CHATEAU du SUREAU

CHATEAU du SUREAU is a fairy tale Inn that has received some of the highest ratings granted a hotel. Since its opening in 1991, this magical destination has earned both the Mobil Five-Star and American Automobile Association's Five-Diamond awards as well as membership in the prestigious Relais & Chateaux organization. Located just miles away from Yosemite National Park, Chateau du Sureau is a romantic haven wherein the classic traditions of old Europe live today.

Proprietress Erna Kubin-Clanin first opened her award-winning restaurant, Erna's Elderberry House, in 1984 and quickly realized she needed an Inn to accommodate the many out-of-town visitors. She and builder Gary Browns started construction on the ten-bedroom Chateau, adjacent to Erna's Elderberry House Restaurant, in 1990. Named for the elderberry bushes that cover the rolling property, Chateau du Sureau was completed in 1991. And since 1993, Chateau Directrice Lucy Royse and her team caringly attend to the wishes of every guest.

Wrought iron gates emblazoned with the Chateau's elegant crest open to reveal the stately 9000 square foot stucco Inn, complete with a stone turret, parisian balconies and shuttered windows, all on nine acres of meticulously landscaped park grounds.

Walking paths, fountains, a swimming pool, a bocce court and a life-size chess set add to the natural cachet and charm of the area. Once inside, guests are quickly enveloped in the Chateau's extraordinary European hospitality. It was Erna's desire to bring the traditions and hospitality of Europe's grand houses to the States and she has truly captured it here. Chambermaids, attired in black dress and white linen aprons, present baskets of refreshments and tea. There is no front desk, no check in, no credit card imprinting (only a hand written bill discreetly presented before guests leave) and no televisions in the guest's rooms.

In Erna's quest for authenticity, she traveled the world filling the Inn with fine antiques, tapestries and 19th century art. A stunning Grand Salon features a floor-to-ceiling fireplace and an exquisite circular Music Room with trompe l'oeil frescoes, a spiral limestone staircase and an intimate Breakfast Room. Each guestroom in this magical Inn is named for and decorated after the fragrant herbs and flowers grown on the Estate. Resplendent inside and out, all guestrooms have fireplaces, deluxe bathrooms with silky plush bathrobes, over-sized tubs and separate chambers for the shower and toilet. Each room represents nothing less than a delight to the senses.

The third phase of what can only be described as Erna's dream project, the private two-bedroom Villa Sureau, opened its doors on July 1999. Inspired by an elegant Paris Manor house, the Villa is furnished with Erna's impeccable style and taste. This secluded domain offers a private outdoor Roman Spa and is a heavenly haven for any traveler. It is accessed by its own secured gate entrance.

Enchanting experiences await every guest who visits The Estate by the Elderberries, where the transcendent accommodations and fine dining are in perfect tune with the unmatched quality of the pampering service.