for two and a half miles round trip, and you will get to see the amazing Vikingsholm, a replica of a Scandinavian castle that was once a summer home for a wealthy family, but now serves as a museum, and is a unique blend of architecture and nature.

For those who prefer to take things at a more relaxed pace, there is no better way to enjoy the splendor of the lake than to sail on its waters. Zephyr Cove in South Lake Tahoe offers not only horseback riding, camping, beaches and jet-ski and boat rentals, but also is where you can cruise on one of its historic paddle wheelers and take in the scenery. The award winning vessels serve champagne brunches, breakfast and dinner, and there is even a romantic sunset cruise to music. Scenic cruises run daily from June through mid September and there are many different themed cruises to choose from, such as the 'Mark Twain's Tales of a Tahoe' cruise, or the 'Family Fun Cruise with Tahoe Tessie.' The cruises are a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend some time and provide some incredible photo opportunities to ensure that you will never forget your trip.

With or without photographs, a trip to Lake Tahoe will always be memorable and very special. This destination has it all, and anyone lucky enough to visit will be spoilt for choice with the extent of recreational and sightseeing activities available here. This is a place where the variety of things to do for all the family, coupled with the glorious scenery make an excellent choice for your next vacation.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ellie_Cominos

The Many Flavors of Lake Tahoe

NORTH LAKE TAHOE

On Lake Tahoe's serene and stunning North Shore, you can find anything from hearty log cabin style meals, to award winning continental cuisine. Restaurants are family orientated and there is a big emphasis on fresh seafood. At Incline Village, The Big Water Grille has spectacular panoramic lake views and an extensive variety of fish, seafood and even some unusual items such as the grilled 'white stag' elk chop! Also at Incline Village is the popular Hacienda De La Sierra where you can enjoy excellent Mexican food in a colorful and vibrant atmosphere. Voted 'Best Mexican Food', 'Best Happy Hour', and 'Best Inexpensive Meal', this is a fun place to relax with friends and try the famous fajitas and margaritas.

While on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe, the Pfiefer House is well worth a visit. One of Lake Tahoe's oldest restaurants, and also one of its finest, the Pfiefer House is owned by Franz Fassbender, a culinary gold medal winner. Franz has successfully instilled the culinary traditions of old world charm and atmosphere, and prepares all the food fresh daily. European specialties such as Vienna Schnitzel, Hungarian Beef Goulash and Rack of Spring Lamb are offered along with many other interesting and delicious choices.

The Resort at Squaw Creek is a great place to stay, ski, shop or dine. There are 4 terrific dining options at the resort, and you can take advantage of them regardless of if you are a guest, or staying outside of the resort. There's the Six Peaks Grill that offers fresh produce, seafood and steaks and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Sandy's Pub, where you can find burgers and microbrews in a lively sports bar atmosphere, Sweet Potatoes Deli, that has gourmet coffees, light breakfast and casual lunches, and then finally the Ristorante-Montagne, which is divine California Italian cuisine in a bistro setting. Add to these great options the beautiful setting, and the activities and quaint shops located at the resort, and this is a wonderful place to have some fun and a good meal at the same time!

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE

On the South Shore of Lake Tahoe is where you will find most of the casinos and larger resorts, as well as more in the way of nightlife and entertainment. There are plenty of great restaurants both inside and outside of the casinos, and just as on the North Shore, the choices are varied and there is something for all tastes. In Stateline, Nevada, the Edgewood Terrace Restaurant sits overlooking Lake Tahoe from the Edgewood Golf Course Clubhouse, and offers casual elegance in truly breathtaking surroundings. The menu is superb and the view is one of the best around. Edgewood is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner for two, or perhaps lunch after a morning enjoying one of the most scenic games of golf you will ever play!

Meanwhile if you are looking for something a little more casual, then try Ernie's coffee shop on Emerald Bay Road. This is an old fashioned diner that is very popular with the locals and where you will find really good American food at inexpensive prices. The service is great and the LA Times describes Ernie's as 'the undisputed king of coffee shops in Lake Tahoe.'

