View overlooking Emerald Bay with Fannette Island

Nestled among incense cedar, mountain hemlock and various species of fragrant pine, Emerald Bay in Lake Tahoe, California lures guests with its enchanting mountain scenery, towering granite cliffs and Eagle Falls flowing down the rocks like something out of a fairytale. The water here runs several shades of deep emerald green – a green so vibrant and soothing one cannot help but ponder its beauty. This magical place is home to the lovely Vikingsholm, also known as “Tahoe’s hidden castle.”

Built as a summer home by Mrs. Lora Josephine Knight in 1929, Vikingsholm is a testament to architectural ingenuity in the Scandinavian tradition. The impressive beauty of Emerald Bay with its lofty granite bluffs reminded her of the fjords in Norway, and she decided that the house must be of Scandinavian architecture. Details like hand carved beams, wrought iron fixtures and latches, leaded glass windows, the carved balustrade, and the painted walls and furniture lend this 38-room reproduction of a medieval Norse fortress a timeless elegance. The house makes the most of the spectacular views of the bay.

View of Eagle Falls at Emerald Bay

Hiking to Eagle Falls and the surrounding woods, swimming and sunbathing by the sandy beach, or rowing out to Fannette Island with its Tea House (also built by Mrs. Knight) are favorite activities in Emerald Bay.

In touring Vikingsholm, one imagines what it may have been like to stay here as a guest: an unhurried life where long idyllic days blended seamlessly into tranquil nights. Time stood still. It was an era of gracious living, where one paused to smell the pine, walk through the trees, watch for birds, contemplate the wildlife or just relax with a book under the shade of a ponderosa as the fragrant breeze stirred by the bay gently blew.

The exquisite architectural detail and craftsmanship is evident in Vikingsholm

Vikingsholm has a medieval charm and craftsmanship with all the modern amenities of the early 1930s: electricity, running water and indoor plumbing. Each bedroom in the main house had its own bath with modern fixtures. The large pantry and kitchen boasted high-end appliances of the time.

Living room view of Vikingsholm

The house itself is built in a circular structure with a large courtyard in the center. Facing the front with the best views of Emerald Bay is the main house with its elegant living and dining rooms, library and morning room. The second floor features several bedrooms with bathrooms, a sewing room (complete with sewing accoutrements of the 1930s), maid’s room and sitting porch. The large kitchen, servants’ quarters, garage and laundry room flank the sides and rear of the courtyard.

The hike down to Emerald Bay and Vikingsholm after parking in the lot above is a comfortable 20 minutes (1.7 miles) and perfect for families with children. Although unpaved, the path is wide (wide enough for cars) and can easily accommodate strollers (jogger strollers would be best considering the dirt road). It’s a lovely walk where dappled sunlight filters through the pines above, and little grottos with streams of fresh cool water appear along the way. The return walk back up to the parking lot is a bit more of a workout, but still an easy hike. We paused to dip our hands and refresh ourselves in those little grottos, and the cold water felt wonderful.

Suggestions

The water of Emerald Bay runs in stunning hues of green

There is a sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing so bring towels and beach chairs. The only way down and back is on foot, so pack light because you will have to carry things yourself. Bug spray is recommended for the biting flies and mosquitoes, although we did not require any. Bring your own food and water because there is no concession stand available.

Vikingsholm is open for guided tours from Memorial Day weekend through the end of September. The Visitor Center features interesting information, memorabilia and photos of Vikingsholm’s early days. For more information about Vikingsholm visit www.vikingsholm.com

Sand Harbor – jewel tone crystal waters

There is a place in the Sierra Nevada mountains with 55 acres of long sandy beaches, rocky coves and crystalline waters that shimmer in sparkling hues of turquoise, emerald and aquamarine: welcome to Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park.

