The Biltmore Hotel, a national historic landmark, recently completed a 30 million revitalization of its 270 guest rooms, corridors, and main lobby, along with the spa and fitness club and golf course.

Working from original Donald Ross drawings, golf course architect, Brian Silva extended the par-71 course to 7100 yards, added new bunkers and new Bermuda grass to the fairways, tees and greens.

“We sought to bring back Ross’ original characteristics of play, which has a great deal of movement, and the result is a spectacular course that will maintain the playing interests of an accomplished golfer while also being manageable for all levels of players to enjoy.” said Silva.

The recent arrival of the renowned Jim McLean Golf School and improvements to the short-game practice and driving range have put The Biltmore at the top of destination golf resorts in Florida.

What hasn’t changed at the Biltmore is the magnificent Italian, Moorish, and Spanish architectural details that make the hotel a prominent landmark in Coral Gables.

Since 1926, the Biltmore has hosted the likes of Al Capone, Thomas Wolfe and several presidents. Women, dressed as if heading to the Oscars, share the elevator with spa goers wearing bedroom slippers. Overheard conversations signify an international, upscale crowd without a trace of snootiness.

150 acres of tropical landscape contain one of the most beautiful of hotel pools. Olympic gold swimming champion, Johnny Weissmuller, perhaps better known as Hollywood’s Tarzan, once gave swimming lessons at the Biltmore pool.

Guests eat breakfast over the morning paper, enjoy the cocktail hour specials and star gaze over a night-cap, all beside America’s largest hotel pool. The 23,000 square foot pool is heated to a comfortable 80F and hosts aquafit classes for guests and members.

Since 1964 The Biltmore Golf Course has hosted the best junior golfers in the world, who compete in the annual Junior Orange Bowl International Golf Championship. This tournament has launched the professional careers of some of golf’s most beloved players. Tiger Woods was the 1991 winner.

Golfers and other guests have a range of quality dining options ranging from the Golf Clubhouse 19th hole patio sports bar to the poolside lounge.

Ever wish you could dine in Italy for just one night? Dine al fresco in the courtyard at Fontana at the Biltmore and skip the airfare. Try the wonderful homemade squid ink pasta with scallops. The power business lunch is a great mix of Italian flavors and textures perfectly portioned for one.

Recognized by Zagat as one of the best restaurants in the country, the hotel’s award-winning Palme d’Or features an upscale French menu and  guests who love to cook will love the hands-on cooking classes at the Biltmore’s on-site culinary academy.