Even with such a wide variety of excellent restaurants on the South Shore to choose from, it's impossible to forget the incredible options that the casino resorts offer. There are so many of these resorts in the area and each one with its own fine selection of everything from upscale restaurants to chic lounges and fun, casual eateries. Harrah's Lake Tahoe, for example, has seven different dining options, so finding something for everyone is easy. The Forest Buffet is located on the 18th floor and offers amazing views of Lake Tahoe and Heavenly Mountain. There are daily breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets with a special seafood buffet on Fridays and a Sunday champagne brunch. The Summit is Harrah's crown jewel restaurant and serves award winning continental cuisine on the 16th floor. Dinner is accompanied by music and the chef changes his menu weekly. North Beach Deli is where you can find soups, salads, subs and delectable breakfast pastries, or try Café Andreotti for regional Italian cuisine served in a bistro style atmosphere.

Away from the glitz and energy of the casinos, the Paddle-wheeler MS Dixie sits in serenity on the lake at Zephyr Cove. This historic vessel was voted 'Best Boat Cruise' for a dozen years running, and a dinner cruise provides a unique dining experience while taking in the beauty of the lake. Select from a flavorful menu of entrees such as filet mignon or seared ahi tuna, enjoy cocktails or fine wines and watch the sun set over the water. Choose from an early dinner cruise with the family, or maybe the sunset dinner dance cruise if you are looking for a romantic and memorable way to spend an evening with some-one special.

Whether you are enjoying a winter wonderland adventure or relaxing under the summer skies of Lake Tahoe, you will find that opportunities to savor meals with your family and friends are all part of the fun. Lake Tahoe boasts some incredible dining choices for every taste and every budget, so make discovering the many flavors of the lake a part of your whole Tahoe experience.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ellie_Cominos

Lake Tahoe - How to Make The TRPA More Accountable and Fund It's Operations

There has been a continuing controversy surrounding the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) when it comes to the accountability of the Board of Governors, how the agency is funded and the size and scope of its annual budget. In 2009 the budget is approximately $11.7 million and there is a potential revenue shortfall of $800,000.

The agency gets its funding from three different sources. The state of California contributes 1/3 of the money, the state of Nevada 1/6, and one half of the money comes from fees. The various fees include permit fees, mitigation fees, development fees and all sorts of other fees that the agency is able to assess within the Lake Tahoe basin.

It's immediately apparent that if the agency depends on fees for approximately 1/2 of its annual revenues that it has a conflict of interest with its primary mission, which is to preserve and protect the Lake Tahoe environment. How can the agency on one hand rely on development fees and other types of fees for half of its budget yet still maintain as its priority lake clarity and preservation of a relatively pristine mountain environment?

With both California and Nevada facing state budget deficits, it is only a matter of time before both states try to reduce their contributions to the TRPA. This will put even more pressure on the TRPA to raise revenues from fee sources. That is why we are hearing the TRPA during the last several years talk about sustainable development in an environmentally friendly way.

But, we all know this is a difficult notion to accept when you are trying to reduce air and water pollution, reduce sediment and run off going into the lake and improve lake clarity. We can't develop our way to a better environment, but we can take steps to improve already developed areas. For example, the TRPA does not even recognize the benefits of pervious asphalt and concrete, a long proven science that should be implemented with every paving and sidewalk project in the basin to reduce runoff of sediment into the lake.

We have seen a number of new large-scale developments in various stages of approval, yet the debacle at South Lake Tahoe should be a warning sign that the notion of sustainable development at Lake Tahoe is at best a fantasy and at worst an environmental and economic disaster. For those of you not familiar with the failed convention center project in South Lake Tahoe, it's worth your time to stop near Stateline and take a walk around the boarded-up construction site. Where you once had a thriving and eclectic mix of small business owners with everything from little restaurants to retail shops and quirky boutiques, there is now a giant scar upon the landscape and no money to complete the project.

