Finally the blog is into 2018! Let's get a move-on...

Our first planned trip for 2018 wasn't until April, but I received an unexpected free night certificate good for any Hyatt hotel and since it was to expire in a few months, we decided to redeem it for the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, within driving distance. It had been snowing on and off in the weeks prior to our visit, but fortunately the weather had been clear leading up to the trip. It was a beautiful ride along the western shores of Lake Tahoe, going through sleepy towns, then into Incline Village. The area had a woodsy resort feel to it, different than South Lake Tahoe.

The Hyatt Regency's exterior was a flashback to the 1980's, but the interior was charming like a chalet. We self-parked, then walked through the attached Grand Lodge Casino to get to the hotel lobby. Check-in was easy - we each received a welcome glass of champagne (apple cider was also a choice). Thanks to Hyatt Explorist status, resort fees were waived (though the $18/night self-parking wasn't), plus an upgraded room upon arrival, but there wasn't one available. However, the front desk agent offered a double upgrade to a balcony room for an additional $15, so we agreed. The room was located in the chalet-like portion of the resort, which we preferred anyway.

large entryway to store skis and gear

the brown hanging strip is a doorstopper

cozy chalet style

balcony

overlooking wooded areas

connect your personal devices to the TV

robes

Starbucks coffee, fridge

free water for elites

in case you forgot something

s'mores!

decent bathroom

earplugs?

KenetMD toiletries

The beach was across the street from the hotel. There was a covered pedestrian bridge accessible to hotel guests. The Hyatt also had lakeshore cottages that were located near the beach.


We walked along the shoreline, then had an early supper at Lone Eagle Grille. We opted for bar seating in the lounge since we didn't want a formal meal. The food was delicious. It got very crowded after 5:30pm so get here early if you want to eat in the lounge.

seared foie gras

cream of mushroom soup

dungeness crab fondue

apple bottom cocktail

After dinner, we watched the sun set, then headed back to the hotel as the temperature was quickly plummeting. On the way to our room, we stopped by Tahoe Provisions to pick up our complimentary s'mores kit. It wasn't pre-packaged; the cashier put it together in a take-out box. Kaleb braved the chilly night to make the s'mores and bring them back to the room. Fortunately the firepit was located not too far away. Ooey gooey s'mores are the best, bringing back memories of my friend Jennifer's birthday celebration at Carmel Valley Ranch.

before

after

The next morning, we enjoyed a Sunday brunch buffet at Sierra Cafe. It was a nice meal with a wonderful view out the window. If it was warmer, eating on the patio would be ideal.

buffet area

omelet menu

colorful breakfast

plus chicken-n-waffles

After brunch, we relaxed in the room until check-out time, then had an uneventful drive home.

Even though our stay was brief, we really enjoyed the North Lake Tahoe area as it was less crowded and felt more peaceful than South Lake Tahoe. Staying at one of Hyatt's lakeside cottages would be fantastic during the summer as it is adjacent to the beach. I highly recommend this destination if you are looking for rest and relaxation in woodsy surrounds.

Note: you can stay at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe using points from the World of Hyatt credit card, or by transferring Ultimate Rewards points to Hyatt from credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Sapphire Preferred, or Chase Ink Business Preferred.

Where to next? Kaleb and I are headed to sunny Puerto Vallarta...stay tuned!