In a city where everything is over the top, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes delivers its own kind of magic, whether you’re visiting the famous Mouse and chasing theme park thrills or not.
Set on 500 lush acres with a string of 11 lakes, the resort’s secluded location is a refreshing pocket of peace amidst Orlando’s sensory overload. Its biggest draw? The natural surroundings, like cypress trees, lakeside trails and plentiful wildlife like birds sunning their wings along the shore, and enough on-property adventures to challenge a day at the crowded parks.
The Ritz-Carlton also uniquely shares its expansive grounds with the JW Marriott Orlando, giving Ritz guests exclusive access to additional restaurants and a water park. While it feels far from the crowds, you’re a mere 15 minutes from the airport and within easy reach of top attractions.
Why stay at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes?
Thanks to its naturally wild setting—seriously, there’s a morning safari tour where you might spot alligators or even a bobcat—The Grande Lakes property surprises in the best way. It’s ideal for families craving posh digs and top-tier service with easy access to theme parks, as well as couples and friend groups looking for a relaxed getaway paired with Michelin-recognized restaurants, private poolside cabanas, and a massive spa.
Guests can wander over to the neighboring JW Marriott to loop the lazy river and rocket down waterslides. Outdoorsy types and parents of energetic kids will be in heaven, with non-stop activities like kayaking, mountain biking, fishing and even falconry. My husband and I spent a long weekend on the property and never once felt the need to venture elsewhere.
Still, if you want the theme park experience, SeaWorld is just three miles away and Magic Kingdom a quick 25-minute drive. The Ritz also offers a complimentary daily shuttle to Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Universal, and the new EPIC Universe, but you’ll need to reserve ahead.
What are the rooms like at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes?
A welcome respite after a day of adventuring. Echoing the resort’s tranquil backdrop, rooms and suites envelop guests in soothing neutral tones, cushy carpeting, and regal furnishings worthy of a Ritz stay—and everything was spotless.
I stayed in a lakefront executive suite, which features an oversized bedroom with its own sitting area, a separate living room for lounging, plus a full bathroom and a half bath, which came in handy when getting ready with my husband.
A detail that made it even more luxurious for Orlando was the sound—or the lack thereof—however, each night we’d gather on the balcony to watch the theme parks light up the sky with fireworks, and if you’re visiting in the summer, the resort sets off an incredible display that rivals the parks on Saturday nights.
What are the best things to eat and drink at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes?
Your first dinner reservation should be at Michelin-recommended Knife & Spoon, where whip-smart service, a come-as-you-are vibe (read: resort casual is totally fine), and a menu grounded in dry-aged steaks, seafood and locally sourced produce, set the tone for a standout meal. They’ve mastered the art of layering contrasting flavors and make even the simplest dishes a star—I was blown away by the seasonal organic melon salad featuring a small Basque-style cheesecake (yep, you read that correctly), and the buttery-soft yellowtail with an explosion of citrus notes and foam.
Walk over to the JW Marriott for their Michelin-recommended Italian restaurant Primo—the stroll along the lake is gorgeous at sunset—where you’ll say “yes” to the bread service, any of the pizzas like the Butcher’s Pie, and the housemade campanelle pasta in a meaty Bolognese sauce. End the meal with the sinful cannoli drenched in black cherries.
I never miss a chance to upgrade to The Ritz-Carlton Club Level—and their newly refreshed Club Lounge is one of the prettiest (and largest) I’ve seen. Expect breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks, and hearty hors d’oeuvres in the evenings, plus wine and bubbly available all day. Oh, and don’t sleep on the fresh-baked cookies and the irresistible candy bar. Sit outside on the balcony to take in the property’s views or cozy up by the faux fireplace in the back nook.
What is the service like at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes?
Typical Ritz: friendly, attentive and thoughtful—though not as formal as other properties. When I muddied one of my outfits during a walk after a rain shower, the front desk staff went out of their way to help me find something proper to clean it with.
What are the pool, gym and spa like at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes?
Guests at The Ritz have access to all four pools, including the water park at the neighboring JW Marriott. The Ritz pool is spacious but can get crowded with boisterous kids—thankfully, their luxe new cabanas offer privacy, butler service, and a nap-worthy circular daybed.
Over at the JW, don’t skip the water park: it takes about 12 minutes to float the lazy river, and yes, you’ll be lining up with the kids to shoot down waterslides that’ll make you giddy. I especially loved the JW’s Oasis Grande Cabana, complete with its own plunge pool, a butler, and pool floats for lazy river cruising. It was such a hit, one kid returned to the cabana next to us and had a meltdown because his family hadn’t booked it again. Can’t blame him.
The three-story, 40,000-square-foot spa—the largest in the Ritz portfolio—features a lap pool, spa café, sauna, jacuzzi, and even a robotic massage table. But the real magic? The real-life therapists. Mine read my body like a fortune teller and left no knot behind. Just make sure to visit on a weekday when it’s quieter (chatty groups can break the zen).
As for the gym, I only breezed through it—with all the scenic trails and outdoor activities on property, most of my workouts happened under the sky.
What’s the area like around The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes?
With more than 500 acres and numerous lakes, it’d be pretty much impossible to feel bored at this hotel. Resort guests could literally try out a new activity each day, including pickleball, archery, fishing, biking and even falconry.
I took an early morning eco tour, paddling through Shingle Creek with a small group in search of gators, birds and other wildlife, but it was the peacefulness of the watery forest that struck me most. If you really want to spot area wildlife like river otters, deer or bobcats, join a naturalist for the Sunrise Safari to cruise the property on a golf cart.
Why you should you book a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes?
Whether you’re traveling with family, your partner, or a group of besties, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes is a secluded escape that blends solitude with adventure (but it is still Orlando, so expect a lot of families with kids). The property shows off Florida’s beautiful wild side, while delivering the flawless service and refined amenities that Ritz is known for.
With a complimentary daily shuttle to the theme parks and close proximity to shopping malls, sports arenas, and entertainment venues, the resort makes it easy to experience every side of Orlando. Yet, you might just find the best part of your trip is never leaving at all.
DETAILS
Address: The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, 4012 Central Florida Pkwy, Orlando, Florida 32837
Price per night: Average rates range between $499 - $3,999
Closest transport: Orlando International Airport is a 15-minute drive
Book now: via Booking.com
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