Yosemite Valley Lodge, California

The hotel’s 245 rooms are located along the Valley Floor road in a series of two-storey blocks. Each room is similar in style and size, with a variety of bed configurations to suit couples and families. Rooms in the Cedar block feature one Queen bed, making this an ideal location for couples. Accommodation is simple and comfortable, with en suite bathrooms, TVs and fans for hotter months (note there is no air conditioning). Some rooms feature a small outdoor area with seating to allow you to make the most of your location – and that’s what Yosemite Valley Lodge is all about… location, location, location.

The Mountain Room is grand in style with views to match, and serves great steaks and seafood with a view of the falls (spring is the best time to see the cascades before they dry up over summer). For snacks and satisfying fare, the Food Court is centrally located and filled with tasty treats.

Located in the heart of the Valley Floor, nature’s playground is right outside your door. The lodge is the starting point for the informative two-hour valley floor tour – so expect swarms of visitors from spring through to autumn as they flock to see the granite highlights of El Capitan and Half Dome. If too many fellow tourists don’t appeal, we recommend getting out early and navigating one of the many paths by bike or on foot. From May to July, the Merced Rivers flows with snowmelt and makes for a wonderful rafting experience and a mesmerising way to see Yosemite. Rafting season can extend into August if the previous winter saw a decent amount of snow. After a day exploring the wilds of Yosemite, head to the pool with a view at Yosemite Valley Lodge (non-guests are welcome for a fee).