Château du Sureau: A Luxurious European-Style Escape Near Yosemite National Park
Hi friends! Tucked among the rolling foothills of the Sierra Nevada, just a short drive from the wild beauty of Yosemite National Park, sits a hidden gem, Château du Sureau. This isn’t your typical Yosemite lodging experience...it’s an elegant, European-inspired estate where fine dining, refined comfort, and peaceful mountain scenery come together. With its castle-like architecture, crackling fireplaces, manicured gardens, and old-world romantic charm, Château du Sureau offers the perfect retreat for travelers who are looking to combine luxurious downtime with their Yosemite adventures. Whether you spend the day hiking through towering sequoias or photographing granite peaks glowing at sunset, this château is the perfect spot to rest, restore, and savor the beauty of the Sierra.
Château du Sureau luxury hotel near Yosemite
Location
Château du Sureau is located right off Highway 41 in the charming community of Oakhurst, CA, a welcoming gateway town to the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park. It’s roughly 16 miles (about a 20-25 minute drive) from Yosemite’s South Gate, making it one of the most convenient high-end lodging options outside the park. Even with its convenient location, the property is quiet, peaceful, and embraced by tall pines, leafy oaks, and sprawling manzanita. The estate sits high enough above town to feel private, but close enough that you can easily reach restaurants, shops, and trailheads when needed.
Château du Sureau luxury hotel near Yosemite National Park
Half Dome seen from Glacier Point Road in Yosemite National Park
Yosemite 2-4 Day Summer Itinerary & Travel Guide
If you’re planning a Yosemite road trip during the summer and fall months (when Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road are open), make sure to download my complete Yosemite 2-4 Day Summer Itinerary & Travel Guide, which includes an hour-by-hour schedule, Google & Apple map pin locations, the best stargazing spots, a dining guide, recommendations on where to stay, activities outside the park, and more! Download it today and make your Yosemite planning easy!
Villa du Sureau private retreat in Oakhurst, CA
Château du Sureau in Oakhurst, CA near Yosemite National Park
Property Overview
Spread across nine beautifully manicured acres, Château du Sureau feels like stepping into a refined European country manor, except it’s set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Nevada foothills. Stone pathways wind through gardens, shaded courtyards, bubbling fountains, cozy nooks, and open lawns.
The main château houses ten uniquely designed guest rooms, each one decorated with antiques, textiles, artwork, and handcrafted details that give the estate its signature old-world charm. Beyond the château sits the estate’s crown jewel, the private Villa du Sureau, an ultra-exclusive manor that delivers unmatched privacy and elegance.
From the polished interiors and romantic architecture to the quiet landscaping and thoughtful touches throughout the grounds, everything here blends luxury with tranquility.
Sweet Geranium Room at Château du Sureau in Oakhurst, CA
Lavender Room at Château du Sureau near Yosemite National Park
Château Rooms
All ten guest rooms inside the château are individually designed and named after herbs—Lavender, Rosemary, Thyme, Chamomile, Elderberry, Mint, Saffron, Rosehip, Sweet Geranium, and Ciboulette. No two are alike, which creates a sense of charm and discovery with every stay.
Common features include fireplaces, plush linens, private baths (many with soaking tubs), balconies or patios, and curated décor that feels like a cross between a French countryside escape and a Yosemite retreat. Rooms vary slightly in size and layout, but all maintain the same refined aesthetic and attention to detail. Additional touches such as complimentary snacks and drinks, nightly turn-down service, around-the-clock butler service, and daily breakfast elevate the experience far above standard hotel stays.
Villa du Sureau private retreat in Oakhurst, CA
Salon Suite bedroom in Villa du Sureau
Library Suite bedroom in Villa du Sureau
Villa du Sureau
If you’re after a truly luxurious experience near Yosemite, the Villa du Sureau is unbeatable. This private, 2,000-square-foot Parisian-style manor sits on its own gated section of the estate, offering complete seclusion without sacrificing access to any amenities. Book one of two individual suites, including the Salon Suite and Library Suite, or reserve the entire villa for the ultimate private getaway.
Inside, the villa includes two California-king bedrooms, a grand salon with a Steinway piano, a library, marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and steam showers, and a kitchenette with wet bar. Antique European furnishings, rich fabrics, and original artwork give the villa an incredibly elegant atmosphere.
Outside, guests enjoy a private garden, balcony, wood-burning fireplace, and exclusive access to a Roman-style jacuzzi spa. With perks like a welcome bottle of wine, daily fresh fruit, complimentary beverages, and twice-daily housekeeping, the villa feels like renting your own private estate with all the benefits of a luxury hotel.