It's tragic that the TRPA finally opened an office on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe a couple of years ago and then closed it in early 2009 due to budget cuts. Think about the additional air pollution, all the time and gasoline wasted, and increased traffic on the road because every single person from the North Shore who needs to visit the TRPA office must now drive down to South Lake Tahoe. There is no mass transit alternative, so the TRPA budget cuts are actually helping to make the environment worse, when simply having enough money to keep the North Lake Tahoe branch office open would have a positive impact on the environment.

But there are solutions to these problems if we could simply make the TRPA Board of Governors and Executive Director accountable to the property owners in the Lake Tahoe basin. And we also need to find an independent source of funding so the TRPA will return to its original mission of preserving and protecting the Lake Tahoe environment and not be reliant upon development fees for a significant percentage of its annual revenues.

At the present time the TRPA Board of Governors is made up of a collection of appointed officials. There are a couple of elected officials, but someone who is running for Washoe County Supervisor won't win or lose based on TRPA issues when 95% of the electorate lives outside the basin. Having the entire Board of Governors elected directly by property owners in the Tahoe Basin would immediately and permanently make each member of the Board of Governors fully accountable for their actions.

We could have regular elections for all of the members of the Board of Governors and every parcel in the Lake Tahoe basin would be given one vote. This way, large hotels and corporations would not have an unfair voting advantage over the small condo owner. All property owners in the Tahoe Basin would have an equal voice in electing the Board of Governors instead of the patronage process that currently exists.

When it comes to funding the annual budget of the TRPA, there are two excellent alternative revenue sources. The simplest measure to implement would be to have a visitor fee of 2 dollars per person added on to the lodging bills at all of the hotels, motels, timeshares, vacation rentals and other lodging accommodations.

No one is going to cancel their vacation if it costs them 2 bucks, especially if they know 100% of the money is going into a fund that is dedicated for the preservation and improvement of the Lake Tahoe environment. With about 2.7 million visitors to the lake each year, that would provide about 50% of the TRPA budget, eliminating the need for most of the fee based revenue. We will never get rid of development and permit fees altogether, but they should be ancillary and not primary sources of revenue.

An alternative revenue source would be to take the $11.7 million annual budget and divide it by all of the square footage of developed land in the entire Lake Tahoe basin. Then, we would be able to calculate how many pennies per square foot it would cost each property owner on an annual basis to have enough revenue to completely fund the TRPA budget and provide a small amount of money for reserves.

My estimate is that it would cost the average homeowner somewhere less than $50 per year (possibly a lot less after we add up the millions of square feet of hotel space and parking lots). Or, we could do some combination of the two revenue systems described above and then fee revenues could be used exclusively for environmental restoration projects. In addition we would gain voting rights and a huge measure of accountability that is lacking under the present system.

If we don't reform the TRPA's budgetary and oversight processes, lake clarity will continue to decline and we will kill the goose that laid the golden egg. One summer I stayed in a cabin on a dead lake in New Hampshire (an algae bloom killed all the fish). It's an environmental and economic tragedy that we don't ever want to happen here at Lake Tahoe. And with the threats from invasive mussels, non-native plants, wildfire, sediment in runoff, air and water pollution from cars, trucks and boats, and future development, it's going to take a huge effort to preserve and protect our beautiful lake.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,South Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Vacation,Lake Tahoe Resort

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Don_Kanare

Lake Tahoe's Western Shore Offers Plenty For Summer Vacationers

If you're looking for a summer vacation with mountain fresh air and mild temperatures, then Lake Tahoe is the place for you. The average summer temperatures are in the 70s and 80s. Tahoe is known for its clear blue water and beautiful mountains surrounding the alpine lake some 4,500 miles above sea level. The lake's western shore in California offers several activities for summer vacationers. From Tahoe City down to Emerald Bay, the west side has lodging, restaurants, boating, kayaking, boat cruises, swimming, hiking, rafting and tours of historic sites.

Tahoe City, the largest city on the western side, offers several options for your summer vacation. The city has many places to stay and eat with plenty of lake side dinning choices. The Sunnyside Lodge offers the mountain grill on their large deck overlooking the lake. The grill has a casual atmosphere where kids are welcome. The menu consists of appetizers, sandwiches, seafood dishes and salads. The Calamari steak sandwich is my favorite menu item. Sunnyside is also a lodge that has been a landmark on Lake Tahoe since the 1950s. Their location is right on the lakefront with 23 guestrooms and suites.

