The towering walls of Yosemite Valley are the perfect backdrop for romantic getaways - especially in the fall. Cooler days, cozy nights and perpetual romantic glow sets the scene for a trip of a lifetime. The vibrant yellow, gold, and firey-red changing leaves will change your perspective. Madera County and Yosemite National Park are a dreamscape for photographers, adventures, and fireside snugglers. Discover your perfect weekend. 

The Pines Resort at Bass Lake has four seasons of activities to welcome visitors. Winter is ideal for quiet walks, wildlife and bird watching, with views of the calm, glassy water. In the spring waterfalls boom down Willow Creek and rush into the lake. The summer is filled with great eating, boating, hiking, swimming, and family s'more traditions. 

However, nature saves the best for Fall. The dogwood trees turn a vibrant red hue, and the tall oak trees feature yellow and golden leaves. The daytime temperatures are warm, but not hot, and evenings are perfect for cuddling. The Pines Resort has vacation home rentals, cozy chalets, and lakeside suites to choose from. 

The lakeside suites are a favorite for love birds, with patio access to a private deck, deep jacuzzi tubs made for bubble baths, and a relaxing vibe that settles over the lake as summers buzz subsides. Slip-on terry cloth robes, order dinner to your room -  and don't forget the strawberries and champagne! 

The next day, wake up early for a sunrise kayaking or paddleboarding excursion together. Autumn brings migrating birds for a rest at the water's edge. So it's fitting that love birds also flock to the region during this special time of year.

Call it fall, or call it autumn, whatever your preference, just be sure to call on Yosemite this year. Temperatures are ideal for exploration, and can be summed up best in two words; sweater weather. Yosemite Valley is spectacular in every season, but the fall holds a special place in the hearts of those who choose this time of year. Wildlife like bears, raccoons, and woodpeckers are busy foraging for winter. Hiking trails are tranquil and the big wall climbers are out in full force. There is much majesty to witness, and you can see it all from the comfort of your picnic blanket.

The Ahwahnee Meadow and El Capitan Meadow are terrific places to commune with nature. The towering scenery, golden meadow grasses offer an abundance of blissfully-fresh air. As many visitors will attest, time spent relaxing in Yosemite works wonders for both mental and physical health.

Stock up on picnicking must-haves after wine tasting along the, always romantic, Madera Wine Trail en route to the park. If you prefer beer, South Gate Brewing Company has award-winning craft beer available in growlers, cans, and easy to transport, beer pouches. With access to farm-fresh products this good, you'll be able to focus your efforts on composing a toast to the one you love.  

The Ahwahnee Hotel offers food and even hot toddies to-go. If there isn't time to plan ahead, a romantic picnic can still be yours. Life in Yosemite Valley is literally a walk in the park. Bring your special someone and find reconnect with nature and each other.

If your idea of romance calls for a certain je ne sais quoi, look no further than Chateau du Sureau. Well known and loved in luxury circles, the estate by the elderberries has charm, elegance and the pampering experience you yearn for. 

When staying at Chateau du Sureau the hardest decision for a guest is which of the 13 well-appointed rooms and suites best fits their style. The Saffron Room with a black marble fireplace, the Chamomile Room with a four-poster mahogany bed, or perhaps the library suite with its French Empire period-inspired decor. 

The nine-acre estate boasts manicured gardens, a stunning grand salon, a private chapel, Spa du Sureau, and the much-awarded crown jewel - Erna's Elderberry House Restaurant. A dinner here is never second best. 

Chef Robert Snyder III is recognized for his classical recipes, featuring the freshest possible ingredients procured from the estate's herb and vegetable garden. Multiple course meals, a la cart options, and California's finest wines are available to patrons on the estate's lovely patio for fine dining, al fresco. 

There are many getaway ideas to explore in the region. Put Madera County and Yosemite National Park on your bucket list for a romantic escape you won’t soon forget.

______________________________________________________________________________________

Like what you see? Save any of these pins (or possibly all of them) to your travel planning board(s) to give you an easy way to find your way back here!  Also check out our other blog posts as well as itineraries for more ideas and pins!