Summer is officially over for us, as school began yesterday.  Knowing that it was quickly coming to an end, we packed our bags and headed up* to Crystal Springs Resort in Vernon, New Jersey.  A quick drive took us to a place we had never been before and left us feeling like we were far away from home, when in actuality, we were not far at all.  We were invited to check out the resort and were thrilled to be able to do so for a last hurrah of summer.

Upon arrival at the resort, we knew we had stumbled upon something extraordinary.  Nestled in the mountains, we saw a beautiful structure with well landscaped grounds in front of us, this was the Grand Cascades Lodge, where we would be staying the next couple of days.  We had a premium room, connecting a hotel room with two queen beds to a one bedroom suite.  The connecting suite had everything we would need for our visit.  A living room, dining area, full kitchen, including a washer and dryer, bathroom and large bedroom with a king sized bed.  It was gorgeous!  We also had a deck with tables and chairs overlooking the golf course.

The amenities at this hotel are off the charts, as they boast world-class golf courses, and offer seven different pools at this property.  These are not ordinary pools, though! The biosphere is the coolest pool I have ever seen at a hotel.  Made of rock, the pool offers a grotto and caverns to sit inside, along with a large area for swimming, water slide, and a separate hot tub.  Near the hot tub are a sauna and a cave-like steam room, which I spent a ton of time in.  A soothing and relaxing atmosphere with lush green plants and trees lining the walls of the water areas, it is a place you never want to leave.  While we enjoy swimming at hotel pools, we never would consider ending our activities for the day to come back early to swim, but here, you could make the biosphere your actual destination for the day!  In the same area is a cafe that offers delicious gelato, snacks, and lunches. Outside the indoor section of the biosphere, there are outdoor pools, giant chess sets, lounging areas and more restaurants.

This property is very luxurious and relaxing.  As if those things weren’t enough, you can also go to the Adventure Center of the property where you can participate in tons of outdoor activities, such as horseback riding, archery, hiking, fishing, paddle boarding, canoeing, and more.  There is so much available to keep every member of the family happy and having a blast.  Near the property, at Mountain Creek, is Action Park, which was also a great way to spend a day or more.  We enjoyed croquet after dinner as well as light up mini golf at night on the property, too.

We absolutely loved our visit at Crystal Springs Resort and would definitely recommend setting up a visit for a special occasion or family getaway!  You can learn more about the property by visiting them online.

*we were invited to stay at the property to facilitate a review, all opinions are my own.