The Belleview Biltmore a.k.a. The Queen of the Gulf

This weekend we celebrated my sister's birthday here:



Situated on a 22 acre bluff overlooking the crystal waters of Clearwater Bay, The Belleview Biltmore, built in 1897 by the railroad tycoon Henry Plant, sits in a private waterside enclave in the Bellair community of Clearwater, FL. This is a full-service resort that includes the Belleview Biltmore Golf Club - an 18 hole PGA Donald Ross designed course, the Belleview Biltmore Tennis Club, the Belleview Biltmore Spa and the Belleview Biltmore Beach Club on Sand Key. Historical tours are held daily and open to the public. The original hotel is a historic property and one of the last of the great American Victorian "Grand Dame" Resort.



For more than a century, the Belleview Biltmore Resort has bestowed Southern hospitality and unparalleled elegance to an impressive guest list. British royalty, heads of state, movie stars and professional athletes have all heralded the resort's distinctive charm. With a fascinating history laced with social prominence and a remarkable revitalization, the Belleview Biltmore Resort holds a rightful position on the National Register of Historic Places.



We were able to stay for a measly $84 on Saturday night! There is so much to do. There are two bars on property, but you can also take a shuttle to the beachfront bar/restaurant on Sand Key. This is the private beach for the Biltmore.

We spent most of the night on one of the huge porches sipping cocktails and watching the rain fall. There were several Christmas parties so music was everywhere!

In the morning we had an amazing champagne brunch. Some things we tried included: lobster bisque, shrimp, crab legs oysters, seared ahi tuna, seaweed salad, eggs benedict, smoked salmon, croissant, bagels, muffins, prime rib, ravioli, salads, corned beef hash, omlettes, waffles, cherries jubilee, creme brulee, cherries jubilee, cheesecake, & chocolate mousse. This was just $21.95! If I hadn't been so busy eating I would have taken some food pictures!



This place will close for about 2 years in May 2009 for restoration, so prices are a steal right now.



To see more: http://www.belleviewbiltmore.com/index.shtml