BUSINESS OUTSIDE THE BOARDROOM

A n aquamarine expanse dotted with sailboats. Cozy cabins lining the water’s edge. Hiking trails snaking through evergreen forests. Is this the setting for A) your next dream vacation or B) your next corporate retreat? At the historic Stanford Sierra Conference Center, the answer is B… or maybe C) all the above. Located just one mile south of Lake Tahoe, Fallen Leaf Lake in El Dorado County is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve stepped directly into a postcard. With its pristine waters surrounded by granite peaks, the area has become a favorite for vacationers seeking an intimate relationship with the great outdoors. But thanks to Stanford Sierra Conference Center, it’s also become a top spot for business retreats, educational conferences, and other corporate events. The center is owned and operated by the Stanford Alumni Association, but you don’t have to be an alum to take advantage of the space, which includes five spacious conference rooms boasting killer views of the lake and kitted out with all the techie necessities (free wireless high speed internet, cordless microphones, LCD projectors, and additional A/V equipment). Each one can be set in a variety of ways, and some even have fireplaces. But as any successful businessperson knows, many of the most important, inspiring, and impactful conversations happen outside the boardroom. And Stanford Sierra Conference Center’s lakefront property offers a second-tonone environment for fostering exactly those moments. Read on for seven of the best places to talk business outside the boardroom.

1. Hiking through the woods. From Henry David Thoreau to Bill Bryson, adventurers and philosophers alike have documented the power of the great outdoors to spark great thoughts. Located on the edge of Desolation Wilderness, Stanford Sierra Conference Center offers easy access to miles of iconic hiking trails, including Angora Lakes, Mt. Tallac, the Glen Alpine Trail, and the Pacific Crest Trail. The property even provides an interactive hiking guide and onsite staff members who can give real-time updates on trail conditions.

2. Kayaking on the lake. The glacierformed Fallen Leaf Lake is basically a mini Tahoe—crystal clear waters ideal for all manner of sports. Conference center guests have complimentary access to the property’s fleet of watercraft: stand-up paddle boards, single and double kayaks, rowboats, pedal boats, and a number of sailboats including Hobie Cats, Lasers, and Lidos are all available for checkout.

3. On the volleyball court. Stanford Sierra Conference Center’s sylvan, treestudded grounds offer all manner of court sports, from volleyball to basketball to tennis. It’s basically like summer camp for adults, and working up a sweat with your coworkers can often be the very best way to work out new ideas. Looking to contemplate solo? Hit up one of the center’s free yoga classes to namaste your way to entrepreneurial epiphany.

4. At the dinner table. No stale sandwiches and watery canned vegetables here. When it comes to cuisine, Stanford Sierra Conference Center has a storied reputation to uphold. Their executive chef trained at the California Culinary Academy and provides guests with mouthwatering menus that start with buffet breakfasts and run through to steak dinners served on linen tablecloths. Dining schedules are customizable and include three meals a day plus two snacks, fresh fruit, coffee, and tea. The on-site pastry chef is famous for fresh breads, pastries, and desserts all day.

5. On the waterfront deck. After dinner, why not head out to one of the main lodge’s waterfront decks to sip wine with colleagues while watching the sun go down? Soak in the serenity as you look out upon the lake and mountains beyond. Inspiration is everywhere.

6. Gathered ’round the fire pit. In addition to the giant stone fireplace inside the historic Old Lodge (where sipping hot chocolate is all but mandatory), Stanford Sierra Conference Center has its own lakefront fire pit. Roast s’mores over the open flames and spend your evening exchanging ghost stories—er, business ideas.

7. In the comfort of your cabin. Stanford Sierra Conference Center accommodates up to 180 guests at a time, with 12 single rooms in the main lodge and 52 cabins dotted around the property. Every room has free high-speed wifi and spectacular lake and mountain views. Oh, and did we mention the option of private massages? Ready to plan your next retreat? Head to www.stanfordsierra.com and a seasoned staff member will help coordinate the perfect corporate event package for you.