Spring Getaway: South Lake Tahoe’s Ultra-Lux The Landing Resort and Spa

South Lake Tahoe is a popular tourist attraction that lies between Nevada and California. It’s home to a slew of ski resorts and summer outdoor recreational activities. As a top-tier, year-round vacation destination, many wondered why isn’t there luxury lodging?

Then in December 2013, The Landing Resort & Spa became South Lake Tahoe’s only five-star boutique lakeside resort. The 77-room hotel includes a restaurant, spa and conference center. Guests enjoy ultra-lux amenities such as marble bathrooms with heated toilet seats and floors, high thread count linens, posh terry robes, Keurig coffee service, fireplaces and private decks. Guests also have the option of planning their wedding ceremony at the resort.

The resort was started by husband and wife Jim and Nancy Demetriades. The couple realized there was an untapped luxury market in South Lake Tahoe.

“We’ve created The Landing out of our own desire for a five-star property located on the lake,”Jim Demetriades said. “We want to provide guests with luxurious accommodations that seamlessly integrate with the natural beauty of our unique lakeside setting.”

The Landing Resort & Spa is a new reconstruction of an older building formerly known as Royal Valhalla site. However, buildings were not simply renovated. All existing buildings were stripped and rebuilt as new structure, and a new connector building was added.

Onsite dining, Jimmy’s Restaurant, serves wood-fired Greek seafood and locally sourced California fare under the direction of executive chef Maria Elia, a prominent British chef, author and TV personality.

Thus far, reviews have been very promising. Rated 4.5 stars out of 5 on TripAdvisor and 4 out of 5 stars on Yelp, tourists seemed to be pleased with not only the resort’s amenities, but also the staff. Reviews range from comments such as “first class all the way to the heated seats” to more in-depth appraisals. One reviewer was pleased with the spacious rooms as well as the rustic and cozy, but modern feel. More importantly, the staff was quoted to be “very friendly and accommodating.” Upon arrival, guests receive complimentary water or champagne.

Jimmy’s Restaurant seems to be a favorite from the music, which sets the atmosphere, to attentive service.

If planning a trip to test drive The Landing Resorts & Spa here are some activities to expect during each season:

Winter Activities:

• Skiing, Snowboarding & Ski Bikes
• Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
• Snowmobiling, Dog Sledding, Sleigh Rides
• Paddlewheel and Catamaran Lake Cruises

 Summer Activities:

• Hiking & Biking
• Swimming, Boating & Waterskiing
• Kayaking, Canoeing & Tubing
• Stream & Lake Fishing
• 6 Golf Courses, including Edgewood
• Hiking, Backpacking & Horseback Riding

(Cover photo via Expedia)