Rafting and boat cruises are also popular activities in Tahoe City. You can take a leisurely, self guided raft down the Truckee River. The trip is a five mile float down the river ending up at the River Run restaurant. About half way down the river along the shore is an ice cream vendor. This stop is a nice break and provides a cool treat on a summer afternoon. You can also enjoy a nice meal along the river at the restaurant at the end of your trip. From the restaurant you can take a bus back to your car on highway 89. There are two different rafting companies on highway 89 offering rentals.

Departing from Tahoe City, the North Tahoe Cruises offer sightseeing boat cruises on the Tahoe Gal. They offer four different daily cruises; a shoreline brunch cruise, a lunch cruise to Emerald Bay, a cocktail cruise and sunset dinner cruise. We took the sunset dinner cruise that goes along the northern shore. This cruise features views of some of the luxury lakefront homes and beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Further down the shore on Tahoe's west side, between Homewood and Meeks Bay, is Sugar Pine Point State Park. The park has many miles of inland hiking trails and a variety of trees including the park's namesake, the sugar pine. The park also has two miles of lakefront, but the beaches are too rocky for many beach activities. Another attraction here is the rustic three-story Ehrman Mansion which was built in the early 1900s and is open for guided tours.

In Meek Bays at the Meeks Bay Resort and Marina, you have several summer activities to choose from. Boat, canoe and kayak rentals are available along with access to beautiful white sand beaches, barbeques and designated swimming areas. Meeks Bay also offers fishing, hiking and the Washoe Cultural Art Festival. The Meeks Bay Resort offers a variety of lodging choices. You can stay in log cabins along the lakefront or stay in a historic mansion. The Kehlet Mansion rests on the bay's north point and offers impressive views of the lake.

Emerald Bay is located in the southwest corner of Lake Tahoe and is home to a unique Vikingsholm mansion built in 1868 and features Scandinavian architecture. The bay also has a small island, Fannette Island, where a Tea House was built. This is the only island to be found on Lake Tahoe. You can get to the Vikingholm by boat or by hiking down the trail from the parking lot on Highway 89. The hike is about one mile and drops 500 feet to the base of the bay where the house is located.

Down the road from the Vikingshom parking lot, you will come to the Eagle Falls Picnic Area parking lot on highway 89. From here you can hike the trail that leads to the Upper Eagle Falls which is about a one-third a mile away. The hike is very rocky and has steep areas that drop off suddenly. The trail offers several breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. If you keep climbing further up the trail you'll reach Eagle Lake. The hike is two miles round trip if you go all the way to the lake.

The west side of Lake Tahoe has plenty to offer summer vacationers. From Tahoe City in the northwest down to Sugar Pine Point, Meeks Bay and Emerald Bay in the southwest, the western side of Lake Tahoe is a great choice during the summer months to enjoy all that Lake Tahoe has to offer.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,South Lake Tahoe,Western Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Vacation

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rick_Keel

Lake Tahoe: A Healthy Vacationer's Dreamland

If you're planning to take a trip to Lake Tahoe, the popular freshwater lake bordering California and Nevada, you might want to come prepared with hiking gear, ski equipment, bike equipment and some money. Lake Tahoe, which is one of the biggest and deepest lakes in the United States, gets many tourists each year because of its beautiful shores and rugged landscape.

The Lake Tahoe area was first home to the Washoe tribe, who originally called the area "edge of lake" in their language. It later turned into the word "Tahoe", as they had called it "Da ow". Kit Carson and John C. Fremont later discovered the lake on their second expedition in 1844. After several name changes, including Lake Bigler and Fallen Leaf Lake, it was finally officially known and recognized as Lake Tahoe. When those looking to strike it rich found silver near Lake Tahoe in 1858, it later became home to quite a number of people. Within the last fifty years, the population of the area has grown more than five times its size, with over 50,000 residents. The Lake Tahoe is even more heavily populated during the summer months when people look to enjoy the various activities that are home to the area.

