Imagine: Crisp mountain air, the scent of pine needles, and the glint of sunlight on a sapphire lake. After a dazzling two-year transformation, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe has emerged, reborn amidst the majestic Sierra Nevada. TPG ventured deep into this alpine haven, and what we discovered will redefine your perception of luxury. Forget ordinary; prepare for extraordinary.

Imagine stepping into a world reborn. The hotel unveils a stunning transformation, breathing fresh life into every corner, from the reimagined guest rooms to the revitalized dining and lounging spaces. Even the fitness center and poolside cabanas shimmer with new energy. A curated on-site market now offers delightful discoveries. But the true showstopper? A breathtaking two-story stone pillar, a majestic sentinel that beckons guests from the lobby’s embrace to the elevated delights of the second-floor restaurant and bar.

RACHEL CRAFT/THE POINTS GUY

The weekend unfolded like a crisp new page at the revamped estate. Stepping inside, I was greeted by a symphony of fresh aesthetics and enticing upgrades. Prepare to be captivated by what I unearthed.

Related: Stay at these amazing Ritz-Carltons across the world

First impressions

Transformed: The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe now mirrors the majestic Sierra Nevada landscape. Imagine stepping into a world where earth tones whisper tranquility, panoramic windows frame breathtaking vistas, and natural materials weave a tapestry of rustic elegance. This is a redesigned sanctuary, where the beauty of Lake Tahoe flows seamlessly through every space.

Imagine stepping off the elevator and onto a path inspired by Lake Tahoe’s depths. The guest hallways are swathed in carpet mirroring the smooth, water-worn stones resting on the lakebed. Above, delicate light fixtures mimic the sharp gleam of icicles. Venture further, and the common areas transform into a gallery showcasing local artists’ renditions of the great outdoors, with select pieces available to bring a piece of Tahoe’s spirit home.

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The hotel boasted luxury, yet the dining and lounge spaces whispered, “Come as you are.” As a mountain girl, that’s exactly what I did – and felt instantly at home. That easy elegance? That’s the true soul of mountain living.

The rooms

Nestled amidst the majestic Sierra Nevada, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, unveils a haven of refined mountain luxury. Imagine sinking into one of 170 exquisitely redesigned guest rooms and suites, each a sanctuary of modern comfort. For those seeking an elevated experience, discover the allure of 23 private residences. Picture this: sprawling two-to-four bedroom retreats, complete with gourmet kitchens and expansive outdoor decks – perfect for creating unforgettable memories with loved ones against a backdrop of breathtaking alpine vistas.

As part of the renovation, the rooms offer luxurious, nature-inspired touches like travertine tile and twig-shaped closet door handles.

Imagine waking up in a king-sized bed, sunlight streaming through the balcony doors, revealing a breathtaking panorama of mountains. This wasn’t just a room; it was a one-bedroom sanctuary. A luxurious ensuite beckoned with a deep soaking tub promising blissful relaxation. The living room, equally opulent, boasted its own full bathroom, eliminating any morning rush. Picture cozy evenings curled up by the fireplace – one in the bedroom, another in the living room – each flickering flame mirroring the snow-capped peaks visible from your private balcony. Beyond the plush comforts, practical touches elevated the experience: a minifridge chilled complimentary bottled water, a coffee and tea station offered instant gratification, and a well-appointed desk catered to any lingering work. When hunger struck, a small dining table and chairs provided the perfect setting for an intimate meal, all while soaking in that unforgettable mountain view.

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The room whispered luxury, a soothing symphony of muted tones punctuated by marble accents and artwork that echoed Tahoe’s natural beauty. Plush robes awaited, and the bathroom was a treasure trove of toiletries – anticipating every conceivable need. My ensuite held the ultimate reward: a deep soaking tub practically begging for a post-adventure plunge. (A word to the wise: the hot water tap requires commitment. Crank it all the way; lukewarm yields to bliss only with conviction.)

