This weekend was a great reminder that some of the best destinations can be in your own backyard. We were invited to Point Clear, Alabama to enjoy the 30th anniversary of the Polo at the Point Charity event sponsored by the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa. It is a beautiful resort that has just undergone a two year renovation and transformed into a distinguished Autograph Collection property. They've expertly managed the delicate balance of updating the property to a luxurious retreat, while not just preserving, but honoring the history and tradition of the "Queen of Southern Resorts".
As you stroll around the property, the stress melts away and it feels as though
you've stepped back to a more relaxed and genteel era. The well appointed rooms are spacious with elegant furnishings, nice bathrooms and well-thought amenities, and our room in the Marina Building had a wonderful view of the bay that we enjoyed while sitting in the rocking chairs on our balcony. There are beautiful vistas around every corner and walkways that entice you on leisurely strolls under the giant oaks laden with Spanish moss that grace the property. If you're looking for a little more action, there's a plethora of activities available including bikes, kayaks, pools, fishing, tennis, and so much more. Of course, there's the beautiful golf course and tranquil spa for helping to achieve a higher level of relaxation. We enjoyed delicious handcrafted cocktails in the 1847 bar and dined on tasty dishes featuring fresh ingredients from the kitchen garden at Bayside Grill. One of the best features is the warm and friendly staff members that are quick to offer a smile and gracious southern hospitality.
The Polo at the Point event was a fun-filled day combining a garden party soiree featuring
gourmet food, specialty cocktails and fine wine with world-class polo, delighting the crowd with athletic ponies ridden by daring and talented equestrians. The match even included divot stomping at halftime that got all the elegantly dressed spectators out on the field for champagne, followed by a hat parade with awards given in various categories. There was a silent auction with a wide variety of items so there was sure to be something for everyone to bid on.
The day culminated with a spectacular evening of more delicious food and drinks, an exciting live auction with fierce bidding between friends, and entertainment by four of Nashville's top singer/songwriters telling stories behind the songs that the top artists in country music took to number one hits. Behind all the festivities was the knowledge that all the funds would be going back to the community through Point Clear Charities Inc. that has previously donated over $150,000 raised at the event to local non-profit organizations.
All in all, it was a fabulous weekend spent in luxurious surroundings, with fun and festive friends, giving back to a beautiful, charming, artistic and caring community. If you're interested in visiting Point Clear and the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, give me a call and I will be happy to help you arrange a getaway. There are easy flights into the Mobile and Pensacola airports if you are not within driving distance, and the resort has a shuttle to both airports that takes about an hour. I'm sure you will enjoy this beautiful resort full of Southern charm that is "exactly like nothing else"!
-Teresa
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