However, during the winter months, skiing is especially popular there, as its mountains are considered to have some of the best skiing slopes in the entire world. There are many ski resorts around Lake Tahoe, including the Heavenly Mountain Resort, which offers the biggest ski area in both Nevada and California. The resort has 29 different lifts and 85 unique runs, spreading over 4,800 acres. It also features one of the best views in all of Lake Tahoe, as it is the tallest ski resort with a maximum height of 10,067 feet. Other popular ski resorts in the area include Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley, which hosted the Winter Olympics in 1960.

During the summer time, Lake Tahoe gets many visitors who are looking for fun in the water instead of in the snow. Boating is incredibly popular in Lake Tahoe, with many restaurants right by the lake offering boat parking. Other popular boat activities in Lake Tahoe include racing and tour cruises, like the Tahoe Queen and M.S. Dixie. A breathtaking fireworks display is also often shown over the lake.

There are also many fun, diverse hiking opportunities around Lake Tahoe. Perhaps the most famous ones are Tahoe Rim Trail and the Eagle Lake Trailhead. Camping in the wilderness is possible in certain areas of the park, as well as mountain biking.

When you're looking to relax a little bit in Lake Tahoe, you might want to check out the many large casino resorts on the Nevada side of the lake.

Those looking to take a very healthy vacation should consider checking out Lake Tahoe. The scenery is gorgeous and expansive, while the activities are all healthy yet diverse. With everything from skiing to swimming to gambling, Lake Tahoe truly has anything a vacationer would want.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Hotels,Lake Tahoe Vacation,Lake Tahoe CA

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

An All-In-One Lake Tahoe Vacation

If you want it be an exaggerated sporting adventure, a family retreat or a serene solitary getaway, an all-in-one Lake Tahoe vacation has it all.

Lake Tahoe, nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, is one of today's finest vacation destinations around the US and is located along the border between California and Nevada.

Tahoe's depth is 1,645 feet and becomes America's second deepest freshwater body and the largest alpine lake in America. Historically, the lake was formed around 2 million previously and forms part of the Tahoe basin, for which the lake has been shaped during the Ice Ages. One of Lake Tahoe's unusual features is the clarity of its water and the exciting view of the surrounding mountains. The lake is the most popular tourist attractions, both from domestic and international tourists.

Lake Tahoe also plays host to a broad range of year-round activities and sporting adventures, including a significant number of ski resorts, a broad variety of tourist attractions and summer outdoor recreation resorts and facilities.

For nature lovers, Tahoe boasts of its mountain and lake scenery attractions that remain unchanged throughout the year.

The Nevada side of Tahoe likewise includes large casinos where highways give year-round access from Reno, Carson City and Sacramento, California.

Approximately no less than sixty six percent of the shoreline is a member of California and the south shore is dominated by the lake's largest city called South Lake Tahoe, California.

It is then bordered along Stateline, Nevada, while Tahoe City, California is located on the lake's northwest shore.

Although the lake's highways run along much of Tahoe's shorelines, most areas still lie within the jurisdiction of the US Forest Service and are declared protected zones. For starters, basic tourism information can be obtained from Lake Tahoe's many tourism and travel guides, both internet and published travel materials.

Lake Tahoe vacationers can find good deals on Tahoe hotels and vacation rentals, reckoning on budget and preferences, with many lodging options from economy and moderate hotels, motels, full service luxury resorts, casinos, inns, cabins and luxury vacation rentals.

There are also plenty of incredible ski resorts, golf courses, beaches, hiking & biking trails, camping, fishing and boating options and restaurants that make Tahoe one of the best and most sought vacation spots globally.

Other than just being a mountain and lake attraction, Tahoe boasts of year round weather and climate scenes that give any avid extreme sport enthusiast with a good skiing environment, in addition to an appropriate water environment for a water sport adventurer.

Lake Tahoe never freezes any time of the year and is a good vacation venue for a well-deserved family vacation or even just an easy weekend getaway from all the hustles and bustles of commonplace metropolitan life.

