Venerable Granlibakken Lodge, located on a woods-covered 74-acre tract just outside Tahoe City, is noted for both its relative seclusion and European-style ambiance.

It also carries the reputation as being an economical base camp for families who enjoy frolicking in the mountains surrounding Lake Tahoe.

But you don't have to be a familial unit to enjoy a sojourn at Granlikbben. All you have to be is in a money-saving state of mind.

Because Granlibakken is hooking up with seven of its winter mountain resort neighbors - Alpine Meadows, Homewood, Mt. Rose, Northstar, Sierra-at-Tahoe, Squaw Valley, and Sugar Bowl - to offer its special Ski and Stay packages.

Granlibakken guests get a night's lodging, a hot buffet breakfast, shuttle-bus transport to and from resort of choice and a lift ticket for $109 midweek (Sunday through Thursday) and $132 on weekends (non-downhill skiers and non-snowboarders can get a $50 credit at Lighthouse Spa or Tahoe Nordic Center). The deal starts Dec. 19.

You also can pick up an evening shuttle to the bars and restaurants of Tahoe City and the more exotic enticements of the casinos in Reno.

Or you can simply stay at Granlibakken all day and take advantage of the lodge's skiing and sledding hill, sauna, hot tubs, and heated swimming pool.

This offer is not good during holidays. Reservations are a must, so call (877) 543-7116 .