Built in 2006, Cedar House ups the ante for lodging at Tahoe. Outside, the clean, spare lines of the wooden exterior evoke a modern European feel. Inside, energy-saving heating and lighting systems, countertops made from recycled paper, and other green features emphasize the owners' commitment to sustainability. Rooms in the three, two-story satellite buildings are understatedly sexy with merlot-and-camel color schemes and mod-Italian overtones (think chrome and leather). Although not all rooms have tubs, heated-tile bathroom floors and goose-down duvets with umpteen-thread-count German linens are luxurious extras. Ask about outdoor-sports trips when you book. Pros: An environmentally friendly facility that's also comfortable and hip. Cons: Some bathrooms are on the small side.
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