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Fireplaces and Hot Toddies: Getting Cozy in North Lake Tahoe

Last updated: September 2022

Let’s face it: nothing beats cozying up in front of a beautiful fireplace. Add a warm beverage, fuzzy socks, and a beautiful view, and you’ve got a recipe for the perfect winter day.

Whether you’re taking a break from the ski slopes or consider fireplace cuddling a winter sport of its own, any visitor to North Lake Tahoe needs some time to get cozy.

Here are our favorite spots around North Lake Tahoe to get cozy in front of the fire, and a few of the region’s top winter cocktails, to boot.

Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge, Tahoe City

Tahoe City’s Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge is widely celebrated for its sweeping lakeside views.

During the summer, this Treasure of Tahoe is known for their iconic lakefront dining and specialty rum drinks. But when winter comes around, it’s the inside of the Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge that becomes a huge draw for alpine travelers.

Cozy up next to Sunnyside’s inviting fireplace with their signature Buffalo Trace Hot Toddy, or some yummy hot chocolate for the kids. If the snow falling outside becomes too heavy, not to worry — head up to one of the lodge’s lakeview rooms with their own wood-burning fireplaces.

Lone Eagle Grille, Incline Village

Pair this stylish fireplace with a perfect view. Photo courtesy of The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Casino and Spa.

Located at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe in Incline Village, this lakeside hotspot features an epic two-story stone fireplace, designed to resemble classic Tahoe lodges of yesteryear.

Lone Eagle Grille offers signature fireside drinks perfect for winter, like their Spiced Apple Cider or The Flapjack (a bourbon-based cocktail with flavors of spiced pear, lemon, and maple). Those who wish to sit lakefront and observe Lake Tahoe’s priceless views can enjoy a fire pit and cocktail service year-round, while those wanting to cuddle up indoors have the perfect fireplace for relaxation.

Basecamp Hotel, Tahoe City

Relax with friends in a beautifully rustic environ at Basecamp in Tahoe City. Photo courtesy of Paul Dyer.

Located just north of Tahoe City, Basecamp Tahoe City is one of the best places to hang out and stay warm in North Lake Tahoe. In their “Cozy Lobby,” find a double-sided fireplace with leather couches that are perfect for sinking in to.

Happy Hour specials are available from 4pm-6pm daily with tasty seasonal food and drinks, and if that weren’t enough, complimentary s’mores are available from 5pm-10pm daily, making the coziest aprés experience even more delicious. 

Northstar California Resort

Skating the ice rink is a classic way to celebrate winter. Photo courtesy of Northstar California Resort.

In the heart of The Village at Northstar lies an ice rink perfect for wintery fun for all ages, and a number of cozy fire pits to keep you warm. After you’ve had your fill of skating, grab a cabana and roast some s’mores around the outdoor fire, or head over to the Rink Bar for a Hot Toddy and other seasonal spirits perfect for cold days and nights.

The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe, Truckee

The Ritz-Carlton offers incredible, modern ambiance framed beautifully by Tahoe’s picturesque winter environment. Photo courtesy of Don Riddle Images.

Embrace your indulgent side by lounging around a large fire pit with an Aprés-Ski Champagne Experience at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe.

This stunning property has no shortage of ways to get cozy — snuggle up next to the stone fireplace in the lobby, take a dip in the heated pool, or unwind by the cozy fire that warms the restoration lounge. Whatever you do, allow yourself to feel pampered while staying nice and warm.

Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley

Take in epic, fireside views of the Sierra Nevada. Photo courtesy of The Palisades Tahoe.

Get warm in one of the Palisades Tahoe luxurious Fireplace Suites with your own personal in-room fireplace. There’s no better way to cuddle up than gazing out at the incredible views just outside your window.

Or head on down to the lobby to enjoy a nice Hot Toddy by the fire in one of the Resort’s common areas.

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