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As dusk settled, a silent symphony began in my room. Lights softened, a bedside carafe promised hydration, and slippers beckoned tired feet. Then, the sweet surprise: miniature chocolates nestled on the pillows, a prelude to dreams. Spa music whispered from the TV, inviting relaxation alongside an intriguing aromatherapy menu, a personalized path to serenity.

Dining at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

The property offers four dining outlets with elevated mountain fare in a hip, casual setting.

The Living Room Lodge, nestled around the hotel’s colossal central pillar, invites you to sink into its embrace. Picture this: panoramic views of the whispering woods, the crackling warmth of the hearth, and the tempting aroma of gourmet bites from light snacks to satisfying feasts. Beneath a breathtaking glass chandelier, a cascade of pressed wildflowers frozen in time, the bar awaits, ready to concoct handcrafted cocktails that will ignite your senses. Simply find a seat and let the lodge’s magic envelop you.

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Seeking a step up from casual without sacrificing comfort? Manzanita offers an intimate, “smart casual” escape. Imagine dining amidst natural elegance: a host stand crafted from a reclaimed tree trunk, a stylish open kitchen whispering culinary secrets. It’s refined, relaxed, and utterly captivating.

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Living Room Lodge doesn’t just offer menus; it unveils edible seasons. My recent visit tasted like pure sunshine: a vibrant summer salad ($18) bursting with just-picked goodness, and a black-eyed pea hummus ($26) so fresh, it practically winked. Each bite was a delicious, perfectly-timed moment.

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Manzanita isn’t your average mountain grill. Picture this: Mexican chefs, mountain views, and a menu that throws tradition a playful curveball. Forget predictable plates – dive into fettuccine en rajas, a vibrant pasta dish dancing with spicy poblano peppers ($31), or the ahi tuna tiradito, a zesty wake-up call for your taste buds ($38). My spotlight dish? The pan-seared tofu with green mole ($34). Forget bland tofu – this is a revelation. And the roasted Nantes carrots ($14)? Sweet, earthy perfection. Each bite was a testament to the chef’s artistry.

RACHEL CRAFT/THE POINTS GUY

Craving campfire vibes without the actual camping? Head to The Backyard, a chill outdoor oasis where crackling fire pits and the aroma of barbecue reign supreme. Picture this: you’re toasting marshmallows for s’mores while savoring smoky Thai chicken wings ($32) or sinking your teeth into a juicy brisket sandwich ($32). Need a jolt? Cafe Blue, just steps away, fuels your adventures with energizing drinks and quick bites. Grab a turkey or vegan burrito ($17), a bowl of wholesome muesli ($16), or warm up with alpine soup ($16). Your taste buds (and your energy levels) will thank you.

Amenities and service

From the moment I checked in, I felt genuinely cared for. Whether I was savoring a delicious meal or wrestling with the Wi-Fi at midnight (a battle the front desk staff cheerfully helped me win), the service was consistently exceptional. Speaking of exceptional, prepare to be spoiled rotten by these hotel perks:

• Nightly turndown service
• Outdoor swimming pool with kids’ pool and whirlpool, as well as luxury cabanas available for rent
• Recently renovated fitness center with stunning views, plus two rooms hosting complimentary fitness classes
• An outdoor dining area with fire pits and complimentary s’mores (which they even vegan-ized for me) year-round Escape to a sanctuary of tranquility where skilled therapists melt away tension with bespoke massages and rejuvenating facials. Surrender to the soothing heat of gender-specific saunas and steam rooms. Emerge refreshed, ready to luxuriate in bubbling hot tubs and serene pre-treatment lounges. For the ultimate escape, immerse yourself in the exclusive adults-only outdoor pool, a haven of peaceful bliss.

“Gear up for adventure! We’re thrilled to announce two new additions: Alpine Exchange, your go-to boutique for stylish apparel and travel essentials, and Alpine Market, stocked with grab-and-go snacks, refreshing drinks, and those oh-so-necessary toiletries.”

