This is the second resort I am highlighting in the series Road Back to Travel -Close to Home. The Grand Cascade Lodge (at Crystal Springs) is nestled on a mountain top in the Kittatinny Mountains of northern New Jersey. It is a scenic one and a half hour drive from NYC. The perfect sustainable luxury getaway anytime of year.  

Grand Cascade Lodge (at Crystal Springs) is environmentally sustainable. In December 2019 they unveiled their 25 acre solar field. Which now is the sole source of energy for both resorts. (Grand Cascade Lodge and Mineral Springs Resort)

The Grand Cascade Lodge (at Crystal Springs) is part of the Crystal Springs Resort complex. There are two resorts Grand Cascade Lodge and Mineral Springs. The Grand Cascade Lodge is a AAA - 4 Diamond resort. The structure is reminiscent of a log lodge. It is full of natural woods and earthy colors. The recently renovated rooms have been transformed to a biophilic design. Biophilic translates into love of nature. You’ll find light and natural tones throughout the rooms and hallways. Rooms range from premium to private villas. 

The Grand Cascade Lodge (at Crystal Springs) is working diligently to conform to the state of NJ COVID-19 protocols. They have taken every precaution, there is easy to read signage placed throughout the resort. In addition they have created multiple QR codes.  Guests simply hold their phone up to the code to download the information onto their phones. Specific details are available on the resort website. 

The Grand Cascade Lodge (at Crystal Springs)was designed around immense outdoor spaces, thus allowing guests to roam the resort without the feeling of overcrowding. Making it easy to social distance.

There are a total of 3 pool areas. 2 Outdoor and an indoor biosphere which is now open. The biosphere becomes an outdoor pool with its retractable ceiling and open air doorways. The poolside chairs have been broken out into smaller pods for families or groups travelling together. There are also multiple areas set up on the grounds for guests to sit and enjoy the spectacular mountain views and sunsets.  Just gazing at the surrounding mountains will rejuvenate your mind and renew your spirit during these difficult times. 

The restaurants are open advanced reservations are strongly recommended. Grand Cascades Lodge is home to the famed Restaurant Latour, Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning wine cellar.    

Did you know that The Grand Cascade Lodge (at Crystal Springs) features over 130 locally sourced menu items? On my tour, I was provided an up-close look at the Chef’s Garden. The Grand Cascade Lodge has its own vegetable garden that is harvested twice a week for meal ingredients. (I highly recommend the tour of this garden offered by the resort). The Chef’s Garden is a popular spot for guests. It has an outdoor kitchen and seating. Perfect setup for social distancing.

***Please check with the hotel directly to confirm the hours of operations for all restaurants.

Step inside The Reflections Spa and Salon and you are surrounded by fire inspired art glass. As you look up, the ceiling is covered with more than 8000 quartz crystals generating healing powers from the earth. You immediately feel yourself immersed in a calming and renewed spirit. The Spa is currently offering massage, hair,  hand & feet treatments. As part of your  experience guests can enjoy complimentary foot soak, steam shower usage, Pink champagne and specialty chocolates. The foot soak alone is worth the experience.  

You can find an array of unique and authentic experiences for your family and friends at Grand Cascade Lodge (at Crystal Springs). Horseback riding, self guided nature walks, archery, farm animal visits, guided hike and kayak, glowgolf, scavenger hunts, marshmallow roasting, outdoor movies and more. ***Please note some of these activities have an additional charge. Activities are arranged by the staff in conjunction with local businesses. 

For the experienced or beginner golfer. The Crystal Springs resort offers 6 premier courses.(Cascades, Wild Turkey, Ballyowen, Black Bear, Crystal Springs, Minerals Golf Club). Also offered is the newest crossover sport FootGolf. This is a combination of soccer and golf. You play with a soccer ball and kick it into an oversize hole to score. It takes approximately 2 hours to play the eighteen hole course and is offered to anyone 6 years or older. 

The Grand Cascade Lodge (at Crystal Springs) has recently created a virtual concierge named Ivy. Ask her a question and she will direct you to the right source. In addition there is an online portal available for guests that highlights guest information, dining, resort amenities, activities and COVID-19 policies.   

The Grand Cascade Lodge (at Crystal Springs) is an escape from the everyday. Immerse yourself in a calming luxurious environment. You’ll feel renewed and inspired following a trip to this resort.