On the Grove Park Inn’s 100th Birthday, they celebrated with a $25 million face-lift and adoption into the Omni Family of Hotels and Resorts. With a focus on using local ingredients and showcasing the true taste of North Carolina, this grand historic destination is now under a national brand while still embracing its roots in Asheville. The Omni Grove Park Inn offers luxury accommodations with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, exclusive suites, and access to their indulgent spa. Visitors can enjoy farm-to-table cuisine and craft cocktails, like the classic Bee’s Knees, made with honey. The newly added Edison Craft Ales + Kitchen provides a beautiful space to enjoy craft cocktails, craft beer, and more. With their commitment to sustainability and creativity, Chef de Cuisine Phillip Bolhofer creates amazing dishes featuring local honey, such as their popular honey pale ale chicken wings and the Edison salad. With its rich history, breathtaking setting, and dedication to providing guests with a true taste of the region, the Omni Grove Park Inn is the perfect destination for a sweet stay in Asheville.
History of the Grove Park Inn
Construction and opening in 1913
The Grove Park Inn, located in Asheville, North Carolina, has a rich history that dates back to its construction and opening in 1913. The hotel was constructed by E.W. Grove, who purchased the property on Sunset Mountain in 1909. The inn was built using native Grant stone mined from the mountain itself. It officially opened on July 12, 1913, as a place of respite for visitors seeking relaxation and a scenic getaway in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Acquisition by Omni in 2013
In 2013, the Grove Park Inn was acquired by Omni Hotels & Resorts. This marked a significant milestone in the inn’s history as it transitioned into being a part of a national brand. With the acquisition, the inn’s focus shifted towards embracing Asheville’s local culture and highlighting what the surrounding mountains had to offer. Despite the changes, the Omni Grove Park Inn has maintained its reputation for excellence, holding a triple-A four-diamond rating.
Renovation and Face-Lift
$25 million renovation
To celebrate the Grove Park Inn’s 100th birthday, a $25 million face-lift and renovation took place. This extensive renovation aimed to enhance the guest experience and update the facilities while still preserving the inn’s historic charm. The investment in the renovation demonstrates the commitment of Omni Hotels & Resorts to maintain and improve upon the inn’s legacy.
Focus on local elements
During the renovation, there was an emphasis on incorporating local elements into the new design. One area that received special attention was the Great Hall, known as Western North Carolina’s living room. Crafted by local craftsman Rob Cleaver, wooden panels were added to the Great Hall, adding to its aesthetic appeal and showcasing the talent of local artisans. This focus on supporting the local community and celebrating the unique character of Asheville is a key aspect of the Omni Grove Park Inn’s identity.
The Great Hall
Renovation and additions by craftsman Rob Cleaver
The Great Hall at the Omni Grove Park Inn is an iconic space cherished by both visitors and locals alike. During the recent renovation, the Great Hall received some new additions created by skilled craftsman Rob Cleaver. Cleaver, who is based in Western North Carolina, handcrafted the wooden panels that now adorn the walls of the Great Hall. These panels are beautifully designed and contribute to the timeless elegance of the space.
Signature Shops
Offerings include Colonel Littleton leather working
The Omni Grove Park Inn features several signature shops, offering guests a variety of unique and high-quality products. One of the notable offerings is Colonel Littleton leather working. Guests can browse a selection of finely crafted leather goods, including bags, wallets, and accessories. The presence of specialty shops at the inn adds to the overall experience, giving guests the opportunity to take home a piece of the Grove Park Inn’s exceptional craftsmanship and local artistry.
The Pink Pig
Description of the in-house pastry shop and candy store
Within the Omni Grove Park Inn, there is an in-house pastry shop and candy store known as The Pink Pig. This delightful establishment offers an array of decadent treats, making it a must-visit destination for those with a sweet tooth. The Pink Pig is renowned for its vast selection of candies, ensuring that guests can find their favorite treats. Whether you’re craving traditional confections or unique and whimsical sweets, The Pink Pig is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Luxury Guest Rooms
Overview of the 513 luxury guest rooms
The Omni Grove Park Inn offers a total of 513 luxury guest rooms, each designed to provide guests with a comfortable and elegant stay. The rooms are tastefully decorated, blending modern amenities with the inn’s historic charm. With a variety of room types available, guests can choose accommodations that suit their preferences and needs.
