Lake Tahoe reminds many of the Alps for its incredible beauty of mountains, meadows and crystal blue lake under an immense sky. The Alpenrose Inn’s European-born owner intensifies the comparison through lush outdoor garden displays, small birdhouses and bright umbrellas dotting the second-story sun deck. Tucked under soaring trees, the inn continues its natural love affair in its interior. Fresh plants accent the lobby and the breakfast room’s light wood cabinetry and ceiling beams. Sleeping rooms named Teal, Forest Suite, Rose Garden and others come with full-sized, queen or king beds. There are no cookie-cutter designs here. Each room is individual with original murals, stencils and furnishings. Slate tiles bring tranquility to the showers. An upgrade to a wet bar room provides a microwave, refrigerator and utensils. Plan your Lake Tahoe vacation while at your room’s cozy seating area or al fresco in an Adirondack chair. Begin your day with a continental breakfast beside a crackling wood fire and end it strolling near the lake as the sun sinks behind the mountain peaks. The staff members are marvelous organizers for whatever tempts your sense of adventure, be it winter sports, hot-air ballooning, a photo safari or taking in a show at one of the casinos. Whatever the season, a soak at the indoor spa revives the spirit. So does spending time with your favorite furry child in a pet-friendly room.