Since opening in 1926, the landmark Biltmore Hotel has dazzled heads of state, royalty, celebrities and luxury travelers with its majestic architecture, opulent decor, extraordinary facilities and top-notch service. Set on 150 acres of tropical gardens and manicured lawns in the heart of chic Coral Gables, FL, the resort boasts such world-class amenities as an 18-hole, Donald Ross-designed championship golf course, an enormous swimming pool, a nationally ranked 10,000-square-foot fitness center, ten lighted tennis courts and some of South Florida's best restaurants.

Perfection has now been improved upon with the opening of the Biltmore's magnificent new 12,000-square-foot spa. Situated on the seventh floor of the hotel, with panoramic floor-to-ceiling views, it defines tranquility and relaxation. Zen-inspired minimalist rock pools, water walls, natural woods and soothing earth tones combine to create an environment of calm beauty.

Guests can enjoy healthy snacks in the lovely relaxation lounge while awaiting their therapist. A striking bamboo footbridge leads the way to the spa's 12 luxurious treatment rooms, which include wet rooms with hydrotherapy tubs and Vichy showers as well as connecting specialty suites for couples.

Working under the direction of the spa's talented director Martina Perko, a very attentive staff of 40 pampers guests with a wide range of personalized beauty and therapy treatments. They include deep tissue massage, shiatsu, Abhyanga body massage, a full range of facials and body scrubs as well as a selection of Lifestyle Kurs which are designed to remineralize, nourish and balance the body. The spa's signature treatment is the indulgent Chardonnay Ritual, which features a wine-therapy bubble bath, a Chardonnay grape seed scrub and a full-body massage with Chardonnay oil.

In addition, an extensive range of fitness classes and aqua programs are offered, including kickboxing, yoga, Pilates, karate, Hydro Pilates, and Aqua Pi Yo Chi, combining the techniques of Pilates, yoga and Ayi Chi.

After a relaxing day at the spa, guests can indulge at one of seven restaurants and bars. The diverse choices include the sumptuous Palme d'Or, which offers a tasting menu of more than 20 dishes, the Biltmore's famous Sunday Champagne Brunch offered at the 1200 Courtyard Grill set amid the lush landscaping of the fountain-centered courtyard, a traditional English tea served under the soaring vaulted ceiling of the hotel's magnificent lobby, and the charming poolside eatery Cascade.

The Biltmore
Coral Gables, FL
305.445.1926;
www.biltmorehotel.com