• Complimentary ski valet, gear rental shop and mountain concierge to help coordinate equipment

• Club Lounge

• Pet-friendly accommodations with up to two pets per room, with a $200 cleaning fee per stay

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Things to do

Forget lugging your skis or deciphering trail maps. At this Ritz-Carlton, mountain life is effortless luxury. Imagine: ski valet whisks away your gear, the in-house shop outfits you perfectly, and the concierge unlocks Northstar’s slopes right from your doorstep with ski-in, ski-out access. An inter-mountain gondola is just steps away, connecting you to even more terrain. Craving variety? Palisades Tahoe (Ikon Pass) and Heavenly Mountain (Epic Pass) are a scenic drive away, offering even more opportunities to carve through fresh powder. Your perfect ski adventure starts here.

When the sun graces the landscape, a tapestry of hiking trails unfolds, practically at your doorstep. Step directly from the hotel onto a captivating 3-mile path, and let the adventure begin.

Craving ultimate relaxation? For a seasonal upcharge, unlock the Lake Club: a haven of tranquility. Picture this: gliding across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe on a guided paddleboard tour with Tahoe Adventure Guides, the hotel’s adventure partner. Then, replenish your energy with the Lake Club’s tempting buffet and handcrafted cocktails – pure bliss.

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Craving budget-friendly fun? Just a short 10-mile jaunt will land you in vibrant Kings Beach, brimming with public beaches and delectable, wallet-conscious eats.

Beyond the immediate allure, discover the historic charm of nearby Truckee, challenge yourself on exceptional golf courses, or reflect on the poignant history of Donner Lake, where the infamous Donner Party faced a brutal winter in 1846.

Location and logistics

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Touch down in Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), and in under an hour, the majestic Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe unveils itself. Or, for a swifter arrival, whisk away to the private Truckee Tahoe Airport (TKR), a mere 15-minute jaunt from unparalleled luxury.

Landing at RNO and heading to the Ritz-Carlton? The North Lake Tahoe Express is your ticket, whisking you away for $99 (and the more, the merrier with multi-passenger discounts!). Alternatively, summon an Uber, expect around $90 for the ride.

For longer stays and exploring beyond the hotel, consider a rental car. But brace yourself: parking at the hotel is a steep $60 per night.

What it costs to stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe and how to book

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Escape the Crowds: Discover Unbeatable Rates at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe This Spring and Fall. While winter’s slopes and summer’s sun draw peak crowds to The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, savvy travelers know the real treasure lies in the shoulder seasons. Embrace the serenity of spring wildflowers or the fiery hues of autumn foliage, all while indulging in luxurious accommodations at incredible rates. Your unforgettable Lake Tahoe escape awaits, without the crowds or the premium price tag.

November nights at this hotel? Prepare for sticker shock. A basic king will set you back a hefty $485ora staggering 96,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Dreaming bigger? A one-bedroom suite demands $794 or a jaw-dropping 156,000 points. Ouch. Crunch the numbers, and you’re squeezing a measly 0.5 cents of value from each point. That’s significantly less than the 0.7 cents TPG pegs them at (as of June 2025). Time to rethink that points redemption strategy.

But brace yourself: snagging that king-sized comfort during peak ski season could cost you a cool $2,612, or 152,000 points per night. The upside? You’re squeezing serious value a sweet 1.7 cents per point. Think winter wonderland or sun-drenched summer escape that’s when your points transform into a money-saving superpower, potentially saving you thousands.

Unlocking the Ultimate Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe Escape: Your Credit Card Compass

Dreaming of snow-kissed peaks and fireside luxury at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe? Maximize your mountain getaway by strategically choosing your payment method. Select a credit card that supercharges your Marriott Bonvoy® points accumulation. For an even richer experience, consider cards that instantly elevate you to Marriott Bonvoy® elite status, unlocking a cascade of exclusive perks. Think upgrades, complimentary breakfasts, and VIP treatment – all thanks to the right card in your wallet.

