When you hear “Lake Tahoe,” it’s easy to let your mind go straight to skiing. Or the beauty of the lake. Or some combination of the two. Lake Tahoe is famous for its slopes, as everyone from celebrities to school groups slides down them. And you’ve probably seen pictures of the wow-that-really-is-blue water that gives the area its name.

But when you dig a little deeper, you’ll find the real appeal of Lake Tahoe is the variety of experiences you can have there. That’s why we just opened a second Holiday Inn Club Vacations resort in the area (not too long after our first). They’re both great places to stay when visiting Lake Tahoe, but each has its own vibe to build a vacation around.

High-Altitude Family Fun: Tahoe Ridge Resort

If you’ve got little ones (or not so little ones) and want to be in the middle of the Lake Tahoe action, check out our new Holiday Inn Club Vacations Tahoe Ridge Resort. It’s a big mountainside property with breathtaking views, along with plenty of things to do.

First off, it’s close to Heavenly Mountain skiing. So close, in fact, that you won’t have to take a car ride to reach the lifts. Bonus! And there’s also the Heavenly Mountain Gondola, a 2.4-mile ride up to the peak with panoramic views and great family photo opportunities.

After those hours exploring the slopes, you can warm up together (and trade wipeout stories) in one of tons of open-air hot tubs. And spacious villas give families like yours room to spread out and snooze comfortably after an exhilarating day out in the open air.

It’s not just a winter spot though. It’s packed with year-round fun to keep the kids (and you) entertained. How about a family game of cornhole or mini golf? Table tennis or full-sized tennis? We’ve got pools and organized kids’ activities, so let them play while you relax and take in the scenery.

Low-Key Hot Springs Escape: David Walley’s Resort

Speaking of relaxing, have you heard about our other Lake Tahoe-area property? Rustic and quiet describes Holiday Inn Club Vacations David Walley’s Resort.

It’s been a popular spot for over 150 years, thanks to its natural hot springs that have attracted everyone from U.S. Presidents to early Las Vegas gangsters. Even Mark Twain visited in 1887 and touted their benefits:

“I now leave without crutch or cane, entirely well, not only relieved from pain but gained in spirit.”

If you’re new to the ancient healing practice of soaking in hot springs, these are a few of the helpful minerals:

  • Potassium can help normalize heart rhythms, reduce high blood pressure, eliminate toxins and promote healthy skin
  • Sodium can help alleviate arthritic symptoms and stimulate the lymphatic system
  • Sulfur is the spring water’s main mineral (you’ll smell it!) and can strengthen hair, nails and skin

Imagine driving into Lake Tahoe for a day of skiing and escaping back to the springs to unwind. Or rent bicycles and take the easy, scenic trail into the quaint western town of Genoa, Nevada. End the day with a little comfort food and drink—with a great view—at the 1862 Restaurant & Saloon.