Lunch At The Biltmore Hotel

Tuesday

Frank Lloyd Wrights Stain Glass Panel

Our breakfast yesterday was such fun with Sharlene and as we had got on so well, we asked if she would be able to take some time to day to show us her favourite places in Phoenix, which she was only too pleased to do. However this morning Sharlene was feeling unwell. So after wishing her to get well quickly we struck out on our own.
With memories of visiting the Coronado Hotel in SanDiego, we decided that we would visit the Biltmore Hotel, possibly the most prestigious hotel in the South West. It was built in 1929, the same time as the Empire State Building in New York. It sought to combine Art Deco with the desert it was built in. The architect worked closely with Frank Lloyd Wright and has a similar feel to some of his buildings. An amazing interplay of stark concrete and natural foliage create a wonderfully rich environment which is just a joy to walk around. Without the trees, palm trees, grass and flowers the place would have looked like a series of blockhouses. Also the use of the 'Biltmore Block' adding texture to the concrete blocks adds a lot to the style.

Biltmore Blocks in a wall

A Biltmore Block

The hotel is surrounded by the Biltmore Estate, so was quite difficult to find, then quite difficult to get into, as we did not want to end up in the valet parking area. Eventually we got in through a back entrance. This led us past quest chalets and gardens to the main concourse, a hexagonal grass covered area with a cafe and lounge area, where we sat and relaxed for an hour or so having coffee/tea, just enjoying the environment (it was more than just a view), with the peace of the greenery and the bustle of a hotel. When we were refreshed we spent some time walking round the public areas of the hotel, centering on the long reception area/lobby with its interesting exhibits, there was an amazing dining display for a wedding meal from its hey day. Well spaced on both the inside and outside were a number of sculptures, tapestries and glass panels which enhanced the view that this hotel was in the desert, even though the main theme was definitely Art Deco.
We continued our wandering and eventually found the outdoor pool, where we were able to take a table and have lunch, I settled for a simple burger and Sally had a Steak fajita salad, which we enjoyed immensely. Another hour or so of relaxing, which included the slight drama of one the the pools being closed, which included it being taped off like a crime scene. On inquiry we were informed that a child had an accident. My first thought about the possibility of broken limbs etc. was a little too dramatic, however the pool would have to be drained and cleaned before it could be used again. I could not imagine the embarrassment of the parents!!!! Still if you are going to do it then a $400 a night hotel is as good a place as any. My twisted mind ran to the matra of 'Who put the poo in poo-l'. By the way , this pool which we were relaxing by was where, reputedly, Irving Berlin wrote 'White Christmas'.
It was a short walk from there to the Paradise Gardens, a simple long garden area between two arms of the hotel with beautiful flowers an palm trees. This brought us back to the central plaza, from where we returned to the Chevy and home.
This was a lovely day, in a beautiful and luxurious environment. I would recommend it as a great day out.
Follow this link if you want to find out more about this 'Jewel in the Desert' 

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