"Why book? You’re looking for a slice of Miami history with a side of top notch golfing, dining, and spa-ing and a glam spot to explore Coral Gables. Set the scene It doesn’t get any more old school Miami than this—a regal Mediterranean revival hotel that dates back to 1926 and has hosted presidents, dignitaries and even Oprah over the years. The lobby still retains the trappings of that bygone era with hand painted frescoes on barrel vaulted ceilings, travertine floors, marble columns and carved mahogany furnishings. But despite the throwback charm, this grand dame has maintained its vast offerings and kept up with a modern crowd, having undergone a $35 million renovation in 2018 that updated all the rooms and common areas. And there’s no lack of amenities over the 150-acre property, with a lavish spa and salon, multiple tennis courts, the recently restored 18-hole Donald Ross Championship Golf Course (home of the Jim Mclean Golf Academy), and a choice of four restaurants. The colossal pool is an attraction in its own right, holding the title of largest largest hotel pool in the continental U.S. (with its own quirky history of hosting alligator wrestling) and flanked by Roman statues and cascading waterfalls. The backstory Created by Coral Gables land developer George E. Merrick, the Biltmore was an instant sensation when it opened in the 1920’s and served a glamorous clientele. During WWII it was converted into a VA hospital and later abandoned in 1968. In 1983, Coral Gables put $55 million into renovating the Biltmore. The hotel reopened in 1987 and was restored to glory. Ten years later, the Biltmore was added to the National Registry of Historic Places. The rooms Rooms are plush but comfortable, with accents of purple, silver and gold playing off crisp cotton bedding and pale blue walls. Bathrooms are simple but nicely maintained with marble countertops and brass fixtures. Perks like in-room coffee machines and mini-fridges are nice touches. Food and drink Fontana restaurant is the main attraction here, with an inviting courtyard and a tinkling fountain lending a European feel. The restaurants serves regional Italian cooking with a focus on dishes from the wood-burning oven. They recently reinstated their famous Sunday brunch with a combination of decadent buffet stations and numerous a la carte options. Golfers can tuck into club sandwiches Cobb salads at the 19th Hole restaurant, situated on with a view of the spectacular greens. The spa An elegant hideaway tucked away on the seventh floor, the spa features facial treatments that use luxe Babor products while body treatments highlight Florida’s natural elements like the signature guava massage. A Himalayan salt stone sauna, eucalyptus steam room, and relaxation lounge round out the pampering activities. The neighborhood/area The hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Coral Gables, one of the city’s oldest and most upscale neighborhoods with top notch dining, shopping and attractions like Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden a short drive away. A small theater adjacent to the property also hosts various off-Broadway type plays. The hotel is a neighborhood staple, regularly hosting weddings, large-scale events, and festivals on a nightly basis. The service It’s clear the hotel has a strong culture of hospitality in the way the staff operates—friendly, professional, and with a familial warmth. Everyone from groundskeepers to gym attendants greeted guests and were helpful if needed. For families Families are welcome here (especially ones that love to golf) and will find plenty to keep busy with the massive pool, sprawling grounds and kids club. Standard rooms are on the small side so best to book a suite for more space. Accessibility Elevators and ramps are in place but the hotel does not have ADA rooms. Anything left to mention? If you’re looking for a Miami-esque party scene, this isn’t your spot, but if you want something more old-school and refined the Biltmore fits the bill. It’s an enchanting base to explore the non-beachy side of the city and bask in Miami’s storied history." - Sara Liss
