The Orlando Grande Lakes Ritz-Carlton Resort in Florida isn’t just conveniently located in close proximity to Sea World, Discovery Cove, Disney World and Aquatica, but it also boasts 582 luxury guest rooms and suites which are well-equipped with all the comforts of home, upscale furnishings and dramatic views of the gardens, lakes or golf course on the property. A renowned vacation resort for those with a distinct taste for upscale accommodation, the Orlando Grande Lakes Ritz-Carlton Resort provides unparalleled sophistication to its guests and a wealth of activities that can conveniently be scheduled through the hotel Concierge for your convenience.
The entrance to the Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes property in Orlando, Florida was not only expertly decorated in blooming brilliantly colored flowers and foliage, but the main driveway highlights a stunning fountain along the meandering trek to the hotel’s front doors.
Ritz-Carlton never ceases to amaze with its classic and traditional decor, intricate stairwell railings and stunningly appointed sitting rooms. This specific Ritz-Carlton property was inspired by the grand palazzos of Italy. And one can definitely feel that romantic vibe in the architecture and style of the Orlando Grand Lakes location everywhere one looks.
Our suite was situated high above the skyline view of the city. Though this is one of the largest Ritz-Carlton properties we’ve ever stayed in, we still felt as though we were the only guests in-house by the exceptional way the staff and management saw to it that we were taken care of. Our accommodation was equipped with a private balcony, marble bath with double vanity, European toiletries, and plush terry robes and slippers…just to name a few things we enjoyed in our room.
The view from our suite overlooked one of the lakes on the property. An eye-catching view of the main building, the scenery over another body of water on-site, and a designated area alongside the lake where kayaks are available to take advantage of.
The accommodation layout was spacious with all of the comforts of home while on our travels. The bathroom area was fitted with marble entirely. Frette linens, robes and slippers were also provided. A colorful plush chaise lounge sat beside glass double doors leading out onto the balcony overlooking the property.
After dark, the view from our suite was astonishing. We were able to witness the lights of the city on the horizon as we sipped from glasses of chilled champagne on our balcony later in the evening.
After meeting my husband’s associates for dinner, we returned to our room to find a sprinkled trail of fresh rose petals just beyond the door inside our room leading to a heart shaped out of the same petals atop our bed. The staff certainly did not want us to forget our visit it seemed. And sitting beside our bed on a small table were a tray of chocolate covered strawberries and chilled Champagne.
After my husband and I indulged in these decadent treats placed in our suite by an appreciative hotel staff, we finally turned in after a full day of meetings my husband attended, writing by the pool, and dinner with business associates that evening. Why? Because it was late and because we also had to have breakfast at The Vineyard Grill downstairs before my husband returned to a second day of scheduled meetings.
The Vineyard Grill serves a noteworthy dining option for breakfast in buffet style that provides phenomenal presentations, choice local elements and a terrific beverage selection. Since we dined outside of the property for every meal except Breakfast and cocktails due to my husband’s schedule, we were only able to enjoy breakfast on-site during our stay. But what amazing breakfasts we had! Belgian waffles, fresh fruit and melon, warm pastries and sweet treats, fresh smoked salmon, country bacon, almond scones, omelets prepared right before our eyes, salami and gourmet cheeses and many more appetizing items.
The resort pool area is spectacular. Offering Concierge service during open hours, this oasis will enthrall and revive you in the warm Florida sunshine. Try a poolside cabana for a more private customized experience.
There are several seating options available in many different areas surrounding this lavish resort-style oasis. Whether swimming, just sitting in the shade with a good book or working on business on your laptop, this area of the resort will help you ease into relaxation during work or play.
And you cannot forget about the pool restaurant and bar, Bleu. Serving sensational burgers, seafood, and salads as well as fantastic hand-shaken cocktails, you just can’t go wrong here. II enjoyed a Hurricane at the bar while taking a break from my writing.
The Bleu Pool Bar serves bites and cocktails al fresco such as burgers, seafood, salads, and some of the best tropical cocktails you can imagine. After a couple of these Hurricanes made right in front of us by the mixologist on duty, we were ready to take it easy poolside in our cabana for the rest of the afternoon.
RESORT AMENITIES: There’s something for everyone at the Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes Orlando Resort. From the 40,000 square foot spa with 40 treatment rooms, a private lap pool, a wellness center and a spa cafe and boutique, you’re sure to obtain a peaceful state of mind and a relaxing experience to tell others about when you return home. If you’re a golf enthusiast, there’s the 18-hole Greg Norman signature golf course to keep you busy. Or how about fly-fishing classes or a private Eco-tour to spark your interest? Maybe an afternoon lazing poolside in a private cabana with everything you need right at your side with services from your own personal pool Concierge? So much to do, and never enough time to get it all done!
PROPERTY: A stunning property that is well-maintained and offers a welcoming ambiance with all the amenities of home and more.
SERVICE / STAFF: Exceptional service by the resort staff allows for a feeling of tranquility and a comforting feel that you are in for a wonderful experience.
PET FRIENDLINESS: The Grande Lakes Orlando Ritz-Carlton Resort is pet friendly, allowing dogs and cats (one animal per room) for a $250 one-time cleaning fee. Pets are not allowed inside the spa, restaurant, or pool area.
DINING OPTIONS: Try one or all of the incredible dining options at this property. See below for the resort’s website for a list of all delicious cuisine options available.
LOCATION: The Grande Lakes Orlando Ritz-Carlton property is located at 4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando FL, 32837.
CONTACT INFO: Phone: (407) 206-2400, Website: www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Orlando
PARKING: All vehicles arriving at the property are taken care of by the hotel valet service.
Please note, all information for this establishment may have changed or the location may have been permanently closed since the article’s publication.