escape for a date
Sunset over Mobile Bay
he Romance of the Grand Hotel Golf esort and Spa , Autograph Collection
OINT CLEAR , ALABAMA By Linda Holloway – Photo above by Larry Holloway , others courtesy of The Grand Hotel
Romance , relaxing , resting , and , most importantly , reconnecting are why couples should experience an escape for a date . Valentine ’ s Day will be here soon , and your anniversary is a must for a get-away . Take a sentimental memory journey back to the first days of your dating life when time was not measured in minutes and hours , but in the moments you were together . Remember , your family began as a dynamic duo with an adventuresome spirit . An escape is a great way to rekindle those days while teaching your children your marriage is important and worthy of a private celebration .
On the Gulf Coast of Alabama , surrounded by Mobile Bay , the Grand Hotel Golf Resort and Spa is known as the “ Queen of Southern Resorts .” Meander through tunneled live oaks dripping with moss , or step up the pace with resort activities . There is nowhere else in the world like the Grand where you will find 550 acres of natural beauty — a sensory sanctuary for guests . For over 170 years , the Grand has warmly welcomed all who have entered its doors , and it has earned a Historic Hotels of America designation . There is something impressive about a destination where romance is intertwined with history .
The Grand Hotel has been transformed into the perfect blend of upscale modern amenities while honoring the past . There are 405 freshly renovated rooms and suites . A favorite option is in the Spa Building where the Bayside Guest Room , with a marina view and balcony , is perfect for couples . Be sure to ask about the Romance Package . If you want to take it up a notch , spend a few days in a Honeymoon Suite . This room is probably not anything like your original honeymoon suite , but remember , it is your special time , so go ahead and splurge .
We flung open the double doors of the Honeymoon Suite where stress is not welcome in the enormous space . The parlor
The Grand Hotel
features a sofa , two chairs , desk , and television . French doors separate the bedroom with a seating area , a king four-poster bed and television . The large bathroom is accessible through the bedroom or the parlor , and features a jetted bathtub , shower for two , and double vanity sinks . The best part … double doors leading to a balcony with 2 rocking chairs overlooking the Bay Marina . Here , enjoy water gently spanking the hulls of opulent boats — compliments of the unceasing movement of the bay .
Make reservations for the Grand ’ s Southern Roots restaurant where ambiance , combined with chef-driven menus and impeccable service , check all the boxes . We started with gumbo and finished with bread pudding . For the entrée , my husband chose the pan seared scallops while I indulged in the angus beef tenderloin filet — both delicious . We tried the Bayside Grill for lunch , and the burgers and sandwiches were spot-on . Sunday Brunch at the Grand features traditional favorites , and the pastries are freshly-made daily . Enjoy the sounds of the brass band and views of Mobile Bay .