Chateau Du Sureau sits in Oakhurst, about 45 minutes from Yosemite’s south entrance, and it’s the kind of place where you walk in and immediately understand why it’s won Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond ratings year after year. The property opened in 1991 and belongs to the Relais & Châteaux collection, which means it operates at a level of detail most people only read about. Stone archways, manicured gardens, and views across the Sierra foothills set the tone before you even check in.

If you’re traveling with your dog, you’ll appreciate that the chateau actually welcomes them rather than merely tolerating them. Your dog can come along to experience the grounds—the gardens are worth exploring, and there’s something about staying somewhere this beautiful that makes even a simple walk around the property feel like part of the experience. The guest rooms maintain the luxury you’d expect, and staff know how to handle dogs without making their presence feel like an accommodation rather than just part of your stay.

The surrounding area gives you options beyond the chateau itself. The Sierra foothills around Oakhurst have various trails and open spaces for dogs to stretch their legs, and the nearby communities have dog-friendly cafes and shops if you want to venture out. But honestly, many guests find that once they arrive at the property, they’re content to stay put. The spa facilities and dining are serious operations, the kind of place where you could easily spend an afternoon or evening without leaving.

This is the type of destination where you’d plan to spend at least a couple of nights rather than just passing through. Between the accommodations themselves and the location’s proximity to Yosemite, it works well as a base if you’re planning to explore the park with your dog during the day, then return somewhere genuinely comfortable at night.