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The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes: A Five-Star Accomplishment

In an exciting announcement this year, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes has been distinguished with a prestigious Five-Star rating by Forbes Travel Guide (FTG) as part of its 2026 Star Awards. This recognition marks a significant milestone, as it is the first establishment in Central Florida to receive such an esteemed accolade, proving to be only the ninth in the entire state of Florida.

Forbes Travel Guide is renowned for being the only global rating system dedicated to assessing luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and cruise ships, making this award an extraordinary honor for The Ritz-Carlton.

An Overview of Grande Lakes Orlando

The Ritz-Carlton is nestled within the sprawling Grande Lakes Orlando property, which spans across 500 acres of lush land that sits at the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. It features 582 elegantly appointed guest rooms, a grand 40,000-square-foot spa, and multiple amenities, including three pristine pools and an 18-hole championship golf course designed by the acclaimed golfer Greg Norman.

One of the hotel's standout features is its culinary offering at Knife & Spoon, a Four-Star restaurant led by award-winning chef John Tesar. Here, guests can indulge in gourmet dining that elevates the culinary experience to the next level. Additionally, the Ritz-Carlton offers over 126,500 square feet of meeting space catering to any type of event, enhancing its appeal as not only a luxury getaway but also a prime venue for meetings and gatherings.

A Dedication to Excellence

In a statement regarding the Five-Star recognition, Jon McGavin, Area General Manager of Grande Lakes Orlando remarked, "We are honored to receive the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award, a recognition that reflects the dedication of our staff who are consistently looking to push boundaries to create meaningful, memorable experiences for our guests."

This acknowledgment highlights the unwavering commitment of the hotel team to define what luxury hospitality means in Orlando and beyond. They aim to create authentic experiences for guests while maintaining high standards of service and exceptional amenities, making their stay truly unforgettable.

The Grande Lakes Experience

The Grande Lakes Orlando is more than a luxury hotel; it is a comprehensive resort destination. Guests can enjoy activities such as kayaking along Shingle Creek, participating in eco-tours, or even engaging in falconry. The Grande Lakes Waterpark adds to the leisure options available, complete with a lazy river and waterslides.

Additionally, the property houses the JW Marriott Orlando, which complements the Ritz-Carlton by offering even more dining venues, outdoor activities, and spaces for meetings and events.

The conveniently located resort is just minutes away from the Orlando International Airport, the Orange County Convention Center, and the major theme parks, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers.

Insights into Forbes Star Awards

Forbes Travel Guide conducts rigorous evaluations through its team of anonymous inspectors. The 68th annual Star Awards list honors properties that exemplify excellence in hospitality across more than 95 countries. President of Standards and Ratings, Amanda Frasier, emphasized that winners demonstrate a commitment to creating genuine and exceptional experiences for guests.

Those interested in exploring the full list of 2026 Star Award winners can do so by visiting ForbesTravelGuide.com.

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes stands as a testament to luxury hospitality, having embraced and embodied everything a Five-Star experience entails. This recognition not only solidifies its standing among global hospitality leaders but also sets a benchmark for future endeavors in the realm of upscale lodging and exceptional guest service.