Sand Harbor – scenic self-guided trails

With an elevation of 6,230 feet above sea level, this fresh water paradise is a popular spot for swimming, scuba diving, picnicking, kayaking, boating (there is a boat launch) and sightseeing along the self-guided nature trails that feature informative displays and regional information. A boat rental concession “Sand Harbor Rentals” is located next to the launch ramp where kayaks, stand up paddleboards, sea-doos, wakeboards, and Hobie Mirage Pedal/Paddle Kayaks can be conveniently rented. They are open daily from Memorial weekend through Labor Day and offer guided tours and lessons as well.

Sand Harbor – beautiful rock formations

Memorial Point is just a short half-mile trail and provides access to many secluded beach and rock areas.

The rock formations and trees are really quite stunning. Large granite boulders rest in the clear water as though tossed haphazardly from above, and make for great snorkeling. But the color of the water is what most captivates onlookers with its limpid jewel tones so reminiscent of the Caribbean.

During the evenings of the summer months in July and August, visitors can enjoy the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival in Sand Harbor where some of the best plays are showcased.

Sand Harbor – “CharPit Sand Harbor” and Visitor Center

This family beach is clean, beautiful and well maintained. There is a visitor center, gift shop, snack bar and grill concession “CharPit Sand Harbor” where beverages, burgers and ice cream can be enjoyed on a shady deck next to the visitor center. A picnic area features barbecues and picnic tables among the shade of the cedars and pines.

Sand Harbor is located three miles south of Incline Village on State Route 28.

Suggestions

Due to its popularity, summer months can get crowded for both parking and finding a spot on the beach. The parking lots tend to be full between 11am-4pm on weekends and weekdays during July and August. It’s best to come early or just wait until the late afternoon. The trail along the beach offers exquisite views of Sand Harbor and is very much worth walking. It is easy to manage and both stroller and handicap-accessible. Although the summer months are warm, the water remains quite brisk, being an alpine lake, yet still worth a refreshing plunge.

Sand Harbor – an alpine lake with a Caribbean feel

Alpine Meadows Stables

There is nothing like exploring the beautiful alpine surroundings of Tahoe National Forest on horseback. It takes one back to a time when people and nature lived in closer harmony. Alpine Meadows Stables captures this sublime experience perfectly.

I went on a one-hour scenic guided tour with my family in July 2011. We felt immediately welcomed and at ease when we arrived to this family owned and operated establishment. Nestled in the lush evergreens of the forest just 10 minutes away from Tahoe City, California, I was struck by the picturesque and tranquil surroundings.

Horses at Alpine Meadows Stables

A group of six of us was led by Matt, an experienced and very knowledgeable guide with a wonderful, easygoing charm. The horses were gentle, obedient and very sweet as we followed along on the scenic path. It was everything a guided tour should be: from crossing shallow streams, to winding our way up gentle slopes through the ponderosa pine, to pausing in the clearings where we spotted a couple of stags grazing.

Crossing a stream in the forest

Matt pointed out some bear claw marks that were clearly etched in the trunk of a pine that the bear had climbed. This was very exciting for both the children and us who rarely have opportunities to get that close to the wild. Matt also mentioned that he saw black bears on an earlier ride that day.

The children were very comfortable and relaxed on the horses, and had an easy time following the simple instructions as to guiding them. It was a wonderful educational lesson, one that inspired respect for the animals and the environment around them.

We had many opportunities to take photos and video of the scenic natural beauty and the horses. Our tour never lagged, but rather seemed to fly by at a perfect pace. After returning and dismounting, we thanked our guide and made a mental note to return next time we are in the area.

Alpine Meadows Stables offers several scenic tours: one hour, two hour and half-day tours. Private rides are also available. There are pony rides (hand lead) for toddlers too. I recommend the one hour tour for those with children who are not very experienced, as it was just enough time to get a taste of the forest’s grandeur. It is best to make reservations a few days in advance, as this is a popular activity.

