Fireside Lodge

We've been back to Fireside Lodge five times, and every visit has been enjoyable. The owners' family is warm and welcoming, and the rooms are consistently clean. They're also attentive when questions come up. There's a paved walking path down the street that leads into Tahoe National Forest for nature walks.

The rooms are sweet, cozy, and spotless, with a kitschy theme in each one. I counted 40 moose in mine, and the stone fireplace kept it warm. You can walk to the beach, then come back for hot chocolate and old-school arcade games. There are lots of amenities, but I'll leave you to discover them and experience the hospitality yourself. The location has water, mountains, and snow nearby, pretty much whatever you're after. I hate giving away a secret spot, but these folks deserve support. Skip the fancy resort and casino places. This feels like coming home, quiet and sweet, with real hosts.

Our room, Big Blue, is wonderfully cozy, with pine walls, high ceilings, a kitchenette stocked with Tahoe-themed mugs and plates, and a gas fireplace surrounded by river rock. We may never leave. The lodge is also close to the "Y" area, which has changed since we grew up visiting South Shore. Now it has the essentials, from good markets to South Lake Brewing Company and live music. We found the common spaces welcoming right away. A group was lingering after happy hour in the living room, and Eric showed us around and made us feel at home. There's a breakfast bar where Belgian waffles are the big draw, plus s'mores at the fire pit. The gathering room and shared dining space have games, books, and a full bar, next to a vintage arcade with Skee ball, air hockey, and more. Bike paths and walking trails are right outside, and the lodge has beach cruisers. Camp Richardson is seven minutes away. We've only been here two hours, but we're already in love with Fireside. I spend ages comparing hotels, lodges, and AirBnBs before I book, so I'm glad we chose this one.

Every little detail helped make the stay relaxing and fun, from the comfy mattress and fireplace to the Belgian waffles, happy hour, sauna, bikes, s'mores, and game room. The owners and staff clearly care about the property and their guests. They were kind, friendly, and accommodating throughout. This was our first visit to Fireside Lodge, but it won't be our last. Denise and Wes visiting from Steeler country in western PA.