Unlock a world of luxury with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. Imagine earning 6x points for every dollar spent at Marriott Bonvoy hotels, catapulting you towards dream vacations faster than ever. Plus, instantly elevate your travel experience with automatic Platinum Elite status, showering you with exclusive perks. Start each year closer to your next adventure with 25 elite night credits – a head start on unlocking even greater rewards. Travel brilliantly.

Unlock a world of elevated travel with the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card. Imagine earning 6x the points on every eligible dollar spent at Marriott Bonvoy hotels – think dream vacations fueled by your everyday spending. That’s not all: automatically bask in the glow of Gold Elite status, unlocking perks and privileges designed to enhance your stay. Plus, jumpstart your journey to even greater heights with 15 Elite Night Credits each year, propelling you towards a higher tier of Marriott Bonvoy rewards. Experience travel, redefined.

Unlock Gold Status and Dream Vacations: The Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful® Credit Card.

Imagine turning everyday spending into luxurious getaways. With the Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful® card, you’ll earn a whopping 6 points for every dollar spent at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, accelerating your path to free nights. Plus, enjoy automatic Gold Elite status, unlocking exclusive perks and upgrades. And as if that weren’t enough, you’ll receive 15 Elite Night Credits each year, giving you a significant head start towards reaching the next level of Marriott Bonvoy elite benefits. Start your journey to extraordinary travel experiences today.

Unlock a world of elevated experiences with the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card. Imagine earning 6x points for every dollar spent at Marriott Bonvoy hotels, turning business trips into luxurious getaways. Fast track your journey to elite status with automatic Gold Elite perks and a head start of 15 elite night credits each year, propelling you towards even richer rewards.

Unlock a world of rewards with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card (see rates and fees). Imagine earning 6x points for every dollar spent at Marriott Bonvoy hotels, catapulting you towards dream vacations faster than ever before! Plus, enjoy automatic Silver Elite status from day one, and a head start of 15 elite night credits each year – paving your way to Gold, Platinum, and beyond. Your next extraordinary escape is closer than you think.

Unlock a world of elevated travel with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card (see rates and fees). Imagine earning triple the points on every eligible Marriott stay, catapulting you closer to free nights and unforgettable experiences. As a cardholder, you’ll automatically enjoy Silver Elite status, plus a head start on reaching the next level with 5 elite night credits deposited into your account annually.

“The Points Guy independently sourced the details about the Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful card featured here. Curious about the source? This information wasn’t vetted or supplied by the card issuer itself it’s all us!”

Unlock VIP treatment at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe! Book through Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Edit by Chase Travel and indulge in elite-level perks while racking up bonus points.

Accessibility

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The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe offers several accessibility features:

• Braille is provided on hotel signage throughout.
• Hearing-accessible rooms with visual alarms and notification devices for door and phone are available.
• Mobility-accessible rooms with tubs and/or roll-in showers are available. Unlock accessible luxury at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe. Explore room-specific accessibility features on this page. For an even more personalized experience, request an ADA kit to transform any room into your accessible sanctuary.

Bottom line

RACHEL CRAFT/THE POINTS GUY

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe wasn’t just a stay; it was a shimmering mirage of alpine luxury I’m already dreaming of revisiting. Next time, though, I’m trading poolside cocktails for après-ski hot toddies. My mission: snagging an award night during ski season. Wish me luck!

Escape to Northern California! Indulge in lavish rooms, savor seasonal culinary delights, and rejuvenate in a sprawling spa. Picture yourself: a serene solo escape, a passionate romantic interlude, or a blissful spa day with friends. But wait! Don’t leave the little ones behind. With a treasure trove of nearby kid-friendly adventures, this haven effortlessly transforms into the ultimate family playground.

Nestled where Lake Tahoe’s pulse beats strongest, The Ritz-Carlton isn’t just a hotel; it’s a launchpad for thrill-seekers and a sanctuary for serenity-seekers. Whether you crave adrenaline-fueled escapades or blissful unwinding – or perhaps a tantalizing blend of both – prepare to discover your perfect Tahoe rhythm.

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