Alpine Meadows Stables is located at 355 Alpine Meadows Rd. Tahoe City, CA 96145 (530)-583-3905. For more information visit www.alpinemeadowsstables.com

Picturesque surroundings on the tour

Resort at Squaw Creek – tucked in the evergreens

The late afternoon summer sun illuminates Squaw Valley in golden emerald hues. Silence reigns as the day draws to a close, before the night awakens. I stare out through the floor-to-ceiling picture windows from my suite in the Resort at Squaw Creek in Squaw Valley, California, mesmerized by nature’s beauty. It is here where the resort is found, tucked in a lush valley of dense pine lining the hillsides like rich green velvet.

Resort at Squaw Creek – lobby view at dusk

I had the pleasure of staying at this lovely resort with my family during the warm month of July. Although summer was in full-swing, the resort’s layout and design makes one feel secluded. It does not have that crowded feeling one often gets from other resorts. Its location is simply perfect: nestled among the evergreens of lodgepole, sugar and ponderosa pines, with quaking aspen and their leaves shimmering like medallions in the sunlight.

Resort at Squaw Creek – scenic view from lobby

We were greeted by verdant panoramic views ushered by the glass wall upon entering the lobby, with its expansive seating areas that are cozy and inviting. Upholstered in rich muted chenille and butter-soft leather, the furniture and décor enhances the natural beauty of the alpine surroundings. There is a large stone fireplace with a granite hearth, wood paneling, and subtle accents that convey the warmth of home. A baby grand piano and several game tables – two for chess and one for checkers – offer a quiet diversion after dinner, or anytime in between the day’s activities.

Everything about the resort is defined by gracious hospitality. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and very helpful, from the housekeeping services, the resort restaurants and shops, to the concierge and front desk staff.

Accommodations

Luxurious Accommodations – Resort at Squaw Creek

All the luxurious accommodations include their super comfortable “Deep Powder” pillow-top beds, remote-controlled LCD flat-screen TVs, speakerphones with voice mail, free high-speed wireless Internet access, refrigerators, hair dryers and robes, irons and ironing boards, in-room coffee and tea, individual heating and cooling controls, complimentary delivered newspapers (Monday-Friday), Pay-Per-View movies and video games, and signature spa amenities (shampoo, conditioner, and more).

Living Room with magnificent views in our Penthouse Suite

The suites and townhouse-style penthouses also include separate bedrooms with LCD flat-screen TV, living room with gas fireplace, LCD flat-screen TV and queen-sized sofa sleeper, dining table and chairs, and resort-style kitchens with granite counters and stainless steel appliances (china, glassware and silverware provided). Each penthouse bedroom comes with its own private bathroom. There is a washer/dryer stackable unit in the penthouse suites, as well as a coin-operated laundry facility in the resort.

Attention is given to every detail from the accommodations’ plush comfortable furniture upholstered in richly textured fabrics of warm muted colors, to the large picture windows making the most of the breathtaking views, to the exquisite chocolates placed on lacey doilies on the bedstand during the nightly turndown service.

Dining

Lobby Fireplace – Resort at Squaw Creek

Six Peaks Grille

The Resort at Squaw Creek features several fantastic choices for family-friendly dining. The Six Peaks Grille offers distinctive regional cuisine with fresh produce, seafood and steaks, and spectacular mountain and valley views. Their children’s menu is delicious with plenty of options for the pickiest eaters, including healthy side choices such as fruit, salad and vegetables. The Lip S’Mac n Cheese was the best my daughter has tried anywhere, creamy and lip-smacking good, as the name suggests. We were very pleased with the fantastic service and delicious cuisine in a discreetly elegant yet laid-back atmosphere. They are open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Exterior Waterfall Display – Resort at Squaw Creek

Sandy’s Pub

The perfect family sports bar, Sandy’s Pub offers a delicious fare of tasty appetizers and meals. The chicken wings are by far the best we’ve had anywhere and come with a creamy ranch dipping sauce that leaves you licking your fingers clean. The casual atmosphere is inviting with lots of ski memorabilia photos displayed at the entrance, big TV screens throughout, and games.

