The Pines Resort: A Lakeside Retreat Near Yosemite
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After years of gallivanting around the globe, I finally decided it was time to come home and give my own country a bit of love and attention. I spent a good chunk of the summer discovering California, and unexpectedly falling for the state’s climate, natural beauty and variety of landscapes. When an opportunity to visit The Pines Resort came my way, I accepted without hesitation. The only lakeside resort in the Yosemite area, The Pines is located right on beautiful Bass Lake, just 18 miles from the park’s South Gate entrance. It’s also roughly 4 hours from both San Francisco and Los Angeles. Yosemite National Park has long been on my USA bucket list, and I was thrilled to have the Pines as a base from which to explore it.
Sunrise on Bass Lake @zander.buteux
The Pines Resort from across Bass Lake
For two nights, I enjoyed a spacious lakeside suite with a king-size bed. It had a fireplace (pick up some Duraflame logs!), couch area, desk, wet bar, Wifi throughout the property, jacuzzi tub, double vanity sink, and enclosed toilet and shower space. I could also walk right out the back door and onto a lakeview deck, just steps from the outdoor pool and Ducey’s restaurants. I shouldn’t mention that there’s free HBO- because if you’re sat in your room watching that, you’re doing this all wrong- but there is that, too. In addition to the 20 lakeside suites, the resort offers 84 chalet units, which are two story duplexes with lofts. There you can enjoy a full kitchen, patio, and BBQ in a mountain-style atmosphere. Visiting with furry friends? The resort offers pet-friendly rooms as well.
King Suite Jacuzzi Tub @zander.buteux
Being situated right on the lake was ideal. There’s a variety of activities to get into, like stand-up paddle boarding, swimming, kayaking and boating. The lake water was warm, yet refreshing- the perfect combo for someone like myself that stubbornly avoids getting into cold water.
Marina & Boat Rentals
Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch or dinner, the two onsite restaurants are sure to satisfy. Downstairs you’ve got Ducey’s on the Lake, which is open for breakfast and dinner, and is the fancier of the two (but fear not, casual dress is perfectly fine!) The eggs Benedict, pancakes, and açaí bowl are notably delicious. Upstairs you’ll find a more laid back setting at Ducey’s Bar & Grill. Pop out onto the patio area for great views of the lake and great food. The loaded tater tots are an absolute must.
Ducey’s on the Lake
From the property, anything you might need is within walking distance. In The Pines Village you’ll find a market, post office, gas station, small shops and more restaurants.
If and when you do decide to stray away from everything The Pines Resort has to offer, a visit to Yosemite will only set you back about 25 minutes by car. This National Park is one of the most stunning places I’ve ever been (more on that in another post!) and The Pines Resort provided a relaxing place to lay my head down after a long day of hiking and exploring. To check current rooms and rates, click here.
Tunnel View, Yosemite National Park