Top 10 Cool and Unusual Hotels in Mammoth Lakes 2023

Tamarack Lodge is one of my favorite places, embodying the pinnacle of a fantastic destination. Whether craving a thrilling snow experience, a refreshing nature vacation, or just a spot to reconnect with loved ones, this lodge has it all.

While staying at Tamarack Lodge, I love its remote location, seven minutes from Mammoth Village. Surrounded by hiking paths and the serene coastlines of Twin Lakes, it offers a perfect escape. The Eagle Lodge at Mammoth Mountain Ski Area is just a 10-minute drive away, providing easy access to adventure. Mammoth-Yosemite Airport is a convenient 20-minute drive, and Yosemite National Park is a scenic 90-minute journey.

The lodge boasts 11 charming guest rooms with rustic wood furniture, some featuring leather seats in cozy sitting areas. The absence of televisions adds to the immersive experience. The bathrooms, equipped with Aveda products, feature tiled walk-in showers. Some rooms share communal restrooms, basic yet impeccably clean.

Tamarack Lodge’s 35 cabins come in two categories. The rustic, historic cabins, timber, and stone construction exude charm, and many feature wood-burning stoves. The contemporary cottages offer a country design and gas fireplaces. Studio cabins with king or queen beds, dining tables, and small kitchens provide a comfortable stay. Larger cabins feature separate living spaces, fireplaces, and complete kitchens, some with multiple decks.

The lodge’s setting provides easy access to Twin Lakes, offering scenic spots with Adirondack chairs and a serene coastline. Seasonal activities include boating, kayaking, and fishing. In winter, on-site cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are available, with rentals, lessons, and trail passes offered at an additional fee. Guided excursions from the lodge’s ski center come at a discounted rate for visitors.

The lodge offers outdoor locations for events, including the enchanting Forest Chapel, a favorite spot for local weddings. The Lakefront Restaurant, with lake views, serves fine rustic dining, and the lobby bar, with live piano music on weekends, provides a cozy atmosphere for drinks. Reservations are typically necessary, and pets are welcome in cabins for a fee.

Tamarack Lodge, with its hidden gem appeal, truly captures the essence of mountain retreats and offers a memorable vacation experience!

One of my favorite places? The serene Twin Lakes coastline, offering tranquil spots to unwind amidst nature’s beauty.

Snowcreek Resort quickly became one of my favorite places for a thrilling and well-rounded Mammoth vacation. Nestled in the heart of the stunning Sierra Nevada Mountains, this resort offers excitement, relaxation, and unparalleled natural beauty.

While visiting, I fell in love with the breathtaking views of the Eastern Sierras that the resort provides. Just 20 minutes from the core of Mammoth Lakes, Snowcreek Resort is conveniently located near various attractions and cultural venues. The Seasonal Mammoth History Museum at the Hayden Cabin, a mere 1.2 miles away, was a fascinating visit.

Exploring the surroundings, I discovered the Mammoth Ice Rink, a haven for sports enthusiasts, only 1.4 miles from The Snowcreek. For those seeking a place of worship, the St. Joseph Catholic Church is within a short walk from the property. Not to mention, the resort is just a 17-minute drive from the Mammoth Yosemite airport.

What sets Snowcreek Resort apart is its perfect blend of old-fashioned charm and modern luxury. With 150 well-equipped and tastefully appointed rooms ranging from one to five bedrooms, the resort offers a variety of accommodations. Each room features a kitchen with full-sized refrigerators/freezers, microwaves, separate dining areas, cookware/dishes/utensils, and coffee/tea makers.

The bathrooms are stocked with toiletries and hair dryers, and there’s free wireless Internet access, irons/ironing boards, and TVs with DVD players for entertainment.

I experienced the resort’s dedication to family comfort with its extra-large accommodations. The spacious 3215 square feet family units boast open floor plans, pool tables, connected garages, generous patios with grills, complete laundry rooms, and stunning mountain views.