Sweet Potatoes Deli

The Sweet Potatoes Deli is where we had our breakfast every morning, with hot coffee (free refills are included) and a delicious assortment of rolls and pastries. They also offer a savory array that includes deli sandwiches, salads, homemade soup, juices, yogurts, and more. They are open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This cheerful marketplace also conveniently sells a variety of gifts, souvenirs, sundries, books, magazines, and toys.

Recreation

Winter Dog Sledding on the Property – Resort at Squaw Creek

Winter and Spring recreation (approximately November-April) offers exclusive on-property chair lift with ski-in/ski-out access to Squaw Valley USA’s 4,000 acres of skiable terrain, 18 kilometers of groomed cross-country skiing/snowshoe trails, an outdoor ice skating pavilion, sledding, and dog sled tours. There are two outdoor heated swimming pools and hot tubs for year-round use as well.

Resort at Squaw Creek Waterslide

Summer and Fall recreation (approximately May-October) offers the Robert Trent Jones Jr. 18-hole championship golf course, two outdoor tennis courts with lessons and equipment rental available, mountain biking trails to 8,200 feet above sea level, onsite hiking trails, plunge pool with 120-foot water slide, hiking/backpacking, fly fishing lessons and guided trips.

Resort at Squaw Creek Pool and Golf Course

The resort also features a luxury full-service spa and salon, health and fitness center with sauna and steam rooms, a boutique shopping promenade with designer fashions, jewelry, fine art, sporting equipment, children’s clothing and toys, and much more.

There is complimentary shuttle service to the nearby Village at Squaw Valley which offers more shopping, dining and entertainment that includes a miniature golf course, Headwall Climbing Wall (all ages), and Skyjump Bungee Trampoline (all ages, 20-200 lbs.). There are also plenty of Lake Tahoe activities, including water sports, shopping, dining and casinos located on the Nevada shoreline. Kayaking, white water rafting, Truckee River floating, and horseback riding can be conveniently arranged through the concierge.

Mountain Buddies Kids Kamp

Fly Fishing Lake Tahoe

The Mountain Buddies Kids Kamp for children ages 4-12 is a year-round children’s program with exciting seasonal activities ranging from swimming, hiking, biking, sledding, ice skating, snow shoeing, indoor and outdoor games, arts and crafts, and more. Several sessions are available including: full-day session 9am-5pm (includes lunch), morning session 9am-12:30pm, afternoon session 1:30pm-5pm, and evening session 6pm-10pm (includes dinner).

Shopping Promenade at the Resort at Squaw Creek

Resort Amenities

Additional resort amenities include babysitting services, cribs, an arcade, baggage services, bell captain, a terrific business center (my husband made use of this during our stay when he had a few documents faxed to his clients), check cashing/ATM, express checkout, concierge, wake-up services, laundry facilities, complimentary self-parking, paid valet parking, and more.

Suggestions

If visiting during the summer months, make sure to pack bug repellent for the mosquitoes and biting flies that are more prevalent in the late afternoon and evening hours. Although the temperature may be warm and sunny during the day, it tends to drop quite suddenly once the sun has set, so pack warm clothes as well. We found long pants best for hiking as they protect the legs from scrapes. Good hiking shoes are also essential for more serious adventures. The concierge is extremely helpful and knowledgeable about area and resort activities. If you fly here, be sure to rent a car so you can better explore Squaw Valley and the beautiful Lake Tahoe area for more sightseeing and activities.

Scenic Golf Course View – Resort at Squaw Creek

The Resort at Squaw Creek was by far one of the best family vacations we’ve had. Our days were filled with exploring the stunning natural beauty of the region through hiking/backpacking, horseback riding tours, sightseeing, swimming, and more, while our evenings comprised of recounting the day’s adventures over a delicious meal, usually at the Six Peaks Grille or Sandy’s Pub. We would then relax with a game of chess in the warmth of the lobby’s seating area, before heading back to our suite for the night. This spectacular resort is a top pick and highly recommended for families. The address is 400 Squaw Creek Road, Olympic Valley, CA 96146. For more information visit http://www.squawcreek.com/

Overview of Resort at Squaw Creek