Most Romantic Hotels in Yosemite National Park, California

Evergreen Lodge is a 22-acre cabin resort surrounded by Stanislaus National Forest, about one mile from Yosemite National Park’s western border. The 90 cabins come in different sizes -- some perfect for newlyweds, others great for a large family -- and are rustic, cozy, and comfortable with large private decks. Techies beware: There are no phones or TVs in the cabins, and the Wi-Fi service in the recreation halls is less than reliable. It's a great spot for nature lovers, though, who want to be disconnected from the world for a bit and enjoy the serenity of the surrounding pine trees instead. Guests looking for something active to do will find it too -- there's some equipment for rent on-site, such as mountain bikes and snowshoes, plus fly fishing, bocce ball, rafting, horseback riding, and two recreational halls filled with games, books, and arts & crafts materials. And the outdoor pool opened in Spring 2012, making the Evergreen an even better spot for families.

The Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is a 294-room, four-pearl hotel surrounded by Sierra National Forest, about two miles from the South Gate entrance of Yosemite National Park. It’s a comfortable enough place with a homey ambiance, and simple decor inspired by Native American and Southwestern patterns as well as the great wilderness just beyond its walls. It's a bit like a fancy hunting club’s headquarters -- the large, rustic reception area has high ceilings with dark wooden beams, and many cozy chairs and couches for relaxing. The rooms are modern and covered in rich autumn colors, though some of the furniture could use some sprucing up. The quaint cottages are a short walk from the main lodge and come with fireplaces and private balconies.

Nestled deep amongst the pine trees, cliffs, and canyons of Yosemite Valley is the 123-room The Majestic Yosemite Hotel. The impressive stone and wood structure, built in 1927, is considered a National Historic Landmark. Rooms with views of the Half Dome and El Captain summits are filled with wood and rich tapestries of Native American design. Highlights here include the Great Lounge with 24-foot-high ceilings and a large stone fireplace along with the light-flooded dining room. This hotel is on the expensive side -- and parking is limited -- but the prime location and views are worth the price tag.

Yosemite's Big Tree Lodge is not only one of the oldest mountain resorts in California, but is also a National Historic Landmark. Located between the Mariposa Groves and tourist hot spot Yosemite Valley, the hotel occupies its own patch of secluded property of streams and forest. This Victorian-style property was built in 1876 and is filled with classic period pieces, portraits, patterned wallpaper, and genuine antiques. Rooms are cozy and charming, though 50 of the hotel's 104 rooms lack private baths. Staying true to its roots, the hotel has no phones or TVs, but it does offer Wi-Fi in a few common areas. There is just one dining option on-site -- where evenings include live piano music -- and Yosemite Valley is a 45-minute drive away.