Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes Hotel & Residences

If you’re looking for a true resorts stay, resplendent with impeccable service, an easy flight from most destinations, world class dining, award winning spa and loads of activities, I must recommend Ritz Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. This luxury property is part of my Virtuoso resort collection and is located just minutes from the Orlando theme park magic, but feels miles from the madness. While I recommend Four Seasons Orlando for Walt Disney World luxury accommodations, Ritz Grande Lakes is my go-to for luxury clients looking to hit Universal, SeaWorld and Discovery Cove. This is also a fabulous choice for a long weekend, resort getaway or post theme park stay.

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes delights in creating life-long memories. Surrender yourself to our oasis-like spa, indulge in fine dining and test your skills on the championship-level golf course designed by Greg Norman. Guests benefit from impeccable service, luxury hotel rooms and suites, sophisticated event venues and exceptional resort amenities, including our lazy river pool, 24-hour fitness center and the Ritz Kids program.

Arriving at Grande Lakes, you know you are in for a treat. I mean, just look at this warm welcome from one of the canine ambassadors!

Stunning Resort Property

Inspired by the grand palazzos of Italy, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes is a true luxury resort which calls America’s playground home. When I said “miles from the madness”, I meant it!

Resort Amenities

A true getaway is about what you do and those you join you on the journey. The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes in Florida partners with the neighboring JW Marriott to offer activities for children and adults, giving you access to all of the amenities at both resorts.

Over the years and year round, I’ve enjoyed spending a day under the sun in the outdoor heated hotel pool. The construction fences are now all gone and the brand new spa and pool area is complete!

Poolside cabanas are available to rent in sizes to accommodate a variety of group sizes. These are also newly renovated and I love the sleek, luxurious design.

Guests may also enjoy the adult only, outdoor, heated lap pool at The Ritz-Carlton Spa (treatment reservation required). We spent a heavenly afternoon in a large cabana enjoying sun, girl talk, bubbles and chair massages!

Grande Lakes Sports comprises all of the resort’s outdoor activities, from kayak eco-tours and safaris to the mountain bike trail. I always, always schedule the incredible guided (by Florida Master Naturalists) eco-tour of Shingle Creek, the Headwaters to the Florida Everglades, for my clients.

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes recognizes the power of curiosity and creativity and strives to inspire it with kid-friendly activities. Drawing upon the natural beauty of our Orlando resort, the Ritz Kids room is sure to keep your littles entertained through storytelling, lessons on animal care, arts and crafts, physical activities and much more. There are full and half day programs for an additional fee, meals are also served. Club Level guests get one half day session included each day.

Ritz Kids also offers a complimentary hour open house each morning where all ages can enjoy games, movies, and a craft of the day. All children must have parental supervision.

As mentioned, the JW is just steps away, linked by a walking path from the Ritz. Guests of the Ritz can enjoy their pool, lazy river and additional dining options so that you never have to leave the luxury bubble if you don’t want to!

The cabanas at this spectacular pool are such a dream, located in premium locations throughout the Grande Lakes waterpark. Whether you’re a family or group of adults, there’s nothing better than relaxing in your private oasis with poolside service from Knife Burger, created by Michelin Star recipient, Chef John Tesar.

Resort Accommodations

Bright and serene, guest rooms offer spacious layouts with balconies, work areas, marble bathrooms with dual vanities and views of the garden, pool, golf course or lake. On top of that, the rooms are all pristine and newly renovated!

My amazing Grande Lakes partners and friends always welcome me with a fabulous treat! They treat my clients with the same level of attention. <3 Trusted partnerships go a long way in this industry!

The executive suite is another great option for families and with even more space! These newly renovated accommodations feature a living room, bedroom, two balconies and a luxurious bathroom. There is an option to add a connecting room for even more space.

The Royal Suite is another spectacular space, and the Ladies and Gentlemen of the Ritz can arrange just about anything for you – including a sleepover party with your besties!

Club Lounge

Both regular guest rooms and suites are eligible to upgrade for club level access. This is yet another stunning, newly renovated space.

The Ritz-Carlton Club® Level redefines the luxury hotel experience; combining intimacy, comfort and exclusivity with the personalized service and attention to detail that are the hallmarks of The Ritz-Carlton. This oasis is often referred to as a hotel within a hotel, where a dedicated concierge attends to individual needs in a well-appointed, relaxed lounge environment.

Food presentations throughout the day are absolutely scrumptious.

And the views from the sweeping verandah are unsurpassed.