Lake Tahoe is accessible by car under ideal conditions within 2 hours from the Sacramento, California location or take a 1 hour ride from Reno or 30 minutes from Carson City.

Throughout winter, chains or snow tires are regularly essential to reach Tahoe from any direction.

Traffic can be considered heavy during weekends because of tourists taking a weekend break.

Lake Tahoe will remain to be one of the best tourist spots internationally and surely, one will not to have the prospect to regret having a, all-in-one Tahoe vacation.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Vacation,South Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Hotels,Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Malcolm_Summers

Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals - North and South Lake Tahoe Vacation Homes and Guide

The lake and its surrounding area which is commonly referred to as Tahoe, has an elevation of 6225 feet. Lake Tahoe is twenty two miles long and 12 miles wide and has a shoreline that extends over 71 miles. This gorgeous lake is shared by two US states, namely California which stakes claim to 42 miles of Lake Tahoe's shoreline and the state of Nevada which has 29 miles of it. Lake Tahoe offer many vacation homes on both the North and South shore which, by the way, is the largest alpine lake in North America is renowned for its almost translucent waters that are known to evoke feelings of wonder and awe. In fact, when the famous American author Mark Twain first set his eyes on the Lake during his visit to the area in the late 1860's he described it as "the fairest picture the whole earth affords."

A locale of unmatched beauty

The Lake which was created by volcanic activity was first discovered by an American called John C Fremont in 1844 but before that the Lake and its forested surrounding area was home to the Washo Indian tribe who called the Lake 'big sky lake' in honor of its sparkling, blue and clear waters. It has an average depth of 989 feet and at its deepest point the lake reaches a depth of 1,645 feet. However the Lake is not too conducive to swimming as the waters of the lake are often very cold even during the peak summer months. Moreover it is also known to have extremely strong and treacherous currents. Another interesting fact about the lake, is that this lake doesn't drain into an ocean even though nearly sixty-three streams flow into it, rather it drains into the Pyramid Lake located in the Nevada desert by way of the Truckee River. Apart from the beauty of the lake, the area around it is also characterized by crisp, clear air, dense forests and much tranquility.

Amenable weather

The entire area is blessed with agreeable weather as a result of which it has now become an immensely popular year round destination for Americans. The Lake on an average enjoys 250 to 300 days of sunny weather during the year. During the winter months it tends to receive nearly 300-500 inches of snow fall and this has enabled it to become one of the nation's premier ski destinations. The Lake Tahoe area has a multitude of ski resorts that offer a vast number of activities like snowboarding, ice -skating, snow shoeing, snowmobiling, sleigh riding in addition to skiing and cross country skiing. During the warmer months, people flock to Lake Tahoe to indulge in various recreational activities like boating and water sports, hiking, tennis, camping, ballooning, golf, horseback riding, parasailing, bungee jumping and much more.

Getting there

By Car

North and South Lake Tahoe are easily accessible by various modes of transport. Lake Tahoe is located on the border between California and Nevada. This popular resort destination lies 200 miles to the east of the Californian city of San Francisco while it is just 30 miles to the west of Reno in Nevada. North Lake Tahoe which is known for its ski resorts can be accessed by car via the I-80 from San Francisco. South Lake Tahoe which is populated by many hotels, restaurants and casinos lies mainly in Nevada and can be reached from Reno by taking US 395 South and then US 50 West..

By Air

The closest commercial airports are Reno Tahoe International airport in Nevada which can be accessed via a 40 minute drive from this popular year round destination. Another big commercial airport that serves the region is the Sacramento International Airport in California which is located two hours away. Smaller airports like South Lake Tahoe Airport and Truckee-Tahoe Airport afford additional air links to Lake Tahoe.

By Bus

During the winter ski months several bus services operate to various ski resorts like the Bay Area Ski Bus and the NAC ski.

By Train

Lake Tahoe can also be accessed by train on the Amtrak California Zephyr Route that makes a stop in Truckee.

