A fun alternative to Lee Vining's plain-Jane motels, the lodge centers around a 19th-century building that has been by turns a store, a saloon, a tollbooth, and a boardinghouse. Surrounding the rustic lodge are modest, attached, weathered-wooden cottages, tucked beneath towering cottonwoods on a grassy hillside. The proud owners have given the place much-needed TLC, and the simple, country-cute rooms have cozy furnishings that—thank heaven—manage not to be tacky. Alas, cottages are a bit close to the road, but the views of Mono Lake can't be beat. Be sure to ask about summer boat tours. Pros: Great views, good price. Cons: Close to the road.
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