Club guests receive so many additional perks, including:

Harry Josh hairdryers and styling tools
Complimentary shoeshine and pressing of up to two garments per day
Dyson Airwrap for use during stay
Technogym equipment to workout in your room
Billie Razors
Electric toothbrushes
Complimentary sessions in Ritz Kids

Resort Dining

There are enough amazing dining options to enjoy during your stay!

Bleu

Blue is where you take a break from the sun to dine al fresco. Dress is casual, swimwear is encouraged and the fish tacos are on point!

The Lobby Lounge

I didn’t have time to personally enjoy the Lobby Lounge, but I did ogle the gorgeous decor and incredible views called “sunroom chic”.

Knife & Spoon

Knife & Spoon is a gold star of central Florida dining! This new signature steak & seafood restaurant was conceived and led by award-winning Chef John Tesar. Not only is the presentation absolutely stunning, but every bite that entered my mouth was pure bliss.

John Tesar was called “the single most talented cook I ever worked with” by Anthony Bourdain. Tesar also enjoys the pseudonym Jimmy Sears in Bourdain’s bestselling memoir KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL and in MEDIUM RAW. Tesar remains a fixture of Dallas’s restaurant scene and a true “chef’s chef.” He has garnered praise from Food & Wine and The New York Times, has appeared on The Today Show and The Early Show, and is a two-time contestant on Bravo’s “Top Chef.”

Highball & Harvest

When you book with me, you will enjoy complimentary breakfast at Highball & Harvest!

In a past era, conductors would “highball” trains to ensure harvests from central Florida would move quickly from field to table. Today, that legacy lives on in Orlando restaurants such as Highball & Harvest. The restaurant combines rustic authenticity with Ritz-Carlton refinement to feature interactive dining, a novel railroad-inspired design, handcrafted cocktail classes and a creative menu. Indulge in innovative Southern-inspired dishes and cocktails featuring seasonal fruits and fresh herbs.

The Kitchen

The Kitchen is located steps away at the JW. It is another great dinner option that feels like an experience.

A desire to bring our on-site farm experience to guests brought Whisper Creek Farm: The Kitchen and The Brewery to life. The restaurant features farm inspired comfort food and craft beers from the on-site nano-brewery. Sample menu items include flatbreads, small sandwiches, snacks and small plates all showcasing produce from Whisper Creek Farm (onsite) and local farmers. Full bar and seasonal craft beers available. Located at the adjacent JW Marriott.

Fairways Pub

Fairways Pub was a great, casual lunch option, with picture perfect views of the 18th hole and resort. If you don’t wish to dine in, there is a to-go menu for the golfers!

Ritz Carlton Residences

I’ve had the opportunity to tour and spend a fantastic evening in the absolutely stunning Ritz Carlton Residences!

There are thirty-seven spacious, elegantly appointed, 3-4 bedroom residences with pools that offer the comforts of a private home with the splendor of an estate. Ideally located in a tranquil, gated enclave with easy access to downtown, Winter Park, International Drive, Orlando International Airport and world-renowned theme parks and attractions. The homes exude a modern organic style, with a mingling of textures and top-of-the-line appliances, and can be rented through ME for YOUR central Florida vacation experience.

I absolutely LOVED these residences. The decor is amazing and like being on a real tour of homes.

Of course, your butler can assist in arranging any sort of event or food service! We spent an evening enjoying a bbq and pool time!

The Residences include a private, owners (and renters) only Clubhouse as well as resort amenities.

Marriott Stars Amenities

When you book your stay at Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes with me, you get special perks!!

$100 USD Resort Credit, once per stay
Complimentary breakfast for 2 guests daily at Highball & Harvest
Complimentary early arrival, upon availability
Complimentary room view upgrade, upon availability
Complimentary late departure, upon availability

Let’s Travel & My Services

As a Premier Level Advisor with Glass Slipper Concierge, I am recognized for providing the highest level of customer service, experience, and knowledge in the industry. I use my personal connections and firsthand expertise to craft bespoke vacations for the most discerning clients. On top of that, travel is expensive and I know how to get the best value for your time and money. Most aspects of planning a family vacation look different and now, more than ever, it is crucial to have the most current, up to date information based on personal experience to plan your vacation!

I offer concierge travel planning for Walt Disney World® Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland® Resort, Disneyland Paris, Adventures by Disney®, Aulani, National Geographic Expeditions, Universal Orlando, Royal Caribbean and other delightful destinations around the globe! Let’s go there!