Regarding dining, Garden Of Eat’n & Catering, approximately 13 minutes away, became my go-to spot. The restaurant, known for its excellent drinks and international cuisine, added a delightful culinary aspect to my stay.

Snowcreek Resort’s indoor swimming pool and tennis courts were fantastic highlights. The invitation to relax in the spa, indulge in complete body and neck massages, or stay fit at the gym made my stay even more enjoyable.

For adventure seekers like me, Snowcreek Resort offers various activities, from snow skiing and kayaking to horseback riding. These experiences truly made my trip unforgettable.

While visiting Snowcreek Resort, the indoor swimming pool and tennis courts were fantastic highlights for relaxation and activity.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or seeking leisure, The Westin Monache Resort is perfect for couples and families, offering a global standard of service, facilities, and activities.

Situated in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, this luxurious 4-star hotel is a mesmerizing refuge. While conveniently located near tourist attractions, shops, bars, and restaurants, reaching the Village and Gondola involves navigating a long, steep flight of steps. Many guests opt for the hotel’s complimentary shuttle, a roughly 16-minute ride, to get there. Yosemite National Park is about a 90-minute drive away, and Mammoth Yosemite Airport is a modest 15 minutes from the accommodation.

The hotel’s spacious, apartment-style rooms are modern and well-equipped, featuring muted decor with all-white bedding, beige Berber-type carpets, and amber-finished wood furniture. Each room includes upholstered headboards, dining tables with chairs, sleeping spaces with couches, and gas fireplaces. Kitchenettes with wet bars, microwaves, cooktops, mini-fridges, coffee makers, and dishwashers are standard, while larger suites boast kitchens with ovens and full-size refrigerators.

Standard amenities include robes, a safe, magnifying mirrors, free WiFi, complimentary bottled water, and Starbucks coffee. The units are typically quiet, and the Westin Heavenly beds ensure a comfortable night’s sleep. Many suites offer balconies with beautiful views of the surrounding woodlands and mountain ranges. Bathrooms feature granite vanities and shower/tub combinations with rainfall showerheads, and two-bedroom suites come with two baths.

The resort also boasts The Whitebark Restaurant, serving innovative American cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and supper and special events like “Sushi Mondays.” A full-service bar offers happy hour deals, and complimentary sparkling wine and hot chocolate are served each afternoon. Room service is available.

While the resort lacks a spa, it features a 24-hour fitness facility with free weights and Life Fitness cardio equipment. Guests can rent New Balance equipment if needed. Two whirlpools, tables, plenty of loungers, and gas grills surround the enormous heated outdoor pool.

The Westin Monache Resort includes a 24-hour business center with two computers and printers available to guests and 2,250 square feet of conference space accommodating up to 120 people. Additional amenities include a guest laundry facility, valet dry cleaning and laundry, concierge services, and a gift store selling sundries, snacks, and souvenirs.

Parents can relax knowing that The Westin Kids Club offers directed activities for kids ages 4 to 12. The daily resort fee covers service, self-parking in the hotel’s basement lot, and WiFi.

Against the magical backdrop of the Eastern Sierra Nevada, The Westin Monache welcomes travelers to indulge in an extravagant wilderness retreat!

My personal favorite? The heated outdoor pool overlooking Mammoth Mountain, offering breathtaking views for a refreshing swim.

Discovering The Village Lodge amid the breathtaking Sierra Nevada Mountains was like stumbling upon a hidden gem. This charming hotel immediately captured my heart, surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.

The resort’s enchanting blend of rustic charm and modern elegance created an atmosphere that truly sparked my imagination.

I was conveniently situated at the heart of the action during my stay at The Village Lodge in Mammoth Lakes. The Village Plaza, a mere five-minute walk away, became one of my favorite places, offering many shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

The resort’s shuttle service to Canyon Resort, just five minutes away, and the proximity of Mammoth Yosemite National Park, a scenic 90-minute drive, made exploration effortless.

