WaRm Up thIs WINtER with a Gold Country Getaway By Amy Nilson
READY
TO RECHARGE YOUR WINTER WITH A GREAT ESCAPE? Whether you’re looking for a step back in time, small-town charm, spectacular Sierra scenery or world class recreation, the Central Sierra Gold Country has just what you’re looking for this winter. Beautiful foothill communities, located above the fog and below the snow, offer a variety of ideal settings to slow down, relax and rejuvenate. Here are a few examples to get you headed in the right direction. Lyle’s Room at the Groveland Hotel
HISTORIC GROVELAND HOTEL Experience complete luxury in this lovingly restored Gold Rush showcase, located in the heart of historic Groveland and just a short drive from Yosemite National Park. Dating back to 1849, the two-story structure is a rare and beautifully preserved example of Monterey Colonial-style architecture, with wrap-around veranda and adobe walls. Innkeepers Peggy and Grover Mosley completely renovated the property in 1990 and have maintained it as a Yosemite gateway landmark ever since. It features 17 guest rooms, the distinguished Cellar Door Restaurant and its award-winning wine cellar, an authentic Gold Rush saloon and outdoor courtyard that hosts a full calendar of live entertainment. The distinct guest rooms are filled with Victorian embellishments and European antiques, feather beds and private baths, and also come with internet access and full hot breakfast. New this year at the Cellar Door is the Winter Magic dinner theater series, featuring weekend performances by renowned comedy magicians. Groveland itself is popular for both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy the Yosemite region’s world-class climbing, hiking, rafting, fishing and winter sports. 18767 Main Street, Groveland, (800)273-3314, (209)962-4000, groveland.com 54
SADDLE CREEK RESORT
HOTEL LEGER
For a more contemporary setting, offering beautiful foothill vistas and every modern convenience, consider a stay at the bungalows at Saddle Creek Resort in Copperopolis. Plush, private and just steps from the links at one of the Gold Country’s premiere foothill golfing resorts, this could not be a more complete retreat. Tucked among the rolling hills just a few minutes from Lake Tulloch, Saddle Creek boasts mild, sunny days all winter long, a challenging, championship course and some of the foothill’s finest dining. It is conveniently located just a short drive from the valley, from the foothills’ wine country and historic towns, Sierra skiing and more. Very popular for weddings, reunions, golf tournaments and other special occasions, the 16 cottages can be booked either as one or two-bedroom bungalows with fully equipped kitchen, dining and living room or as one-bedroom, one bath units. All have a spacious feel with vaulted ceilings and a relaxed and elegant décor, and open onto private patios overlooking the course. 1001 Saddle Creek Drive, Copperopolis, (800) 611-7722, (209)785-7415, Copper Grille (209)785-7400, saddlecreek.com.
Take a step back in time when you discover the friendly charms of Mokelumne Hill and its unique treasure, the Hotel Leger. Just a couple of blocks off Highway 49 and a world away from modern hustle and bustle, the Leger has always been the hub of this small town. It received an impressive dose of community care this fall, as part of the reality television show “Hotel Impossible.” The entire town and more turned out to help owners Ashley Canty and her family with a five-day, top-to-bottom renovation blitz. Improvements are still underway and the transformation will be celebrated when the television show airs on the Travel Channel in the spring. Originally built in 1851, the Leger catered to Mokelumne Hill’s large French population during the town’s early days, and for a time housed the county courthouse and jail. Today, its authentic rustic charm comes complete with tales of a resident ghost or two (including the founder George Leger). Overnight guests can choose from several distinct rooms and suites, each appointed with antiques, hardwood floors, feather down comforters and some with sitting rooms and fireplaces. The shady courtyard with its 150-year-