Towns and Villages on the shoreline

The shoreline of Lake Town has several towns and villages each of which are known for their own distinct character and myriad attractions. Lake Tahoe is divided into two distinct parts North Lake Tahoe which is home to ski resorts and towns like Incline Village, which is a wealthy enclave that is peppered with million dollar homes, shops and restaurants. Other towns in North Lake Tahoe include the old railroad town of Truckee, Tahoe City, ski resort towns of Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley which was the site of the 1960's Winter Olympic Games amongst others.

South Lake Tahoe is a large area which is essentially geared towards tourism and lies largely in the state of Nevada. This tourist heavy area is home to several big name casinos like Harrah's, Harveys, Mont Bleu and the Horzion which are all located in the town of Stateline in Nevada. These casinos are not only known as gambling destinations but are considered to be resorts which provide much entertainment of all the family.

Apart from these towns and villages, the area surrounding North and South Lake Tahoe also has a number of state parks like the Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park which offers several recreations options to vacationers and locals alike. Sand Harbor with its sandy beaches is a preferred location in the park. It is located three miles to the west of Incline village and has boating and picnicking facilities. Sand Harbor is hosts the popular Lake Tahoe Shakespeare festival every July. Other popular locales in the Park include Memorial Point and Hidden Beach, Cave Rock, Spooner Lake, Zephyr Cover all of which have facilities for picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, trekking etc.

Some state parks located on the Californian side include the Bodie State Historic Park which is a well preserved ghost town and the Donner Memorial State Park.

Attractions

Taking a ride on a historic paddle wheeler

You can get out and about on the Lake itself by riding on-board a historic three deck paddle wheeler called the MS Dixie II. This paddle wheel replaced the original MS Dixie in 1994. This paddle wheeler sets sail from the town of Zephyr cove. Similar cruises are also offered by the Tahoe Queen which sails from the town of Emerald Bay in South Lake Tahoe.

Visit Vikingsholm

This Scandinavian styled vacation home was built in 1929 at the cost of US$500,000. Vikingsholm is an exponent of Nordic architecture that was built with local materials. A part of this home is even topped with sod roofs. Tours of Vikingsholm are available from Mid-June until Labor Day. This attraction which is located on the head of Emerald Bay can be accessed via a scenic hike from Eagle Point State Park though it is also accessible by car.

Olympic Valley

This all weather destination is accessed via a cable car ride that traverses over 2000 vertical feet and transports you to a village that features an Olympic Museum, ice skating rink, swimming pool, spa and restaurants.

Bars and Restaurants.

Lake Tahoe is a prime American destination and it boasts of wide variety of bars and restaurants that aim to cater to all tastes. Bars and restaurants populate both North Lake Tahoe as well as South Lake Tahoe. Some popular restaurants located here include Rosie's and the Old Post Café both of which are located in California and are favored brunch and breakfast spots. Other well -like establishments include the Char Pit, which is a small restaurant located in the town of Kings Beach that is renowned for its hearty burgers and baby back ribs. River Ranch Lodge and Restaurant, Le Bistro, Dragonfly, Fiamma are still other dining spots which find favor with both locals and out- of-towners who come to Lake Tahoe on holiday.

Accommodations

If you are planning a holiday in Lake Tahoe sometime soon, you will be happy to know that you have wide range of accommodation options available here that range from the conventional hotels and resorts to charming lodges and cabins and convenient, reasonable and family-friendly vacation rentals. Usually, you will find a better deal when dealing with vacation rentals offered direct from owners.

Vacation rentals make economic sense

Vacation rentals or sometimes called Vacation Homes are in fact a popular accommodation choice in Lake Tahoe which is quite a family-centric destination. Hiring a vacation rental in Lake Tahoe often makes economic sense for a family or large group that wishes to vacation together as it reduces the expenses that are associated with booking individual hotel rooms.

Several websites as well as well known classified sites offer listings of a plethora of vacation rentals in Lake Tahoe.

What makes the Best booking experience when booking Tahoe Vacation Rentals?

One of the latest ways to book North or South Lake Tahoe Vacation homes is simply to book a home online similar to booking a room at a fine hotel.

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