mah1980

Just wanted to post a quick note about our weekend at this wonderful resort, since there aren't that many posts on this board about it.

This was an impromptu weekend. DH and I needed relaxation, a great pool, spa treatments for me, and nice surroundings. We got all at this impressive resort, which according to the brochure, opened in 1847. From what I understand, it has not been a Marriott very long. In all honesty, it is more like a Ritz Carlton than a Marriott.

The rooms were gorgeous. The spa (which was rated the top Marriott spa in the chain) was 20,000 sq. ft., and had a really beautiful ladies quiet room, with jacuzzi. I had an aromatherapy massage and pedicure, both of which were wonderful and very affordable.

The town of Fairhope was quaint. We ate at the hotel most of the weekend, but also ate at Gambino's, an Italian restaurant in Fairhope. I really liked this restaurant--good value and large portions, which often are oxy morons.

We didn't golf or play tennis and spent most of the time at the pools (2 outdoor, 1 indoor); but, the golf and tennis facilities looked great.

Overall, a nice and relaxing weekend close to home (only about 2 hrs and 15 minutes away from us).

olesouthernbelle

mah1980: My DS, DIL & baby grandson were there just after you at the beginning of last week. They loved it too! I was surprised to hear that my DS wants to go back! - (I thought that comment would come first from my DIL, but she agrees, of course!). They had a good, relaxing mini vacation.

I'm glad to hear to tried & liked Gambino's as much as I do!

luvtravl

Thanks for the great info!

mah1980

OSB--That's too funny! We really were impressed by the resort. The service was excellent and everything was easy!

bamababe

mah1980, thanks for such a nice review of our area. I live in Fairhope and it is quaint. It's grown since Katrina ( all of those people that left New Orleans and decided to stay. Also people from MS) .

The Grand is an awesome place. The pool is really nice and usually crowded during peak season. Did you get to the Pier? Most visitors like to see it. You have a great view of the Mobile skyline. You also ate at one of the most popular places--Gambinos.
It does have good food.

Come back soon.

mah1980

bamababe--

My husband went to college at Spring Hill in Mobile, but he had never been to Fairhope.

Funny story- we were watching the LSU/Va Tech football game at the resort's lounge while the Auburn/USF game was on. Well, it was awkward when USF won (my husband tried to hide his happiness since he HATES Auburn--we both went to law school at LSU).

Ike

I went to The Grand Hotel in 1971 and I've been going back every year since. It's a great resort.

bamababe

mah1980, I too am NOT an Auburn fan, but my DH,2 sons and my FIL are. My FIL is still in mourning! My daughter and I try really hard not to say " Roll Tide" often!

olesouthernbelle

...But Bamababe, we haven't really had much of a chance to say it (Roll Tide) for SO long, that I don't feel bad saying it now. My DS & DIL are also War Eagles, & I do try not to 'rub it in', but I'm glad we finally look like we'll have a chance to cheer & be cheery this season!!

I've stayed at the GH a few years ago - at a meeting. May check it out next March when Fairhope has their craft fair - it's always nice!

bamababe

olesouthernbelle, if you do want to stay at GH you must make reservations now. I would imagine it will be booked fairly soon. In addition to the Arts and Crafts it is also the Spring Fever chase on Sat. It brings ion lots of runners.

Like you I used to rub in our wins( Bama) but my FIL is getting on in years and I don't want to push him over the edge.

olesouthernbelle

That's right. I hadn't thought of that - tend to wait too late sometimes. Thanks!

SusanCS

Gosh, I'm glad to know it's still open! My husband and I were there several week before Katrina and we'd heard it'd been completely wiped out. Glad to know it's up and running

bamababe

SusanCS, it was destroyed. It re-opened last Oct or Nov. It is really beautiful. They had the opportunity to do bigger and better things to it. They are still planning on building more due to it's popularity. I think it stayed booked all summer.

gracie

To the Bama fans, I hope this is our year. I have had to endure War Eagle from in-laws for too long! I was so happy that Auburn lost last week.