ORLANDO
Benchmark debuted phase one of The Grove Resort & Spa Orlando. The 106-acre destination resort is near Walt Disney World, on Lake Austin. The resort launched with 184 of its 878 residential-style suites.
“Benchmark is extremely proud and excited to play a pivotal role in the sustainable development of this dynamic area, just west of Walt Disney World,” said Alex Cabañas, Benchmark’s CEO. “The Grove will be the first destination resort of its kind to open in what has historically been an underdeveloped area of Orlando.”
The Grove Resort & Spa Orlando boasts spacious accommodations that span up to nearly 1,600 square feet. Opening with three swimming pools, a spa, fitness center, two bars and lounges, a large-scale grab-and-go, a lakefront pier with watersports, and a children’s game room, the resort will grow to also include a variety of other dining options and an on-site water park with a dual-rider surf simulator, lazy river and water slides.
The Grove unveiled the first portion of its amenity package on opening day. Guests arriving through the spring season will be the first to enjoy the resort’s full-service Escape Spa and fitness center; three swimming pools with ample space for both play and relaxation; watersports, paddleboats, and fishing at Lake Austin Pier; traditional cocktail favorites and signature citrus-inspired creations at Zest lobby bar; an elegant, modern atmosphere, live entertainment, and a libation menu featuring craft cocktails and craft beer at Element lounge; and a selection of hot and cold self-serve food, gelato and ice cream, a barista bar, a deli with fresh-cut Boar’s Head meats and made-to-order sandwiches, as well as grocery-style items at Alfresco Market.
The property offers 6,000 square feet of indoor space in addition to poolside, lawn and garden alfresco venues. The resort accommodates up to 250 people with on-site catering and audiovisual support available.
The resort’s 221-seat, indoor/outdoor restaurant, Valencia, will arrive in late spring. There, guests will dine on Spanish, Italian, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The poolside Springs Bar & Grill, serving traditional bites all made with fresh ingredients, will open at the same time.
In fall 2017, the on-site Surfari Water Park will take center stage for families with its interactive water structure, multiple slides, more than 725 feet of lazy river, and a dual rider surf simulator. Also on deck: an indoor entertainment area and Longboard Bar & Grill, an additional poolside eatery located at Surfari Water Park. Additional guest suites are expected to open in late 2017.
