Want to visit America’s national parks, but not interested in camping? I’ve put together a list of stylish stays in and around America’s National Parks – from the Yosemite Falls to the peaks of the Grand Tetons.
Yosemite: Château du Sureau
Located just outside the gates of Yosemite National Park is the beautiful and quaint 10-bedroom Relais & Châteaux Hotel, Château du Sureau. In addition, a private and luxurious two-bedroom Villa du Sureau. At The Elderberry House Restaurant located onsite, enjoy award-winning cuisine in an elegant European atmosphere. Make your way to the countryside retreat, Spa du Sureau for a treatment and your worries, stress and aches will melt away.
Zion: LaFave Vacation Rentals
Just about a mile outside of the Zion National Park gates, sits LaFave, a collection of beautiful rentals that offer luxury and convenience. Villas feature a modern design, full kitchens with Bosch stainless appliances, washer and dryers, as well as spacious accommodations. Nearby you will find a grocery store, restaurants, and shops. There’s a Zion shuttle stop directly in front of the property so guests don’t have to drive into the park where there’s limited parking. The staff is very professional, detail oriented, and provided wonderful suggestions and resources so I could successfully plan my trip.
Cradled between three National Parks in Utah: Amangiri
Amangiri is centrally located between Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park and Canyonlands. One could spend a few days there and easily mark some National Parks off their bucket list. Amangiri is perhaps the most exclusive resort in America with a clientele that includes America’s A-list and titans of industry. Your eyes will widen and your mouth will drop once you see the pool – it’s beyond stunning! Nearby at Amangiri is Camp Sarika featuring impeccable tented pavilions where guests can partake in an elevated wilderness experience with incredible desert views. At both Amangiri’s Suites and Camp Sarika, you can expect privacy and forward-thinking design. While the Aman group has become my north star of luxury and service, the Amangiri occupies a realm of its own.
Arches National Park: Sorrel River Ranch
Sorrel River Ranch is a true sanctuary amongst the red rocks of Moab. There are custom-built cabins featuring views of the Colorado River and it’s the perfect home base when exploring the Mars-like environment of Moab and Arches. If you’d prefer to stay onsite, you can easily occupy yourself with horseback riding, the animal petting zoo, the pool or simply by sitting back and enjoying a cocktail from the Epic Bar while taking in the scenery. Farm-to-table cuisine is served at the River Grill and the menu changes regularly. I’ve visited the ranch in both the Summer and the Fall – both experiences were great and there’s always somewhere new to hike and explore!
Big Bend: Cibolo Creek Ranch
West Texas is a wild and beautiful country. The land you find along the Rio Grande is some of the most sparsely populated yet thoroughly inspiring terrain in the USA. Complete with it’s own airstrip for it’s well-heeled patrons, Cibolo Creek Ranch is a fabled getaway for the rich, famous and politically well-connected. Onsite you can treat yourself to a variety of unique outdoor activities such as Hummer rides, shooting, riding, hiking and hunting.
Yellowstone: The White Buffalo Club
Located in the heart of Jackson is The White Buffalo Club, the premier downtown luxury hotel with spacious accommodations and the most incredible restaurant. Their expert vacation planners can assist guests with organizing adventures, activities, and how to secure tickets for Yellowstone. Take part in a relaxing yoga class in their expansive fitness and wellness center or relax and recharge at the intimate boutique spa.
Grand Tetons: Amangani
Perched on a mountaintop between downtown Jackson and Teton Village, you will find the Amangani. Whether you’re seeking adventure or some time to relax and recharge, Amangani offers it all. Be sure to check out their Wellness Centre featuring spa treatment rooms, exercise studios and his-and-hers steam rooms. The cuisine and service is divine as well as the views – they will not escape from your mind!