Highlighting the Club Floor
For those seeking a romantic getaway or a truly indulgent experience, staying on the Club Floor at the Omni Grove Park Inn is highly recommended. Guests on the Club Floor can enjoy stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, making for a picturesque backdrop during their stay. Additionally, Club Floor guests have access to exclusive amenities and services, ensuring a truly special and memorable visit.
Exclusive Suites
Description of the exclusive suites and their amenities
The Omni Grove Park Inn features exclusive suites that offer an elevated level of luxury and comfort. These suites are designed with attention to detail, providing guests with spacious living areas, oversized bathrooms, and indulgent amenities. The highlight of these suites is the lavish king-size beds, ensuring a restful and rejuvenating night’s sleep. Guests staying in the exclusive suites also enjoy access to the spa on a daily basis, allowing for a truly pampering experience.
The Spa at Grove Park
Overview of the 43,000 square foot spa
The Spa at Grove Park is a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation, offering guests a wide range of treatments and amenities. Spanning an impressive 43,000 square feet, the spa provides ample space for guests to unwind and indulge in various wellness activities.
Description of amenities and treatments
The spa boasts numerous amenities designed to enhance the overall experience. There are subterranean pool areas, including relaxation pools and lap pools, featuring underwater music. Therapeutic waterfall whirlpools and an outdoor whirlpool are also available, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. In addition, the spa offers fireside lounges, a eucalyptus inhalation room, a sauna, a steam room, and contrast pools.
Guests can indulge in a variety of treatments, including the popular Heaven Series treatments. An example is the Mountain Honey Wrap, which features local sourwood honey. This treatment includes a full-body exfoliation, a body butter wrap, and a luxurious massage, all aimed at promoting relaxation and nourishing the skin.
Farm-to-Table Cuisine
Introduction to fresh farm-to-table cuisine at the hotel
The Omni Grove Park Inn takes pride in offering fresh farm-to-table cuisine to its guests. This commitment to sourcing local ingredients ensures that visitors can truly savor the flavors of North Carolina. The hotel’s culinary team works closely with local farmers and suppliers to create menus that showcase the region’s finest produce and culinary traditions.
Specialty cocktails featuring honey
In addition to its farm-to-table dishes, the Omni Grove Park Inn also features specialty cocktails that incorporate honey as a key ingredient. Honey adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor to these cocktails, enhancing the overall experience for guests. One popular cocktail option is the Bee’s Knees, which showcases the versatility of clover honey in creating a well-balanced and delightful beverage.
Conclusion
Summary of the Grove Park Inn’s 100th birthday celebration and its transition into the Omni family of hotels and resorts
In celebration of its 100th birthday, the Grove Park Inn underwent a $25 million face-lift, symbolizing its commitment to preserving its historic charm while embracing new developments. With its acquisition by Omni Hotels & Resorts, the inn became part of a respected national brand, but still retained a focus on showcasing what Asheville and the surrounding mountains have to offer.
The renovation and additions, such as the craftsmanship of Rob Cleaver in the Great Hall, further enhance the guest experience and highlight the local talent in Western North Carolina. The signature shops, including Colonel Littleton leather working, offer guests the opportunity to discover unique and locally crafted goods.
The presence of The Pink Pig, an in-house pastry shop and candy store, adds to the inn’s charm and provides a delightful indulgence for guests. The luxury guest rooms and exclusive suites offer a comfortable and luxurious stay, with the Club Floor providing an extra touch of exclusivity.
The Spa at Grove Park, with its extensive range of amenities and treatments, allows guests to immerse themselves in a world of relaxation and well-being. And finally, the farm-to-table cuisine and specialty cocktails featuring honey celebrate the local flavors and highlight the Omni Grove Park Inn’s dedication to offering a true taste of North Carolina.
As the Omni Grove Park Inn looks to the future, it does so with a deep appreciation for its history and a commitment to providing exceptional experiences for its guests. Through its renovations, focus on local elements, and dedication to quality, the inn continues to thrive as a beloved destination in Asheville’s Bee City.