Holiday in Yosemite

What makes Yosemite special as a destination?

Yosemite National Park in California's Sierra Nevada is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in North America. At first glance into Yosemite Valley, you are left breathless: El Capitan, a 900-meter high, nearly vertical granite wall, and Half Dome, the famous half-dome rock, frame a glacier-carved valley that immortalized nature photographer Ansel Adams. Yosemite Falls plunge a total of 739 meters in three tiers, making it the highest waterfall in North America. In spring and early summer, when the snowmelt feeds the falls, the spectacle is most impressive. In February, the setting sun bathes the Horsetail Fall in orange-red light — the natural phenomenon “Firefall” attracts thousands of photographers each year. El Capitan is the mecca of rock climbing: The “Nose” route is considered one of the most legendary climbing routes in the world. But even without climbing experience, Yosemite offers over 1,300 kilometers of hiking trails. The hike to Half Dome (permit required) is challenging but legendary — the final section leads steeply up the bare rock via steel cables. The Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 giant sequoias, including the Grizzly Giant, which is over 1,800 years old. Glacier Point offers perhaps the most beautiful viewpoint in the park. In summer, the valley is crowded — Tuolumne Meadows at 2,600 meters offers a quieter, alpine alternative.