In addition to having golf course architect Brian Silva restore the original Donald Ross design at the Coral Gables, Fla. property, its guest rooms, corridors, main lobby, Spa and fitness club have been redesigned.
The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, Fla., hosted a private ribbon-cutting ceremony on December 14 to commemorate the official reopening of its newly restored Donald Ross golf course. Guests at the exclusive event—including former Florida Governor and Presidential candidate Jeb Bush, Miami Dade County Mayor Carlos Giménez, City of Coral Gables Commissioner Patricia Keon and various other local dignitaries—were treated to a presentation by golf professional Jim McLean. More than 100 guests were among the first to tee off on the newly restored course.
The restoration of the golf course is part of a $30 million project that began in 2017 and included the redesign of the hotel’s guest rooms, corridors, main lobby, its luxurious Spa and fitness club.
“It is our vision through this restoration that the resort shall remain a premier golf destination for years to come, and thus we are steadfast in our commitment to preserving the course while simultaneously paying tribute to a piece of our national history.” said Gene Prescott, President and CEO of The Biltmore Hotel.
Drawing inspiration from the original plans drafted by Donald Ross in 1925, and overseen by veteran golf course architect Brian Silva, the course renovation project was extensive for the entire layout of the 18-hole, par-71 course. Improvements included new Bermuda grass on the existing tees, fairways and greens, new bunkers, an enhanced short-game practice area as well as separate range areas, challenging signature holes, and an extended overall course length to more than 7,100 yards.
“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 Biltmore golf course, which is currently home to the University of Miami Women’s golf team and the NCAA Hurricane invitational, is now being considered as a potential host site for a future PGA Tour Champions event. Additionally, in January, the renowned Jim McLean Golf School will mark its one-year anniversary at the hotel and the golf course will celebrate its 55th consecutive year of hosting the annual Junior Orange Bowl International Golf Championship.
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