PRICE:
Frommer's Exceptional

A romantic sense of Old World glamour combined with a rich history permeate the Biltmore as much as the pricey perfume of the guests who stay here. Built in 1926, it's the oldest Coral Gables hotel and is a National Historic Landmark -- one of only two operating hotels in Florida to receive that designation. Rising above the Spanish-style estate is a majestic 300-foot copper-clad tower, modeled after the Giralda bell tower in Seville and visible throughout the city. Over the years, the Biltmore has passed through many incarnations (including a post-World War II stint as a VA hospital), but it is now back to its original 1926 splendor. More intriguing than scary is the rumor that ghosts of wounded soldiers and even Al Capone, for whom the Everglades Suite is nicknamed, roam the halls here. But don't worry, the hotel is far from a haunted house. It is warm, welcoming, and extremely charming. Now under the management of the Seaway Hotel Corporation, the hotel boasts large Moorish-style rooms decorated with tasteful decor, European feather beds, Egyptian cotton duvets, writing desks and some high-tech amenities. The enormous lobby, with its 45-foot vaulted ceilings, makes a bold statement of elegance. Always a popular destination for golfers, including former President Clinton (who stays in the Al Capone suite), the Biltmore is situated on a lush, rolling 18-hole course that is as challenging as it is beautiful. The spa is fantastic and the enormous 23,000-square-foot winding pool (surrounded by arched walkways and classical sculptures) is legendary -- it's where a pre-Tarzan Johnny Weismuller broke the world's swimming record. Even if you don't stay at the Biltmore Hotel, definitely take a tour of it (call tel. 305/445-1926 for more information) to learn about its fascinating history and mystery. The Sunday brunch here is legendary -- book early.

Facilities: 4 restaurants; 4 bars; outdoor pool; 18-hole golf course; 10 lit tennis courts; state-of-the-art health club; full-service spa; sauna; concierge; car rental through concierge; elaborate business center and secretarial services; salon; 24-hr. room service; laundry service; dry cleaning; wine cellar.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's South Florida including Miami and Keys, 5th Edition, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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