The Elderberry House at Château du Sureau near Yosemite
5 Course Dinner at the Elderberry House
Dining
One of the standout features of staying at Château du Sureau is that dining is an integral part of the experience. From refined fine dining to a cozy cocktail lounge and an intimate, beautifully executed daily breakfast, every meal here feels thoughtful, unhurried, and special.
The Elderberry House
Château du Sureau is home to The Elderberry House, one of the region’s most celebrated fine-dining restaurants. For over 30 years, it has drawn visitors with its seasonal, locally sourced menus and elegant European-inspired dishes. Guests can choose between thoughtful three or five-course tasting menus, each featuring ingredients harvested at peak flavor and prepared with meticulous care. Deliciously crafted cocktails (or mocktails for those who don’t drink alcohol) accompany the dishes with perfection. Each course is presented with exceptional care, and both the dishes and their thoughtfully selected drink pairings feel like true works of art...visually stunning, beautifully balanced, and crafted to be savored.
Soft lighting, antique furnishings, and a richly decorated dining room create a warm, romantic ambiance, ideal for unwinding after a day in Yosemite or to celebrate a special occasion. On warm evenings, the terrace offers views of the surrounding hills, providing one of the most serene dining experiences you’ll find near the park.
Mocktail pairing at The Elderberry House in Oakhurst, CA
The Cellar at Château du Sureau near Yosemite
The Cellar
Adjacent to The Elderberry House, The Cellar offers a more relaxed, intimate setting that’s perfect for a pre-dinner drink or a casual evening unwind. With its stone-clad walls, rich wood accents, and softly lit interior, the space feels cozy and inviting. Here, guests can enjoy classic cocktails or mocktails, inventive seasonal beverages, and an extensive wine list, along with a lite fare menu that complements the bar experience. Whether you’re stopping in for a nightcap after dinner, enjoying a full meal at the bar, or easing into the evening before a reservation at The Elderberry House, The Cellar provides a warm, elegant alternative to heading back to your room too early.
Daily Complimentary Breakfast
Each morning at Château du Sureau begins with a beautifully prepared, complimentary breakfast exclusively for château guests — and it’s anything but ordinary. The evening before, staff asks what time you’d like to enjoy breakfast the following morning, allowing for a relaxed, personalized start to the day. In the morning, guests can choose to dine inside the château’s elegant dining room or outside on the connecting patio, surrounded by fresh mountain air and garden views of scrub jays and hummingbirds delighting themselves in the early morning light.
Breakfast begins with a thoughtful assortment of freshly baked croissants, followed by your choice of a seasonal parfait, lemon tartlet, or artisan charcuterie. These are then complemented by a freshly prepared main course from the château kitchen. During our stay, this included a flavorful spinach, mushroom, and Canadian bacon omelet cooked to perfection and served hot. Unlimited complimentary beverages are available, including coffees, lattes, and teas, and the staff is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, or personal preferences. The entire experience feels intimate, unrushed, and genuinely welcoming. It’s the perfect way to fuel up before a day in Yosemite or ease into a slower morning on the estate.
Daily complimentary breakfast at Château du Sureau
Spa du Sureau in Oakhurst, CA
Onsite Amenities
Beyond its beautifully appointed rooms and exceptional dining, Château du Sureau offers a collection of onsite amenities designed to make your stay feel effortless and indulgent from start to finish. Guests enjoy thoughtful touches like nightly turndown service, complimentary snacks and beverages, Wi-Fi, and attentive hospitality that feels personal without being intrusive. During your stay, you can relax in the library with a good book, visit the adorable little chapel for some quiet reflection, and take a leisurely stroll across the beautifully manicured grounds. Whether you’re returning from a long day in Yosemite or spending the day on the estate itself, everything here is designed to help you slow down and settle in.
Spa du Sureau
Spa du Sureau is a tranquil retreat tucked within the estate, offering a refined wellness experience that pairs perfectly with a Yosemite getaway. Treatments range from soothing massages and rejuvenating facials to body polishes, wraps, and seasonal offerings inspired by European spa traditions.
After a day spent hiking, exploring, or photographing Yosemite’s dramatic landscapes, the spa provides a peaceful space to reset both body and mind. The atmosphere is calm and intimate, allowing guests to fully relax and enjoy a moment of quiet restoration surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sierra foothills.
