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06.14.07

Water-Lust

Summer weekends call for watery escapes. Whether it’s a classic Yosemite getaway, a close-to-home sports haven, or a romantic Tahoe retreat, here are three ways to quench your water-lust.

Hetch Hetchy

Hetch Hetchy High

If you're one of those who have a love-hate relationship with Yosemite (it's gorgeous, but crowded), we have the solution: visit the less-traveled northwest corner around Hetch Hetchy. Back before the valley was dammed to create the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir — SF's controversial water source — John Muir called it "one of nature's rarest and most precious mountain temples. A second Yosemite." For a leisurely exploration of this uncrowded treasure, overnight at the historic Evergreen Lodge, only 6 miles from the reservoir. Built in 1921 to house the men who worked on the O'Shaughnessy Dam, this rustic place combines the quintessential Yosemite experience with a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. Their staff can lead you on one of their excellent outings (bike rides, hikes, fly-fishing trips) or give you enough information to explore on your own. Be sure to hike the 2.5 miles to impressive Wapama Falls; the trail is open and easy, with wide views of the gorgeous valley and a full 1,000-foot refreshing waterfall at your turnaround point. Also highly recommended: a 1.5-mile hike to your own private swimming hole at Carlon Falls; you'll have to ask Joe, Evergreen's benevolent manager, for the directions to this secluded spot. If Yosemite Valley is the heart of this national park, Hetch Hetchy is its soul.

CUSTOM CAMPING: A great budget alternative is Evergreen's "custom camping"; the tents are already set up for you, with everything from air beds to towels and toiletries. Cost is $50-$80.

Evergreen Lodge, 33160 Evergreen Rd., Groveland, 800-935-6343. Cabin rates: $99–$259.

Activity
Hike, Water, Relax, Overnights
Region
Points Beyond
Spanish Flat Resort Lake Berryessa

Cabins Close to Home

For a close-to-home cabin smack-dab on the edge of a beautiful lake, head to Spanish Flat Resort on Napa's Lake Berryessa. Don't imagine a comfy hideaway in the middle of nowhere: the cabins are minimal (bring your own towels and bedding), and the site is popular, especially on weekends. The big draws here are proximity — it's only 90 minutes from San Francisco — and the full spectrum of water sports: sailing, jet-skiing, water-skiing, swimming…you name it. On-site Water Dawg Sports rents all the equipment you'll need. And if you want to drop a line, the trout, salmon, bass, and crappie are biting. For a quick, casual weekend on the water, this is the place. One, two, three — cannonball!

Spanish Flat Resort, 4290 Knoxville Rd., Napa, 707-966-7700. Cabin rates: $100–$125. Note: If you don't want to be in the heart of the "resort" action, ask for cabin 13, 14, 15, or 16. Spanish Flat is dog-friendly. Wet Dawg Water Sports, 707-966-5701.

Activity
Water, Relax, Overnights, Dog-friendly
Region
North Bay
Shore House Lake Tahoe

Romancing Tahoe

Recharge your romantic batteries with a summer weekend on the pure, indigo waters of Lake Tahoe. The intimate Shore House on the lake's northern end is the ideal hideaway. Set right on the water, this nine-room B&B has its own private pier, where you can rent a kayak and paddle off to explore. Owner Barb Cohen, an avid kayaker herself, recommends packing a picnic for a 45-minute paddle to Crystal Bay, where you'll have your pick of tiny beaches to call your own. If you want to leave the driving to someone else, take a ride around the lake with Marty Cohen, Barb's husband and captain of the 36-foot cabin cruiser Lady of the Lake. After you get back, indulge in a deep-tissue couple's massage in the studio overlooking the lake, or just retire to your knotty pine–paneled room. End the day with a starry soak in the outdoor hot tub. In the morning, you're likely to have eggs Benedict, stuffed French toast, or something equally delicious at the Cohens' table. You can even get it served in bed! Now that's amore.

The Shore House, 7170 N. Lake Blvd., Tahoe Vista, 800-207-5160. Rates: $250–$310. Couple's massage: $180 for one hour.

Activity
Water, Relax, Overnights
Region
Points Beyond

Your Vacation Has Arrived

Been tossing around the idea of vacationing in Australia or New Zealand, maybe both? Waiting for a good ticket to pop up? Now is the time. Air New Zealand just announced a limited time deal thattakes you to both Australia and New Zealand for only $988 — two destinations for the price of one. If you've been checking air travel tickets lately, you know this is a killer deal. Your first stop is New Zealand, a tiny country so tightly packed with varied terrain you'll have your pick of outdoor adventures. Enjoy the lush, unspoiled beauty of Great Barrier Island; kayak the crystal blue waters of the Coromandel Pennisula; or walk through the rugged Waitakere Range, Auckland's largest regional park. Then, head to Australia, where the natural beauty and free-flowing adventures mix perfectly with the laid-back people. Air New Zealand is offering you the trip of a lifetime, but their deal won't be down under for long. You have to book before June 29, 2007. What are you waiting for? Your vacation has arrived.

Learn more here.

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