Desolation Hotel Wedding in Hope Valley, CA

Tucked away in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Desolation Hotel Hope Valley is the perfect blend of luxury and nature. This 164-acre property sits just outside South Lake Tahoe, and it is surrounded by forest, meadows, and mountain views in every direction. It’s the kind of place that feels peaceful from the very moment you arrive. 

As a husband-and-wife wedding photographer and videographer duo, it’s one of our favorite venues in the Tahoe area. See why a Desolation Hotel wedding is perfect for couples who want a celebration that’s relaxed, beautiful, and connected to the outdoors!

What’s special about a Desolation Hotel wedding?

If you’ve hoping for a full wedding weekend that feels like an elevated mountain retreat, this is it. Desolation Hotel Hope Valley features 27 thoughtfully designed cabins and 7 luxury yurts, giving you and your guests a cozy home base that’s somewhat rustic but still has modern amenities. For those who prefer a closer connection to the outdoors, there are also pet-friendly campsites along the river.

Food for Desolation Hotel weddings is handled in-house by the talented culinary team, who create customized menus for each celebration. From plated dinners to relaxed buffets, they always focus on seasonal, locally inspired dishes. Plus, with two on-site restaurants (Sorensen’s Restaurant and The Hope Valley Bar & Grill) your guests will have plenty of options for their other meals throughout the weekend.

Why do we love Desolation Hotel as a wedding photographer and videographer?

From a creative perspective, this venue is a dream. Every direction you turn, there’s a stunning view. Things like towering pines, open meadows, and mountain ridges all look gorgeous at any time of the day. The property’s relaxed, natural vibe helps couples feel at ease, which always shows through in the photos and video. Whether it’s portraits by the river or your first dance under string lights, Desolation Hotel offers endless opportunities for beautiful wedding photos.

What ceremony and reception spaces are available?

Desolation Hotel Hope Valley is ideal for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations. Outdoor ceremonies often take place in the garden area with the lush greenery backdrop. This spot is simple but still breathtaking. Receptions are typically held nearby under soft string lights, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere for dinner and dancing under the stars.

Inside, the venue can host up to 60 guests for smaller celebrations, while outdoor spaces accommodate up to 150 guests comfortably. The main wedding season runs from June through September, though the property is open year-round and offers unique options for elopements or winter weddings.

What type of couple would like Desolation Hotel as their wedding venue?

Overall, this venue is made for couples who love the outdoors but still want the comfort of a well-designed retreat. It’s ideal for nature-loving couples who value sustainability, intentional details, and a relaxed yet elevated celebration.

One especially meaningful touch that we love is that the resort plants a tree in honor of your wedding. What a cool way to make your celebration part of the landscape for years to come!

Any insider tips for couples planning a wedding at this venue?

The staff here genuinely cares about creating a personal experience. They take the time to get to know each couple and tailor each event to match their vision. Don’t hesitate to lean into that! Their local knowledge and expertise make planning feel easy, even from afar.

If your guests are staying for the weekend, plan some time to explore. Desolation Lake Tahoe, the property’s sister location about 30 minutes away, makes a great spot for a welcome dinner or lake day adventure.

What does a Desolation Hotel wedding cost?

Wedding packages at Desolation Hotel Hope Valley vary depending on the season and guest count, but here’s a general idea:

• Venue Rental: Starting around $15,000, which typically includes two days of use for your rehearsal dinner, ceremony, and reception
• Catering: Custom menus beginning at $75 per person, with food & beverage minimums applied
• Elopements & Smaller Events: Priced from approximately $1,000 per hour
• Lodging: Accommodations for up to 120 guests, including cabins and yurts starting around $250 per night, campsites from $30 per night, and RV spots from $50 per night

For an even more intimate option, Desolation Hotel offers a Micro-Wedding Package for up to 30 guests. It’s a special all-inclusive rate that combines planning, catering, and venue access into one seamless experience.

Planning a Desolation Hotel wedding?

Desolation Hotel Weddings at a Glance

• Address: 14255 CA-88 Hope Valley, CA 96120
• Phone: 530-694-2203
• Website URL: https://www.desolationhotel.com/
• Capacity: Up to 150 guests
• What’s Included: Use of property for two days, in-house catering, lodging options, and personalized service
• Catering Options: In-house catering and bar service

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