Couples massage room at Spa du Sureau
Life size chess board at Château du Sureau
Gardens & Games
One of the most enchanting aspects of Château du Sureau is its beautifully landscaped grounds. Stone pathways weave through manicured gardens, shaded courtyards, bubbling fountains, and forested pockets that invite you to wander slowly and linger.
Adding to the charm, the gardens also feature thoughtfully placed outdoor games that feel perfectly at home in the storybook setting. Guests can enjoy a life-size chess board, a bocce ball court, and whimsical swings that look as though they were pulled straight from a fairytale. These playful touches offer a relaxed way to spend time outdoors, whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon on the estate or unwinding after a day in Yosemite.
Roman-Style Pool
Tucked among the gardens, the Roman-style pool provides a refreshing escape during warmer months. Surrounded by greenery and lounge seating, it’s the perfect place to cool off after a Yosemite hike or spend a leisurely afternoon soaking in the sunshine. The setting feels secluded and elegant rather than busy or resort-like, reinforcing the château’s quiet, refined atmosphere.
Concierge Services
Château du Sureau’s concierge services add an extra layer of ease to your stay, especially if you’re visiting Yosemite for the first time. The staff is happy to assist with park planning, scenic drive recommendations, dining reservations, spa bookings, and local insights tailored to your interests. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, planning sunrise photo shoots, or looking for a more leisurely Yosemite itinerary, the concierge team helps ensure your time both on and off the property is thoughtfully planned and stress-free.
Roman-style pool at Château du Sureau in Oakhurst, CA
Château du Sureau patio in Oakhurst, CA
Know Before You Go
• Book rooms and reserve dining at ChateauSureau.com or call (559) 683-6800.
• Check-in is at 3:00 p.m. and check-out is at noon. All parking is valet, however your vehicle is always close by and available when needed.
• Weekends and peak travel seasons may require minimum stays. Booking early is essential...only ten rooms means availability goes quickly, especially in the busy summer months.
• Reserve dinner at The Elderberry House ahead of time, particularly for weekends. Allow for at least two hours for dining here, especially if you opt for the full five-course experience.
• Wear comfortable layers. Yosemite days can run warm, but château evenings cool down beautifully.
• Plan your Yosemite entry in advance, especially if reservation systems are in place during high season. Always check the official Yosemite NPS website for the most up-to-date road conditions, weather forecasts for different areas of the park, and park entry requirements.
Salon Suite bathroom at Villa du Sureau
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Château du Sureau from Yosemite National Park?
It’s about 16 miles (approximately 20–25 minutes) from the South Gate, depending on traffic and season.
How many rooms are available?
There are 10 guest rooms in the château plus the private Villa du Sureau which includes two guest rooms.
Is there a pool or spa onsite?
Yes, there’s a seasonal outdoor pool and a full-service luxury spa.
Are meals included?
Daily complimentary breakfast is included. Dinner at The Elderberry House is highly recommended, but in most cases it is not included as part of your stay and requires its own reservation. Packages are often available that include onsite credits, which can be redeemed at The Elderberry House and The Cellar.
Is the property family-friendly?
While families are welcome, the atmosphere is quiet, refined, and geared more toward couples or travelers seeking a peaceful retreat.
Is the property accessible?
The château has accessible walkways for guests with limited mobility. There is also one room, the Thyme Room, which is accessible. Click here for more information, and contact the property directly at (559) 683-6800 with any specific needs you might have.
Can I bring my dog?
Pets are generally not allowed on property, although service animals are welcome.
What time is check-in and check-out?
Standard check-in time is 3pm and standard check-out time 12pm.
Villa du Sureau Salon Suite bedroom
Visit Yosemite | Madera County
I’d like to give a special thank you to Visit Yosemite | Madera County for making this post possible. They are an invaluable resource for anyone planning a trip to Yosemite National Park and the surrounding regions. Stop at the Oakhurst Visitor Center for expert advice, access to maps, and insider tips. Here you’ll discover the many hidden gems of Madera County, and make sure to download your free visitor guide at YosemiteThisYear.com for answers to all your questions about visiting California's Southern Gateway to Yosemite.
Château du Sureau chapel
Downloadable Itineraries & Travel Guides
Planning a trip to California and the west coast? I’ve got in-depth travel guides and itineraries for several national parks and beautiful destinations. Check out a few of them below, or click here to see them all!
Château du Sureau lounge & library
In Summary
Thanks so much for joining me this week just outside of Yosemite National Park. For a virtual visit of Château du Sureau, make sure to watch my Behind the Blog video located at the top of this post, or watch it on YouTube here. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Hummingbird at Château du Sureau
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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