Biltmore Hotel

The hotel is celebrated for its magnificent pool, one of the largest in the country, and its historic architecture, which transports guests to a bygone era of grandeur. It is an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families looking for extensive recreational options, and golfers drawn to its championship course. Sightseers and event attendees also find it a compelling choice due to its unique ambiance and event capabilities. While many guests praise the overall beauty and dining experiences, feedback on service and room comfort can be mixed, with some highlighting areas for improvement. To ensure a tranquil stay, it is advisable to request a room away from banquet or event areas, as noise from events or staff prep can occasionally be an issue. Guests should also be prepared for potential inconsistencies in service, though many staff members are highly commended for their helpfulness and professionalism.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts an impressive array of facilities designed for relaxation and recreation. The pool is consistently highlighted as a standout feature, described as enormous, beautiful, and a perfect spot for unwinding, though some guests noted parts might be closed for events. For active guests, an excellent golf course and a well-equipped fitness center are available, with the gym featuring modern equipment. A spa offers various treatments for rejuvenation. While Wi-Fi is generally reliable, some guests experienced intermittent connectivity. The hotel also features a bakery/coffee shop for quick bites and several bars and lounges, though some found these closed for private functions during their stay. Guests should be aware of an additional daily activity fee that covers access to some of these amenities.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is varied. Many guests found their rooms to be spacious, beautifully appointed, and equipped with comfortable beds and high-quality linens, ensuring a restful stay. However, a notable number of reviews indicate that some rooms appear outdated, with dated furniture, peeling paint, or cracked tiles, suggesting a need for refurbishment. Issues with noise levels are frequently reported, stemming from nearby events, staff preparation areas, or thin walls, which can disrupt sleep. Bathrooms receive mixed reviews; while some are described as spacious, others are noted as very small with weak water pressure or no hot water. The absence of a mini-fridge or the charge for one is a common point of dissatisfaction. Air conditioning can also be inconsistent, with some units being noisy or difficult to regulate.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers diverse dining experiences, with guest feedback often highlighting the Fontana restaurant for its excellent cuisine and charming ambiance. The poolside Cascade restaurant is also a popular choice for casual meals. Breakfast receives mixed reviews; while many praise its quality and variety, some found the buffet to be overpriced with limited selections. The Sunday brunch is consistently described as an "amazing experience" and a "decadent gem," offering a vast array of gourmet options, though its high cost is frequently mentioned. Afternoon tea is another cherished experience, noted for its lovely ambiance and tasty menu. Overall food quality is generally positive, with dishes described as delicious and creative. However, many guests find the food and beverage pricing to be very high, often compounded by an automatic gratuity.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location in Coral Gables is a significant advantage, offering a tranquil setting away from the bustling city center while remaining conveniently accessible. Guests appreciate its proximity to the airport, making it a suitable choice for pre- or post-flight stays, typically a short drive away. Although not directly on the beach, it is easily reachable by car. The surrounding area is described as a beautiful, residential neighborhood, ideal for leisurely strolls. A major positive highlighted by many guests is the availability of free parking, which is considered a valuable amenity. While public transportation options are available, a car is generally recommended for exploring the wider area and accessing nearby restaurants and attractions, as walking distances can be considerable.

Staff & Service
Feedback on staff and service is notably mixed, though many guests report positive interactions. Numerous reviews commend the staff for being friendly, attentive, professional, and helpful, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Specific praise is often directed towards the valet service and certain restaurant staff. However, a significant number of guests experienced inconsistent service, particularly at the front desk, where some encounters were described as rude, unpleasant, or unwilling to accommodate requests, including issues with check-in times or room changes. Housekeeping also receives varied comments, with some praising its attentiveness while others noted a lack of thoroughness or timely service. Some guests felt the hotel was understaffed, leading to slow poolside service and difficulties in getting assistance. Communication issues, such as unreturned calls or lack of information regarding hotel policies, were also reported.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of certain hotel policies that may impact their stay. A notable point of contention is the photo restriction policy, which can require significant fees for taking pictures in public areas, even for wedding guests. Additionally, a charge is applied for delivering welcome bags to guest rooms, a practice some found unusual compared to other luxury hotels. The hotel is pet-friendly, though finding suitable outdoor areas for pets can be challenging. An activity fee is added daily, which some guests felt was not clearly disclosed upfront. As a popular venue for weddings and conferences, guests might experience noise from events or find certain areas, like bars, closed for private functions. Some reviews mention the hotel's haunted history, adding a unique, albeit sometimes unsettling, element. There are also mentions of ongoing construction and occasional issues with pest control.