Thursday, January 12, 2012

Introducing the Four Seasons Baltimore!


Last weekend, I had the good fortune to attend an overnight preview experience of the new Four Seasons Baltimore. Sponsored by Doreen Tisone of Engaged Magazine and The Four Seasons, this trip was a real treat!


After checking-in, I was escorted to my suite which had wrap-around floor-to-ceiling views of the water and city. Stunning! The rooms are gorgeous with sleek furnishings and decadent bathrooms but it's the view you can't take your eyes off of.



After enjoying the tea and munchies in our rooms, everyone gathered downstairs at the spa for a welcome reception followed by spa treatments.



Some of you may know that I'm a bit of a spa junkie. I love spas and have been to lots of them all over the world. Could stay in them until my fingers get pruny and I turn into a limp noodle. So I can say with confidence that this spa is amazing!  They have a heat experience that features a vitality plunge pool, an aromatic steam room, a Finnish sauna, experience showers (my favorite setting was the neck-pounding cascade) and heated stone lounge chairs. Heaven!



Not to mention, the therapists were all amazing. Everyone came out looking punch-drunk and totally relaxed. My facial was fabulous and included a neck and shoulder massage that drained away all my tension.  After our spa time, we gathered at the hotel restaurant, Wit and Wisdom, for dinner.








Dinner was such a culinary treat, with visits by the executive and pastry chefs to talk about the food. The restaurant is very into sourcing locally and also pays tribute to it's Baltimore home with upscale takes on local favorites. The "Baltimore Bar" (a chocolate sensation covered with nuts and candies) was to-die-for!


The next morning we gathered for breakfast on the ballroom level. One huge attribute of the Four Seasons Baltimore is that its ballrooms aren't in the basement. The junior ballroom is completely lined with glass walls as are many of the smaller rooms.



Breakfast was another treat for our taste buds with the most heavenly warm donuts, fresh fruit with mint and delicious egg white frittatas.






After breakfast, we toured the ballrooms and admired the gorgeous art throughout the hotel. The hotel has space for 350+ in their grand ballroom but my favorite space was the junior ballroom with it's beautiful views for 150-175 guests.  All the spaces are so sleek and elegant.





Finally, we toured the infinity pool area and deck with the hot tub and chic wading pool. Although it isn't open yet (too cold!), this will be such a hot spot come summer! I also love the outdoor fireplace. What a lovely backdrop for an intimate wedding!



Thanks to Martha Morningstar and Katie Shannon from the Four Seasons for being such charming hostesses and to Doreen Tisone for co-sponsoring the event. It was such a lovely experience and has made me so eager to bring a wedding to the property. There is really nothing like it in Baltimore (or DC)! Cheers to the newest jewel in Charm City!  All photos courtesy of Jennifer Lust--thanks Jennifer!

Laura