Our experience at this hotel was perfect from the moment we drove up until the moment we left, three days later. We stayed 3 nights in room 225 in mid Feb, a classic room with a nice view, sitting room, and a superbly comfortable bed. We purchased the internet rate that included breakfast (the buffet is amazing) and valet parking. Yes, it is pricey, but the real issue is: was it worth it--YES! We were treated like a queen and king at all times by all the staff. The food was gourmet and delicious, the grounds are beautiful, hiking at your doorstep. The hike to mirror lake is lovely in the morning when no one is on the trail. While hiking to Upper Yosemite Falls (before the snow arrived) two deer became our "pets" and hiked with us for about half an hour. It was surreal to say the least. The public rooms inside the hotel are fun to explore, and I think you really can appreciate how much this hotel means to the valley, and the history behind it. It snowed on our last night and we woke up to a white wonderland. It was a beautiful stay and we enjoyed every second of our time here.

This is a lovely historic hotel. I live sort of nearby in CA so go to Yosemite often. I was absolutely appauled at the service during my last stay. A group of us went to celebrate a birthday. The service of food and delivery of things to help the party were acceptable, though not 4 star. But god help you when you go to check out. They made an error in paying one party's charges to another party's credit card. It took 3 months (3 months!!!) to get it solved and not by the hotel; one of us sent a check to the other. No one returns phone calls; we went for days (well, months) trying to get help. Repeated phone calls and all. Nobody ever answers the phones or returns calls. The one time they did, they did not fix the problem in spite of promises ... Oh, and if you arrive late and alone like I had to, there is no dorman nor anyone to help you, but there are a lot of lare "no parking" signs everywhere near the entrance - in spite of the fact that I had called earlier to tell them I would be there late. So be prepared.

Don't pay any attention to the naysayers about the rooms. I expected the rooms to be just as they are, the hotel is old, a classic '30's - '40's feel. How much time do you spend in the room anyway? We were out skating, hiking, sightseeing, and taking in the clean fresh air. The restaurant has food and service to die for.

We were very much looking forward to staying at the Ahwanee. This is a great hotel in a perfect location. You must make reservations very very early, particularly for the spring. At least 6 months in general. The hotel is beautiful but still has an authentic rustic feel. It is not however completely up to the standards of a true 5 star hotel, but that is part of the charm. You feel like you are someplace special, that is very homey. The service is good, but not fussy. Everything is a little bit laid back as compared to other fancy hotels, so it may feel a little casual if you are used to the Four Seasons or Ritz. However, the beds are extremely comfortable, the rooms have been remodeled (at least the one we stayed in) And the grounds are of course spectacular. If you want to be at Yosemite, but you still want luxury- this is the only place in town.