Entering the modern condos, I was captivated by the attractive design in soothing earth tones. The decor choices varied, but beige flooring, solid-color bedding, and matching wood furniture were consistent. Gas fireplaces framed by natural stone and comfy sleeper couches, created a cozy atmosphere. The fully equipped kitchens, boasting granite countertops, dishwashers, fridges, and more, proved practical.

Balconies adorned some units, providing a delightful view of the Village and mountains. Standard amenities like flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and complimentary tea & coffee enhanced my experience. The generously sized bathrooms feature shower/tub combinations, double sinks, and Aveda toiletries.

With a range of accommodations, from studios to three-bedroom units, I felt spoiled for choice. Despite the central location, the absence of on-site restaurants and bars didn’t hinder my experience. Instead, it encouraged exploration of the diverse dining options nearby.

For skiers seeking relaxation, the five-year-round whirlpools were a treat. The 24-hour heated pool, set in a charming courtyard with gas grills, offered a perfect unwind. Each building housed a fitness center, ski lockers, and washing services catering to various needs.

The hotel’s commitment to guest satisfaction extended to its 3700 square feet of conference space, a free-to-use business center, and many complimentary services. The resort ensured a seamless stay, from free parking in the heated underground garage to Wi-Fi throughout the complex.

The thoughtful concierge services, including equipment rental and lift tickets, added a personalized touch. The gaming area with pinball and video machines provided an entertaining break. Overall, my time at The Village Lodge was marked by comfort, convenience, and luxury, making it a memorable stay.

Throughout my stay, the multiple hot tubs were a delightful luxury, perfect for unwinding after a day exploring The Village.

Holiday Haus quickly became one of my favorite places, seamlessly blending hotel-like amenities with a hostel’s laid-back, casual vibe. This unique fusion caters to a diverse crowd, from business and luxury travelers to families, backpackers, and adventurers like myself.

While staying at Holiday Haus, I loved its prime location within a five-minute walk from Mammoth Village. The proximity to restaurants, shops, and attractions, as well as easy access to mountain biking and the Village Gondola for skiing and snowboarding, added to the allure. The Sierra Star Golf Course was just a 12-minute walk away, and Mammoth Hospital was a convenient 25-minute walk.

The exterior of Holiday Haus, with its mountain lodge architecture featuring wooden construction, steeply pitched roofs, and expansive windows, perfectly complemented the natural beauty surrounding it. Using materials like lumber, stone, and shingles enhanced the rustic charm.

Inside, I discovered a warm, inviting atmosphere adorned with stylish art and furniture that prioritizes comfort and functionality.

My room at Holiday Haus was equipped with ceiling fans for airflow and a bathroom with a hairdryer and complimentary items. The private rooms boasted cable TVs, microwaves, and fridges, while upgraded rooms offered stoves, living and dining spaces, and full kitchens. Plus, the perks of free self-parking and WiFi Internet were a nice touch.

I experienced the cozy ambiance by the roaring fireplace, indulged in the hot tub, and savored a cup of hot chocolate while gazing at the starlit sky from the outside patio.

Each morning, I started my day with a complimentary continental breakfast. For other dining options, Petra’s Bistro & Wine Bar, a five-minute walk from the resort, offered traditional American cuisine.

Holiday Haus also provided various recreational opportunities. During the winter, I embraced the thrill of skiing down snowy slopes. In contrast, the summer opened avenues for hiking through wildflower-filled meadows, fishing in crystal-clear lakes, horseback riding, and discovering secret hot springs. This versatile experience made my stay truly unforgettable.

One of my favorite aspects at Holiday Haus was the hot tub and patio, ideal for stargazing and relaxation after adventurous days.

Every moment at the Cinnamon Bear Inn is enchanting, creating an experience unlike any other. The rustic elegance and warm hospitality blend inviting exploration and relaxation in the charming surroundings.

Centrally located in Mammoth Lakes, the inn is just a short drive from the Village Gondola Station and the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center. Lake Mary is 5.4 miles away, Mammoth Mountain Ski Area is 8.1 kilometers, and fantastic dining, shopping, bakeries, pizza, pubs, breweries, gear rental, and a free shuttle stop to lifts and around town are within walking distance.

