Guest Author - Karon Warren
When it comes to a luxurious weekend getaway, most of us don’t think of heading to Charlotte, N.C. However, this “Queen” city beholds one of the jewels of the South: the Ballantyne Resort. Opened in 2001, the Ballantyne makes every guest feel like the royalty this city was named after. Thankfully, though, you don’t have to wear a crown to book a stay here.
Upon my arrival to the Ballantyne, the first thing I noticed as I exited off the interstate was the seven-story building framed against a clear blue sky. It stood like an oasis in the desert, beckoning visitors to come and sample its offerings. Since that was my plan, I drove into the parking lot and headed inside to check in.
From the moment I stepped into the expansive lobby, I knew I was in for a wonderful experience. The floor-to-ceiling windows opposite the front entry showcased the manicured golf course out back, inviting visitors to take a closer look. Attentive staff members welcomed guests to the property and quickly saw to their needs. In short order, I had my room key and headed upstairs.
My room, like the other 213 (plus two presidential suites), spread out before me. A marble foyer with high ceilings and crown moldings gave way to the carpeted interior. The floor-to-ceiling windows showcased a panoramic view of the 18th green as well as the Lodge at Ballantyne, a 40,000-square-foot private group retreat with 35 guest rooms.
The bathroom rivaled that of any master bath found in a palatial estate. The glass-enclosed shower, sunken tub and marble vanity gave the illusion that I was in my own personal home rather than a large resort with hundreds of guests. Plus Ballantyne Resort robes added to the decadent feeling of the room.
As wonderful as my accommodations were, I couldn’t wait to sample the other delights found at Ballantyne. Dining topped my list, and I was not disappointed. From the fruit and pastries I enjoyed for breakfast to the succulent filet mignon I sampled for dinner, every meal was prepared with perfection. Capping off my first night’s meal, guests were treated to homemade banana pudding using Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Talk about rich!
Of course, my favorite treat was my visit to the Spa at Ballantyne Resort. After checking in at the front counter, I was directed downstairs, where I received my own spa robe and shoes. After changing in the locker room, I headed to the lounge, where I relaxed with some chilled water. Shortly after my arrival, my masseur escorted me to the treatment room for my massage.
For the next hour, I drifted aimlessly as he worked his magic on my muscles. For my particular treatment, I received a Ballantyne stone massage, wherein the masseur combines massage techniques with warm stones to reduce stress and restore balance while improving energy levels. Simply put, it was heaven!
After my massage, I headed back upstairs for a spa pedicure, which entailed a soak in a warm whirlpool foot bath, exfoliation and massage of the lower leg, feet and ankles. The nail technician followed this up by cleaning, shaping and polishing my toenails. All the while I sank back into a massage chair and enjoyed the view of the golf course.
Given the excellent care I received at the spa, it came as no surprise to learn it ranked as a Top 3 finalist for 2004 “most outstanding spa in North America” by Conde Nast Johansens.
Perhaps the most amazing fact about Ballantyne is its history. Located on the site of undeveloped family hunting land, Sara and Smoky Bissell decided to change the landscape and create a self-sustaining community homes, corporate offices, retail, and the Ballantyne Resort & Spa.
It look five years of planning, research and construction, but they have succeeded. The Ballantyne Resort & Spa received the distinguished honor of a AAA Four Diamond rating. After my visit to this upscale yet relaxed retreat, I certainly can understand why.
