Review: The Ritz-Carlton, Orlando Grande Lakes

Give us your first impression of this hotel.
Rows of palm trees herald the entrance to the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, a towering, Italian-inspired resort where attentive staff greets you at the porte-cochère and welcomes you into the marble lobby with a glass of sparkling wine.

What are the rooms themselves like? How about the bathrooms?
Guest rooms are modern and subdued with private balconies and ultra-plush bedding. The large, marble bathroom has plush terry-cloth robes, oversize towels, and Asprey Purple Water toiletries. Housekeeping comes by twice daily to ensure that rooms are tidy and well-stocked.

If we're in the mood to venture beyond our rooms, where can we go for something to eat?
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando has a host of onsite dining options, from poolside burgers and fresh seafood at Bleu to handcrafted cocktails and local cuisine at Highball & Harvest. The triple-dipped fried chicken with hot honey is a favorite. The restaurant sources much of its produce from the resort’s 7,000-square-foot garden, Whisper Creek Farm.

Where exactly is the hotel located?
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando is just down the road from SeaWorld, between Disney World and Universal Orlando resorts.

Is there anything you'd change?
Transportation to the local theme parks is included in the resort fee, but shuttles run infrequently. You’ll be better off driving or taking a Lyft.

Any other standout parts of your stay? What should we be sure to check out?
Take a guided kayak eco tour in the Florida Everglades, or spend an hour with on-staff fly-fishing at the private 40-acre pond. The Ritz-Carlton’s massive, 40,000-square-foot spa has 40 private treatment rooms, a cafe, and a serene outdoor pool. The Grand Citrus Escape treatment uses herbs and citrus grown onsite and honey from the resort’s bees to hydrate and soothe your skin from head to toe.

Bottom line: Why would you recommend it?
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando is a true luxury resort that's located near all the key area attractions.