The exterior, crafted from natural stone, wood, and stucco, exudes a welcoming charm. The building, resembling a classic mountain house with sloping roofs and large windows, bathes the interiors in natural light.

Stepping into the Cinnamon Bear Inn reveals a warm, inviting atmosphere blending rustic and contemporary elements. Exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and stone accents create a mountain lodge appeal.

The inn offers 16 tastefully designed guest rooms with fully equipped kitchens and flat-screen TVs. Free wireless Internet and cable programming ensure entertainment. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers, designer toiletries, hair dryers, phones, separate sitting spaces, and ceiling fans provide comfort.

The dining experience includes a complimentary breakfast with pastries, fresh fruits, cereals, yogurt, tea, coffee, and juices. While lacking a full-service restaurant, the inn provides various dining options from local establishments. The helpful staff offers suggestions on surrounding restaurants, cafés, and eateries, offering diverse cuisines.

In addition to its charming design and dining, the inn provides amenities for comfort and enjoyment. An outdoor hot tub relaxes muscles after outdoor activities. A comfortable leisure area with seating, a fireplace, and a small library allows guests to congregate and relax.

Complimentary WiFi keeps guests connected, and the hospitable staff assists with activity arrangements, local attractions, and dining recommendations. Some accommodations offer access to outdoor barbecue facilities, perfect for al fresco dining and barbecues.

The Cinnamon Bear Inn is a haven to unwind, surrounded by stunning scenery and the warmth of friendly locals.

One of my favorite places? The quaint and welcoming common areas, creating an atmosphere perfect for cozy relaxation.

While visiting Mammoth Lakes, I stumbled upon the enchanting Austria Hof Lodge, where dreams truly come alive. Nestled in the heart of this picturesque destination, the lodge offers a magical blend of European elegance and timeless California-style construction that has retained its charm over the years.

Situated slope-side and near Yosemite National Park, just a scenic one-hour drive away, the lodge’s strategic location, only 6 miles from the main gate of Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, adds to its allure. The Snow Creek Golf Course is a mere 10-minute drive, offering various recreational options.

The alpine facade of the lodge, reminiscent of Austrian cottages, immediately caught my eye. Adorned with wooden beams, balconies, and expansive windows, it perfectly frames the natural beauty of the surroundings. Inside, the warm and rustic ambiance created by natural elements like wood and stone made for a welcoming retreat.

The lodge’s interior boasts wood highlights, exposed beams, and a color palette mirroring the natural surroundings. This unique combination ensures a stay that seamlessly blends comfort with elegance.

The lodge offers a range of accommodations, from cozy standard rooms to spacious suites. Wooden furniture, plush beds, and mountain-inspired decor characterize each room. Some even feature fireplaces and decks, providing everything needed for a tranquil stay, including a flat-screen TV, DVD player, fridge, hair dryer, iron, gas stove, and a jetted tub with stunning mountain views.

Austria Hof Lodge’s renowned restaurants serve traditional dishes like spaetzle, Wiener schnitzel, and strudel in alpine-themed dining rooms. The lodge goes beyond accommodations, offering various services to enhance the guest experience. Relaxation options include hot tubs and saunas, while a fitness center and free WiFi cater to diverse needs.

For those eager to hit the nearby slopes, the lodge provides convenient extras like a ski bus and equipment rentals. With its alpine style and design, Austria Hof Lodge ensures a cozy mountain getaway, promising an unforgettable experience for every guest.

My personal favorite? The on-site restaurant and bar, serving delightful traditional dishes amidst an alpine-style ambiance.

The Mammoth Inn is truly one of my favorite places, seamlessly combining mountain allure with thrills for nature enthusiasts, adrenaline junkies, and relaxation seekers. From the warm welcome to the awe-inspiring journey, this inn leaves guests revitalized and yearning for more!

Nestled at the foot of Mammoth Mountain, the inn offers a gondola on-site, providing ski-in/ski-out access to numerous routes. A variety of popular restaurants are conveniently located just across the street.

