Cedar Lodge

The photos on Booking.com do the place no justice. I've attached photos that give an accurate view of my room (Standard King Room). I had a very comfortable bed in a room with a serene environment. Everything was working -- power outlets, USB charging ports, clean shower with efficient hot water flow, electronic door lock, free coffee, efficient room heating etc. (Small thing, but I do wish there were more orange lights in my room) The entire compound had such a lovely, rustic, tranquil atmosphere. I spent the morning just listening to birds chirping and had a meditative experience. I did not get to use the pool but I believe it is heated in winter and had a glimpse of it -- looked simple and nice. They also have a games room I didn't get to visit. Check-in was easy - Chris attended to me and was patient, friendly and warm. Check-out was also breezy, receptionist (unfortunately I didnt get her name) was warm and helpful too. The recent rockslide also led to me having to seek support from yosemiteresorts.com. Jessie attended to me and was also very helpful and efficient, giving me the assurance I needed. 2 downsides - price is very high for a solo traveler (270usd, booked about a month in advance). the time I booked, other places were booked out so I just took this one. If you are not in a rush, there are properties that avail at much lower prices for stays within the next few days. That said, after actually visiting Yosemite, I realised Curry Village and Yosemite *Valley* Lodge were quite crowded, lots of cars and footfall. I then came into deeper appreciation of the peaceful atmosphere at Cedar. The other thing is, further down the road, I believe also property owned by yosemiteresorts.com, is a hotel called Yosemite *View* Lodge. Some rooms there are next to the beautiful Merced River, and like Cedar Lodge, it is also a stop along the YARTS bus route (the public transport that you can take to enter/exit Yosemite National Park).

The location was pretty decent when coming to Yosemite Park. It was outside the park but only 30 min (app) from the front entrance. It had lots of great amenities like 2 outdoor pools, an indoor pool and hot tub, and a pool table. Also had a mini store with some food and essentials which came in handy. The room was way nicer than I expected and turned out to be better than the pictures listed.

The cedar lodge really exceeded our expectations! I don’t know if they had just updated some of the rooms recently, but we stayed in a double queen suite and it was much nicer and cleaner than the pictures and even had a full kitchen that wasn’t listed! Highlight of the stay was the gorgeous stream across from the lodge, so peaceful and great for a swim. Such a good price for such a nice place so close to the Yosemite entrance, would definitely stay again next time.

Not far from the Arch Rock Entrance. Hot water ans coffee available at any Time.

The best bit is the pool - so lovely and hot.