Mammoth Lakes, a quick 13-minute drive away or a complimentary shuttle ride from the inn, exudes a local ski-town atmosphere with shopping, restaurants, and nightlife. Yosemite National Park is a scenic 90-minute drive by car.

While the guest rooms at Mammoth Inn may be considered basic, they are impeccably clean, spacious, and inviting, ensuring a comfortable stay. Adorned with subdued earth tones, traditional lighting, and light wood furnishings, each room has a coffee maker, flat-screen TV, mini fridge, and complimentary WiFi. Some rooms even boast balconies with mountain views. Though basic, the bathrooms feature low-cost acrylic shower/tub combinations; without air conditioning, fans are thoughtfully provided. Some doubles even come with lofts; there are houses with fully equipped kitchens and one to two bedrooms.

The inn offers a range of services, with the highlight being the convenient ski-in/ski-out access, ski cleaning service, equipment rentals, and lift ticket sales. A full-service restaurant with typical American cuisine and a delightful bar with a mountain view add to the experience. The inn boasts a larger, heated outdoor pool and whirlpool on an open terrace with a gas grill and chairs, three indoor whirlpools, and a sauna for soothing muscles after a day on the slopes.

The modest gym features Life Fitness cardio and weight-training equipment, free weights, and a small yoga area. A general shop caters to hungry guests with breakfast items, soups, salads, sandwiches, apparel, and souvenirs. Additional amenities include a laundry room, concierge services handling valet dry cleaning and washing, and two complimentary desktop PCs.

The inn offers free WiFi and a nightly shuttle service to neighboring Mountain Lakes. Parking is complimentary, although note that underground parking spots are limited. Winter brings childcare services and a video gaming area for children of all ages, and pets are welcome for a fee. The Mammoth Inn truly crafts an unforgettable experience, blending convenience, comfort, and excitement in the heart of nature’s beauty.

While staying at The Mammoth Inn, the ski-in/ski-out access and ski-related services were my ultimate favorites.

Empeiria High Sierra Hotel quickly became one of my favorite places for an extravagant mountainside retreat, promising not just accommodation but a guide to transformative adventures in the High Sierra wilderness.

While staying at this opulent hotel, I marveled at its exterior crafted from natural elements like wood, stone, and glass. The alpine vibe was accentuated by wood paneling and beams, creating a harmonious connection with the surroundings. The large windows and balconies provided breathtaking views of the mountains, flooding the interior with natural light.

Entering the modern and stylish lobby, I was greeted by a vast, open layout adorned with contemporary furniture, clean lines, and a neutral color palette. Natural textures like polished stone and salvaged wood added warmth, creating a seamless link to the environment.

The guest rooms blended comfort and elegance, featuring plush furniture, high-quality linens, and sophisticated lighting fixtures. The range of accommodations, from standard rooms with king-sized or queen beds to spacious suites, catered to various preferences.

Every room was meticulously appointed, offering memory foam mattresses, locally roasted coffee, a microwave, a mini-fridge, and an HD satellite television. These amenities ensured relaxation and readiness for the adventures awaiting, whether exploring by automobile, visiting ghost towns, or venturing into the high country.

Breakfast at The Resting Nomad restaurant, accessible through the lobby, was a delightful start to the day. While there, I also indulged in an Americano or latte.

The hotel’s luxurious indoor pool, hot tubs, well-equipped fitness studio, and ambient sitting areas with breathtaking views were perfect for unwinding.

Empeiria High Sierra Hotel went beyond the ordinary, offering unique activities like hikes and picnics by the lake. The convenient check-in and check-out timings enhanced the overall experience.

Thanks to its accessible location, I could fully experience Mammoth’s natural beauty and explore the city’s restaurants, entertainment venues, and shopping spots.

In summary, the artistic design of Empeiria High Sierra Hotel paid meticulous attention to the spectacular natural surroundings, providing guests like me with a sumptuous and comfortable refuge in this gorgeous region!